They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but I’m living proof that this couldn’t be further from the truth. At 63 years old, I’ve found that stepping outside my comfort zone and learning something new feels more meaningful and fulfilling than ever.

Last year, I decided to pick up the guitar for the first time. I enrolled in a class at my local community college, and sitting there strumming my first few chords, I felt equal parts excitement and humility. The year before that, I started taking Spanish classes at my local senior center, the very same place I once brought my mom for art lessons.

These experiences aren’t just hobbies—they’re acts of self-care and resilience. They remind me that no matter how old we are, we have the capacity to grow, expand, and adapt. And more importantly, continuing to learn has benefits that go far beyond just the skills we acquire.

My Personal Connection to Cognitive Health

My mom (pictured here with my son & daughter) suffered from dementia during the last years of her life, and witnessing her decline left a profound mark on me. Dementia robs individuals of their independence, their memories, and, in many ways, their sense of self. It’s something no one should have to experience, and while we can’t always prevent cognitive decline, we can take proactive steps to reduce our risks.

Studies show that learning new skills, hobbies, and practices can help keep our brains healthier as we age. Engaging in mental challenges strengthens neural pathways, builds cognitive reserves, and can even slow the onset of diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

The Science Behind Lifelong Learning

Here’s what the research tells us:

1. Learning Improves Cognitive Function– A study published in the journal Psychological Science found that older adults who engaged in mentally demanding activities, such as learning a new skill, showed improved memory and cognitive function compared to those who stuck to familiar routines.
2. It Strengthens Neural Plasticity– Neural plasticity is the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections in response to learning and experience. According to a study from Frontiers in Psychology, learning new skills helps keep this plasticity intact, making the brain more adaptable as we age.
3. It Combats Dementia Risk– Research published in The Lancet suggests that continued learning and mental stimulation can delay or reduce the onset of dementia. Activities like learning a language, picking up an instrument, and practicing yoga are considered powerful tools in this fight.
4. It Boosts Emotional Resilience– Learning isn’t just about keeping your brain sharp—it’s about staying emotionally engaged. A study in Aging & Mental Health found that learning new hobbies can help alleviate feelings of depression and loneliness, both of which are common as we age.

Yoga: A Pathway to Lifelong Learning

If you’re looking for a new practice that benefits both the mind and body, yoga is one of the most enriching disciplines you can explore. Not only does yoga improve physical strength, flexibility, and balance, but it also nourishes emotional well-being and mental clarity.

Yoga is a lifelong journey—there’s always something new to learn, whether it’s a challenging pose, a deeper breathwork technique, or the philosophical underpinnings of the practice. I just started being able to do some of my most difficult balance poses in my 60s!

If you’ve never tried yoga before or want to deepen your understanding, signing up for personalized training or a special workshop is a wonderful way to get started.

Learning something new—whether it’s yoga, guitar, Spanish, or anything else—is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. It’s a reminder that we’re never too old to grow, adapt, and thrive. It’s an act of love for our minds, our bodies, and our spirits.

So, as we step into a new year, I encourage you to ask yourself: What’s something I’ve always wanted to learn? And then take the leap—you might just surprise yourself.

If yoga is your next adventure, I’d be honored to be part of your journey.

Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and inspired year ahead.

With love,
Stacy