Deep breath in. Exhale. And Hold.

On this particular Thursday morning, there’s snow on the ground. It’s the kind of day when every breath is a reminder of how cold it is outside, but that doesn’t stop a faithful few from gathering for their yoga class.

Inside the east room at Sunset View, they shed their coats and visibly take a moment to just slow down. Their days are busy, and they hurry into class like any younger person would, discussing where they’ve been and where they’re headed next.

But in that room, for about half an hour twice a week, the busyness takes a backseat while they focus on their health.

Instrumental music plays in the background. Deep, even breaths punctuate the soothing notes as the class gets started. The faint scent of a sensible moisturizer hangs in the air, only really noticeable when taking those deep breaths as instructed. The veterans tend to close their eyes while holding their poses, but a stolen glance around the unassuming room doesn’t reveal any intimidating equipment. In fact, the only tools used are dated banquet chairs covered in orange vinyl.

No special clothing is required, and the participants look comfortable in jeans, slacks, sweaters, T-shirts and an assortment of shoes. It gives the impression that there’s no wrong thing to wear and that no one would look out of place if they dropped in to try it out.

If your mental picture of yoga involves spandex and bodies twisted into impossible contortions, you might dismiss a senior yoga class without ever giving it a chance. According to the regulars, though, that would be a mistake.

Though the group on this day consisted of women in their 70s and 80s, the class is open to anyone. Men and women of any age can attend for free, and there’s no need to RSVP in advance. Simply show up, wearing whatever is comfortable. There are plenty of chairs, and no additional equipment is necessary.

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