At age 89, Phyllis Sues has flexibility even teens might envy
If you’ve ever thought, “I’m too old to (fill in the blank),” meet Phyllis Sues. Throughout her highly productive life, Sues has continued to learn new skills and use them in her career. She’s been physically active since long before most WLT readers were born, and since before even the parents of many WLT readers were born. In 1937, at the age of 14, Sues had her first ballet lesson. She went on to a performing career that included Spanish dancing in a USO tour, five long-run Broadway shows, and the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Along with her husband, comic actor Alan Sues, she performed in comedy sketches, while continuing to dance on TV until 1968, when she started designing her own line of women’s high fashion sportswear.
It wasn’t until the 21st century that Sues started playing the piano, dancing the tango, and producing and recording CDs.
Now, at 89, Phyllis dances in shows and competitions with her choreographer and partner Felix Chavez (79). The daily yoga practice she started at age 83 helps her maintain the balance, core strength and elasticity she needs to continue dancing.
The part of LA I live in is above Sunset Boulevard, in the hills.
What I like best about my neighborhood is I love living in the country on a cul de sac and five minutes away from the city. I have the best of two worlds!
I started doing yoga because I was learning Argentine Tango and it requires strength, flexibility and balance. Yoga gives me all three.
The yoga studio where I most often take class is City Yoga in West Hollywood.
The yoga teacher who has most inspired me is Anthony Benenati. He is my inspiration.
The effect yoga has had on my life is that yoga is my wake up call. It gives me stability and calmness throughout each day. It’s the answer to strength and elasticity. It’s that next step that excites me. Yoga and I are united because of this incredible and magical happening. And when my body feels good, I can face any challenge.
The most difficult asana for me is Dwi hasta bhujasana (two arms and hands). This pose is a killer!
As I get older, my greatest concern is not to lose the desire and strength to improve mentally
andphysically.
When I look back on my life to this point, I am most proud of really knowing who I am and who I have become. A truly creative person.
The secret to my long life is accepting the challenges that greet me each day with no ifs or buts, only joy. The master plan to living is to love what you do.
Photos Top: Cat Doran, Bottom: Adam Sheridan-Taylor
❋❋ If you liked this story you might also enjoy… ❋❋
~ Pranayama for a Tranquil Life
~ Mark Whitwell’s Yoga in the Context of the Feminine
