Tina Fennelly wants to help people move to the best of their ability by enhancing their mobility.
The certified exercise specialist is so committed to helping people listen to their bodies and stretch their levels of mobility that she’s started instructing a new yoga program in partnership with the City of Belleview.
As part of a new city commitment to promote health and wellness across the community, Fennelly’s free classes will take place from 8 to 9 a.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at the Belleview Community Center, 5615 SE 110th Place Belleview.
“I always wanted to have a way to give back to the community,” she said. “Everyone can do some level of stretching and everyone can benefit from working their mobility. These yoga classes are meant to help.”
Robert Vass, City of Belleview community engagement liaison, said the goal of the program that began on Sept. 9 is to make yoga accessible to everyone.
“Healthy communities are built by creating opportunities for people to invest in themselves,” he said. “This program gives residents a space to slow down, recharge and improve their overall quality of life.”
Vass emphasized the program speaks to the wide range of interests and age groups among residents.
“We’ve worked to create events and programs that bring people together throughout the year, and adding a recurring wellness program is a natural next step,” he said. “Offering these classes free of charge removes a barrier for many residents and reflects our commitment to making quality recreational opportunities available to everyone in the Belleview community.”
During a recent class, Fennelly set the mood by pairing relaxing music with the soothing sound of her voice as the sun’s rays stretched into the room through the window behind her. She told the class of more than 10 people of varying ages she enjoys creating a welcoming environment.
“Having the sun come through helps provide some Vitamin D while they stretch — it’s soothing,” Fennelly said. “My number one thing is to create a space where everybody is welcome.”
She then explained the class is “practicing” yoga.
“This is not a pass or fail,” Fennelly said. “I want you to listen to your body. If you’re holding your breath and you’re tense, then you’re doing too much. I don’t want you moving through pain.”
Fennelly, who also works at OxyPeak Longevity Institute at the Center for Advanced Healthcare at Brownwood, leads the class in exercises and explains their benefits in a calm, soothing voice throughout the hourlong class.
“Inhale while lifting the belly. Let the air rise to our chest and then exhale,” Fennelly said, breaking down steps to help participants better control their breathing.
Some of the stretches done during the class included mountain pose, planks and happy baby, which Fennelly explains opens up the hips. Throughout the session, there was focus on flexibility, balance, strength and mindfulness.
“I want you to improve your health and connection with yourself,” she said. “One thing that makes my classes different is that I like to incorporate mobility and corrective exercises. I want you to engage with your muscles.”
With a little over 10 minutes left in the class, Fennelly guided participants through a rest and cool-down period.
“We are going to take some time to appreciate our bodies, showing up and moving,” she said.
Fennelly said she will continue instructing classes as her schedule allows. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mats. A limited number will be available for those who need one.
For more information about the free class, visit belleviewfl.org.
Staff writer Brea Jones can be reached at 352-753-1119, ext. 5414, or brea.jones@thevillagesmedia.com
