By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA– Fall is closing in on Helena and with it will come crisp air, colorful leaves and football. Along with the change of seasons will come a new yoga class taught at Helena Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Experience-Registered Yoga Teacher Laura Thornton is introducing a new class entitled Gentle Yoga. To familiarize attendees with the art and science of yoga, Thornton will begin the series with two free introduction to gentle yoga classes.

Gentle yoga is a form of Hatha Yoga in which the students practice traditional beginning yoga poses with necessary modifications. The health and emotional benefits of yoga are accessible to those who may lack the flexibility to fully participate in a regular yoga class.

The teacher helps each student to use a mat, chair or prop to experience the benefits of each yoga pose without excessive strain to their joints. Students learn to use appropriate breathing techniques to perform poses slowly with guided instruction. Each class is tailored to meet the individual needs of students while covering basic yoga poses.

As students become stronger and more flexible, they can progress by practicing flow sequences to improve stamina, balance and muscle tone. Some added benefits of practicing gentle yoga are stress relief, a feeling of well-being and improved breath function.

The two free introductory classes will be held Tuesday, Aug. 28 at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

After the free classes, the series will begin Tuesday, Sept. 4, from 10-11 a.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. and on Thursdays, beginning Sept. 6, from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

The fees begin at $35 for four classes. Unlimited classes with the current calendar month will be $50. Family specials, private lessons and drop in classes are also available. Thornton will also be teaching at the Yoga Loft in Alabaster.

Thornton has practiced yoga for more than 30 years and has taught more than 12 years. Among her specialties are gentle yoga, yoga for seniors and yoga for injuries.

For more information, Contact Thornton at 919-0537, by email yogabylaura@att.net or at Yoga by Laura Thornton on Facebook.