
The Youthful Older Yogi
Yogi Host and founder of SHARE YOGA, MJ Waddell, explores staying youthful in mind and body after 50. An E-RYT 500 yoga teacher, practitioner and educator for over 25 years, she advocates for movement, creativity and not missing the best years ahead. Real conversations with wellness pros and older yogis who still Down-Dog and dig it!
Two episodes a month.
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Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theYOY50
The Youthful Older Yogi
Teaching with Confidence
Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you!
Ever had a student quietly confess something right before class—“I just had surgery”… “I’ve never done yoga before”… “I can’t get up and down from the floor”… or list off a medical condition you’ve never even heard of? Cue internal freak-out. 😳
In this episode, I share real fears yoga teachers face—especially when we worry we don’t know enough to support our students safely. I'll share some personal stories, practical tools, and the exact words I use to help new, injured, and older students feel welcome, safe, and empowered on the mat.
Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro still having “Wait…what?” moments, this one’s for you.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
✅ The early panic moments I had as a new teacher
✅ Real-life experiences from my weekly 55+ yoga class
✅ What you might say when a student shares a fear, injury, or limitation
✅ How to support older beginners with grace and a good sense of humor
✅ Why you don’t need all the answers to be a great teacher
Quotes to remember:
🧘♀️ “The only flexibility required is a flexible mindset.”
🧘♂️ “You won't be left on the floor—we move slow, safe, and steady.”
🎶 “Ah, the symphony of knees… music to my ears.”
Resources & Links:
🌐 Visit MJ’s website www.shareyogawithmj.com
Mudra Meditation Study: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5934951/
Adi Mudra: https://www.fitsri.com/yoga-mudras/adi-mudra
💌 Want to connect or share your own story? I would love to hear from you!
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Find MJ Waddell at:
WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com
FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390
YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/
E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com
Dan Jones-Editor
Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/