MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- To some people, yoga may seem like a silly, boring activity, but to those who attend the yoga classes offered at the IronWorks Gym here, it is a relaxing, stress-relieving time.
The yoga classes are offered every Tuesday through Saturday at the gym. Three yoga instructors are provided, and all teach a different style.
After having done yoga for 10 years, Soraya Applegate has now become an instructor at the gym.
“Yoga is my life,” said Applegate. “No matter what is going on, I come to my yoga mat. It’s like my sanctuary, it’s what I do.”
Yoga is a good way to stretch your body. It can work muscles you didn’t know you had, as well as work on improving your flexibility.
Yoga is a way to take time away from the kids and relax, a time to find peace with yourself, said Michelle Crespin, a yoga practitioner.
Yoga is a relaxing exercise; it is slow paced, yet it is good for your health and your body.
“Yoga to me is being flexible, being able to put your head on the floor when stretching,” said Karen Alfafara, a yoga practitioner.
Yoga is like aiming for a goal.
“Yoga is a positive state of mind,” said Crespin.
Yoga is a very powerful activity.
Yoga makes some people feel alive, strong and empowered, said Applegate.
The instructors of the gym have scheduled a Yoga Day event 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the IronWorks Gym Sunday.
The Yoga Day event will show off the different types of yoga and how to execute them. There will be approximately six or more styles of yoga being taught that day.
Beginning at 8 a.m. there will be classes on a new style of yoga every half hour.
All station residents are permitted to attend this event.