"Easy Yoga Plus!"
Our Sponsors
ABOUT "EASY YOGA PLUS!"
History and Mission
WHO WE ARE
"Easy Yoga Plus!" is a yoga program (trademarked in Wisconsin in 2018) and
recommended for older adults and others who do not find other forms of yoga
accessible. It is easy, slow, and safe. It also incorporates skills and tips to make
daily living easier, focusing attention on learning more about the limitations in the body
and ways to meet these challenges. Evidence-based research has been instrumental
in defining aging conditions and how yoga should be modified to be both safe and
beneficial.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
In my early 70's my activities became less enjoyable because of my developing
limitations. This was when a Groupon offer for 30 days of unlimited yoga prompted
the beginning of my yoga practice. Scroll down to learn about my yoga journey from
"really old" to my current transformed life of vitality and purpose.
THE MISSION
Our mission is to serve the "older adult" and others with limitations. On the right you
will see the Goals for the "Easy Yoga Plus!" program.
Goals
- To provide a welcoming and comfortable space for EVERY BODY to practice safe yoga, based on evidence-based research.
- To encourage proper alignment and the use of props, making classes ACCESSIBLE for everyone.
- To increase AWARENESS about our improved life expectancy and to promote new ways to "Age Gracefully".
- To provide a space to SOCIALIZE, and to get to know fellow students and teachers.
Ellen L. Millar - RYT and a Graduate of Duke University Integrative Medicine Yoga for Seniors Master
I began yoga in 2015 at the age of 74 when routine tasks became difficult and just trying to survive was the daily goal. A Groupon offer for one month unlimited yoga at Perennial Yoga and Meditation was my introduction to a new life. After one month of consistent yoga classes, there were huge improvements in flexibility and balance. I had emotional peace along with a new zest for life.
Wanting to share my “transformative” experience, I envisioned a program for others with limitations. This became my new “life purpose”.
I enrolled in teacher training and graduated from Perennial’s Wisdom Teacher Training in 2016. In November 2017 I completed Duke Integrative Medicine Yoga for Seniors Master Class, an evidence-based program that included training from medical professionals and leading yoga teachers. I later also obtained certification to teach Chair and Restorative Yoga.
Desiring to make yoga accessible to EVERY BODY, I developed and began teaching “Easy Yoga Plus!” at the Fitchburg Senior Center in 2016. I have taught at senior apartment complexes in the Madison area, for NewBridge and at Perennial Yoga and Meditation, MSCR, and Goodman Community Center. I also have been a presenter on the “Aging Process and the Benefits of Yoga” for the Mastery of Aging program throughout the area. Educating the community, elderly and their family members about the aging process and the substantial benefits from a yoga is an important message I am emphatic about sharing. I even managed the Lotus Studio near the West Towne Mall for a short time,
"Easy Yoga Plus!" is yoga designed to teach the nervous system, muscles and joints new movements. It is slow and focused so the student has time to access and become aware of their body. Emphasis on mindfulness and breathing are key elements of this practice. The Plus! includes helpful insights to daily routines, falls prevention, the aging process, and creative ways to access poses for those with limitations. A goal is to strengthen muscles and improve balance and flexibility. Affirmations, visualization, and inspiring stories, poems, and quotes add to the yoga philosophy and postures that keep classes fresh and exciting.
Join my class and begin the journey to a revitalized life. I welcome everyone, especially their limitations!
