Good Morning!
Congratulations to those of you who ran the Boston Marathon virtually or in person. It is a goal that is not for the faint of heart. Today is a rest day for you! If you didn’t run the marathon but feel like you did, it is time to roll out your mat. During these rapid weather shifts and the increased tempo of life, it is easy to feel somewhat displaced. As we all know, the opportunity to breathe, stretch and move with an instructor you enjoy and folks you know can make a world of difference.
As we get deep into the year, it is always good to review the basics and take time to remember where we are and what is what. For the weeks ahead you will be re-introduced to our classes through the voices of our teachers. They are the ones who have the opportunity to step back and take a look at what you might not be able to see in your body in order to cue you to safety and new directions during a class. We hope that these vignettes will help you to feel each of our instructors and encourage each of you to step forward towards time on your mat. Today, Melissa would like to re-introduce you to…
Gentle Yoga with Melissa- Wednesday at 11:15am-12:30pm
Gentle Yoga, formerly known as Deep Stretch and Relax, has been a well-loved fixture in its morning time slot for many years. I design these classes based on stretching chronically tight area’s for “most” bodies. We focus on allowing the connective tissue (aka fascia), to release by incorporating longer holds. These holds bring in a mild stress to the joint or muscle being focused on in order to release them with adequate time and focus.
I usually begin class with a brief talk about a philosophical or yogic principal to bring focus towards the class at hand as well as to provide a deeper understanding of this rich practice. Each class begins with a short meditation that sets the stage for our warm up which focuses on the core and joints. All stretches and sequences are taught in a gentle way with many modifications offered. This class really is for anyone; flexible or inflexible, athletic or not that active, those who have practiced for years, those that have never taken a yoga class, all ages show up and everyone seems to be able to make the class suit their needs.
I incorporate my years of experience and knowledge of the body, both anatomy and physiology, all limbs of the yogic tradition and the pure joy of working with people into every moment of each class. I truly enjoy the opportunity to share and teach to our community. One of the comments I hear the most from those who’ve taken this class, is that they value the way I watch each person and help give individualized attention and cues. If it’s been a while since you joined, I’d love to see you again. If you’ve never tried my Gentle Yoga class, I look forward to meeting you soon. Please feel free to reach out if you have a question.
Props suggested: a strap, blocks, and a blanket or towel you can roll up are always helpful!
We look forward to seeing you online soon!
xoxo-
Your TYC Tribe
Photo credit: Runnersworld.com