Yoga and Mental Health

I attended a three hour workshop titled "Yoga for Mental Health" this Saturday.  The speaker was Eve Parker, LICSW and Yoga Teacher.

Ms. Parker provided a good overview of brain functioning, neurotransmitters, triggers, hyper and hypo responses to stress or trauma, healthy lifestyle choices, self-help and treatment options for types of mental health issues, balance, hierarchy of needs, coping skills, yoga practices suited to emotive-physical needs, yoga models, yoga breathing, etc..  She was very knowledgeable about psychology, a lively young speaker, well organized, and approachable.

She provided a 12 page handout and note taking materials.  She had set out a mat, blocks, bolster, and blanket for each of the 15 attendees.

We finished with yoga practices for 45 minutes.  Breathing techniques and postures for energizing, uplifting, and stimulating; as well as for softening, relaxing, releasing, and destressing were illustrated.

The Simply Yoga Studio has all the needed facilities, comforts, and supplies for group yoga activities.  There are many knowledgeable and experienced teachers at this Studio.

I also attended a 'Gentle Yoga' class for one hour in the morning, led by Eve Parker.  Quieting, restful, and some chair yoga movements.  A refreshing atmosphere at this Simply Yoga Studio.

I've been attending some yoga classes at three locations in Vancouver, Washington:  Simply Yoga Studio (6.1 miles) in Salmon Creek along Hwy 99; LA Fitness Gym (5.6 miles) in the Hazel Dell Market Center along 78th Street; and, the LA Fitness Gym (2.8 miles) in the Orchards Market Center along NE Fourth Plain Road.  There are numerous high quality and new fitness facilities and programs near my home in northeast Vancouver. 

I am enjoying myself, in a good mood, and trying to slowly but surely improve my physical conditioning, stamina, strength, and balance.  On the "mental health" side I want to reduce anxiety, become more fearless, and increase my self-confidence.  Reasonable goals for a fellow at 73 years of age?  Yes!