Yoga has risen in popularity in the past decade in the United States with people of all ages trying it. With the many health benefits that are realized with consistent yoga practice, the popularity of this form of exercise is not surprising. Health benefits can include:
- Improved strength
- Better balance
- More flexibility
- Reduced risk of falls
- Increased stamina
The gentle motions performed in yoga can decrease pain from arthritic changes in your body, including your spine. The American College of Physicians recommends yoga for treatment of chronic low back pain. Yoga can go beyond physical health as well. Mentally and emotionally, taking even five minutes for yourself a day to breathe and focus can decrease your stress level, reduce anxiety and brighten your mood.
How to Start Practicing Yoga
As when beginning any new exercise program, if you have questions or concerns about whether you are healthy enough to start, talk to your physician. They can help you determine if yoga might be right for you.
Do not let the extremely fit and flexible images of people doing yoga scare you off! There are many unique styles and types of yoga, making it an exercise that anyone can do in some manner. It is important to find an instructor who understands your individual needs, is adept at modifying postures and positions for you, and creates an atmosphere of acceptance and non-judgment.
Yoga Classes Available at Altru
In the true spirit of yoga, which focuses on self-awareness of body and mind, and unity of movement with breath, Altru is offering a yoga class for the true beginner. This class will focus on what yoga is and what it is not. Participants will learn yoga fundamentals in a safe environment.
Altru Physical Therapist Maureen Riley will also be offering a yoga class to introduce the basic aspects of yoga to individuals who have difficulty getting on and off the floor.
To register or learn more information about yoga classes at Altru call Kirstie Stortroen at 701.780.3723.
About the Instructor
A 1995 UND graduate, Maureen has been practicing Physical Therapy in Grand Forks for over 25 years and practicing yoga for over 15 years. Seeing first-hand the positive impacts yoga has had in her own life, she became a certified yoga instructor in 2017 and has been using these techniques regularly with her patients. She studied adaptive yoga with Matthew Sanford and Kim Byrd Ryder and has taken several continuing education classes on mindfulness and yoga through the APTA (American Physical Therapy Association). Maureen has instructed her peers in Yoga for Physical Therapists and taught beginner classes throughout the Grand Forks community. Always a physical therapist first, Maureen’s intention is to share yoga safely with people of all abilities.
