Trustees of Reservations sponsor Yoga classes

Date: 5/24/2013

By Lori Szepelak

lori@thereminder.com

HOLYOKE — The Trustees of Reservations will sponsor Friday evening yoga classes with Janet "J" Vecchia starting June 7 at the Land of Providence off Route 5.

Each class will be taught with a theme for contemplation and growth, according to Vecchia.

The Friday classes will run from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for eight weeks. Class dates are June 7, 14, 28, July 5, 12, 19, 26 and Aug. 2.

Vecchia noted her intention is to have class be an opportunity for students to come home to the power of Spirit, enjoy a physical practice to enhance strength and resiliency, thoughtful teachings to inspire and examine life, a sprinkling of humor, and encourage all to leave class feeling grateful and open to all the possibilities of life.

Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat if they have one, as well as a blanket or full-size towel. There will be mats and all yoga props available for use.

"New and experienced Yogis welcome," she said. "Everybody can do yoga."

Vecchia is a certified yoga teacher and is a 500-hour experienced registered yoga teacher with the national Yoga Alliance. She began teaching yoga in 2004. She has also undergone training in yoga therapeutics to serve students with injuries and who suffer with pain. She is co-owner of Ingleside Therapeutic Massage & Yoga on Route 5.

"Practice yoga outside with the breeze of the air and the beauty of the Connecticut River," she said.

The cost for the eight classes is $136 or participants can sign up for a "pair discount" — bring a family member and/or a friend and receive a 50 percent discount for the second person.

Pre-registration is recommended by May 24 by contacting Vecchia at 313-5769 or online at j@massagetherapyoga.com.

The Trustees of Reservations are 100,000 strong, from every corner of Massachusetts, who share a love of the land, the outdoors, and the distinctive charms of New England, as well as a shared vision of promoting healthy, active and green communities through hundreds of outreach programs, workshops, and events for all ages.

For more information, visit www.thetrustees.org.