Introductory and prenatal sessions will be offered.

LEWISTON – Yoga classes are being offered by HealthSteps at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center.

An Introduction to Yoga class is being offered from 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays in the Lepage Conference Room at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center. A more advanced class, Yoga: the Next Level, is being held from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. Mondays in the Lepage Conference Room.

Classes run for 11 weeks beginning this week and cost $82.50.

Classes are taught in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere and will consist of the physical practice of combining body movement with focused breath. It is a great low-impact way to increase flexibility, reduce stress and align mind, body and spirit. Loose comfortable clothing is recommended. Bring a towel and/or mat and water.

Class instructor Tammy Begin-LeBlanc from the Yoga Center of Maine is a certified yoga instructor with seven years of experience in teaching yoga classes. She holds a bachelor of science degree in sports medicine/health science as well as certifications in personal training, fitness counseling and aerobic instruction. She provides a safe and effective program that targets all fitness levels and can accommodate physical limitations.

Yoga offers participants a lifetime fitness program in non-competitive environment. Yoga offers a cardiovascular workout that relieves tension and stress, quiets the mind and emotions and stimulates inner organs.

Additionally, prenatal yoga will be offered to expecting mothers beginning Wednesday, Oct. 15. Pregnancy is a transitional time for women. Participants will learn postures and breathing to help strengthen the uterus and pelvic muscles, keep the body flexible and find focus through breathing. Prenatal yoga will help for labor and delivery.

Jean Dowling, certified nurse midwife, will teach the class. She practices at Women’s Health Associates and is a certified prenatal yoga instructor. The class will run for 10 weeks and costs $75.

Call HealthSteps to register at 777-8898 or e-mail at [email protected].