Life-Long Learning is learning beyond the traditional classroom. It is a pursuit of knowledge throughout one’s lifetime and is diverse and flexible. Odell Public Library, 307 S. Madison Street, Morrison, IL, continues its Life-Long Learning Series. The 2016 classes are entitled “Calming the Mind”
- January, “Relaxation and Meditation”
- February, “Adult Coloring”
- March, “A Visual Dialogue: Life Among the Poor Clare Colettine Nuns.”
On Monday, January 18, Martina Maxfield will present “Relaxation and Meditation” as the first class. Participants will meet in the Program Room from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Maxfield is a well-known Yoga instructor.
“Together we will explore how breathing helps the mind to focus and become calm,” she stated.
In 2003 Martina decided she wanted to share yoga with others. She began her nine-month training through the Temple of Kriya Yoga in Chicago, IL, and was certified in Hatha Yoga. Hatha Yoga is the yoga of balance, which includes gentle stretching, basic breathing techniques, and seated meditation. Yoga stretches the body, relaxes the mind, and lifts the spirit.
Her teaching has grown and evolved over 13 years. She remarked, “I am grateful to those people who were open to try something new. People came!” Her enthusiasm and willingness to share the relaxation and meditation techniques with her students is built on trust. A variety of students have commented, ” I can’t describe how good I feel when I leave your class.” “I have learned to relax.”
During the one-hour session, Martina will explain and demonstrate breathing and relaxation techniques. There is neither equipment nor any special clothing needed. All that is needed is the willingness to be open to try something new. Learn to relax and relieve stress.
Start the new year with a new idea. Keep learning! Come try something new!