Restorative Yoga with Sarah

EverGreen community programs range from fly tying and patient support sessions to restorative yoga. A few years ago, we partnered with local yoga teacher Sarah J to host a free restorative yoga class series for the Bozeman community.

We just wrapped our second series of free community yoga classes with Sarah and the experience yet again reminded me why I should commit to a consistent practice. While I appreciate the idea of yoga, I often struggle with verbal cues and general comfort at some studio classes and even when following online classes. Because of the number of medical devices and my inconsistent body movement restrictions, group classes can be intimidating. Her patient, thoughtful, and supportive approach to teaching eased all of my feelings of hesitation and discomfort that I usually feel. Having our sessions open to all community members, with special consideration for those with medical conditions as well as caregivers, provided a space that felt comfortable to practice.

Her cues, modifications, and guidance throughout the class were like a warm hug from a friend, and I never felt out of place.

In addition to Sarah having leading class with an expert combination of breath work and yoga instruction, it was nice to share the time and space with Tara. Spending time in peaceful reflection, gentle movement and calm breathing is certainly a departure from our more physically demanding adventures, or our day to day of taking care of our family and household. Sharing that space with others who came out to join the classes created an incredible shared sense of gratitude and community.

I am grateful to Sarah for being willing to partner on the sessions and will remain open to new opportunities to practice thanks to her expertise, inclusion and most of all, her kindness.