My previous articles have concentrated on the effects of arthritis, natural supplements for arthritis and the benefits of exercise. In this article, I want to propose one more method for treating the pains of arthritis and that is yoga.

Yoga can be a meaningful and enjoyable alternative to traditional forms of treatment with great health benefits. Even thought drug treatments for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have improved in the last few years, there is still NO CURE for arthritis. I don't care how many fliers I get in the mail saying they have found a cure, the only cure they have found is the one for filling their wallet. Combined with good medical care, yoga may provide additional physical and psychological benefits for arthritis patients

There are hundreds of types of yoga being practiced today. Most of the courses being offered at senior centers concentrate on flexibility, which is extremely important. Combine this in a course that also offers meditation which will help avert anxiety and other mental problems seniors have.

The longtime benefits of practicing yoga are both physical and mental. For seniors, these are two benefits we need. Physical dexterity decreases with age as does concentration and memory. Yoga will help in both these areas.

I have encountered so many seniors praising the benefits of yoga that I am going to try it again. I'll explain below why my first experience was not good. My first class is in four weeks. I will give you recaps of what the classes were like and how I feel afterward.

Where can you start? There are classes both at my local senior center and also the recreation center. Ther YMCA also offers classes.

I know going into this not to expect immediate results.Like anything else that is good for you, it will take time to see results. I have made a promise to myself to stay with the program for at least three months.

One more thing. If you sign up for a class, make sure the instructor is certified in yoga for seniors. Check with others who have taken the class and get their opinion. I tried a yoga class at my recreation center about a year ago. The instructor must have just finished a course in teaching yoga to seniors, but really had no idea what she was doing . I got absolutely nothing out of it. That's why I mention this caution.

Let me know of your experiences with yoga so I can share them with others.

My next article will be on exercising the mind and ways to do it.