Old Age Pain
Does Old Age Mean Pain and Suffering?
I have very often heard this statement: “Oh, I’m old. So little backache is bound to be there,” or “knee pain is bound to be there.” Well, no, not at all.
Do you think old age means pain and suffering? No. Pain and suffering are not limited to old age.
In childhood, there is cold, cough, vomiting—so much discomfort.
In young age, emotional pain and even accidents happen.
Middle age brings blood pressure, heart issues, diabetes, and menopause.
So, which age is really free from suffering? Pain is part of life because the body is present.
But yoga teaches that proper living and listening to the body language can prevent problems.
If you manage well, you won’t have any pain. No pain at all.
What Truly Defines Old Age?
What do you call old age? Understand this clearly. Old age is not about numbers. It’s about mindset.
- First, when someone constantly thinks about the past and isn’t living in the present, that person is old.
- Second, a person who doesn’t adjust—”Don’t put glass this way, put it that way”—this inflexibility signals old age.
- Third, if a person stops learning, thinking they know everything, then deterioration begins.
Learning must never stop. A young person feels fresh, joyful, enthusiastic every day.
That’s what yoga teaches—how to live life with awareness and purpose.
Letting Go and Sharing Responsibility
After 50, we must slowly start giving responsibility to the younger generation.
Support them when they need help and make them more capable.
Holding on to your position and not retiring is a wrong concept.
We must learn to retire, to leave things to others and find meaningful engagements for ourselves.
One such activity is traveling. Traveling humbles us, teaches, relaxes, and brings detachment.
It strengthens our connection to nature and helps us grow.
It improves our adjusting capacity and deepens our understanding of life.
🧘♀️ Yoga Practices for Every Stage of Life
Now, after 50, your body needs attention. Till now, the body went through many changes, especially in women.
There was no time to attend to it. Now it is your duty.
Certain asanas should be practiced regularly. Live mindfully and take charge of yourself.
Begin with stretching your whole body.
While breathing in, raise both arms up and stretch toes. This loosens stiff joints.
1. Aspadangushta Asan: Raise your hand, try holding the toe. If not possible, lift your leg as high as possible.
- Side Variation: Right leg to right, left to left. Stretch both arms to the side, hold if possible, and keep the head straight.
- Cross Variation: Left leg to right, look in the opposite direction. Keep the leg as straight as possible.
These variations help the back, kidney, liver, and intestines—freeing them from stress.
2. Pavan Mukhtasan: Fold one leg and press against the stomach. This gives intra-abdominal compression.
With both legs, do only if no health problems are present.
Importance of Breath and Daily Movement
Pranayam is essential. When tired, remember to breathe deeply. Inhale—stomach rises, exhale—stomach goes down.
Do this several times a day. Lie down every two hours for five minutes and practice this.
Walking is the best, mildest exercise. Sitting in the sun is also beneficial.
Take sunlight on your body. Look at the rising or setting sun.
These are healthy habits. Healthy routines bring healthy living.
Aging Gracefully with Awareness and Vairagya
When you perform your duties with full capacity, you naturally gain knowledge of life.
This brings detachment—knowing the world isn’t in your control.
What is in your control is your body, mind, and thoughts.
Stay engaged, but slightly detached. This gives confidence and calmness in any situation.
A mature or senior person should not get disturbed, worried, or fearful.
Problems come and go. Have faith that all will be good.
Spend time with yourself That is your first duty, and then, do whatever is possible for society.
FAQs Old Age Pain
Q 1. Is pain unavoidable with aging?
Ans. No, Pain and suffering exist at all stages of life. Yoga teaches us that with proper management, pain can be prevented, even in old age.
Q 2. What defines someone as truly old?
Ans. A person who lives in the past, resists adjustment, and stops learning is considered old, regardless of age.
Q 3. Why is retirement important for healthy aging?
Ans. Letting go of responsibilities and allowing the younger generation to grow brings peace, humility, and deeper life understanding.
Q 4. Which yoga asanas are safe after 50?
Ans. Stretching, Aspadangushta Asan, side and cross leg variations, Pavan Mukhtasan, and breathing exercises are gentle and effective.
Q 5. How can one stay mentally healthy while aging?
Ans. By staying active, practicing yoga, spending time in nature, maintaining healthy routines, and developing detachment and self-awareness.
