FREE Yoga classes held at the Rec Center

Every Monday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. SSU students have enjoyed the free yoga class offered at the recreation center, it’s one of the six free group classes offered this semester at SSU.

According to the Campus Rec on the SSU website, “Yoga includes various styles that combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation”. This idea is taught by Kim Purdy, a staff member and yoga instructor who uses these techniques. In an Interview with the STAR Purdy says the exercise is, “a beneficial outlet for stress reduction because yoga helps balance the moment of challenge and moment of stress.”

Purdy has been certified in 2014 and hosts two classes on campus: one for students and another for staff members. She has great feedback from both and it shows in her class attendance. On average, 22 people attend and at one point during the semester, the class hosted 40 students. Because of this great attendance of regulars she stated, “I was able to take my group further and still take time to check on beginners who would join for the first time.”

Annabelle Alibert, a Fulbright Language Teaching

As sistant (FLTA) who is originally from France liked attending the yoga classes a couple of times throughout the semester. She stated “I went to that specific yoga class before because I love the instructor, the soothing effect and the opportunity to do a physical activity on campus surrounded by other students.”

A graduating student, Molly Clemons, is a regular at this class. She relates the benefit of stress management of doing yoga and also states “SSU makes it easy for students to try yoga and it is free. I want to continue to do yoga but I am graduating so it’s gonna be harder and more expensive”.

Alibert also saw this class as a great opportunity. She said “The yoga class is at a convenient time and is easy to attend without additional fees right before dinner and it aligns with my goals to move but also relax and anchor myself in my body… I think it has helped me release stress and tension.” Clemons also notices similar benefits. “Since I started yoga I am more mindful,” she said.

Purdy was asked why teaching yoga at SSU. She relates that, “Beside the convenience of having both my job on campus, I like to teach to SSU students and staff members”. She advised whoever would want to try it out “college is a great time to try yoga and it is a wonderful tool for everybody.” Yoga would be offered at the same time with Purdy next semester, every Monday at 5:30 p.m.

COOPER PERRY STAFF WRITER