When I began teaching yoga in Madison, Wisconsin, one of my favorite classes to teach was Chair Yoga for Seniors. We would set our chairs up in a circle to check in, breathe, and practice simple movements together. But the best part about this class was the community. My group of students created friendships, met up for coffee in between classes, and had a good laugh together. It was important for us all to incorporate play and mirth into the classes, and as a result, we had a heck of a lot of fun.
Unfortunately, during COVID-19, we can't meet in a group, but I still wanted to find a way to offer this wonderful yoga practice to anyone who wants it. You don't have to be senior to do Chair Yoga, it's a great way to mindfully stretch and breathe without having to get up and down off of the floor.
At the beginning of July, I decided to offer a free Chair Yoga video on my Buster Yoga Facebook page every Tuesday morning. All you have to do is go my Facebook page, click on the video and enjoy. You can watch the video anytime, and do the class at your leisure.
What I'd like to do though is get a group together again to practice together. Right now, we'd have to do it online, but it could be a fun way to check in, breathe, stretch, and laugh together again. Stay tuned. If there is enough interest, I'll put it on the calendar, so if you'd love to participate in something like this, please send me a message telling me so!
There are seven different ways to practice yoga with me right now.
Free Chair Yoga every Tuesday on my Buster Yoga Facebook page.
Online Yin Yoga/Yoga Nidra Wednesdays at 2 PM CST (Noon PST - in collaboration with Second Bloom Yoga in Benecia, CA). Click here to register.
Virtual Yoga for Anxiety Wednesdays at 6 PM CST (in collaboration with Neva Massage and Yoga Studio in San Antonio, TX). Click here to register.
Online Kids Yoga Fridays at 1 PM CST (11 AM PST - in collaboration with Second Bloom). Click here to register.
Virtual Gentle Yoga Saturdays at 10:30 AM CST (in collaboration with Neva Massage and Yoga). Click here to register.
Free Magik Yoga for Kids Sundays at 10 AM CST on the Magik Theatre Facebook Page
In a private yoga therapy session! If you're interested, send me a message here.
A Q&A about Yoga Therapy
Q) What is a yoga therapy session?
A) Yoga therapy sessions are an opportunity to address physical or emotional symptoms or goals in a private one-on-one setting. Examples of therapy address pain management, fatigue, anxiety, a specific sports injury, improved mobility or strength. Sessions are designed to empower you to take an active role in your well-being.
Q) How is this different from a regular yoga session?
A) During this hour, we focus on you as a whole person, and not just your symptom. In addition to using postures (asana), we can explore breathwork, meditation, sleep, and chronic pain. The session is guided by the student and his or her needs, rather than a teacher leading a series of set postures.
Q) My physical therapist/doctor doesn't believe yoga therapy will help. Change his/her mind.
A) Many people have a misconception that yoga is just headstands, sun salutations and bendy, pretzel shapes. In yoga therapy, we work with what your provider or physical therapist has introduced to you and add mindfulness, breath work, and cognitive behavioral therapy. We treat you as a whole individual, rather than just your symptom. In many ways, yoga therapy encompasses physical therapy, behavioral therapy, and stress relief all in one. Plus, there's no negative drug interaction!
Do you have a question you'd like me to answer? Send me your questions here.