A GROUP SPECIFICALLY FOR 11-13 YEAR OLDS
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
In recent years, mental health issues have risen and at the same time the gap between people needing care and those with access to care remains substantial. Sadly, additional research from the CDC has indicated that nearly 3 in 5 (57%) U.S. teen girls felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021—double that of boys, representing a nearly 60% increase and the highest level reported over the past decade.
The good news is that today there is a growing body of research documenting yoga's benefits for mental health and can provide teens with a unique ability to flourish. Several recent studies suggest that yoga may help strengthen social attachments, reduce stress and relieve anxiety, depression and insomnia. Additionally, yoga is for everyone. You don't have to be physically fit or flexible to practice yoga and simple techniques can be effective and go a long way.
Each weekly class will incorporate movement, breathing practices, meditation and self regulation techniques.
No previous yoga experience necessary.
Class is free due to a generous grant from the Ballantine Family Fund.
Through her own journey of Self-discovery, Michele Lawrence (MBA, ERYT500, C-IAYT) has come to realize that yoga is a practice for all life situations. She believes in yoga’s ability to heal and transform, and that yoga, regardless of one’s ability, is available to all. Michele has been teaching yoga since 2005, practicing yoga therapy since 2010, and is the founder/director of Inner Peace Yoga Therapy.