Northwest Missouri State University students and employees have an opportunity to become gently fit, more flexible and better manage stress throughout the trimester by participating in Hatha yoga classes at the University.

The Hatha Yoga Basics sessions meet from 2 to 2:50 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday in the Martindale Hall dance studio, beginning Tuesday, Jan. 14. Rhonda Lesley, a registered yoga teacher and director of personal development and counseling at Northwest, leads the sessions, guiding participants in Hatha yoga sequences and mind-body awareness.

The classes are provided by Northwest Wellness Services and Personal Development and Counseling. All Northwest students and employees are welcome to attend at no charge.

Additionally, students may register for Hatha yoga as an activity class and receive academic credit. Interested students should register for 22-113-08, Individual Fitness Program: Hatha Yoga Class.

No prior yoga experience is required to participate. Participants should dress comfortably in exercise clothing. Yoga mats are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own mat.

Hatha yoga is a gentle, easily mastered practice for relaxation, balance, strength and flexibility. New studies suggest yoga provides great benefits for the immune system, emotional stability, stress management and physical symptoms, such as high blood pressure, muscle and joint stiffness, insomnia, low back pain and more. Participants report a sense of heightened mental and physical wellness and relaxation after experiencing just one session of Hatha yoga.