We’re always inspired by the personal wellness journeys within our team, and today, we’re delighted to share a truly uplifting story from our Project Assistant, Jay Robinson, who is also a registered yoga teacher and owner at Central Street Yoga and Fitness. In her reflective piece, “Starting Yoga Later in Life: A Personal Journey,” she shares how stepping onto the mat at 43 transformed not only her physical health but also her sense of self. Her journey is one of rediscovery, empowerment, and healing, a reminder that it’s never too late to start something new. Whether you’re curious about yoga, looking for ways to support your wellbeing as you age, or simply seeking inspiration to embrace change, her story offers heartfelt encouragement to begin exactly where you are.
I used to think yoga was only for the young and flexible until I walked into a studio at 43 and discovered it was exactly what I needed. At first, I doubted I could ever keep up, but that doubt quickly faded as I realized yoga wasn’t just about flexibility. It was about strength, balance, and connection to myself in ways I had never experienced before. Like many, I had seen filtered photos of young, fresh-faced, flexible women in poses that seemed out of my reach. I was skeptical and unsure of what to expect when I found myself surrounded by people of all different shades and shapes. But as I settled onto my mat, something clicked. Yoga wasn’t just for the fit and bendy—it was for me too.
The journey that led me to yoga at 43 was a long one—one that, at times, felt like it excluded me. At this stage of life, I was craving something I could call my own, something that was just for me. I had dedicated so much of my life to being a mother, a wife, an employee, and a friend, and at 43, I was still searching for something that was truly mine. I wanted something that, if no one else was around, I could still own. Something I could still do.
I believe many women my age have this “change of life” epiphany—wondering what the next phase will look like. I had considered a career change—maybe that would spark something inside me. I thought about moving—perhaps a change of scenery would awaken that deep longing I couldn’t quite put into words.
That’s when I decided to try yoga—something I had never even considered before. And oh, what a magical experience it turned out to be.
From the very first class, I felt an energy surge through my body. It was like a natural high, and I wanted to hold onto that feeling. Practicing asanas made me feel powerful in ways no other practice ever had. With every inhale, I welcomed positivity, strength, and light. With every exhale, I let go of heartache, insecurities, and frustrations.
Yoga and Aging: Embracing Change with Strength and Flexibility
As my body began to age, my health and mobility often crossed my mind. Was I strong enough to hold a pose? How long would my body remain healthy? Between the natural aging process and my desire to prevent NCDs, yoga delivered exactly what my body needed to maintain its well-being. Yoga isn’t just about getting into poses; it’s a practice that supports overall health, especially for those looking to prevent or manage Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
Yoga supports flexibility, muscle, and joint health—all of which are crucial as we age. With consistent practice, yoga can be vital for preventing stiffness, arthritis, and keeping your body strong. But the benefits don’t stop there—yoga is an excellent way to prevent and manage Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. It promotes healthy circulation, reduces stress, and helps regulate blood pressure, which are all key in preventing chronic diseases. Yoga truly becomes a holistic practice, addressing both physical and mental health.
A Personal Story: Finding Healing Through Yoga
Before yoga, I was in constant pain. I had been in several car accidents, and my back pain was so severe that I needed help to get in and out of the shower. Simple things like sitting for a meal at a restaurant required me to bring a pillow with me for support, and I couldn’t get through the day without relying on muscle relaxers. The pain controlled my life, leaving me on short-term disability and seeing chiropractors regularly, yet I still couldn’t find relief.
That’s when I decided to give yoga a try. At first, I wasn’t sure how it would help, but as I started practicing regularly, I began to notice changes. The pain slowly started to ease, and over time, I found myself completely free from it. I no longer needed a chiropractor, and I didn’t have to rely on muscle relaxers. The combination of gentle stretching, strength-building poses, and mindful breathing has healed my body in ways I never thought possible. Yoga became my personal path to recovery, and now, I’m stronger and more mobile than I’ve ever been.
The Power of Breath: Yoga’s Mind-Body Connection
Yoga is about more than poses (asanas); it’s about breathwork and mindfulness. It centers your mind and allows your thoughts to come into focus. Taking time to focus on your breath creates a calming effect on both your body and mind, especially during times of stress or change. Practicing pranayama (breathing exercises) helps clear mental clutter and improves both your asana practice and overall well-being.
Yoga: A Journey to Self-Love
The poses made me feel powerful and womanly. All the experiences I had as a wife, mother, employee and friend came alive on the mat. I watch my body hold positions. I felt my muscles tighten and gain strength. I felt wise and beautiful. I felt awkward and graceful-and that was ok.
As I looked over my life, in my 40’s I realized just how much I had given to other people and now it was time to return that love to myself. Yoga is an opportunity to connect with yourself. Imagine giving yourself a huge hug, or being able to lie still and listen to the sounds of your own beautiful heart beat. It offers you a break from the demands of work, family or any other obligations. Some of my students say, yoga practice is the only time during the week where it is just about them. As you move through the poses you will learn to listen to your body, respect its boundaries, and know just when to push and when you’ve had enough. Yoga celebrates your strengths! This encourages self-love and confidence at a time when so many of us feel like we have lost touch with who we really are.
Tips for Beginners: Yoga in Your 40s, 50s, and Beyond
If you are considering yoga in your 40’s, 50’s or older, remember yoga is a personal journey, you do not have to be perfect. Just show up for yourself and your body. Everyone’s poses may look different. You do not have to jump into an intense pose. Start slow and gentle. Discover a class that is for beginners or offers restorative yoga. Don’t be afraid to take breaks, have a sip of water, modify the pose, or simply sit and breathe. Yoga offers no judgement. It is about connecting with yourself at your own pace.
Yoga: A Path to Managing Life’s Changes
I was in a community of other women who came for the same purpose. Themselves! As we navigate through life changes, transitioning through middle age, becoming an empty nester, or even a career change, yoga can help ease frustrations and help guide you into peace. Yoga allows space to reveal and release any pent-up emotion and tension. It creates a safe place to remain grounded- no matter what changes are happening around you.
If you’re in that place—unsure, seeking something new, something that’s yours—maybe yoga can offer you the same magic. You don’t have to be a certain age, a certain shape, or a certain type of person to experience its benefits. Yoga is for everyone at any stage of life. It helped me find my self in midlife. And it can help you find yours too.
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