Instant results and satisfaction drives human behavior. There is limited space for patience today and a value in results from consistency. One of my long time business partners from my sales career lives and breathes by the adage, "slow down to speed up." We are in a world of GLP-1's, quick fixes, and insta everything. Rarely does the "fast fix' have the same satisfaction and the long lasting results of consistency.

If you crave lasting health, results, and mobility, meet Linda.

Setback to Strength:

Linda (name changed), 76, practiced asana-based generic gym yoga and exercise for 20 years. but her stamina, flexibility, and self-image declined sharply in her mind. Power classes and familiar poses became out of reach and the emotional toll was evident.

A year ago, she started my a weekly yin class at her gym, embracing the long-held poses for deep tissue and fascia release. She soon felt "better, stronger, and more capable in everyday life." In August, she added my weekly Gentle Forrest Inspired Yoga class. With breathwork, the famous Forrest Ab/core/back work to promote a healing option rich guided class. She often told me she was feeling a difference.

This week in Yin, she turned a supported half-split into a supported full split. I hadn't cued the option. BUT, we had spent the class focusing on hamstrings and opening them up completely. When i noticed her adaptation, I was shocked at her results. Linda credits her work in going to both classes for her turnaround, highlighting the options, as well as the consistency of yoga's true power to return to ease in everyday movement.

For Linda, this isn't simply "feeling better". Her husband is going to need help because of a degenerative medical diagnosis. Independence for both of them falls squarely on her shoulders. Yes, she feels better, now. She can get down on the floor and clean the baseboards and spread mulch in her flower beds. She is also able to take care of her spouse as his mobility is stripped away from him.

Physical Gains: Flexibility and Stamina Reclaimed

Research aligns with Linda's progress. Yin and Gentle Yoga boost mobility and balance as you age. It reduces stiffness by hydrating connective tissue like your fascia. Studies show a consistent yoga regiment improve your lower body strength and endurance. This lowers your frailty risk. Consistency vastly improves your ability to breeze through daily activities. Activities like vacuuming mimic triangle pose. If you regularly strengthen your lower back and stretch your hamstrings, picking things off the floor and tying your shoes is something you do rather than have to create a strategic plan to accomplish or buy step in sneakers. (Yet another invention to support the non yogi aging population.)

Forrest Yoga subtle sequencing structure, option rich format for success, and apex driven format build stamina without strain but with effort. The benefits compound over time. Linda and other students remark at how Forrest Abdominal work has strengthened their backs and reduced chronic pain.

Mental Boost: Self-Image and Presence

Yoga uplifts you mentally. Linda's renewed confidence mirrors findings yoga cuts stress, anxiety, and enhances emotional health. While Yin promotes mindfulness, lowers cortisol, and improves sleep. Breathwork preserves brain function and lung capacity. Consistent practice fosters focus and self worth. I'll be honest. Linda still hates breathwork. Together, we have agreed if it is incorporated into even a marginal pose, she can mentally do it because it doesn't "feel like lost time". If you come to yoga through asana, breathwork and stillness is often tougher than an arm balance to master. Consistency is the path to discovery.

Consistency: Start Simple for Lasting Results

Science emphasizes steady practice over intensity. One class weekly yields improvements in flexibility, pain relief, and coping skills. It supports healthy aging.

Tips to begin:

• Start with ONE session: Try yin or a gentle Forrest Yoga weekly.

• Honor your body: Use props for support. (see this post about props)

• Notice wins: Track mood or ease of movement.

• Build gradually: Add more as YOU FEEL ready

Your Turn to Drive Your Thrive:

Linda's revival to nailing splits at 76 years young illustrates the ancient practice of yoga abiity to reclaim vitality. Join Compass Rose Yoga's online membership to start. Single classes and monthly memberships don't require you to leave the house or get out of your pj's The same classes Linda takes are on this portal to start now. Consistency starts with one breath and click.