As part of the National Yoga Awareness Month this September, Norris Recreation Center will be offering all ages the opportunity to explore the benefits of stretching, physical movement and mental wellness in a variety of yoga styles to learn what best works for you.
Yoga is a 4,000-plus year-old discipline to help bring harmony to the body, mind and spirit. It is a physical activity of maintaining isometric postures with breathing and meditation exercises. People of all ages and abilities can participate in various forms of yoga.
“Since yoga is a series of stretches with breathing techniques, nearly anyone can do it, regardless of age or fitness level,” said Ande Masoncup, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation for the Norris Recreation Center.
Every Thursday at 7:35pm beginning September 7, certified yoga instructors will be hosting a variety of yoga practices. Space is limited so sign up soon.
This first program starts with Yin Yoga, a combination of gentle, therapeutic stretching exercises with poses that target connective tissues including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and more. Class will then focus on Sound Healing which consists of breath awareness activities in a resting position while listening to relaxing music or vibrations from healing instruments.
On September 14, participate in two of the simplest activities, breathing and walking. Bringing these powerful actions together with a series of easy-to-follow exercises, you’ll learn how to alleviate emotional stress with physical activity. Ideally, this activity is held outside with fresh air in a peaceful environment. The exact location of this class will be weather-dependent.
The next session is an introduction to Yogalates on September 21. This combination enhances mind and body awareness, strength, stamina, flexibility and balance with yoga poses while improving posture and creating a strong stable foundation of movement with Pilates.
“Yogalates is great for improving muscle tone which in turn increases stamina and develops a slimmer physique,” said Masoncup.
The last program on September 28 focuses on Kundalini Yoga, using your breath to harness energy within you. This ancient healing practice is performed using meditation, chanting and singing along with an intensive breathing practice and yoga poses.
“Participants really like this form of yoga saying it gives them an energy boost while relieving stress,” added Masoncup.
Norris members may attend for free. The nonmember fee is $15 per person. Norris Recreation Center, managed by the St. Charles Park District, is located at 1050 Dunham Road. For registration information, please call Guest Services at 630-377-1405.