chair Yoga Offers Granby Seniors Gentle Path to Fitness and Well-being
An innovative chair yoga program is gaining popularity in Granby, offering seniors a gentle and accessible way to improve their fitness, flexibility, and overall well-being. The classes cater specifically to older adults, providing a safe and supportive environment for exercise.
Yoga’s Accessibility Grows wiht Chair Adaptations
Chair yoga modifies conventional yoga poses to be performed while seated or using a chair for support. This adaptation allows individuals with limited mobility, balance issues, or other physical limitations to participate in the practice, reaping its numerous benefits without the risk of falls or injuries.
Granby Seniors Embrace Gentle Exercise
Weekly chair yoga sessions are held every Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Église unie, providing a convenient and social outlet for seniors in the Granby community. Participants have lauded the positive impact of the classes on their physical and mental health.
“It’s gentle and relaxing. Ultimately, chair yoga is about relaxation, flexibility, and strength,” says an instructor.
Improved Mobility and Social Connection
Participants report improvements in their mobility, flexibility, and strength. For some, like Audrey Poure, a retired teacher, chair yoga has been instrumental in their recovery from surgeries. The group setting fosters a sense of community and camaraderie, making exercise more enjoyable.
“It helps me because I had a total hip replacement a year ago. So exercising helps, and it’s always better in a group. It’s long and boring alone at home, but with other people, it’s more interesting!” Poure explains.
The encouraging atmosphere further enhances the experience, promoting a positive team spirit among participants.
Chair Yoga Boosts Mobility and Community for Seniors
Free Classes Offer a Fun, Accessible Way to stay active
Seniors are discovering the benefits of chair yoga, a gentle and accessible form of exercise that improves mobility and fosters community. Thes classes provide a crucial opportunity for older adults to stay active,especially for those who may find traditional exercise challenging.
Ann Rémillard, a dedicated instructor, leads the weekly chair yoga sessions. The hour-long classes are specifically designed to meet the needs of older adults.
Combating Sedentary Lifestyles
Rémillard emphasizes the importance of exercise for seniors, noting the risks associated with inactivity. “Seniors don’t move enough,” Rémillard said. “Those who fall and break hips or elbows are often people who haven’t been exercising. Thay are sedentary.”
Community and Connection
The chair yoga classes offer more than just physical benefits; they provide a valuable social outlet for participants. Twins Marie and Margaret, regular attendees for over 20 years, highlight the importance of group exercise. “It’s more fun when you can exercise with a group,” they said, emphasizing the social aspect and their appreciation for Rémillard’s instruction. “We like the social and the exercise. And Ann is remarkable! We hope she can come back in September.”
volunteerism Drives Program
Rémillard volunteers her time to lead the chair yoga classes, refusing payment. She explains that giving back is a core value instilled by her father. “They wanted to pay me,and I said no way! I like doing this,it’s stronger than me… I like to give and I don’t like to receive.”
Trailblazing Negotiator Pioneers High-Speed Rail Contract, Now Inspiring Through Yoga
A former negotiator has transitioned from high-stakes international business deals to a path of wellness, now teaching chair yoga in Granby and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Her previous career involved extensive travel and important contributions to major infrastructure projects.
From Boardrooms to Balance: A Journey of Transformation
After a distinguished career that included negotiating a high-speed rail contract connecting New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C., she now dedicates her time to helping others find balance and well-being through adapted yoga practices. Her journey exemplifies a remarkable shift from the corporate world to community wellness.
Breaking Barriers in Business
Prior to her yoga instruction, she worked for Bombardier and Westinghouse (a nuclear power products and services provider), and notably became the frist woman hired to negotiate the significant high-speed rail (TGV) contract.Her work required frequent travel to locations including New York, Albany, and Spain, as well as international destinations such as Paris, London, and Ireland. She spent eight and a half years dedicated to the high-speed rail project and a total of 21 years with westinghouse.
global Experience Shaping Local Impact
Her extensive professional background, which also includes living in Haiti for two years, provided a foundation of diverse experiences that now informs her approach to teaching and community engagement.
Active Retirement: granby Woman Shares Passion for Chair Yoga and Community Service
GRANBY, Quebec – A Granby woman is channeling her energy and passion for movement into chair yoga instruction and community service, demonstrating an active and engaged retirement.
chair Yoga classes Offered in Granby and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
Ann Rémillard leads chair yoga classes in Granby on Wednesdays and in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu on Thursdays. The classes provide a gentle and accessible form of exercise suitable for a range of abilities.
decades of volunteer Work
Beyond yoga, Rémillard has dedicated years to volunteer work, including 15 years supporting entrepreneurs, six years with FADOQ (a senior citizens association), and several years collaborating with the Sûreté du Québec (provincial police) to deliver talks on elder abuse.
Finding Balance: Hobbies and staying Active
Despite her extensive volunteer commitments, Rémillard emphasizes the importance of personal time since her retirement in 2008. She enjoys reading, daily walks, yoga practice, and weekly visits with friends.
“It is indeed vital to stay busy,” Rémillard noted, highlighting her ideology of maintaining an active lifestyle. She also mentioned her prior involvement on the Board of directors at Desjardins, a position she held until 2022.
How to Join Chair Yoga Classes
Those interested in joining the chair yoga classes can register by contacting Kathryn Harrington, Activities Coordinator at Saint-Georges Church, at 450-372-3446.
Chair Yoga in Granby: Your Questions Answered
This Q&A section delves deeper into the world of chair yoga, as reported in the articles, offering insights and practical advice for seniors in Granby and beyond.
Q&A
What is chair yoga, and who is it for?
Chair yoga modifies traditional yoga poses to be performed while seated or using a chair for support. It’s perfect for seniors, individuals with mobility issues, balance concerns, or those seeking a gentle, accessible way to exercise and improve well-being. Consider it a gateway to fitness, adaptability, and relaxation!
Where and when are chair yoga classes offered in Granby?
Classes are held at the Église unie (United Church) on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Classes are also offered in Saint-jean-sur-Richelieu on Thursdays. Check with the local church for any schedule changes.
What are the benefits of chair yoga?
Chair yoga improves mobility, flexibility, and strength. it also fosters a sense of community.Participants frequently enough report improved recovery from surgery and a more positive outlook. Plus, it’s a fun way to combat sedentary lifestyles.
Who is leading these chair yoga classes?
Ann Rémillard, a dedicated and volunteer instructor, leads the classes. Rémillard’s passion for helping others stems from her own commitment to an active lifestyle and community service. She has been a volunteer for over 20 years.
How can I join the chair yoga classes?
You can register by contacting Kathryn Harrington, Activities Coordinator at Saint-Georges Church, at 450-372-3446. It’s a fantastic way to connect with others and experience the joy of movement!
is there a cost to attend?
No, the classes are free to attend!
Who was the former negotiator mentioned in the articles?
The former negotiator, who pivoted to yoga, worked on the high-speed rail (TGV) project, specifically the contract connecting New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C. She was the first woman to be hired to negotiate this contract.
What other volunteer work is Ann Rémillard involved in?
Aside from chair yoga, Ann has dedicated her time to volunteer work including supporting entrepreneurs, working with FADOQ, and collaborating with the Sûreté du Québec (provincial police) to deliver talks on elder abuse.
Ready to embrace a healthier, more connected lifestyle? Join a chair yoga class today!
