How Chair Yoga Helped Dolores Got Her Groove Back (at 83 Years Young) 🥳

Yoga helps improve balance, mobility, and confidence—even if you’ve never tried it before. Discover how my dear friend Dolores, at 83 years young, went from hesitantly using a cane to confidently practicing standing yoga poses in our chair yoga class. This story shows how it's never too late to take the first step toward a healthier you!

Bringing Yoga to the Community

In addition to coaching online, I teach several community yoga classes each week. Since Mr. D. and I moved back to our hometown three years ago, I’ve had the joy of introducing people from all walks of life to yoga. Here in Marshall County, yoga is still relatively unknown—there are no yoga studios—so I teach in church basements, my friends’ dojo, and community spaces.

When I mention yoga to newcomers, I usually get one of two reactions:

• “I can’t do yoga because I can’t touch my toes.”

• “I heard yoga goes against my religion.”

Meet Dolores

When Dolores joined my chair yoga class in her church gym at age 83, she had a mix of both reactions. Encouraged by her doctor and daughter, she was skeptical. She promised to give it a try—but made no promises about returning.

During her first session, she clutched her cane and was anxious to try any standing poses. She had long battled balance and respiratory issues and felt unsure of her abilities. At the end of class, she quietly left without saying a word.

Small Steps, Big Change

To my surprise, Dolores returned the following Tuesday. This time, she shared that after our first class she moved more easily and noticed less joint stiffness. That was the beginning of a beautiful journey.

Three years later, Dolores has completely ditched her cane and now confidently practices standing poses. Her balance has improved significantly, she no longer needs support at church, and she’s formed close friendships with her classmates.

A Lesson for All of Us

Witnessing Dolores' transformation has been one of the greatest joys of my teaching career. She reminds us that it’s never too late to try something new. Yoga isn’t about being flexible or touching your toes—it’s about building strength, improving mobility, and discovering confidence at any age.

Sometimes, all it takes is one small step to open the door to greater strength, confidence, and joy.