Sheila Axtman

December brings lots of activities and food and parties with friends and family. Vinyasa yoga will give you an hour twice a week to breath, move, re-center yourself, and forget for a few minutes everything on the “to do” list.

Every year on the last yoga day before Christmas, I teach a class I call “Low and Slow Christmas Crazy.” It is an antidote for all the stress at this time of year. This year, it will be Thursday, Dec. 19. We will practice more on the ground (meaning less standing) than we usually do. We will have a nice, long Savasana and the only Yoga Nidra (guided relaxation) of the year. This class is relaxing, centering, and rejuvenating.

But the rest of the month, classes are as usual: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m., except no class Christmas Eve.

Vinyasa yoga is not suitable for students who have never done yoga before. However, if you are fit and healthy, Tuesday’s class may be a good fit for you. Both Tuesdays and Thursdays, I will offer modifications so everyone can benefit from their practice, and everyone can explore their limits.

However, Tuesday’s classes will be less challenging than Thursday’s. We will move slower, and I will offer more modifications. Thursday’s classes may move a bit faster, and more-challenging variations may be offered. The yoga group is friendly and fun. Please join us.

Class schedule: In January, we will be moving to the new Cottonwood Fitness Center. Until then, classes will be in Room A-6 in Cottonwood at 10 a.m.

Yoga classes in the new Fitness Center will be open to all residents, renters, and visitors in Cottonwood Palo Verde, Oakwood, Ironwood, and Sun Lakes Country Club. You will show your homeowners or guest card and buy a punch card. There are some blocks, straps, and blankets available in the room for students to use.

There are a few yoga mats available, but if you have one, bring it. Come a few minutes early the first time you come to class. I am a registered yoga teacher. I live in Cottonwood, and I can be reached at 480-264-9951.