Friendship, programs and activities for adults 50+

Program Description

Bone Building Strength & Balance

This class will focus on improving bone and muscle strength through the use of small hand annd ankle weights and resistance bands, as well as weight bearing yoga flexibility.

Specific exercises are also used to improve balance.

Susan Stevenson is certified thorough the Osteoporosis Canada Bonefit program, and so this class is based on guidelines for appropriate movement in exercise.


Bridge 

Those who play more frequently score higher on cognitive test.  An area in the brain used in playing bridge stimulates the immune system.   Researchers suggest that is because players must use memory, visualization and sequencing.


Line Dancing

Intermediate – A cuing class incorporating steps learned in AB, Beginner Plus, and Improver levels.  (Previous step instruction required)

 


Mentastics

Mentastics uses gentle non-invasive movements to free the body of pain, tension and to cultivate deep relaxation.

It is incredibly beneficial for anyone dealing with: general aches and pains, fibromyalgia, chronic daily pain, arthritis, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, depression, limited mobility, rigidity and tremors.

 


Qigong

Qigong involves the cultivation of energy and awareness through movement, posture, and breathing. The overarching goal of our Qigong practice is to enhance long-term quality of life.

Qi refers to the bio-magnetic energy found within all living things. It circulates in natural patterns through channels called meridians and vessels. Qigong leads energy through these channels helping to open up points blocked by physical, mental, or emotional stress.

We move to generate heat, stand to activate qi, and sit to quiet the mind. In so doing, our Qigong practice helps us to counter the negative effects of sedentary living and stress.


Super Hoops

SuperHoops are hula hoops that are designed and made by Basia Baklinski, hulaerobics fitness instructor in Peterborough. They are large, weighted hoops that weigh approximately 2 pounds. Because of the heavier weight, they rotate around your body more slowly, giving you better control over the hoop and a greater fitness experience.

Hula hooping is an energizing, fat burning cardio and core building workout.

 It strengthens your abdominal muscles, increases your balance and coordination, improves posture, sculpts your waist, buttocks and thighs, increases cardiovascular endurance, and it makes you feel happy!  

 


YOGA

 

Better Bones 

Learn to create opportunities to build bone density and body-mind awareness through proper functional movement.  Learn to identify where you hold tension and release through yoga breath, postures and relaxation.  Increase strength, flexibility, balance, endurance while calming the mind.  

Chair 

Participants in this class enjoy all the benefits of a traditional yoga class seated in a chair.  the class is perfect for people who have difficulty moving easily from the floor to a standing position and provides them with the tools needed to relax and release restrictions from the body, enjoying freer movement.  Participants will also benefit from improved strength, flexibility, balance and pain management skills. 

Gentle 

This slower moving class focuses on proper alignment and breathing practices that restore energy levels and help undo tensions and areas of injury to the body.  Each class is a combination of yoga movement, breath work and mediation which help the participant understand the role tension plays in the discomfort and restrictions in their body.  With that, the participant will develop the ability to release those tensions, resulting in freer and more comfortable movement.

Restorative 

Restorative yoga is a form of yoga which aims to achieve physical, mental and emotional well begin, with the aid of props.  In restorative yoga, the aim is muscular release which happens before one is aware of the sensation of stretch.  And for this reason, we need to support the body (pillows, bolster, blocks) in a shape that is comfortable and sensation free.

When the body is fully supported in a pose we can relax into the shape of the pose without exerting any physical effort to sta there.  In turn we create space in the body so that the natural flow of energy can return.  Restorative yoga is for anyone who desires a full body-mind experience, and can be done on a chair or a mat. 

Slow Flow & Meditation

A morning practice to wake up the body and connect breath with movement.  This slower-paced movement practice with the added meditation will guide you to move with intention and ease to gently open the body and develop strength, stability, flexibility, and a sense of calm. Enjoy the opportunity to learn and commit to a meditation & mindfulness practice for more peace, presence, and awareness. All bodies and abilities welcome.  Modifications provided.

Stretch & Strength 

Welcome to an opportunity to explore proper breathing patterns, move functionally and settle into learning relaxation techniques.  Are you looking for a yoga class that will lengthen/strengthen/tone and shape muscles while building body awareness?  This class will be more active and a level that requires moving on a yoga mat and relaxing on your back.  Yoga props are used to support your movements.

Yin-Yang 

There is a yin aspect of life and a yang aspect.  Yin cannot exist with Yang, nor can Yang exists without Yin, they compliment each other.   In Yin yoga we focus on the Yin tissues of the body, ligaments, bones and joints.  It is in the Yin part of our practice, the holding of the pose that provides length.  In the Yang yoga we focus on the Yang tissues of the body, muscles, blood and skin.  It is in the Yang part of our practice, much care is taken to align the body and engage our muscles correctly to create strength and stability. 

Yin-Yang are opposites, Yin describes the shade side of the mountain, the north and Yang describes the sunny side, the south.  Together they make the WHOLE.. it is in this WHOLENESS that because our main pursuit in Yin-yang yoga.

 

Mapleridge Recreation Centre