Sunshine overhead, grass underfoot and a refreshing spring breeze — an ideal setting for yoga.
“I might be partial, but I love doing yoga outside,” said Amy Fecher, owner of Indigo Yoga. “And this time of year is perfect — you have a nice, soft surface beneath you, it’s not overly hot and there’s the perfect warmth of the sunshine.”
The Greene Town Center kicks off its slate of outdoor fitness classes this month with BODYBAR Mat Pilates on Saturday, April 18 and Yoga at The Greene with Indigo Yoga on Saturday, April 25. Classes are free and open to all ages and ability levels.
“I think The Greene is just so charming and inviting,” Fecher said. “It’s such a great place to take a class.”
Indigo Yoga
Before their Beavercreek studio had even opened its doors for the first time, Indigo Yoga held its first class at The Greene. Fourteen years later, the free outdoor classes remain a vital part of Indigo Yoga’s mission.
“It’s a great way to expose people to yoga, try it for the first time,” Fecher said. “There are no rules, just an environment that is joyful.”
The classes are beginner-friendly, starting with a gentle warm-up and opening meditation, followed by a series of basic poses. The hourlong practice ends with the traditional Savasana, the relaxing, final resting pose.
“Some people come with their children and it’s so gratifying to see someone in downward dog with their kids doing the same thing underneath them,” Fecher said. “But it’s about more than yoga, it’s about building community.”
Aspiring yogis need nothing more than a yoga mat or beach towel, a water bottle and a willingness to learn.
BODYBAR Pilates
While Indigo Yoga has been a mainstay at The Greene for more than a decade, BODYBAR Pilates Centerville is in its first year of offering free monthly outdoor sessions after hosting a few classes last year.
“When looking at our event schedule for the year we knew we wanted to add The Greene classes regularly,” said Faith Williams, of BODYBAR Pilates. “Outdoor classes are lovely because of the fresh air and the beautiful setting at The Greene. Our complimentary community mat class allows the public to experience the BODYBAR method in a fun and welcoming environment, bringing the same energy we enjoy and love at the studio.”
BODYBAR Pilates specializes in providing a full-body athletic workout designed to be accessible to all levels. The movements can be easily modified depending on individual needs and fitness levels.
“We focus on proper form while always offering modifications, encouraging individuals to listen to their bodies,” Williams said. “We encourage every participant to embrace their balanced, athletic, and real selves.”