Calling all First Church Yogis — and wannabes

By December 30, 2020

Last June when Linda Blanchard, FUMCFW member and certified yoga instructor graciously began offering her First Yoga classes online during this time of quarantine free of charge, she had no idea what to expect.

Despite a few preliminary hiccups, First Yoga has flourished in this strange time of pandemic, isolation, and frustration. In creating this tranquil, personalized, tailored yoga oasis for everyone who participates in her classes, regardless of ability, Linda says she has felt a deep sense of connection with an increasing group of devoted students. “Seeing those little squares pop up on my screen each class gives me such joy,” she adds, smiling. “I love knowing we’re all practicing together, even when we can’t be physically together, and that we’re still connected.”

Each week Linda sends out in advance the peaceful music playlists she usually uses for in-person classes, along with two “words for the week” she selects each week.  She typically then finishes out each class with a specially selected quote and a 3-5 -minute guided meditation.

Taking a break from the regular schedule of classes, Linda wants to wish the entire First Church Family a Safe and Happy and Blissful Holiday season — and offer an invitation to all to join her classes free of charge when classes resume January 4 through 15. Regular pricing for First Yoga classes (mix and match between two class options, Hatha Flow and an Adaptive/Chair class for those with mobility issues), payable via the easy-to-use punch card payment option, are $10 each, or $70 per 10-class punch card.

There are many day and time offerings to fit your quarantine schedule! The Hatha Flow class meets on zoom Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:30 am as well as Mondays and Fridays at 5:00 pm. The Adaptive/Chair class meets Tuesdays and Fridays at 10:45 am and Wednesdays at 1:30 pm.

“Please spread the word!” Linda encourages. “There’s no time like the New Year to try something new in the area of self-care. The fluid motions, gentle stretching, and deep breathing of a regular yoga practice offers inestimable value to everyone, regardless of ability