HEBRON — In time for exams and the holiday season, Hebron Academy is offering some new ways for students to improve their focus and learn new skills.

Yoga teacher Chris Harris of Norway began a weekly class for students and faculty in Hebron’s new athletic center recently. The class is available to students interested in improving strength and flexibility.

While learning more about the dynamics of breath, poses and balance, students are also finding a level of relaxation and comfort during the yoga sessions. Class participants come from all grades and include faculty members.

“What’s been exciting is the variety of students taking advantage of this course. They come with different ideas and goals — from the very germane or academic to the strongly athletic — and it works its magic for most all of them,” said organizer and faculty member Julie Middleton.

With Hebron coaches extolling the benefits of this kind of cross training, several of the academy’s varsity athletes are taking advantage of the extra conditioning yoga offers.

Football and basketball player Bobby Coleman, a junior from Chestnut Hill, Mass., intends to become a regular in the class. He has had yoga experience before coming to Hebron and is glad of its availability for two reasons: “In general, it makes me feel better physically, and more relaxed. I also notice that there is more clarity when I’m done, which helps with my studying.”

Additionally, Hebron Academy foreign language teacher Cynthia Marsden and  junior Lindsey Hughes of Hebron have started a weekly meditation group, which offers students an alternative way of dealing with stress.

Both activities are extra-curricular and optional, but the themes of balance and teaching practical skills go along with the school’s philosophy of LIFE (Living In a Friendly Environment).

“It’s clear there are life benefits being offered and we gladly support these kinds of activities at Hebron Academy, “ said Head of School John King.