When a stressful day catches up to Erica Fatica, her yoga classes at The Y @ Work provide that mental break she needs. “I can get a class in at lunch or after work,” says Erica, who is in the Edison Engineer Development Program. “It is a great reset for my mental health.”
For the fifth year in a row, WellWithin is partnering with The Y @ Work to offer a free yoga class to all employees – even if you’re not a Y member – to honor International Day of Yoga.
You’re Invited!
Mindfulness in Motion
Friday, June 21 – International Day of Yoga!
11 – 11:30 a.m.
The Y @ Work’s Group Fitness Room
AP4, behind Medical
During the class, you’ll focus your mind and our body with a brief meditation … then move through a variety of simple but deep practices, exploring movement and sensation from your feet up.
15 slots available! Book your spot now. See attached flyer for directions.
What is yoga?
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.
Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity. International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga – including these nine.
1. Improves strength, balance and flexibility.
Slow movements and deep breathing increase blood flow and warm up muscles, while holding a pose can build strength. “The physical wellbeing that yoga provides is the reason I keep up with it. The movements and different positions help to alleviate any stiffness in my body,” says Erica.
2. Yoga helps with back pain relief.
Yoga is as good as basic stretching for easing pain and improving mobility in people with lower back pain. The American College of Physicians recommends yoga as a first-line treatment for chronic low back pain.
3. Yoga can ease arthritis symptoms.
Gentle yoga has been shown to ease some of the discomfort of tender, swollen joints for people with arthritis, according to a Johns Hopkins review of 11 recent studies.
4. Yoga benefits heart health.
Regular yoga practice may reduce levels of stress and body-wide inflammation, contributing to healthier hearts. Several of the factors contributing to heart disease, including high blood pressure and excess weight, can also be addressed through yoga.
5. Yoga relaxes you, to help you sleep better.
Research shows that a consistent bedtime yoga routine can help you get in the right mindset and prepare your body to fall asleep and stay asleep.
6. Yoga can mean more energy and brighter moods.
You may feel increased mental and physical energy, a boost in alertness and enthusiasm, and fewer negative feelings after getting into a routine of practicing yoga. “My ability to focus and concentrate has improved since starting my practice,” says Erica.
7. Yoga helps you manage stress.
According to the National Institutes of Health, scientific evidence shows that yoga supports stress management, mental health, mindfulness, healthy eating, weight loss and quality sleep.
8. Yoga connects you with a supportive community.
Participating in yoga classes can ease loneliness and provide an environment for group healing and support. “I have built a little community by participating in yoga classes and have made friends to hang out with outside of the gym,” says Erica.
9. Yoga promotes better self-care.
Want to try yoga but not with a crowd? Erik Mann, director of The Y Work recommends Yoga with Garnett (youtube.com)
If you fall in love with the practice, The Y @ Work offers Intro to Yoga on Tuesday evenings from 5:15 -6 p.m. and Hatha Yoga on Wednesday afternoons from 12-12:45 p.m. for members. Another Monday 11 a.m. class will start in the upcoming month and will be led by Jody Craig.
Source: 9 Benefits of Yoga. John Hopkins Medicine. Accessed May 21, 2024. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/9-benefits-of-yoga