I am a LV chair yoga teacher

My Carrie Writes Column printed in the Republican 6/19/13

I’m very excited to announce that I’m officially a chair yoga teacher, one of my greatest accomplishments. I was certified by the Lakshmi Voelker chair yoga program. I took the certification class over Skype from my living room. It consisted of six video classes, along with self-study. I learned chair asanas such as salutations, warrior series, balance poses. I also learned breathing techniques, meditations and yoga philosophy.

Chair yoga is the adaption of yoga poses to be used in a chair to help minimize limitations and inflexibility for those facing physical challenges. Chair yoga also incorporates breathing techniques to calm and heal the mind and body. Chair yoga is perfect for those with disabilities and health challenges. The belief is that any pose any pose can be adapted to each individuals’ needs, bringing the full benefit of yoga practice while creating a safe haven for their minds and bodies.

Lakshmi created the chair yoga program in 1982. She is dedicated to creating a yoga practice for anyone to use with modifications. She has brought a way of exercise to those who are unable to do physical exercises. In 1999, she created a Sitting Mountain Series CD, and in 2007 she produced her own chair yoga DVD. Lakshmi has been studying, practicing and teaching yoga since 1969. She is a certified instructor at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge and is a member of the Yoga Alliance. She has certified many individuals across the United States and Canada.

In conclusion, it is my goal to bring Lakshmi’s teachings to individuals across Western Massachusetts to help spread the joy of yoga to individuals with physical limitations like myself. I am beyond overjoyed to be able to share my passion in a teaching manner. I will be combining my roles as a teacher, columnist and activist with the same purpose of helping and inspiring people with disabilities. Please visit my chair yoga page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/carriechairyoga , and Lakshmi’s web page is http://www.getfitwhereyousit.com .