A body needs to be maintained, and the older the model, the higher the maintenance required. Same as cars and many other items. So, as a body ages and gets achy and weak, the value of a physical yoga practice only increases. It doesn't matter if you have arthritis or Lyme Disease or any number of other disorders, discomforts and physical limitations. The important thing is to keep moving, twisting, bending, squeezing and releasing, strengthening and relaxing the muscles and joints.
The huge thing about yoga is the state of mind that is cultivated during the movement. It's not just doing a certain number of reps while focusing on a certain type of breathing and watching TV. It is refining a highly conscious state of acceptance and equanimity while moving or holding in a posture. That way, the very cells of the body are infused with and re-wired for consciousness, so that your body, your mind and your spirit all support your awakening.
While on the road, I carry an old shower curtain which I put on the dirt ground. Then I put my yoga mat on that (so as to keep it cleaner). Most of the time we are in remote areas so I can enjoy my practice without an audience. Other times, I practice inside the camper. Here on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, even the starfish practice. The picture here is of a starfish in janushirsasana at low tide. I swear, I did not do this in photo shop! I honestly found him this way. He is under a bit of water. See the anemone? Name that posture!
