Monday Session 1   

This course is geared for those new to yoga, those interested in a slower and more gentle practice, or those recovering from illness or injury. It includes a combination of meditation, breath work, and flowing movement intended for all abilities. Participants will move from seated on the floor (or a chair) to standing and then will return to mats. Participants will experiment with balance, strength, flexibility, and stillness while practicing mindfulness and meditation techniques. 

NOTE: The Gentle Yoga A and B classes are companion courses. Members can just register for both or just one. 

Everyone has read a quote by Oscar Wilde, whether in a book, on a mug, or across the internet. But behind his witty one-liners, Oscar Wilde was a sharp social critic, an Irish nationalist, a husband, a father, and a queer pioneer. This class will sample Wilde's life works, including his only novel, his plays, poetry, and essays, so that we come to understand the man himself and his enduring impact on our culture, art, and humor.

Climate change and related environmental issues look like issues of technology and science. That technology, however, is shaped by economic and political systems, which, in turn, are rooted in industrial civilization founded upon the cheap power made possible by burning fossil fuels. We will examine all these aspects of climate change and fossil fuel use to gain an understanding of this most critical issue of our time.

This gentle form of yoga is practiced using a chair as a prop/stabilizer for support during standing poses or adapted for sitting on a chair. It is especially beneficial for people concerned with balance or coordination issues or those who have felt they are unable to participate in other yoga experiences. The class includes poses for strength training, mobility in the joints, and more relaxing poses to help steady the mind. Modifications will be offered throughout the course so that participants learn to adapt to their personal situations and comfort as well as challenge themselves. The course is appropriate for all levels.