by Mary Recchia, Activities Coordinator
March 25, 2010, page 17

Senior Center offers gentle exercise choices
A new session of T’ai Chi with Mike Prehoda began Thursday, March 18 from 10-11 a.m. for newer students, 11 a.m. -12 p.m. for students familiar with the form. You are welcome to sit in on a class and see if it is right for you. T’ai Chi is now recognized throughout the world as an unparalleled exercise program for mind/body training. Robust health, peace-of-mind and personal empowerment are just a few of the rewards that await the practitioner of this ancient art. In this class geared toward seniors, students will learn the beginning of the Yang style T’ai Chi form as well as awareness training and softening exercises. Registration necessary. Fee: $42 for six classes.

Chair Yoga with Tiny Sikkes continues every Monday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Using chairs for balance and for all seated postures, this class makes yoga accessible to those who are challenged by balance, the ability to come to the floor or any physical limitations. We’ll cover the full range of yoga postures and benefits while sitting comfortably in chairs – improving breath capacity, strength and flexibility. A great class if you are concerned about adapting in a standard class. Registration necessary. Fee: $60 for six classes.

Gentle Yoga with Jean White meets Mondays from 11 a.m-12 p.m. Drop-ins are welcome. A new session begins on April 19. Learn classic yoga postures in a gentle way – perfect for beginners, those with injuries or even experienced students just wanting a relaxed pace and easy style. The tone of this class is one of encouragement, compassion and patience, using yoga philosophy as the basis for treating yourself kindly! You’ll improve your strength, balance, flexibility, breathing and most of all learn to relax, release negativity and feel a great sense of peace come into your day. Poses are adapted to meet individual needs and all fitness levels. Please bring a blanket and yoga mat. Registration necessary. Fee: $60 for six classes.

Events following the Wednesday luncheon at approximately 1:00 p.m.:
3/31: COOKING UNDER PRESSURE with Karen Koechlein, Home Instead. Are you cooking for one? Shopping for a parent? Trying to plan healthy meals for two households? Whether your role is planning, shopping, cooking or all three, join Karen as she reveals the 12 staple foods that no senior should live without and why. Take home a complimentary booklet of information with recipes.

4/14: JAZZ IT UP with The CVU Singers
Singers from CVU will perform songs, both familiar and new, by students who love nothing more than to share their joyful music with dear friends!