Exercise and Fitness   

This class is an introduction to chair yoga and is open to all ages and levels. Relax your body and improve your physical and mental health with easy yoga stretches. Connecting movement with breath will improve your posture, strength, flexibility, balance, and range of motion. Students should wear comfortable clothing that will allow movement without restrictions. Athletic shoes or walking shoes are suggested.

Hands moving, feet tapping, smiling & laughing. Why Drum Circles? Every time you’re drumming, your brain is working out. Think of it as a gym session, but instead of lifting weights, you're flexing your cognitive muscles. Did you know ~ drumming is activating various areas of your brain, leading to “brain plasticity.” In simple terms? Your brain’s structure and functions are ever evolving, and drumming circles can play a key role in this! Participants don't need musical experience and can begin at a level that works for them. All percussion instruments provided. It's fun, social, creative, non-judgmental, promotes smiling, laughter, and it's good for you!

Please do not sign up for this section unless you have already taken Wofford’s LLL Beginning Chair Yoga, participated in a series of chair yoga at another location, OR  held a regular yoga practice at a studio.  Connecting movement with breath will improve your posture, strength, flexibility, balance, and range of motion. During the first few sessions, you will practice exercises with a 9" playground ball to develop strength in your arms and legs.  In the last few sessions, we will add important techniques on how to get down on the floor and back up again!  Students should wear comfortable clothing that will allow movement without restrictions. Athletic shoes or walking shoes are suggested. You will need a yoga mat or beach towel for the last few classes.

Qigong for Health is an interactive class that will teach you the foundational principles of qigong. You'll learn about the history and benefits of qigong, and have the opportunity to practice and participate in learning qigong moves and breathing techniques. Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that has been used for centuries to promote health and vitality. Qigong for Health is a great way to learn about this beneficial practice and to improve your overall health. This class requires full-body movement, and loose-fitting clothing is recommended. 

Benton MacKaye, the father of the Appalachian Trail, said the purpose of hiking is"to walk, to see, and to see what you see." In this class we will take short hikes on local trails, paying attention to the plants and animals and animal signs around us and identifying some of them. We will hike every class period, only doing class work when the weather is bad. Peter's Creek Heritage Preserve and the trails at Lake Johnson, Croft State Park, and Wofford's Glendale Preserve will be some of our destinations. NOTE: Most classes will meet at the trailheads. It will be impossible to do this class and then take one immediately following it. 

 

Our class/practice will be a gentle flow from seated to standing, ending with lying on our backs. Movement and stillness help us to connect with our breath, find focus and learn to be present and grateful. Please wear something comfortable and bring your yoga mat.