@dna41 My favorite yoga instructors constantly emphasize “modify for you” or reminding us that class isn’t a competition so just do what you can. Admittedly, I go to the YMCA during the weekday and I’m surrounded by people like me - older (and older means ya got stuff going on), or folks with surgeries, etc. It’s very encouraging.
I identify with Sue’s comment about not being graceful but doing what and how I can. I just missed two weeks of yoga and workout (life, holiday guests, etc) and I really missed it. I could feel my joints (not just my knees!) stiffening. I know I have to keep doing the routines as long as I can move.
To answer your question about being on my knees, initially I couldn’t bear “standing” on my knees. After some time (sorry I don’t remember how long), I could increasingly bear it. It would be cool if you had a friend to go with you and give you a hand up until you can do so solo.
The most important thing, imo, is to continue to push yourself to do more. Here’s another comment from my surgeon/friend after about 6 months - “you can’t screw up anything I did so keep pushing”. (Talk to your own surgeon on this point, please!)
While your days of ever becoming a yogi are likely passed, you’ve got this. Keep moving, keep pushing (within reason), and make it a habit.
You can do this!
@fwintracy Thank you for the suggestions. I live alone and it's too easy to procrastinate when there is no one around to help motivate me. Like many people my age, I also have back issues and seems like there is very little relief for that. I need to search for or create a routine for myself that I can do daily.......and then actually do it! I really appreciate all the replies I have received urging me to keep moving!