By CATHERINE LEGG / Community Columnist

Teenagers are invited to the second annual free teen yoga camp this summer from June 10-14, 10 a.m. until noon, in Bibb Graves Dance Studio on the University of Montevallo campus.

Information from the American Yoga Association explains that the classical techniques of yoga can be traced back more than 5,000 years, and originated due to a desire for greater personal freedom, health and long life, and heightened self-understanding. The word Yoga means “to join or yoke together,” as it brings the body and mind together into one harmonious experience.

Referring to this year’s camp, Diane Landers, UM kinesiology instructor, said, “We want to give teens an opportunity to have fun while learning and experiencing some of the life long benefits of yoga.

Yoga can be a primary source of exercise and fitness, a complement to team sports and other recreational activities, and can help us relax and unwind from a busy day. Yoga helps the whole body — inside and out, up and down. Everyone should know a little yoga, so why not start young!”

She explained that other benefits of yoga include increased physical strength, balance and flexibility, improved mental focus and concentration and learning techniques to relax and de-stress.

The camp is sponsored by the UM Kinesiology Department. Landers, along with Cairisti Britton, a UM graduate with a degree in kinesiology, will lead the activities.

Each day of camp will have a special theme such as earth/red, water/orange, fire/yellow, etc., and the flow yoga class (postures and breath work), group activities and guided meditations will support the day’s theme.

For more information, or to RSVP, phone 665-2373 or email landersd@montevallo.edu by June 6. Registration forms can to picked up at Parnell Library. Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat, and to wear comfortable clothes that will allow for movement.

 

Catherine Legg can be reached by email at clegg2@bellsouth.net.