ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The mirrored room was dark, save for an overhead light near the entrance, and a small green candle flickering on the far side of the room.
An instructor softly padded around the space, speaking soothing commands to the more than 20 participants relaxing their muscles on mats up the floor.
The people here are partaking in the newest yoga class to be offered at the West Fitness Center Sept. 5.
The type of yoga offered is called Hatha Yoga, and is considered a restorative yoga, as apposed to a cardio-oriented type of yoga.
"This type of yoga focuses on strengthening our core, breathing, balance, and toning," said Phyllis Stebbins, the instructor of the class.
For being the first yoga class at Andrews, Mrs. Stebbins said that things went very well, and spoke about intuitive teaching methods used for student's benefit. "We had a very good turnout. I do a lot of modifications based on observation of the class, and prefer to work with modifications so people do the stretches properly, rather have them potentially overstress a part of their body."
Tech. Sgt. Tapika C. Bryant, Air Force District of Washington Protocol non-commissioned officer in charge, said of the experience, "The class was awesome. The instructor did a great job of reminding everyone in the class to listen to their bodies and to go at their own pace." She continued, "I think that it is very important with a class such as yoga because it reminds us that we shouldn't push our bodies to the point that we injure ourselves."
Class began with a relaxation session, followed by a series of Hatha Yoga stretches and exercises, and then concluded with another relaxation session.
The various exercises, which consist of a series of stretching, holding, and relaxing, bare names such as the "mountain," "cobra," and "warrior."
Students are encouraged to bring a small blanket, comfortable clothes that are not too loose fitting, and a mat, though some mats are provided, to this hour-long class, currently held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Fridays.
The class is open to everyone with access to the base, and is offered on a walk-in basis.
"I enjoyed the entire class, and am grateful that it is now being offered to the Andrews community. I enjoyed the movements, the music, and especially the part at the end when we were able to lie on our backs and remain in a calm, peaceful, and relaxed state," said Sergeant Bryant.