Yoga classes offered at NyE Communities Coalition

If you're looking for a way to work your mind, body and soul then look no further than the NyE Communities Coalition.

Yoga classes began last month in room 19 at the coalition with an intermediate offering called mixed level yoga, and for those who have yet to give yoga a try, starting on Sept. 14 the fundamentals of yoga classes begin.

Leading the classes is instructor Tamalyn Taylor, who's served as a therapist and educator in the health and aging field for over 20 years. She has a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling and has a certificate in gerontology after completing a program out of UNLV.

Taylor has also taught yoga classes at a Las Vegas area YMCA and through the Clark County Parks and Recreation department since 2007. She is nationally certified with Yoga Alliance and American Council on Exercise to teach yoga.

Taylor explained that the classes are of benefit to everyone who chooses to participate and best of all they won't hurt anyone's pocketbook.

"They're open to the community and they're free," Taylor said. "That's what's cool. They're no-cost classes every Monday in the morning and the afternoon."

From 10 a.m. through 11 a.m. Mondays, the fundamentals of yoga class are taught. The class features foundational postures of Hatha yoga, the Sun Salutation and breathing techniques for relaxation and stress reduction.

All classes feature a mix of floor work and some standing/balance work which aims at using the entire body.

The benefits of yoga include increased flexibility, strength, and balance as well as a greater sense of well-being. Beginning students are welcome and the ability to get up and down from the floor is all that's required.

"They're meant to be mind and body exercise, which helps on many different levels, not just the physical side," Taylor said. "It helps balance the mind and the body."

The classes are part of the coalition's wellness classes. Along with tai chi, yoga is an exercise that can help with stress management, which complements other programs offered by NyECC, like their smoking cessation classes and diabetes wellness program.

With a high population of elderly persons in Nye County, Taylor said she does see a fair amount of them utilizing the classes and its low-impact nature.

"The seniors are more attracted to the morning class. It doesn't matter which level you're at, I will accommodate people, even if they cannot get down on the floor," she said. "There are some exercises they can do from the chair as well."

Participants are urged to register before attending a class by calling the coalition at 775-727-9970.