Program Title: Northwood Grad Community Yoga (Ann Arbor School of Yoga)
Time Window: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM (includes travel + class)
Location: Ann Arbor School of Yoga (Community Yoga – $5)
Program Overview
Northwood graduate residents will attend the Ann Arbor School of Yoga’s $5 community yoga class as a group. This program is designed as a welcoming, beginner-friendly wellness outing that supports stress reduction, healthy routines, and community-building. Residents are encouraged to participate at their own comfort level—resting is always an option.
Plan (Start to Finish)
- 4:00 PM – Meet-Up at Northwood (10–15 minutes):
- Residents meet with the Graduate Resident Advisor at a designated Northwood meeting spot. I’ll do a quick check-in, confirm transportation plans, and share a few expectations: come as you are, listen to your body, and respect others’ focus during class. I’ll also remind residents what to bring (water, comfortable clothing; mats are optional if the studio provides them/if residents have one).
- Travel to Studio (15–25 minutes, depending on transit/carpool):
- We’ll head to the Ann Arbor School of Yoga together. This travel time is intentionally part of the program—light conversation, introductions, and a friendly “we’re doing this together” vibe, without pressure to socialize intensely.
- Arrive + Settle In (10–15 minutes):
- We’ll check in, pay the $5 fee, store belongings, and get set up. I’ll help first-timers feel oriented (where to put shoes/bags, where to set up, studio etiquette). Residents can choose to spread out or sit near each other.
- Community Yoga Class (typically ~60–75 minutes):
- Residents participate in a guided class that may include breathing exercises, gentle-to-moderate movement, and a relaxation period. The emphasis is on stress relief, grounding, and leaving feeling more resourced than when they arrived.
- Post-Class Cooldown + Optional Check-Out (10 minutes):
- After class, we’ll regroup outside (or in the lobby) for a brief, optional reflection. I’ll offer simple prompts like: “One word for how you feel now?” or “Anything you want to do differently next time?” Sharing is optional—residents can also just enjoy quiet.
- Return to Northwood (by 6:30 PM):
- We’ll travel back together and close out the program with quick reminders about future wellness/community opportunities.
What Residents Will Experience
Residents can expect a calm, supportive outing that feels both structured and low-pressure. From start to finish, the goal is for residents to experience:
- A true mental reset during a busy academic season
- A sense of belonging from attending something as a group, even if they’re new to Northwood or new to yoga
- Increased confidence in using local wellness resources that are affordable and easy to repeat
Accessibility & Inclusion Notes
This program is intended to be beginner-friendly and inclusive. Residents are encouraged to modify movements, take breaks, or opt out of any pose. The emphasis is on well-being, not performance.
