In modern Spanish society, where the pursuit of a long and fulfilling life has become almost a national ideal, increasing attention is being paid to practices that promise not just more years, but years filled with energy and health. In this context, the name Xuan Lan, a renowned authority in the world of yoga and wellness, is mentioned more and more often. She invites us to look at this ancient discipline from a new perspective, arguing that its true value lies not in the promise of immortality, but in its power to dramatically improve our lives here and now.
In her view, yoga is not merely a set of physical exercises. It’s a holistic system that integrates movement, breathing techniques, meditation, and a philosophy of living. This approach enables a deep connection between mind and body. A person becomes more attuned to signals from their own body—fatigue, tension, emotional imbalance—and can respond preventively, without waiting for illnesses to develop. We are used to separating care for mental and physical well-being, but in reality, it is a unified, interconnected mechanism where a malfunction in one part inevitably affects the other.
Moreover, immersing herself in the spiritual aspects of the practice opened the door to self-discovery and helped her identify what is known in Japan as ‘ikigai’—the meaning of life. Studies conducted in Okinawa, one of the regions with the highest concentration of centenarians in the world, have shown that the secret to their longevity lies not only in healthy eating, staying active, and low stress levels. A crucial component turned out to be the presence of this very ‘ikigai.’ When every day is filled with purpose, there is powerful motivation to live and act.
So does yoga influence lifespan? Xuan Lan is convinced that while there is no direct elixir of youth in yoga, it is a powerful ally in the pursuit of quality years. Regular practice helps reduce key risk factors: insomnia, physical inactivity, and, most importantly, chronic stress. Ongoing tension maintains high cortisol levels, which over time weakens the immune system and makes us vulnerable to various diseases. Yoga, through mindful breathing and gentle movements, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation and recovery. It creates ideal conditions for maintaining health and vitality, thereby indirectly contributing to longevity.
As we age, maintaining muscle strength, mobility, and balance becomes critically important. This is where yoga offers effective tools. Asanas (poses) using your own body weight are excellent for supporting muscle mass and bone density. Stretches improve flexibility and joint mobility, while balance exercises help prevent falls—one of the main risks for people over 50.
Equally important is working with the mind. Mindfulness practices and meditation, which are integral parts of yoga, teach how to remain calm and present in the moment. This not only reduces anxiety but also improves memory, concentration, and emotional resilience. Additionally, yoga helps cope with challenging emotions such as fear of aging, loneliness, or the pain of loss. It offers a safe space to experience and transform these feelings, and group classes foster a sense of community and support.
You can start at any age—whether it’s 50, 60, or even 70. It’s important to understand that yoga is not a competitive sport; there is no race for achievement or need for difficult acrobatic poses. The practice is easily adaptable for any physical ability. For noticeable results, a short daily routine is enough: a few minutes of mindful breathing, ten minutes of gentle movement, and five minutes of relaxation. The key to success is consistency. Small but regular efforts transform life much more than rare, intense workouts.
