The Effect of Aging On Muscle

The Effect of Aging On Muscle

by Devinder Kaur1 Comment
A study by the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine in Pittsburgh of athletes between the ages of 40 and 81 demonstrated that muscle loss considered typical in adults after the age of 40 has more to do with lack of use than aging alone. The study showed that the muscles used by the athlete's chosen activity were nearly indistuighsable from an athlete at the age of 40, proving that studies on the effect of age of muscle mass have focused too much on sedentary adults, and that the caliber of our golden years is quite self-determined. (They hypothesize a 70/30 ratio between lifestyle and genetics!) It joins a growing body of evidence on what types of exercise are most effective for preserving muscle mass. While overall motor units (a group of muscle fibres commanded by a single motor neuron in the spine) decrease in the body over time, it's true, these can be preserved through use. Which means an activity with...
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Why I Teach by Gurumantra Kaur

Why I Teach by Gurumantra Kaur

by Devinder Kaur1 Comment
When a student comes into the studio, whether it is for the first or hundredth time, it brings a warmth to my heart. I know that they came to me seeking to become healthier and happier. I greet my students by asking them how they are doing, how the day has treated them, and if they have any problem areas they have noticed lately. This allows me to sense their energy, and choose a Kriya that I know will benefit everyone’s mind, body and spirit. Each day, each session, is driven by the energy that’s brought into the studio. Regardless of the stresses and various states of mind my students may be in to start, the sessions always progress in very much the same way. As they warm up, I watch as they close their eyes, and start breathing long and deep. Their breathing and movements come together as a group, as if to support one another. Already, I can see...
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