The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Chair yoga reaches all ages and skills
The Elyria East Recreation Center, 1101 Prospect St. in Elyria, hosted a comprehensive yoga class Aug. 6 that all ages and experience levels can do.
“Chair Yoga Class meets every Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and provides a welcoming environment for people of all ages to come and enjoy a relaxing session of yoga,” said Mary Lou Carswell, yoga instruction for the city.
Carswell said she has taught the class for five years.
“Today, we had around 15 or so people attend,” she said. “We always have a good amount that show up. I would definitely consider it to be a successful class.”
Carswell said the class is enjoyed by those who attend.
“I see a lot of people returning,” she said. “They tell me how much they enjoy it and the difference it makes in their daily lives. That’s what makes it so rewarding for me.”
Carswell said the yoga class is free.
“You can show up and participate; I’m happy to have you,” she said. “It’s no cost to you, and the city
will continue to support the class if people continue to show interest.”
Carswell said yoga provides a different type of exercise.
“It works your entire body,” she said. “The difference is it doesn’t put the stress on the body as conventional exercise, but it’s still effective.”
Joyce Price, an Elyria resident, said the yoga class has made a big difference in her life.
“It’s the everyday tasks, like bending, where you can really feel the difference,” Price said. “For anyone who hasn’t tried yoga, it really works and you will benefit from doing it.”
Flo Oravetz, of Elyria, said yoga is great for joint health.
“Anyone who deals with arthritis, should try yoga,” Oravetz said. “It really lessons the tension and stress on the joints; yoga works wonders.”
Bryttnee Everett, 17, of Elyria, said it was her first time at the class.
“It was tough initially to do some of the stretches,” Bryttnee said. “It will take some getting used to, but I do feel the difference after the session.”
Orien Price, 12, of Elyria, said yoga helps him focus.
“It helps me concentrate while I do homework and stuff,” Orien said. “I don’t’ have trouble with nervous energy when I do yoga.”