For seniors in Mantua interested in an affordable exercise session, the Church of the Incarnation offers a senior stretch yoga program on Mondays at 11 a.m.
Held in the church’s Kernan Center, the 45-minute sessions focus on stretching and moving around to music. Participants don’t have to be members of the church to attend.
“They really like it, as it is really slow,” said instructor and program head Mary Jane Mosfei. “But time still goes by quickly during class. We currently have around 70 students who are around ages 55 and up, though we don’t ask someone about their age.
“We even have a woman who is 99 years old and is turning 100 soon who comes to our classes,” Mosfei added. “If you’re retired and want to come to classes, just come. We try to make it fun and enjoyable.
Special events such as a luncheon with members of the class and Christmas are also held periodically throughout the year. On top of regular yoga, the church also hosts chair yoga and Zumba, which has a faster pace and is more of a cardio-focused workout.
Classes are split into sessions throughout the year, with the first between fall and winter and the second between winter and spring. The classes are currently in their second session, which will end next month.
Yoga sessions are on hold while the floors in the main church are redone, and worship takes place in the Kernan Center this summer. Classes will resume in September, with an exact date yet to be determined.
Participants do not have to start at the beginning of each session to participate. There is also a $35 fee, but students can try their first yoga class at no cost.
“The fee helps pay for instructors,” said Mosfei. “It is only a one-time fee, but it is an unbelievable deal for what you get out of the classes. It is a fabulous workout.”
