Just Breathe: Teen Yoga Project

On Saturday evening, October 15th from 7:30-8:30 pm, Jean Wriedt will teach the first of a series of eight teen Ashtanga yoga classes at the Yoga Shala in Ridgefield, CT.  Called “Just Breathe”, the class will meet for one hour Saturday evenings, and is open to teens with a serious interest in slowing down, learning to be truly present and perhaps developing a yoga practice along the way.

Over time, the practice of yoga strengthens the body, develops flexibility, and eases anxiety and stress. Jean will seek to create a peaceful, non-judgmental atmosphere where teens can be quiet, breathe, move vigorously and be themselves. The class is open to teens only, and casual, relaxed clothes such as t-shirts and sweatpants are encouraged.

It is said that Ashtanga, a traditional method of yoga developed by Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India, was first designed for the training of adolescent boys. Hence, it is a high energy, physical practice, in addition to being a mindfulness practice, and both young men and young women are encouraged to attend.

This karma yoga project is a gift to teens in the community. Jean’s vision is that this project might someday grow into similar offerings in other communities- large and small, rich and poor.  Her belief is that if we can strengthen, empower and heal our children, they in turn can begin to heal the world.

Valerie Schneiderman, the Shala owner, has generously donated space, and Jean will donate her time and expertise, offering knowledge she has gained through her own dedicated Ashtanga practice, teacher training with Tim Miller and Beryl Bender Birch and workshops with Richard Freeman, Kino Macgregor, Manju Jois, David Williams and other renowned yoga luminaries.

Just breathe. Just Yoga. Just teens. Just Saturday night. For information contact: Jean Wriedt, The Yoga Shala, 49 Ethan Allen Highway, Ridgefield, CT 06877. Email: info@theyogashalact.com.