Health & Fitness
Yoga in the Park Begins June 18th
Tourist season has begun in the City by the Sea. But don't worry, you're just a short car ride away from an oasis from the hustle and bustle of downtown Newport...Ballard Park.
Beginning June 18th, Yoga in the Park will be held every Tuesday evening in Ballard Park's quarry meadow from 6 to 7:30pm through August 27th. The unique setting provides the serenity of nature with the convenience of a location close to downtown. Class is most easily accessed through the Hazard Road entrance. If you're from out of town, enter 1 Ocean Heights Road into your GPS- the entrance is right across the street.
Most classes are taught by Karen Kuzminsky, an instructor at Innerlight Center for Yoga and Meditation in Middletown. Karen became a certified yoga instructor more than seven years ago and also owns the Massage and Heaing Sanctuary in Newport where she works as a massage therapist. She said the smells and sounds in Ballard Park create a very visceral experience during yoga. Besides the frogs croaking in the vernal pond, one may hear the chirps of the American Robin, Song Sparrow or Yellow Wharbler. "The setting of yoga in the park makes the experience effortless," said Kuzminsky who added, "People ride their bikes to class. It's all very simple, and I strive to keep it fun and inspiring."
If you plan to come to class, you should wear comfortable clothes and bring a mat and water. If it is your first yoga class, be sure to let the instructor know before class begins. Those who are new to yoga will find that Karen provides lots of assistance with positions throughout the class. Yoga enthusiasts may want to bring a sweatshirt for shavasana. Class is $10 and may be paid by cash or check.
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Ballard Park is open every day from sunrise to sunset, but Friends of Ballard Park hosts special events in the off hours. You can sign up at www.ballardpark.org to receive their newsletter and invitations to events, like the Father's Day Hike of Ballard Park on Sunday, June 16 at 10am. All are welcome and there is a suggested donation of $10 per family. Jenkins Construction Music Month kicks off Wednesday, July 10th with a performance by the Newport Community Band. For more information about Ballard Park, visit www.ballardpark.org or call 401.619.3377.
