COMMUNITY YOGA IN HERON PARK
Please join me to practice yoga in Heron Park in July, 2019. I will be offering 4 one-hour, all-level hatha yoga classes. Whether you have never tried yoga, or you have a regular practice, you are welcome. You can attend all four classes, or just drop in whenever you’re available. The classes will be geared toward adults, but feel free to bring your children to play at the park while we practice.
The idea is that this will give me the excuse to maintain a regular practice, and it will also give us the opportunity to get to know our neighbours and build community.
Dates: Thursdays, July 4, 11, 18 and 25, 2019
Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location: Heron Park, 999 Heron Rd. (corner of Heron Rd. and Clover St.). We will likely meet near the play structure.
What to bring:
Comfortable clothes
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water bottle
Yoga mat, if you have one (I have a few spares)
Cost: FREE!
I look forward to practicing with you!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is yoga?
Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines strengthening and stretching poses with deep breathing with meditation or relaxation. The goal is to work on being present in your mind and body, paying attention to physical sensations, emotions and thoughts. We work to respect the body’s limits, while gradually expanding our abilities.
What will the classes be like?
Classes will be geared to all levels and abilities. Modifications will be provided to accommodate for injuries and health conditions.
Classes will generally start with a 10- to 15-minute warm up of the neck, shoulders, spine and hips. We then move on to about 20 to 25 minutes of more active standing, strengthening and balancing postures, and then 10 to 15 minutes of light stretching. We end with 5 to 10 minutes of breathing, relaxation or meditation.
What benefits will I get from yoga?
Yoga is excellent for building your physical strength, flexibility and balance. It is equally useful for improving your focus, energy and overall mental health and well-being. After a class, you will likely feel rejuvenated, more energetic, and better able to concentrate.
Do I have to be flexible or at a certain fitness level to benefit from yoga?
No. People of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from practicing yoga. Yoga is meant to be a personal practice, and not a competitive activity. The intention is to work with an accepting and non-judgmental attitude, and avoid comparing yourself to others or your own high expectations. Practicing yoga in a group can give you more motivation and energy.
Can I do yoga if I have pain or injuries?
Yoga can be beneficial for healing injuries. I encourage you to discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns about the impact of physical movement on any injury. I also encourage you to talk to me before the class and let me know if you are experiencing any injury or pain, so that I can provide modifications for the postures. Throughout the class, everyone will be reminded to respect your body and its limits in order to get the most benefit from the practice, and avoid injury.
What do I need to bring?
Your body and an open mind. Ideally, wear clothes that are comfortable and flexible. We will be barefoot, so you don’t need special footwear. If you have your own yoga mat, you may like to bring it. A few extra mats will be available.
