Downward Dogs in the Great Outdoors

Commune with mother nature at the Trailside Nature and Science Center this fall. The center's popular "gentle yoga" series is returning Tuesday evenings, starting Sept. 14, according to a press release distributed by the Union County Office of Public Information. The yoga series, for adults 18 years and older, will run for 10 consecutive Tuesdays, through Nov. 16. Each session runs from 7:15-8:30 p.m.

"This yoga series, held in the beautiful and tranquil setting of the Trailside Visitor Center, is a great opportunity to relax your body and mind and learn methods to reduce the stresses of daily life," Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders Vice Chairman Deborah Scanlon said in the press release. Scanlon serves as the board's liaison to the Union County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

The fee for Union County residents is $15.00 per class and $20.00 for out-of-county participants, the release said. Pre-registration is preferred as space is limited; participants can register for individual sessions. Doors will open 15 minutes prior to each yoga class and participants are asked to bring a yoga mat or pillow.

Yoga instructor Claire M. Bay, certified by the Chopra Center in New York City, will return to Trailside to teach and guide the participants in this new pathway to meditation. These classes offer a chance to learn and experience Raja yoga techniques that can awaken poise and centered awareness in the midst of everyday life. Participants will also learn how to use nature's healing powers to relieve stress and its symptoms. Soothing music will enhance the overall experience.

For additional information about this yoga series or other upcoming programs and special events at Trailside, call 908-789-3670 or visit www.ucnj.org/trailside. Trailside Nature and Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.