All Posts By

Kathryn OToole

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Join Our New Inclusive Class for Young Adults!

Discover the Joy of Dance: Join Our New Inclusive Class for Young Adults!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new inclusive dance class for young adults aged 18 and over. This exciting program is open to everyone, whether you have special educational needs (SEN) or are a mainstream participant. Our goal is to create a welcoming and relaxed environment where everyone can explore the joy of dance and dance fitness.

What to Expect

Our inclusive dance class will focus on various styles of dance and dance fitness, encouraging creativity, expression, and physical activity. The sessions are designed to be fun and engaging, with a relaxed pace to ensure everyone feels comfortable and included. Each term will culminate in a performance, giving participants the opportunity to showcase their hard work and talent in front of friends and family.

Social Benefits

  1. Building Friendships: Our inclusive class provides a great opportunity to meet new people and build lasting friendships. Dancing together fosters a sense of community and camaraderie.
  2. Enhanced Communication Skills: Through group activities and performances, participants can develop better communication and teamwork skills.
  3. Boosting Confidence: Performing in front of others helps build self-esteem and confidence, encouraging participants to step out of their comfort zones in a supportive environment.
  4. Sense of Belonging: Being part of an inclusive group helps participants feel valued and accepted, promoting a positive self-image.

Physical Benefits

  1. Improved Fitness: Dance is a fantastic way to stay active. Our sessions will help improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility.
  2. Better Coordination: Learning dance routines enhances motor skills and coordination, which are beneficial for everyday activities.
  3. Increased Endurance: Regular dance fitness sessions help build stamina and overall physical endurance.
  4. Stress Relief: Dance is a great way to relieve stress and improve mental well-being. The physical activity combined with the joy of movement can lift spirits and reduce anxiety.

Performance Opportunities

At the end of each term, participants will have the chance to perform in a relaxed and supportive setting. This not only allows them to share their achievements with loved ones but also provides a sense of accomplishment and pride. Performances are a great way to celebrate the progress and hard work of all our dancers.

Join Us Today!

Whether you are a seasoned dancer or someone looking to try something new, our inclusive dance class is the perfect place to explore movement and fitness in a fun and supportive environment. Everyone is welcome, and we can’t wait to see you there!

For more information and to sign up, visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s dance together and create something beautiful!

About Us: Our organization is dedicated to providing inclusive and accessible dance and fitness opportunities for all. We believe in the power of dance to bring people together, improve well-being, and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

 

BOOK NOW

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Synergy Dance® Outreach gains National Lottery funding

PRESS RELEASE: 26 June 2024

Synergy Dance® Outreach gains National Lottery funding

Synergy Dance® Outreach is delighted to have been awarded National Lottery funding from Sport England to support their dance, fitness and yoga classes for those with disabilities and long-term health conditions.

The grant will allow Synergy Dance® Outreach to support members of the disability community to access innovative dance and movement classes.

Flexible Fitness – Synergy Seated Dance, Fitness & Yoga

The funded project will deliver 3 x 12-week programs of accessible weekly seated dance, fitness and yoga for older people, adults with disabilities, Long Covid and long-term health conditions in Brighton/Hove.

A set of 10 online video classes will also be delivered.

ParaStars Dance™ and ParaStars Yoga® are seated classes specifically designed for adults and seniors with disabilities, limited mobility, frailty or long-term health conditions. These classes are also suitable for participants with dementia, Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.

ParaStars Dance™ sessions feature fun and uplifting music and dance moves that increase fitness, confidence, creativity and overall wellbeing.

Enjoyable routines enhance flexibility and muscle strength. The focus on posture and movement promotes stress reduction, and the exercise supports better health, improved toning and fitness and increased stamina, which all help to boost the immune system.

ParaStars Yoga® features calming music and gentle yoga poses that are perfect for increasing fitness, confidence, relaxation, and overall wellbeing. Participants engage in enjoyable stretching, breathing and relaxation exercises that enhance flexibility and core strength while benefiting from a soothing environment.

The classes bring harmony to the mind and body through postures and stretches, aiding focus and improving fitness, core strength, flexibility, motor skills, and posture.

ParaStars Dance™ and ParaStars Yoga® classes include both upper body-only and combined upper and lower body movements to cater to different abilities and needs. We offer differentiated seated movement options to accommodate all levels of ability and fitness. Our inspiring teachers get to know what each person needs most.

CEO of the charity, Rachael Hurton is thrilled to have been awarded the funding:

‘We are delighted to receive recognition and funding from Sport England and the National Lottery. We believe that dance, yoga and movement should be accessible to all, and we enable people of all ages and abilities enjoy our sessions both in person and online. This funding will open up our offer to more numbers of deserving people who can benefit from Synergy’s unique formula.’

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For more details about the project please contact Kathryn O’Toole: kathryn@synergydance.co.uk

Synergy Dance® Outreach is a registered charity, determined to make a difference, offering an inclusive and hybrid model of activities for all, where different levels of fitness and finance are not barriers to participation.

About National Lottery

National Lottery players raise £30m every week for good causes, funding arts, heritage, sports, voluntary and charity projects around the UK. For more information on good causes in your area go to www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk

About Sport England

Sport England is a public body and invests up to £300 million National Lottery and government money each year in projects and programs that help people get active and play sport.

It wants everyone in England, regardless of age, background, or level of ability, to feel able to engage in sport and physical activity. That’s why a lot of its work is specifically focused on helping people who do no, or very little, physical activity and groups who are typically less active – like women, disabled people and people on lower incomes.

www.sportengland.org

Find out more about Synergy Dance® Outreach

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Funding from Players of People’s Postcode Lottery

We have been lucky enough to have received funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, which has facilitated fun accessible dance classes for the young UK SEND community, including in person & online programmes for all to enjoy!

At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of young individuals within the UK SEND community. Through our facilitated, fun, and accessible dance classes, both in-person and online, we’re not just providing opportunities for movement and expression; we’re fostering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and joy.

Thanks to the funding for these programs, we’re breaking down barriers and creating pathways to inclusion. For many young individuals with special educational needs and disabilities, traditional fitness activities may seem out of reach or intimidating. However, through our tailored dance classes, we’re transforming perceptions and opening doors to new possibilities.

In-person sessions offer a safe and supportive environment where participants can explore movement, build confidence, and connect with peers. These classes aren’t just about learning dance steps; they’re about building friendships, boosting self-esteem, and experiencing the sheer joy of movement.

Our online programs further extend our reach, ensuring that no one is left behind. By leveraging technology, we’re able to bring the benefits of dance to individuals across the UK, regardless of geographical location or physical limitations. Whether it’s a live virtual class or an on-demand session, our online programs provide flexibility and accessibility for all to enjoy. The impact of our efforts extends far beyond the dance studio or computer screen.

Through dance, we’re promoting physical health, emotional well-being, and social inclusion. We’re empowering young individuals to embrace their unique abilities, celebrate their achievements, and be the best they can be. But perhaps most importantly, we’re creating moments of joy and inspiration that resonate far beyond the dance floor. With every twirl, leap, and smile, we’re proving that dance is for everyone—and that with the right support and encouragement, anything is possible. Together, we’re making a difference, one dance step at a time.

Find out more about our classes.

Book a class.

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Best All-Inclusive Fitness and Movement Class Provider 2024

Synergy Dance has already received many awards for its innovative and exciting dance, yoga and movement classes. Now we are proud to announce a new award: Best All-Inclusive Fitness and Movement Class Provider 2024 from the 2024 Business Elite Awards. These awards shine a light on the ongoing hard work and success of SMEs and their employees across the country who have excelled in their field.

SME News has a national reach to over 78,000 professionals and decision makers, so we are in good company! This prestigious scheme evaluates start-ups and larger firms using the same criteria and showcases a diverse range of companies from various industries.

We are delighted to have this recognition of our output which is aimed at both the mainstream and the disability community and is designed for all ages. Our classes are available both in person and digitally on demand, making it easier than ever for customers to access stimulating dance and movement activities at a time to suit their lifestyle.

So what do we do? Our workouts reach everyone, and we help people to feel good about exercise and well being. We build new life skills, confidence, self-esteem and independence, and foster positive friendships and relationships.

For example, our after school clubs and yoga classes for children are proven to help participants thrive. Sessions provide fun and stimulation, improve fitness and boost confidence. Creative classes can improve pupils’ academic achievement and social skills. Our clubs cover an exciting range of dance genres, and we  specialise on request.

At the other end of the age spectrum, we serve elderly people who may have hearing loss, back pain, depression or neurological conditions such as dementia. This group relishes our Sing for Joy sessions which can take place in care homes and involve nostalgic anthems and props.

This is just a small taste of our exciting and unique programmes. We achieved the award because we encourage everyone to participate and aim to reduce health inequalities in all we do. We will never give up supporting everyone who needs us across the age and ability spectrum!

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

The Benefits of SEND Ballet Classes

The benefits of SEND ballet classes for children with additional needs

Does your child dream of tutus and becoming a ballerina? Join our unique Special Educational Needs (SEN) ballet class to learn basic ballet technique, posture and style without the pressure of grades!

Designed for SEN students, this class is taught in a relaxed style. Parents/carers are welcome, and dressing up is encouraged!

Challenges of SEN children
It can be difficult for children with special needs such as autism or sensory processing difficulties to find enjoyable activities. These children might have poor attention, difficulty interacting with others, limited body awareness, or problems being in over-stimulating social situations. Participating in our relaxed dance sessions can help SEN children to overcome these challenges.

Some children with sensory processing difficulties or motor delay may not understand where their bodies are in space or how to work their muscles. For these children, dance fosters spatial awareness and improves coordination. For those who are autistic or nonverbal, the body can tell a story the child might not be able to vocalise.

The advantages of ballet
Dance promotes healthy living, offers a creative outlet for self expression, and provides a multitude of benefits for children with SEN.

Ballet for SEN children:

  • enhances body awareness
  • builds confidence
  • develops social skills
  • stimulates the mind
  • improves fine and gross motor skills
  • boosts the imagination.

Dance fosters individuality and creative thinking and stimulates the intellect. It can create an aura of peace, and permits children to express their inner being in a way that is non-judgemental, fun and engaging.

It is known that exercise boosts dopamine, the brain chemical that children with ADHD are thought to have less of. And studies have proved that when the body is active, the mind is stimulated. Children in ballet classes interact with the world and contribute to it in meaningful ways.

Dance allows children to break out of their shells and engage with others in pair or group work in a non judgemental and non threatening environment.

What does our ballet class offer?
At our ballet class for SEN children, we take the time to understand each child’s unique needs. We ensure an enjoyable and safe learning environment for all. Our class is inclusive and meets the individual requirements of each participant.

Our intention is to provide a safe space where every child can build confidence, be creative and develop new friendships. Our ballet class teaches the basics of balance, rhythm and coordination. We also encourage improvisation, enabling children to express themselves in unique and personal ways.

Socialization and teamwork are promoted in our class – children participate in group exercises, building collaboration skills. Every child is valued and respected, building a sense of community and belonging.

We provide a nurturing environment that encourages children to challenge themselves, try new things, and celebrate their progress. Let your child take part in our class to join the fun!

SENsational Ballet Class at Woking Leisure Centre: Saturdays 12:45 pm–1:30 pm

Age range: 7–15 years

Address: Woking Park, Kingfield Rd, Woking GU22 9BA

Other payment options such as monthly, or weekly payment plans are also available: please contact us using the email address below to set them up.

Please note, if your child has one-to-one support at school, it is essential for parents/carers to attend the class and support them – alternatively, one-to-one assistants may be arranged for an additional fee. Contact us to arrange an assistant

Term dates:

Saturday 20th April 2024

Saturday 27th April 2024

Saturday 4th May 2024

Saturday 11th May 2024

Saturday 18th May 2024

Saturday 25th May 2024

Saturday 1st June 2024 – no class, due to half term

Saturday 8th June 2024

Saturday 15th June 2024

Saturday 22nd June 2024

Saturday 29th June 2024

Saturday 6th July 2024

Saturday 13th July 2024

Saturday 20th July 2024

All past dates, half term dates and inset days will be deducted from the class price and you will not be charged for these events. Past dates are removed and the price is adjusted on a weekly basis. All highlighted dates have been deducted/removed from the club price.

Got a question? Feel free to email us; kathryn@synergydance.co.uk.

Book here.

Find out more.

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Synergy Dance® Outreach Inclusive Dance Parties

Come and join us for one of our out of this world Synergy Dance® Outreach Inclusive Dance Parties and don’t forget, to invite all of your friends!

Synergy Dance® Outreach Dance Parties for Mainstream and SEND students

Our exciting dance parties (see below) bring a host of benefits. Dance helps children to maintain a balanced lifestyle and presents advantages in all areas of life. It provides a creative outlet that can physically refresh children and improve their mood. Group dancing relieves stress and is an outlet for creative imagination. Studies have shown that children who dance spend less time in front of screens, making them less at risk from obesity and other health problems such as high blood pressure.

Our dance parties promote stability, balance, body awareness and coordination. They can increase your child’s flexibility, range of motion, bone and muscle strength and stamina. As well as promoting overall health, dance can help kids with sports and other activities at school and beyond.

Through dance, children develop a range of movement and the ability to explore the world around them. Children taking part learn patience, listening and leadership skills. Dancing also improves coordination which fosters successful multitasking. Our parties develop kinaesthetic memory and endurance: this creates a solid platform for a child’s physical development and fitness.

Children taking part in our dance parties build up the courage to experiment with movement and challenge themselves. This bold sense of adventure is a skill children can use in all aspects of life. In a study of Stagecoach parents, 82 percent of participants felt their child’s general confidence improved as a result of attending dance sessions.

Dance provides an outlet for a healthy physical release that helps to develop emotional maturity – supplying a safe gateway for children to explore socially. Parties bring together children from a variety of backgrounds: participants have to communicate in new ways, building trust and making new friends. Taking part in a group activity promotes teamwork and develops the ability to function successfully when working with others. Dance parties also encourage imagination, providing opportunities to foster creative thinking.

Children at our parties learn to portray a message both verbally and with body signals, while dance can help the child to develop an understanding of their own body language as well as that of others. Perseverance and self motivation are stimulated, and dance parties encourage children to experiment and find different paths towards solving problems in all areas of life.

Synergy Dance® themed dance parties
Does your child love dancing? Celebrate your child’s birthday or special event with a unique dance party package! Synergy Dance provides bespoke parties in Surrey, Hampshire, London, Kent and Sussex.

Parties are delivered in leisure centres, private venues, schools and outreach centres. They take place mostly at weekends and during school holidays to celebrate your child’s birthday or other noteworthy events.

Choose your favourite theme or simply make it a Pop Dance party to the latest songs! We offer fabulous parties with our expert team of party hosts and teaching assistants. They will give you and your guests an experience that is out of this world! Furthermore, our expert team of party hosts are fully insured with enhanced DBS checks and Safeguarding compliance. They make sure that everyone enjoys the experience.

Bolt-on catering options are available for a one-stop, stress-free party experience in many of our leisure centre venues. Prices depend on the venue and the number of children attending.

Inclusive dance parties for SEND children
Synergy Dance® Outreach Dance Parties for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are full of excitement and fun, and operate the same way as mainstream events – see Synergy Dance® themed parties, above, for details.

Seated routines are available, and some customers request a combination of dance and yoga.

‘We planned a Disco dance party for my 5 year old with Synergy. The interaction with them was fantastic: they were helpful, they listened and adapted to our little one’s wishes and were always available (and super quick to respond) if we had questions. On the day, everything ran smoothly and all the 24 kids seemed to have lots of fun.’

For any questions, contact us here: admin@synergydance.co.uk

See our party packages and pricing here

Find out more bout our parties here

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Seated Dance and Muscle Memory

Come and explore the benefits of Seated dance and muscle memory using our digital, on demand workouts.

Muscle memory has been described as ‘the ability to reproduce a particular movement without conscious thought, acquired as a result of frequent repetition of that movement.’

In other words, your body takes over and performs familiar movements from memory on autopilot. Before this can happen, there is a transition from conscious awareness of a newly acquired movement to the automatic performance of it.

According to neuroscientists, the movements become familiar and mapped in the brain, creating a shorthand between thinking and doing.

How long does it take to develop muscle memory?
The time frame for developing muscle memory varies depending on factors including your age, fitness level and workout complexity.

Regaining muscle memory quickly after a period of inactivity depends on how fit you were initially, how long you had been exercising for, and how long the layoff was.

The effect on the brain
Studies show that the brain is boosted through repeated practice of a physical task. When physiologists talk about muscle memory, they mean the phenomenon whereby previously trained muscles acquire volume and strength after a period of disuse much more quickly than never-trained muscles do when starting from scratch.

Research has demonstrated that changes persist in the muscles themselves. In a study of mice, the nuclei in muscle cells proliferated in response to training and were not lost during subsequent periods of inactivity.

Genetic factors
Another area of research into muscle memory addresses changes in how your genes work in response to your environment and behavior. In the muscle cells, genes get switched on and off in response to exercise in order to make certain proteins. So long-term changes to these genes could drive muscle memory.

Advantages of exercise for building muscle memory

The more you exercise, the more advantages you’ll build up. And researchers believe muscle memory may even be permanent. In a study of men in their 50s to 70s participants completed a resistance training regimen, followed by a non-training period, then a retraining period (each 12 weeks long). Less than eight weeks of retraining were needed to reach the post-training level of greatest strength.

Synergy’s exciting routines to boost muscle memory
ParaStars Dance™ is a seated dance and movement class for adults with a disability or long-term health condition, while ParaStars Progressive Dance™ is for adults and seniors with a disability or long-term health condition. Regular participation in these fun classes will enhance muscle memory, and there are a host of other benefits too.

Upbeat music and fun dance moves boost resilience and fitness in these classes. Participants improve flexibility, muscle strength and wellbeing whilst seated at home or in a residential setting.

Benefits include stress reduction, greater flexibility, toning and fitness and boosting the immune system. Classes include some exercises for upper body only and some exercises for upper and lower body to offer diversity and levels.

Regular attendance will improve core strength, motor skills, improve posture and bring the confidence to learn a new skill. The lessons also help to enhance mental health and aid restful sleep. Our friendly teachers guide you through a range of themes and styles to increase your range of movement, focus on rhythm and boost your wellbeing. Get ready to have fun while you dance! This course is made up of 10 lessons and some props are included.

https://synergy-dance-online.teachable.com/

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Benefits of after school clubs

There are many benefits of after school clubs and over the years they have evolved dramatically and nowadays offer broad choices ranging from origami to pizza club.

Why after school clubs succeed
Clubs began by providing extra supervision for school children from working families, However they now offer immense possibilities for young people – both academic and social – and can help children to thrive and develop new skills and abilities.

Sporting activities can support pupils’ physical development, while artistic and creative classes can improve their academic achievement. Sessions provide motivation, fun and excitement and enable participants to enjoy new experiences. Classes improve fitness, foster self esteem and confidence, and support the academic curriculum.

Academic advantages
Clubs of all sorts are shown to foster improved academic ability and social skills. Successful classes may include maths, English, creative writing or a language. And physical classes such as dance and ballet also provide these benefits too. Research has proven that children involved in after school activities get higher grades compared to their peers who did not take part. This effect is marked in disadvantaged youngsters from poorer homes: pupils from this background who attend activities make significantly more progress by the age of 11.

And after school clubs and activities are also good for the schools who host them. Better academic performance of students taking part in clubs has a knock-on effect on the school’s exam pass rates – boosting their performance in league tables and making the school more desirable to prospective parents.

After school clubs may take place in schools, libraries or other local bodies. The most productive learning areas are those where children show natural aptitude – whether in art and design, maths, English, drama or dance. It is very important that the child enjoys the activity and has fun after a long day at school when they may be tired. And when a young person is engaged productively in an activity, this is when they learn most effectively and retain information.

After school clubs offer the advantages of good relations with the staff, low cost, ease of access, flexibility and familiarity with the environment.

Synergy after school clubs
Our after school classes cover an exciting range of styles, and we can specialise on request. Delivery is for both mainstream pupils and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Our clubs enable pupils to be involved in class design and delivery. We offer rewards and encourage peer-to-peer support.

Classes include a warm-up, cool down, dance drills, fitness elements, exciting routines and improvisation. Synergy Dance routines can be performed in assemblies and school showcases. Lessons appeal to both girls and boys. We share pupils’ development over the term and parents/carers are invited to attend the End of Term View. This way they can share our excitement at their children’s progress! We also deliver school holiday workshops.

Furthermore we provide high-quality instruction and delivery, and good-value, inclusive classes. We can help your school to target inactivity levels and reach the recommended one hour of exercise per day. Find out more about our afterschool clubs.

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Benefits of Dance for Children with ADHD

There is no doubt that dance has many benefits for children or all ages, such as improved coordination, stamina fitness and so forth. But did you know about the benefits of dance for children with ADHD?

Continue reading to find out more about how dance could help your ADHD child or teenager.

Typically, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with difficulties of focus and attention. It is usually diagnosed between four and six years. Symptoms may peak at seven or eight years and then recede, although it often lasts into adulthood.

Difficulties of ADHD
Children with ADHD have neurodiverse needs. They may display some or all of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty paying attention to detail.
  • Problems remembering combinations of movements.
  • Making careless mistakes in schoolwork
  • Struggle to stay focused on tasks or in play.
  • Trouble completing tasks, projects, and chores.
  • Try to avoid tasks which do not hold their attention.
  • Easily distracted.
  • Forget to complete simple daily tasks.
  • Seem to be constantly moving.
  • Fidget frequently.
  • Talk a lot or blurt out answers.
  • Seem to act before thinking.

In dance classes, children with ADHD can have a hard time standing still, plus finding movement skills, coordination and learning more of a challenge. They may also be perfectionists who are hard on themselves. The need to control anxiety may appear in what mental health professionals call ‘stimming’ or self-stimulating repetitive behaviour.

How dance can help
Dance is beneficial as it improves confidence, aids in motor coordination, and helps with memory and confidence building. Studies have found that focusing on movements acts as an anchor for the mind and brain of those with ADHD.

Exercise also boosts dopamine, the brain chemical that people with ADHD are thought to have less of. Adding dance, including ballet, to the programme for children with ADHD can help with dopamine neurotransmission in the brain and alleviate cognitive difficulties.

Children with ADHD are mentally challenged, but the way their brains work might actually bestow some advantages in dance lessons. For example, children with ADHD may easily be able to attain a hyper-focused ‘flow state’, especially if they are deeply engrossed in a task or activity. They may also understand choreography as a whole, rather than as a series of separate movements. One study found that ballet dancers are more likely to display ADHD traits than the rest of the population.

Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) fosters social interactions and the sharing of feelings as well as teaching self-control. The more a child focuses on dance and movement, the more their overall focus in the rest of life can improve. Meanwhile, mindfulness meditation can help children with ADHD to feel grounded, and listening to music calms the mind and acts as a form of self-medication.

Synergy dance programmes for ADHD
The Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) community includes children with ADHD, who are often marginalised and miss out on opportunities to engage in dance and movement. We wholly support this group and deliver inclusive dance and yoga for SEND children, teens, adults and seniors.

All children, regardless of whether they are able bodied, disabled or unable to cope in a mainstream environment, deserve the opportunity to participate in dance and movement and sport. Our SEND classes can be exciting and liberating for challenged children and adults with ADHD.

Our SEND instructors are highly trained to provide an all-inclusive dance and fitness programme. Seeing children with ADHD interacting in a safe environment and being able to take part in something they might not otherwise be able to do is our goal.

To these children being able to take part is just as thrilling as winning a race! We take care to cater to the individual needs of children with ADHD in our classes, and our parties allow participants to choose the music and dance styles from a variety of themes. All of these exciting offerings make our programme a fabulous resource for children with ADHD.

Book a class today.

Find out more about Synergy Dance Outreach

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

The Benefits of Yoga as we Age

In light of our new ParaStars yoga programmes and Yoga for mainstream we decided to do some research on the benefits of yoga as we age, and here’s what we found!

Yoga minimises the risk of strain or joint pain for elderly people who want to stay active. It is a wonderful option that can keep you flexible without straining your muscles and boost your mood.

Research suggests that yoga has numerous benefits for older people:

Better sleep habits Yoga can help you sleep soundly. A study found that seniors practising yoga reduced the time it took to fall asleep by ten minutes on average, and sleep duration improved by an average of one hour.

Improve strength and protect joints – even if you have arthritis. One study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis and those without the condition both experienced better grip strength in the hands after practising yoga. Yoga can reduce the risk of conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Manage type 2 diabetes After practising yoga for 40 days, a group of 30-to 60-year-olds with type 2 diabetes saw a significant fall in their blood sugar levels.

Reduce high blood pressure One study discovered that patients with mild to moderate high blood pressure saw a decline in readings after three months of daily yoga. There was a similar drop in cholesterol, blood sugar and triglycerides.

Lose weight Older people who practise yoga every week for at least four years have around 1.4 kilograms less weight gain than the average adult.

Reduce anxiety and improve mood People who enjoy yoga often report a decline in their anxiety and better mood. Research suggests that yoga is better at this than other forms of exercise. Yoga practice causes high levels of the brain chemical GABA, which calms the body.

Aid chronic pain One study found that those with chronic pain either improved or maintained their symptoms after four weeks of yoga; all patients significantly reduced their pain medication.

Help breathing and the lungs One study discovered that yoga practice can boost lung capacity by 10 per cent after 40 days. Bronchial asthmatics have also benefited from just 30 minutes of yoga breathing techniques.

Bone strength Yoga helps seniors at risk of osteoporosis by slowing bone thinning. Research has shown that it is even possible for older people to gain bone density when practising yoga.

Enhance mental states and prevent cognitive decline Yoga practice can reduce stress and maintain energy levels, which can boost the mind. Various studies have explored yoga’s beneficial effect on stress and anxiety. One study showed that women who completed two yoga classes a week for three months reported less depression and enhanced wellbeing. Regular practice is associated with anatomical changes in the parts of the brain that deal with ageing-related cognitive decline.

Maintain flexibility Yoga minimises the strain associated with strength training and high-intensity exercises. As a low-impact exercise, yoga carries less risk of injury and helps seniors build muscle strength and joint flexibility. Gentle stretches maintain a good range of motion in participants.

Synergy ParaStars Yoga® for Adults & Seniors is a seated yoga programme for adults/the elderly with a disability or long-term health condition or limited range of movement. Benefits for adults and older participants include better posture, fitness, physical and motor skills, spatial awareness, balance, coordination and flexibility as well as the improvements listed above.

This stress relieving programme increases confidence and range of movement and enriches everyday life. The lessons include some exercises for the upper body only and some exercises for both the upper and lower body to offer diversity and different levels.Seniors should start gradually with yoga, especially if they have a long-term health condition. Synergy instructors take into account each participant’s level of fitness and experience when delivering our fun and stimulating yoga classes.

Find out more about online programmes here.

Benefits of Yoga as we age