Yoga Programs for All Ages May 20, 2003 CVMC’s Fitness Plus Offers Yoga Programs for All Ages & Levels Catawba Valley Medical Center’s Fitness Plus is offering three new yoga programs, all designed to meet the specific needs of individual students. YogaLite is designed for mature adults and seniors between the ages of 55 and 75 who have maintained an active lifestyle, including a regular exercise program, as well as individuals who would like to increase their general health and well being regardless of age. This program is created for individuals who may require traditional yoga modifications (the use of blocks, a chair and/or strap) because of arthritis, osteoporosis, limited range of motion, loss of flexibility and/or strength or weight gain or loss. Whatever the age, participants will find both mental and physical benefits. Orientation to YogaLite will be Friday, June 13 at 10 a.m. with regular classes beginning on Friday, June 27 at 10 a.m. There is no charge for the orientation. YogaStretch, on Monday and Wednesday from 10 until 10:45 a.m., focuses on stretching, strengthening and relaxation. While calming and relaxing the body and clearing the mind, YogaStretch renews, invigorates and heals the body through stretching and strengthening the body and directing blood and oxygen to the internal organs. YogaStretch is designed as a “floor” program and is ideal for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Props, including straps and padding, are used for individuals with knee, hip or back problems or other medical conditions. All poses are performed slowly and gently, and modifications are provided for each pose to prevent injury and to ensure the safety of each participant. Each class ends with a 20-minute meditation/relaxation session for a complete mind-body experience. No registration is required for YogaStretch. YogaFit is a user-friendly, demystified style of yoga, delivering a safe, exercise-supported and practical style of yoga that is understandable and appropriate for any age or fitness level. YogaFit is designed to renew, invigorate and heal the body by stretching and strengthening the muscles, joints and spine and directing blood and oxygen to the internal organs. YogaFit focuses on strength, cardiovascular conditioning and flexibility components, combined with music and relaxation to enhance the yoga experience. Participants should be active and in good physical condition to benefit from the YogaFit program. Hour-long classes are offered on Mondays at 4:30 p.m. and Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. Each class concludes with a 15-minute guided meditation session. No registration is required for YogaFit. All classes are held in the Wellness Classroom in the Health Promotions building on the CVMC campus. Fitness Plus members may attend classes at no charge. There is a $5 fee per class for nonmembers. Students should wear comfortable, layered clothing and should bring a bottle of water to class. Mats, straps and towels are provided. Call Fitness Plus at 828-326-3680 for more information or to register for classes. Catawba Valley Medical Center is a not-for-profit healthcare system providing and promoting the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being of the public in addition to serving as a center for health education, wellness services, preventative medicine and acute care. It was recently designated as the thirty-second Magnet facility in the nation and the second in the Carolinas.