So y’all, I teach yoga, and I’ve been exploring other meditation and movement practices. I also do Seokmun-Hoheup breathing and meditation and movement practices. I had been invited to go to Andong, South Korea earlier this spring opf 2024.
So what does this have to do with typewriters? Glad you asked. I got the typewriter bug, back in January, when my mother, Deloris gifted me her 1935 Underwood Portable. She bought it for $45 from the train depot clerk, where she worked (Rock Island Railroad). His wife used it to write stories for the True Confessions, and True Romance magazines that where popular back in that day and time.
So since getting mom’s typewriter, I’d been to a local few flea markets, Facebook Marketplace ads, so a typewriter purchase, here and there.
I was also learning the Korean language to help me when I traveled for the workshop/training in Andong.
So I investigate Hangul Korean Typewriters. Analogue Papa on YouTube helped me figure out what type of typewriter to get, and I finally was getting a Clover 810 manual Hangul typewriter. But the task of bringing it back.
This had to be a minimalist packing trip for my one week stay. Because I was bringing the typewriter back as my carry on luggage.
With Dr. Paul, we ventured into one of the neighborhoods near our AirBnB, to go and get the typewriter. Such a lovely person, who I purchased the Clover 810 typewriter machine from. I think I posted on my Instagram our little interaction!
On, the way home with some luggage straps securely around the typewriter, I passed through security at the Incheon International Airport, just outside of Seoul, South Korea. They did flag me for further inspection. I was on the other side of the x-ray section, and saw what they were looking at.
At first it was, “Ma’am”, is this a portable PC?” I was demonstrating fingers typing on a keyboard, and told them that is was a manual typewriter. A big light bulb turned on in their head.
14 hours later, stopping in Atlanta Georgia, carrying that 12 pound Typewriter, with an awkward handle situation, I had to re-check through security. I thought, hmmm, let’s see how this goes.
They didn’t put the typewriter to the side like they did in Korea, but they were hovering around me, again, asking, what is this device? Again, did the finger typing, and said, “Oh, it’s a Korean language manual typewriter.” Ohh, and Ahhs abound.
And lastly, I was sitting in the waiting area in Atlanta, GA waiting for my final flight to Houston, Texas. Over the loud speaker it was, “Those in first class, people with children, and those needing a bit of assistance can board first.” I was on the 4th boarding option in economy. I hopped up and got in the first calling. The gate checkers, were going, “Uh, Ma’am, your boarding time is later.”, “I swifty replied, I need assistance, possibly, to lift this typewriter to the overhead bin.”
They said, go ahead! As I was walking down the walking way to the plane, I explained to the crew, that they let me board early, so I would have time to load my typewriter safely in the overhead bin.
As I was departing the plane, there in Houston, the crew were going, and asking, “Oh, that’s so cool, your typewriter! Are you a writer?” Yes!
My little adventure, traveling with my Korean Hangul Typewriter!
Using manual typewriters in a language that you are learning, is thought to be an additional method in comprehensive input, for learning the language. Many second, third language learners use typewriters in this method.
Please order from USA in March and During my visit to Korea in April He came to pick him up himself Understanding the typewriter The part that will explain loudly because of highness I don’t think there was ever one You may reveal your face Neatly you suggested it first @yogawithgaileee Have a nice trip for the rest of the time For your interest in Korean Thank you Who lives here in Minnesota Because a Korean acquaintance accompanied me You translated it for me I wish I could get this seat I give thanks 🙏 . .방문감사합니다 Thank you for visiting 한글타자기 Korean Typewriter 방문감사합니다 Thank you for visiting yogawithgaileee 한글타자기 Korean Typewriter 4벌식한글타자기 4Beolsik Hangul typewriter 크로바타자기 crowbar typewriter 영어공부 Learning English 빈티지소품 Vintage Props 낭만잡화점민채네 Minchae’s Romantic General Store 감성마켓민채네 Emotional Market Minchae 감성소품민채네 Emotional Minchaene 민채네 Minchae’s
Travel Journal for South Korea, Andong’s Seokmun-Hoheup Visit/Workshop for Gail Pickens-Barger
Day 1 – Travel Day, Tuesday – April 16, 2024.
Drove from Port Neches, Texas at approximately 1:30 AM to IAH, Intercontinental Bush Airport in northern Houston, Texas. My husband dropped me off at the Delta departures area of the airport. I was traveling with a carry-on bag and a backpack bag. I additionally wore a pocketed vest, to carry my valuables, IDs, Passport. Arrived at security check in at approximately 3:30 AM. There were few passengers at that time, I was practically the only one going through security at that time, and the TSA agents were very sweet, and helped me a lot to get through security. I did not have to have any additional pat down or extra x-ray. Sometimes I have to have an extra security check and pat down because of my internal pacemaker device.
My flight was scheduled to leave at 6:44 AM, and arrive in Minneapolis, MN at 9:23 AM, where I’d pick up the second flight to Seoul, South Korea. My gate upon arrival was only two gates away from the departure gate. From Left to Right, Dr. Paul M, Catherine P, Gail Pickens-Barger (me), Monica R, Linda B, Malinda M.. Dr. Paul has the longest arms of all of us! This was my first time meeting everyone. On the plane, I sat next to Dr. Paul, and Malinda was sitting behind us. Linda and Catherine were sitting together and Monica was in a different section of the plane. As it was my first time to be in the presence of Dr. Paul, we were able to converse on a number of subjects, including the breathing study and the translation of the book.
Day 2- Arrival Day, Wednesday – April 17, 2024.
We arrived at approximately 3:30 PM on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. We went through customs, and then picked up any checked baggage. We were to meet up with Dr. Zuzana N and Mr. Lee. We first met up with Mr. Lee, and we had food at the airport, while waiting for Zuzana. Dr. Paul, went and found Zuzana, and then we were to take the subway to the train station, to take us to Andong.
I sat next to Mr. Lee, and we had some conversations around writing Hangul, and most of us took short naps on the way to Andong.
We arrived late in the evening, Grand Master and members of the Andong Seokmun community picked us up from the train, or the subway from the train station. We were then taken to the government Andong center, where we had tea time with the Grand Master, and various community Andong members. Monica, Zuzana and I were taken to the Guest House, compliments of the Governor’s wife (thank you), and Linda, Malinda and Catherine were taken to the CM Park Hotel.
Day 3- Government Center & Andong Center, Thursday – April 18 2024.
Monica, Zuzana and I were to stay at the center for the following days, so we packed up our belongings, and teacher Mu-Hye checked us out of the Guest House, and walked us over to the center. When we got there we had tea time with the Grand Master, then walked to breakfast. Monica, Zuzana and I dropped off our luggage, prior to breakfast at the center. Mu-Hye left early from breakfast as he had to teach class. We came back to the center, changed clothes and joined in the class that was already in session.
Grand Master did Dantain Tape placement, and I got a new tape placement of my Seokmun Point. It was at a different location (but not by much), when he placed the tape. During this class session, I had a diaphragm massage, as I was tightly holding my core. We finished class, and went to a local restaurant for lunch. I did Level 2 hang gong, and received some adjustments of my postures. Dr. Paul helped me with my focusing and center portion of the class.
In my session with Level 2 hang gong, I learned differences in the poses #3, and #4. #8 shoulder width feet, and in #10 I learned a better way to get into the posture. Which also helped me with pose #11.
Several community members gave us car rides as we traveled to Andong Center, in the city of Andong, and took a class with teacher, Eun Son. I additionally had a massage on the diaphragm from the lead teacher at the Andong Center. I did Level 1 hang gong during this class. I received several adjustments to the Level 1 postures. This was the first time for me, to be in front of a teacher, doing Level 1.
In Level 1 poses I received comments suggestions on pose #6 – to have my foot on top (was having some foot challenges, so will do that when I can), #8 I kept coming out of the pose, and again I have some challenges in my back, so on good days I can hold that position. #9 I was again shown a better way to get into the posture. I was dipping my head towards the floor, and in the method I was shown, it was easier to stay in the posture. #11 my hand posture was corrected, and lastly in #12 feet shoulder distance apart, was emphasized.
The community members of the Andong center prepared an evening meal. We met several new community members in this class. I really liked the tofu soup, and it was teacher Eun Son who made the soup!
Both Zuzana, Monica and I came back to the hotel and took showers in our other classmates’ hotel rooms, then were brought back to the center, to sleep. Monica stayed with Catherine in the Hotel, while Zuzana and I stayed at the center. Warm floors, on blankets. I was very hot, and had a hard time getting to sleep. We asked Paul the next day if he could get us together in a hotel room.
Day 4 – Mask Play, Folk Village, Mountain Climb to view Folk Village, Visit to the oldest temple in South Korea, Gumi Center Practice & Evening Meal. Friday – April 19, 2024.
A 6 AM class was happening at the main Andong Center, led by a student, and Zuzana was still sleeping, moved over to a different section of the room. I took the 6 AM class, and really enjoyed the main meditation portion of the class. This I think made up for the lack of sleep that I had. Odd being trying to sleep on the floor, versus, relaxed and calm during main practice meditation.
I had a nice interaction with my teacher, Mu-Hye. We went over the painting that I had given the Grand Master, and we went over the min-zines I created of Hang gong levels 1,2,3. I gave him a handout and I demonstrated how to fold the paper into a mini-zine. We did that for Levels 1,2 & 3. I showed him photos of my children and family too. He also gave me demonstrations on some of the postures that I had questions on.
We went to the same breakfast place on Friday, then we were driven by community members, and saw the Mask Play. We then took golf carts and toured the Hanael Village. Queen Elizabeth had visited, and planted a tree at the village. I got to see the unusual tree, and the way that the floors were heated back in the olden times for the houses in the village. The gentleman who actually did the renovation of some of the painted work at the temple gave us mask necklaces. It reminds me of western bolo ties.
Mask dance at the village.
How the floors were heated during the summer. In addition, there was pipe work, to also heat the ovens in the kitchen with this method. How interesting.
We then traveled to the mountain that was on the other side of the river/stream, which allowed us to see the village from on top of the hill. It was one of the few areas that were untouched by the invasion.
Left to Right. Dr. Paul M, Baek Lym (Nation’s Treasure Painter), Malinda M, Gail Pickens-Barger, Zuzana N, Linda B, Mr. Lee, Monica R and President of Seokmun Community, Kim Ok-rei.
Next up was the visit to the oldest temple in South Korea. Here is some of the work that our local Seokmun practitioner from the Andong/Government center does for his living. He restores painted works for the temple, located near Andong. Which holds the oldest temple in South Korea.
It is really like a mandala, what we see in yoga a lot. Very vibrant and colorful.
So we really got our high intensity workout that day, look at these stairs! Apparently, we just missed the festival being held at the temple the previous week.
Two dragons facing off and as the artist explained (if you look closely there is a ball of energy formed above their fiery exhale). The artist explained this is the Yeo-ui-ju that is formed when their energies meet. I thought it was pretty cool, though it had faded.
We additionally went to the Gumi Center with teacher/leader, Cheon Moon. We had tea time, and a practice. The warm up at the Gumi Center was different, as was the recovery session different from the standard warm up/recovery methods. We were also fed a meal by the community members from Gumi. My favorite was the radish garnish with herbs and mushrooms.
Linda and Malinda were asking Grand Master different aspects of the postures, and Grand Master demonstrated the movement based dance, by what energy he could feel in a song/musical piece. He taught us some techniques in movements. I really enjoyed that particular session.
We had a round table discussion with the Gumi community members. A lot of the members were Level 14s! After a lively discussion, we did a main practice meditation session. I encountered a bit of sleep paralysis, which I’ve had before in the past.
When we came back to Andong, Zuzana and I stayed in the VIP room at the hotel. It included a nice massage chair, which we both enjoyed. We were to move to a different room the next day.
Day 5 – Workshop, Lunch, workshop, checkup Dinner, Class lecture. Saturday – April 20, 2024.
Workshop started at 9 am on Saturday. I did Level 1, Level 2, Level 1 with the main practice meditation. Teacher Mu-Hye did the diaphragmatic massage for me on that day. We had lunch. Enjoyed a Tea Meditation. This is similar to the Noting and Labeling meditation we do in my advance yoga training with Lex Gillan at the Yoga Institute in Houston, Texas. I think though I like the Seokmun variation better than the Noting and Labeling technique.
Our members from the US talked about continuing the Tea Meditation practice on a regular basis. I made note of the type of container that one makes the tea from. The center also had a container to store the tea in, for the tea meditation refilling process. If some of us are doing the tea meditation online, then one would need to acquire some similar type of container, in order to continue to fill one’s cup. I’ve used a tall hot drink dispenser, when I’ve provided tea for my students.
After the tea meditation, I did Level 2, Level1, and then followed the folks in front of me for a mixed level hang gong postures. Several of the postures were from Level 5. Some of them were postures that I already knew from my yoga practice. Specifically East to West posture, and Plough posture. Level 5 Poses, #1, #2, #3, #4. Level 6 Poses, #4, #5. Level 8 Poses, #4, #5. Level 10 Poses #1. I wonder if this particular set of poses (some were repeated) are done different times of the year? Or for a specific purpose during an in-person workshop day.
We did Lying, seated and lying meditation, and accumulation. We then had a checkup. I was promoted to Level 3, during my checkup. I was not expecting that.
After dinner, we were given some gifts from the community, traditional geese, and a Korean ornament, which is typically worn on a hanbok traditional Korean outfit.
We then had a training session with the Grand Master, and took photographs with members and our participants.
Dr. Paul M and Mr. Lee received their Instructor certificate, level 3.
Community members, US crew and teachers at Government Andong Center.
Grand Master presenting Dr. Paul M Teacher Level 3 Award. Mr. Lee receiving Teacher Level 3 Award from Grand Master Cheon Pyeong Nim
Kim Ok-rei, President of the member Seokmun Andong Community, Gaile PB, and Baek Lynn Nation’s Master Painter
Gaile PB and Mu-Hye Andong Top Teacher
Cheon Pyeong Nim and Gaile PB
Hospitality from the Andong Community members! Lovely!
Day 6 – Travel to Suwon. Main Center, Publishing Building, North Suwon Center, then to Seoul Korea. Sunday – April 21 2024.
We checked out of the CM Park Hotel and left Andong in the early morning. Our kind community member drivers took us to the bus station. On the journey to Suwon we stopped along the way at a rest stop. Some of our crew purchased food and novelty items, then the rest of the bus trip we enjoyed the mist-filled hills that lined our path.
Waiting for our transportation to the Bus, to travel to Suwon. Getting a last minute massage!
Misty side of the road as we traveled to Suwon.
We arrived early to the city of Suwon and enjoyed some pastries at the Paris Baguette shop as we waited. At the appointed time, we took a taxi to the Suwon main center. As it was Sunday, it was closed. We walked to the Seokmun-Hoheup publishing center, where we met with the other Grand Master from the North Suwon Center. He led us through the neighborhood to the North Suwon Center. The roads were blocked, as there was a marathon run/walk activity going on in this part of Suwon.
Our visit included tea time chat, a tour of the North Suwon Center. We received lovely gifts of tea service from the Cheon-Sang-Hwa Suwon Region Grand Master. Additionally, we received specialized personal tea from the main center. Very unexpected and made everyone feel welcomed and special.
I think Grandmaster Cheon Pyeong Nim was enjoying the heavy bags he volunteered to carry. Building muscle!
We had a main meditation practice at the North Suwon Center.
It was such a lovely space.
Front Row. Zuzana, Mr. Lee, Monica, Gail, Malinda, Dr Paul M, Catherine & Linda. Back Row. Grand Master Cheon Pyeong Nim, Cheon-Sang-Hwa Suwon Region Grand Master, and Su-Il Grand Master.
We had dinner in Suwon before departing to Seoul, South Korea in a taxi ride.
Day 7 – Activities in Seoul Korea. Monday – April 22 2024.
Several of us in our group had activities to attend to in the morning. Most of us came together to go eat Udon noodles. Took the subway to get to a different neighborhood. Several of us walked the neighborhood to do some tourist shopping.
We gathered later on and took the subway to visit the Hyundai Shopping Center. Being in the big city, going to the mall, seemed to me so different from being in the city of Andong. Similar to here in the US, a big city like Houston, Texas has the energy of that type of town, compared to where I live in the Port Neches/Nederland/Beaumont Texas area, a small town community feeling.
Back to the AirBnB, attempting to do laundry. Linda and Malinda spent a bit of time with me, going over Level 3 posture questions that I had. I was able to take my notes from the US workshop that the Grand Master gave in Minnesota, along with what I have read in the big book. Linda and Malinda were able to supplement my knowledge to where I feel confident in the poses.
After the visit to the mall, our group came together for a discussion about Seokmun-Hoheup and spent a bit of time writing thank you notes to our hosts. I had a great discussion with Catherine about the history of the Korean peoples. I’ll be writing up those notes in a separate summary.
At the AirBnB in Seoul, South Korea
Day 8 – Leaving Seoul, Korea. Arriving in Minnesota/Houston, Texas. Tuesday – April 23 2024.
Zuzana left first early in the morning, Catherine was picked up by her brother at 11 am, our checkout time, and the rest of us headed to the subway, to take us to the airport for departure. Dr. Min accompanied us to the airport. We were a bit early for check in, so we gathered with the remaining people for a great lunch.
There is a bit of construction going on in the airport. Malinda and Linda accompanied me to my departure gate, as I was leaving a whole hour earlier than they were leaving. It was a very long flight on the way back. I had a decent seat, and was able to get up, even with being the middle person in the middle section. My airplane companions were Chinese. My right sided companion had a physical translator device. He had fun conversing with the device. My right sided companion was fluent in English. I had checked a bag, as I was bringing it as a carry on the hangul typewriter to take back to the states.
Getting back to Houston, came the way of a stop in Atlanta, Georgia. I had to take the airport train, to get from the international location to the domestic flights location. Customs went by very fast, and I had to pick up my checked baggage and basically put it onto a transfer baggage location as I was getting ready to do another security check. The typewriter as it went through security, raised some eyebrows. Even though typewriters were still popular in the 1980s, 1990s, a lot of the people I encountered did not know about the manual typewriter. I was able to board my Atlanta flight early, as I needed extra time to safely load the typewriter in the overhead bin.
I got to my home, after a 2 ½ hour drive at about 3 am in the morning. It took me several days to get back onto my normal schedule. As I write this section of the summary I am a week and 3 days since coming home from the experience. I still have some trouble sleeping and getting back into my routine. My youngest child is also in their last weeks of school, getting ready for the university, so normal end of the school year activities are different with them graduating.
Being as I do the Seokmun-Hoheup movement and breathing practice remotely from the US team, I was able to enhance my experience with the Korean workshop with the different teachers and centers. It became apparent to me, my lack of understanding of some of the physical differences in the postures.
Additionally the placement of the dantian tape was a bit different in how I placed the tape. Being in the presence of a teacher, also helped with the letting down of my thoughts in helping me to focus and concentrate on the Seokmun Point. Being in a room with others who have gone before me in their different levels, also enhanced the experience.
My experience probably is a bit different than those who regularly met with Dr. Paul M and Ben K. I additionally teach in-person classes with my chair tai chi and the yoga classes that I teach. For over 4 years now, I have also taught online using the Facebook, Mind Body Online, Wellness Living and Zoom online platforms. Not all online experiences give one the ability to grasp the subtle details of learning, doing the poses. Great experience to do Seokmun-Hoheup in person with a community of like minded folks. Thank you!
Submitted for review. Gail Pickens-Barger. NACYT-500, E-RYT 500, Certified Yoga Teacher. Experienced 500 Teacher Level. Twenty-four years teaching, kids, adults, seniors, chair and adaptive populations. May 3, 2024
Korean restaurant at the Incheon International Airport. All masked up and ready to go!
Seokmun-Hoheup is a comprehensive practice rooted in movement and breathing, designed to foster physical and mental well-being. This approach incorporates specific postures and breathing techniques that aim to promote mindfulness, inner stillness, and a sense of energy flow throughout the body. The practice involves focusing on the dantian point, which is believed to be a crucial center for energy cultivation.
As part of the Seokmun-Hoheup practice, individuals are guided through various levels of postures and breathing exercises, each designed to deepen awareness of the body and breath. Additionally, the practice emphasizes the placement of Dantain Tape, which may aid in facilitating a more focused and concentrated practice by guiding the practitioner’s attention to the Seokmun Point.
The practice is often undertaken in a communal setting, where practitioners can benefit from the supportive energy of a like-minded community. Through shared experiences and interactions with others who have also progressed through different levels, participants can enhance their understanding and application of the practice.
The underlying philosophy of Seokmun-Hoheup centers around the idea of achieving a harmonious balance between physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of well-being, seeking to enrich each practitioner’s journey towards greater self-awareness and holistic health.
Overall, Seokmun-Hoheup breathing practices offer a unique approach to personal growth and self-discovery, complemented by a supportive community and guided instruction.
Seokmun Hoheup Practices & Main Meditation. Through breathing, I will gather Energy from the Universe at my lower Dan-jeon, Seokmun point.’
Gail demonstrating “Snake” or Cobra Pose in the YogaKiddos Class at WesleyActive “Flamingo” balance pose in the YogaKiddos class. Photography by David C. TurnleyGrace and Gail demonstrating the “big breathing” technique in our YogaKiddos Class – Photography by David C. TurnleyMiss Rachel and Gail demonstrating “Giraffe” Pose in our YogaKiddos Class – Photography by David C. Turnley
For those of you taking my online beginning yoga classes, I’ve include a few fan favorites here for you to enjoy. Additionally, a Yoga Nidra Meditation & Chair Tai Chi with Gail PB.
Hello, I’m providing some links to previously recorded classes, in case you need to take another class with me, prior to us coming together next Wednesday. I teach regularly on Wellness Living Online Studio classes for Veterans Yoga Project. Enjoy!
I presented a Prenatal Yoga class in Avraikheer, Mongolia, while I was visiting Amber (who was in the Peace Corps) in 2009.
Mongolians have this superstition about being on the floor in public, so they laid a blanket on the floor so that I could demonstrate Cat/Cow flow.
I then proceeded to demonstrate the rest of the poses standing, with the chair, or with the wall. Talk about a change of plans! Good thing I had come up with a alternate flow for doing prenatal yoga in chairs!
Now they want me to prepare a handout, so that they can take it at home and practice at home. Amber and I are working on that information, and it will be translated into Mongolian.
I had a midwife there also, and she was supplementing the things I was trying to say, for poses that you do during labor, with her expertise too. Great presentation!
Port Arthur News article about…..Yoga brings unlikely yogis
Brandon Janes The Port Arthur News
NEDERLAND — At the end her class, Nederland yoga instructor Gail Pickens-Barger asks her students to mediate on how they are unique and “there is nobody like you in the universe.”
Her students suffer from multiple sclerosis, a chronic, unpredictable disease that effects the central nervous system, and none of their symptoms are exactly the same.
Some of her students experience episodes extreme numbness in their limbs.
“It is as if you put a giant foam block around your leg or foot,” Pickens-Barger said.
For some, the disease effects their balance or, in Crystal Chauvin’s case, a day-long jolt of electric pain down her cheek.
All of the students seem to share in one thing: The relief and relaxation of yoga.
“It helps me move better, helps me balance,” said Becky Dry, who has dealt with the disease for much of her life.
“The class helps us get through the day,” added Dry. “I’m ok now but tomorrow I may not.”
Approximately 400,000 Americans suffer from multiple sclerosis and every week 200 more people are diagnosed with the disease, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
There is no known cause or cure for MS. It is only fatal in extreme cases.
MS adaptive yoga is done in chairs for safety but, as Pickens-Barger points out, it can still make you sweat.
“Keep it between easy and ouch,” Pickens-Barger said during one of the stretches. “Far, far away from ouch.”
Pickens-Barger just got back from a two week long chair-yoga training in New York City, where she learned new techniques to allow her students to access the benefits of yoga without completely exhausting their bodies.
One of the biggest problems for people who suffer from MS is balance. Most of the students use a cane or a walker to get from one place to another.
The yoga techniques are designed to strengthen a person’s core muscles which help them balance whether they are sitting down or standing up.
Just as important as the benefits of the exercise and strength-building, is the sense of community and friendship the class brings to each other’s lives.
“It’s a support group also,” said Pickens-Barger.
Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis for the National MS Society. Local teacher, Gail Pickens-Barger, teaches adaptive yoga for NMMS
Lonestar National MS society sponsors the class as well as a 180-mile bike ride from Houston to Austin for cyclists living with multiple sclerosis.
The yoga classes take place online through Gail’s Youtube channel for the Wesley United Methodist Church in Nederland. The local branch of the Multiple Sclerosis society meets the first Saturday of every month at 11 a.m. at the Medical Center in Port Arthur.
bjanes@panews.com
Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis for the National MS Society. Local teacher, Gail Pickens-Barger, teaches adaptive yoga for NMMS
I teach a simple version of the Sun salutes, Salute the Sun, Sun Salutations in the yoga class on Fridays at Lakeside Center in Beaumont, Texas.
Salute the Sun, Sun Salutations, a set of yoga poses most commonly called the Salute to the Sun, or Sun Salutations in Nederland, Texas with Gail Pickens-Barger.
Over 19 years of teaching experience. Call 409-727-3177 and leave a voice message on your yoga questions.
April 5th, 2024 is the 9th Kids’s Yoga Day Event. Held the first Friday in the month of April.
Just 5 minutes of yoga a day can boost the mental and physical health and wellness of our children, regardless of their socioeconomic status, athletic abilities or prior knowledge. To help spread this powerful message, in 2016, Teresa founded Kids’ Yoga Day (KYD), an international event held every year all over the world – at schools, homes, yoga studios, and/or community centers, even via livestream! No previous yoga experience required.
In 2023 over 435 yoga ambassadors from 36 countries and 43 states, led over 30,000 children through a simple 5 minute routine at the same time, on the same day, not to mention countless others following along at home.
Our participants reported that the kids not only loved doing yoga, but also being a part of something bigger than themselves. In this frenzied world, isn’t that what it’s all about?
Last year Teresa created an adaptive yoga routine, from a suggestion that I had made the previous year. I used the routine for the seniors that I teach on Fridays! They LOVED it!
Adaptive Yoga Kids Yoga Day . Suggested by Gail Pickens-Barger, a Kids Yoga Day ambassador. Teresa created this routine to use starting in 2023!
The 9th Kids’ Yoga Day is happening on Friday, April 5th, 2024.
Easy to do yoga movements, today’s class featuring postures for easing sciatica & kyphosis. Class will also promote healthy backs!
Gail teaches gentle yoga for back care, focusing on low back, upper back, mid-back and core.
Specific yoga postures are designed to ease back challenges and chronic daily pain.
Equipment needed: yoga strap and yoga block, although not mandatory for participation.
Recording of the class is provided for those who want to try with the gear later.
Class ends with guided rest, relaxation, and gratitude practice.
Adaptations for Different Needs
Participants can choose to stand, sit on a chair, or modify postures based on individual needs.
Constructive rest posture is recommended for reducing back challenges.
Seated Participants can also benefit from certain postures, with some adaptations required.
Various modifications are suggested to accommodate different levels of flexibility and comfort.
Participants are encouraged to listen to their bodies and adjust postures accordingly.
Yoga Postures for Back Care
Yoga postures for back care are specific poses designed to strengthen and stretch the muscles in the back, helping to improve posture, reduce pain, and increase flexibility. These poses target different areas of the back to promote overall spinal health and alleviate discomfort.
Check out my latest YouTube video to see if this beginners yoga class can ease some of your sciatica challenges. Always listen to your body, keep it between the easy and the ouch!
Easy to do yoga movements (poses or postures) for back relief. Today’s video features postures to easing sciatica and lessening kyphosis with a regular practice. Join Gail PB as she teaches this Beginners Yoga Class. Note: Can be done seated on the chair, or on the floor with your yoga mat.
Sciatica can be a real pain in the butt! Sciatica symptoms can be caused by compression of the sciatic nerve as it runs through the pelvis, adjacent – or sometimes through – the piriform muscle (Sciatic nerve entrapment, also called piriformis syndrome.) Sometimes the pain is localized in the butt, although it an manifest in different ways all the way down to the toes due to the branding nature of the sciatic nerve.
Yoga for Back Pain Relief, Chronic or Recurring Back Pain (shhhh, it’s yoga!)
Relief for Chronic or Recurring Back Pain (shhhh, it’s yoga!)
Instant Stress Eraser The economy is in the dumps. Gas prices continue to shoot upwards.
It’s winter. It used to be vacation time. If only you can take a vacation from stress.
Now you can. Right now while you read this post.
Sit up straight and take a deeper breathe than you normally do. Hold it for a second or two, and let the air out with a sigh. Go ahead. No one will notice.
Now, do it again. Take a deeper breathe than before. Hold it for a moment or two and just… let … it … go.
Most people tend to breathe very shallow in their chest. Shallow breathing promotes stress and tension. Deep breathing melts it away.
In a few minutes of deep breathing, you can actually eliminate all stress and tension, lower your blood pressure, and instantly gain a lot more positive attitude.
My name is Gail Pickens-Barger and I teach yoga Online/In-Person and Classes on YouTube. Forget what you’ve heard about yoga. You do not have to twist yourself into a pretzel to do yoga. It’s for everyone. Whether you are in shape or not.
And the benefits are immediate.
It’s winter so this is the best time to get started eliminating your stress with yoga.
Check out my latest beginner yoga video on YouTube:
Get back pain relief through gentle yoga with Gail P-b.
In this enlightening YouTube video, we delve into the transformative practice of Yoga Nidra Meditation to help you achieve a deeper and more restful sleep. Join our expert instructor, Gail P-B. as she guides you through various calming techniques and mindfulness exercises, allowing your body and mind to enter a state of complete relaxation.
Discover the power of Yoga Nidra and unlock the secrets to sleeping better through this soothing and rejuvenating practice. These Guided Rest and Relaxation Practices Ease Insomnia.
Student Testimonials: Sleeping Better with Yoga Nidra
Testimonial 1:
“I have always struggled with getting good quality sleep, but since incorporating Yoga Nidra into my daily routine, I have noticed a significant improvement. The guided meditation and relaxation techniques help me unwind and quiet my mind before bed, allowing me to peacefully drift off to sleep. I wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Yoga Nidra has been a game-changer for my sleep!” – Emily S.
Testimonial 2:
“As a college student, my mind is always buzzing with thoughts and stress. Yoga Nidra has become my secret weapon for a good night’s sleep. It helps me release tension from my body and mind, creating a calm and peaceful state that makes falling asleep effortless. Since incorporating Yoga Nidra into my bedtime routine, I have noticed a significant improvement in my sleep quality and overall well-being.” – Jacob D.
Testimonial 3:
“I used to struggle with insomnia and would often wake up multiple times throughout the night. Discovering Yoga Nidra has been a game-changer for me. The soothing voice and gentle instructions guide me into a state of deep relaxation, helping me let go of any tension or thoughts that keep me awake. Now, I can enjoy a full night of uninterrupted sleep, waking up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day. Yoga Nidra is like a lullaby for my restless mind.” – Sarah M.
Testimonial 4:
“I never realized the impact of a well-rested night until I started practicing Yoga Nidra. It has become an essential part of my daily routine, helping me unwind and prepare for a peaceful night’s sleep. The deep relaxation techniques and guided meditation create a serene atmosphere that effortlessly lulls me into deep slumber. After incorporating Yoga Nidra into my bedtime routine, I wake up feeling energized, restored, and ready to take on whatever the day brings.” – Michael R.
Remember that these testimonials reflect personal experiences and results may vary. It’s always beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on improving sleep quality.
Yoga for Back Pain | Best Movements for Back Pain Relief | Beginners Yoga class with Gail P-B.
I teach for Veterans Yoga Project (VYP)in their Online Yoga Studio. One of the more popular classes for folks that have some issues with their back tissues is the Gentle Yoga for Low Back Care Class, hosted on VYP online yoga studio.
I teach this class at 12:30 Central Time (think Texas). A sixty-minute class on Wednesdays It is geared towards beginners, and I also give alternative yoga postures for those of us, who do not wish to get down to the floor–so keep your chair handy!
Gear you’ll need for this class is a block, a strap, and having a chair, and blanket it nice too. Don’t forget your yoga mat, if you have a slippery floor surface!
Gear for Healthy Backs Beginner Yoga Class with Gail
Typically we start out on our backs or seated on the chair for those of you who want this option.
What we do in class
Breathing
Mindful Movement
Meditation
Guided Rest & Relaxation
Gratitude Practice
I hope to see you in class! Here’s the link to get a free account and then book a free yoga class
Permission granted by Dr. Timothy McCall to share this pdf.
117 Conditions Helped by Yoga. Permission granted to copy and share this information. Yoga as medicine. As found in scientific studies as of June 2019. Yoga with Gail
I teach weekly gentle yoga for low back care classes for the Veterans Yoga Project. Book my class on Wednesdays to get some sweet relief of easing back pain.
Had a bit of hip/back pain, but well worth the journey. Of course, going up was easier than coming down!
During spring break a few years back, we booked so late, we had to stay in Marfa, Texas. Which turned out to be delightful!
What journeys are you doing for self-discovery, and self-help? Why not try a yoga class? I teach an in-person class on Fridays at LakeSide Event Center in Beaumont Texas. Pretty nice price point too. Only $4 if you are a non-resident of Beaumont. I have several of my students follow me from Jefferson Mid-County come to this class.
A wonderful facility. Clean, and spacious, with a skate park, and a neat lake to stroll around.
Plus the beginners class I teach is an adaptive yoga class. If you need to stay seated, I give you all the poses seated on the chair or standing behind a chair. I also teach you how to get down to the floor with the chair, and get back up off the floor with the chair. This class is geared towards beginners.
I occasionally either at the beginning of class or afterward do an indoor walking short workout, that folks seem to like. And if you laugh at my jokes, we sometimes do a seated cardio dance fitness routine. Y’all just need to check it out!
Discover how to ease back pain with beginners gentle yoga with Veterans Yoga Project Teacher, Gail Pickens-Barger.
Low Back Care Yoga on Veterans Yoga Project Online Yoga Studio with Gail P-B. Wednesdays 12:30 PM CTBenefits of a Regular yoga practice. On the chair or using a floor mat!Yoga Benefits – Reasons to do Yoga!
Nidra sleep? Add these Yoga Nidra practices to your nightly routine!
Nidra Sleep? Add nightly Yoga Nidra Practices to your night routine!
Benefits of Yoga Nidra.
Great for Beginners to meditate, those of us needing guided rest for better sleep, easing of pain, and more.
So just to provide a little bit of context, and a little bit of predictability, our Yoga Nidra or our Guided Rest Practice is a form of guided meditation. Still, there is nothing for you to do, except to listen and follow the guidance of the teacher’s voice.
Aside from being relaxing, restorative, and restful, studies have shown that yoga Nidra can also:
ease insomnia
decrease anxiety
alleviate stress
reduce PTSD, chronic pain, and chemical dependency
heighten awareness and focus
transform negative habits, behaviors, and ways of thinking
foster feelings of peace, calm, and clarity
reduce stress
improve sleep
help heal trauma
reduce chronic pain
plant seeds for future growth
Create an account and book a class on Veterans Yoga Project Online Yoga Studio.
Playlists: Yoga Nidra Meditation Videos:
Yoga Nidra Practices from VYP Yoga Teacher Gail P-B.
Rain Sounds for Sleeping Videos:
Rain sounds to ease into slumber
Easing into sleep with Soothing Rain Videos and Yoga Nidra Meditation Practices:
Nina contacted me about an article for the Yoga for Healthy Aging Friday Q&A: Here is the article! Enjoy. Subscribe to Yoga for Healthy Aging. Great stuff on that yoga site! Gail
Friday Q&A: Facebook Group for Yoga Practitioners with Pacemakers
Yoga for Pacemaker/ICD Facebook Group Moderator, Gail Pickens-Barger
Yoga for Pacemaker/ICD Facebook Group Moderator, Gail Pickens-Barger
Q: One of your readers left a comment on Baxter’s post Friday Q&A: Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD) and Yoga about a Facebook group for people who do yoga with pacemakers or ICDs. Can you tell me more about it?
A: For the answer to this question, I turned to the founder of the Yoga for Pacemakers & ICDs Facebook Group, Gail Pickens-Barger. —Nina
A: My cardiologist and I had been watching my slow heart rate for a number of years, and once my numbers got to be more than three seconds between heart beats, I was a candidate for pacemaker insertion. I had my pacemaker implantation in May of 2013. I was taking a break for the summer from teaching my regular yoga class at the gym, but continued to teach my adaptive chair yoga class for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at the church.
I went on the hunt to find other people who had this surgery and were yoga practitioners and/or teachers. After searching the internet, I came across a yoga therapist who works with the Dr. Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease. She had an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) implantation (see LINK). After her surgery, she actually kept up her vigorous flow yoga practice, complete with weight-bearing arm balances. She went on to tell me that one day she was receiving little shocks as she was resting in Child’s pose. She knew that this wasn’t the normal thing to be happening and promptly went to the hospital. She found out then that she had pulled out the leads to her ICD with her continued flow practice and had to have the leads into her ICD replaced. Her advice to me was to avoid weight-bearing yoga poses where you take your arms behind your back (extension), such as Bow pose, Camel pose, Dancer’s pose, and Upward Plank pose.
She also took out the arm balances from her personal practice. Since that time, I did meet a very young lady at one of my recent yoga trainings, and due to her age, she had her ICD placed below her rib cage. Her challenges will be different due to the placement.
After my surgery, over the summer of 2013, I continued to teach the adaptive chair yoga classes. Prior to the surgery, in the adaptive chair yoga class, we’d do 20 minutes of yoga, then about 20-25 minutes of seated dance fitness, sometimes with light weights or not, and then additional balance poses, cool down, and meditative contemplation guided relaxation. After the surgery, I took the seated dance fitness and weights out of the adaptive chair yoga class. (It wasn’t until the fall, that I added those elements back in). And two two weeks after getting out of my arm sling, I went back to teaching my other classes. But I could not do my full range of motion on my left side for over a year.
Then in September of 2014 I created the Yoga for Pacemaker & ICDs Facebook group. I decided to this because I love to share what I learn—I give out handouts all the time in my chair yoga classes, and in the gentle beginning classes that I teach—and I figured that there would be people out there like me, who were looking for resources to help them on their path of continuing their physical practice of yoga. I had my daughter, Amber Barger (and she was a recent graduate of a 200 hour teacher training program) demonstrate the yoga poses with the modifications that I have found to be helpful in my practice and those photos are on the Facebook page.
Yoga teachers and practitioners alike are in the Facebook group, and we get into discussions about alternative ways to do poses. Lately there has been much discussion about Plough pose, Shoulderstand, Legs Up the Wall pose and just in general being inverted in poses.
For me, personally, I have rarely included Shoulderstand, Handstand, Forearm balances, or Plough pose in my practice, so giving those up as not been an issue for me. However, I do like to be inverted. I’ll do Legs on the Chair, Legs on the Resist-a-Ball, and Legs up the Wall. I more recently have purchased a Gravity Pal reclined bench, to allow me to rest in an inclined position. In that position, my pacemaker shifts a bit towards my collarbone, as it does in Downward-Facing Dog pose, but it doesn’t seem to affect it. However, for my beginner clients I have them do Half Downward-Facing Dog pose at the wall instead. And for my chair clients, I have them stand behind the chair and use the top of the chair for their hands in Downward-Facing Dog pose.
Yoga for Pacemaker/ICD Facebook Group Moderator, Gail Pickens-Barger
Gail Pickens-Barger, E-RYT 200, LVCYT, CRYT, YogaKiddos®, Get Fit Where You Sit® Fitness Teacher is a retired IT professional who started teaching yoga in 2001. A graduate of YogaFit International Training System, she currently teaches Beginners Yoga, Kids Yoga, and Adaptive Chair Yoga for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in the Nederland, Texas area. She also has experience teaching prenatal yoga, and teaches yoga privately in people’s homes to help them with their issues of osteoporosis and osteopenia, using Dr. Loren Fishman’s YogaUOnline course, his books, and his DVD’s to assist folks in becoming stronger and more independent in their active older years. You can find her at yogawithgaileee.com or contact her at 409-727-3177.
Over the past several years, yoga has experienced an upsurge in popularity in the western world among medical professionals and celebrities alike. While many associate yoga with new age mysticism or the latest fad at the gym, yoga is actually an ancient practice that connects the mind, body, and spirit through body poses, controlled breathing, and meditation. The practice of yoga has many health benefits associated with it, so read below to discover 77 benefits of incorporating yoga in to your or your patient’s fitness program.
Health Benefits Within From lowering blood pressure to increasing pain tolerance, the following health benefits can all be discovered within the body.
Blood pressure. A consistent yoga practice decreases blood pressure through better circulation and oxygenation of the body.
Pulse rate. A slower pulse rate indicates that your heart is strong enough to pump more blood with fewer beats. Regularly practicing yoga provides a lower pulse rate.
Circulation. Yoga improves blood circulation. By transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout your body, yoga practice provides healthier organs, skin, and brain.
Respiratory. Like the circulatory system, a lower respiratory rate indicates that the lungs are working more efficiently. Yoga decreases the respiratory rate through a combination of controlled breathing exercises and better fitness.
Cardiovascular endurance. A combination of lower heart rate and improved oxygenation to the body (both benefits of yoga) results in higher cardiovascular endurance.
Organs. Yoga practice massages internal organs, thus improving the ability of the body to prevent disease. Additionally, an experienced yoga practitioner becomes better attuned to her body to know at first sign if something isn’t functioning properly, thereby allowing for quicker response to head off disease.
Gastrointestinal. Gastrointestinal functions have been shown to improve in both men and women who practice yoga.
Immunity. Yoga practice has frequently been correlated with a stronger immune system.
Pain. Pain tolerance is much higher among those who practice yoga regularly. In addition to pain tolerance, some instances of chronic pain, such as back pain, are lessened or eliminated through yoga (see below for more on back pain).
Metabolism. Having a balanced metabolism results in maintaining a healthy weight and controlling hunger. Consistent yoga practice helps find the balance and creates a more efficient metabolism.
Health Benefits Without Just as many health benefits occur within the body, there are many benefits that can actually be experienced from without the body. From better sleep to more energy and strength, this list provides several benefits found on the outside of the body.
Aging. Yoga stimulates the detoxification process within the body. Detoxification has been shown to delay aging, among many other health benefits.
Posture. The very nature of yoga teaches the practitioner how to hold and control one’s body in a more healthful position. Through consistent practice, your posture will improve so that you look more confident and healthy.
Strength. One of the premises of yoga is that you are using the weight of your own body for overall strength.
Energy. Regular yoga practice provides consistent energy. In fact, most yogis state that when you perform your yoga correctly, you will feel energized after your yoga session rather than tired.
Weight. The benefits of a better metabolism along with the exercise of yoga work to keep your weight in check. Additionally, the stretching of muscles longwise helps to reduce the amount of cellulite that can build around muscles.
Sleep. Because of the many benefits to both body and mind that a yoga routine can provide, many find that their sleep is much better. Read here for more on sleep and yoga, as well as some positions for helping induce sleep.
Balance. An integral part of the yoga practice is balance and control over your body. With a consistent practice, you will find that your overall balance will improve outside the yoga class.
Integrated function of the body. Yoga is “to join together and direct one’s attention.” This is exactly what happens to your body after you start practicing yoga. Yogis find that their body works together much better, resulting in more graceful and efficient body movements.
Body Awareness: Doing yoga will give you an increased awareness of your own body. You are often called upon to make small, subtle movements to improve your alignment. Over time, this will increase your level of comfort in your own body. This can lead to improved posture and greater self-confidence.
Core strength. With a strong body core, you receive better posture and overall body strength. A strong core helps heal and reduce injuries. This is why a lot of athletes do yoga as cross training (boxers, MMA fighters, etc).
Sexuality. Yoga can improve your sexuality through better control, more relaxation, and more self-confidence.
Emotional Health Benefits Due to the strong mind-body connection of yoga, there are many emotional benefits to be gained from a consistent yoga practice. Find out how yoga can help improve emotional health with this list.
Mood. Overall well-being improves with yoga practice. The combination of creating a strong mind-body connection, creating a healthy body, and focusing inward can all lead to improvement in your mood.
Stress Reduction. The concentration required during yoga practice tends to focus your attention on the matter at hand, thereby reducing the emphasis you may have been putting on the stress in your life.
Anxiety. One benefit to the controlled breathing used in yoga is a reduction in anxiety. Learn more about how you can use yoga breathing to reduce your anxiety.
Depression. Some believe the negative feelings that you may be repressing are brought to the surface during some types of yoga exercise. When this happens, the negative energy is no longer stuck within you, but released through exercise. Regularly releasing this negativity leads to a reduction of depression in many people.
Self-acceptance. Focusing inward and realizing through your yoga practice that perfection is not the goal, self-acceptance begins to take over.
Self-control. The controlled movements of yoga teach you how to translate that self-control to all aspects of your life.
Mind-body connection. Few other exercises offer the same mind-body connection that yoga does. As you match your controlled breathing with the movements of your body, you retrain your mind to find that place of calm and peace that long-time yogis know.
Positive outlook on life. Continued practice of yoga results in a balance of many hormones and nervous system, which brings about a more stable, positive approach to life.
Hostility. Most yogis report a huge reduction in the amount of hostility they feel as well as a sense of control when anger flares. This calm effect is likely from the relaxation and meditation that is incorporated into their yoga practice which leads to an overall calming of the nervous system. Less hostility means lower blood pressure and stress and a healthier approach to life.
Concentration. Researchers have shown that as little as eight weeks of yoga practice can result in better concentration and more motivation.
Memory. Improved blood circulation to the brain as well as the reduction in stress and improved focus results in a better memory.
Attention. The attention required in yoga to maintain structured breathing in conjunction with yoga poses sharpens the ability to keep a sharp focus on tasks.
Social skills. In yoga, you learn the interconnectedness of all of life. Your yoga practice soon evolves from a personal journey to one connecting to the community at large where your social skills improve along with your yoga practice.
Calmness. Concentrating so intently on what your body is doing has the effect of bringing calmness. Yoga also introduces you to meditation techniques, such as watching how you breathe and disengagement from your thoughts, which help calm the mind.
Body Chemistry Several aspects of body chemistry such as glucose levels and red blood cells are affected by yoga. Learn how you can improve your body chemistry through yoga.
Cholesterol. Yoga practice lowers cholesterol through increased blood circulation and burning fat. Yoga practice is a great tool to fight against harmful cholesterol levels.
Lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system boosts your immunity and reduces toxins in your body. The only way to get your lymphatic system flowing well is by movement. The specific movements involved in yoga are particularly well-suited for promoting a strong lymphatic system.
Glucose. There is evidence to suggest that yoga may lower blood glucose levels.
Sodium. As does any good exercise program, yoga reduces the sodium levels in your body. In today’s world of processed and fast foods that are full of sodium, lessening these levels is a great idea.
Endocrine functions. Practicing yoga helps to regulate and control hormone secretion. An improved endocrine system keeps hormones in balance and promotes better overall physical and emotional health.
Triglycerides. Triglycerides are the chemical form of fat in the blood, and elevated levels can indicate a risk for heart disease and high blood pressure. A recent study shows that yoga can lead to “significantly lower” levels of triglycerides. Read more about the results of that study here.
Red blood cells. Yoga has been shown to increase the level of red blood cells in the body. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen through the blood, and too few can result in anemia and low energy.
Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps boost immunity, helps produce collagen, and is a powerful antioxidant; and a yoga regimen can increase the vitamin C in your body.
Exercise Health Benefits As a form of exercise, yoga offers benefits that are sometimes not easily found among other exercise regimens. Check out these reasons to include yoga in your or your patient’s health program.
Low risk of injury. Due to the low impact of yoga and the controlled aspect of the motions, there is a very low risk of injury during yoga practice compared to other forms of exercise.
Parasympathetic Nervous System. In many forms of exercise, the sympathetic nervous system kicks in, providing you with that fight-or-flight sensation. Yoga does the opposite and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic system lowers blood pressure and slows the pace of your breathing, which allows relaxation and healing.
Muscle tone. Consistently practicing yoga leads to better muscle tone.
Subcortex. Subcortical regions of the brain are associated with well-being, and yoga is thought to dominate the subcortex rather than the cortex (where most exercise dominates).
Reduced oxygen consumption. Yoga consumes less oxygen than traditional exercise routines, thereby allowing the body to work more efficiently.
Breathing. With yoga, breathing is more natural and controlled during exercise. This type of breathing provides more oxygen-rich air for your body and also provides more energy with less fatigue.
Balanced workout of opposing muscle groups. As with all of yoga, balance is key. If a muscle group is worked in one direction, it will also be worked in the opposite direction to maintain balance. This balance results in a better overall workout for the body.
Non-competitive. The introspective and self-building nature of yoga removes any need for competition in the exercise regimen. With the lack of competition, the yogi is free to work slowly to avoid any undue injury as well as promote a more balanced and stress-free workout.
Joint range of motion. A study at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine indicated that joint range of motion was improved by participants who practiced yoga.
Eye-hand coordination. Without practice, eye-hand coordination diminishes. Yoga maintains and improves eye-hand coordination.
Dexterity. The strong mind-body connection and flexibility gained from yoga leads to grace and skill.
Reaction time. Research done in India shows that reaction time can be improved with specific yoga breathing exercises in conjunction with an already established yoga practice. The improvement was attributed to the faster rate of processing and improved concentration gained from yoga.
Endurance. Working the entire body, yoga improves endurance and is frequently used by endurance athletes as a supplement to their sport-specific training.
Depth perception. Becoming aware of your body and how it moves, as one does in yoga practice, leads to increased depth perception.
Disease Prevention Doctors and nurses love yoga because studies indicate that it can help prevent the following diseases.
Heart disease. Yoga reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, keeps off weight, and improves cardiovascular health, all of which lead to reducing your risk of heart disease.
Osteoporosis. It is well documented that weight-bearing exercise strengthens bones and helps prevent osteoporosis. Additionally, yoga’s ability to lower levels of cortisol may help keep calcium in the bones.
Alzheimer’s. A new study indicates that yoga can help elevate brain gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) levels. Low GABA levels are associated with the onset of Alzheimer’s. Meditation like that practiced in yoga has also been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
Type II diabetes. In addition to the glucose reducing capabilities of yoga, it is also an excellent source of physical exercise and stress reduction that, along with the potential for yoga to encourage insulin production in the pancreas, can serve as an excellent preventative for type II diabetes.
Symptom Reduction or Alleviation Medical professionals have learned that the following diseases or disorders can all be helped by maintaining a yoga practice.
Carpal tunnel syndrome. Individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome who practiced yoga showed greater improvement than those who wore a splint or received no treatment at all. Researchers saw improved grip strength and reduction of pain in the study participants.
Asthma. There is some evidence to show that reducing symptoms of asthma and even reduction in asthma medication are the result of regular yoga.
Arthritis. The slow, deliberate movement of yoga poses coupled with the gentle pressure exerted on the joints provides an excellent exercise to relieve arthritis symptoms. Also, the stress relief associated with yoga loosens muscles that tighten joints.
Multiple sclerosis. Similarly, “yoga is now recognized as an excellent means of MS management.” Additionally, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is funding a clinical trial of yoga for treating multiple sclerosis.
Cancer. Those fighting or recovering from cancer frequently take advantage of the benefits that yoga provides. Cancer patients who practice yoga gain strength, raise red blood cells, experience less nausea during chemotherapy, and have better overall well-being.
Muscular dystrophy. Using yoga in the early stages of muscular dystrophy can help return some physical functions. The practice of Pranayam yoga helped one teen regain many of his abilities lost to muscular dystrophy. Learn more in this article.
Migraines. Regular yoga practice has been shown to reduce the number of migraines in chronic migraine sufferers.
Scoliosis. Yoga can straighten the curvature of the spine associated with scoliosis.
Chronic bronchitis. Exercise that does not elevate respiration, yet increase oxygen levels in the body is ideal for treating chronic bronchitis. Luckily, yoga can do this, as well as aerate the lungs and provide energy.
Epilepsy. Focusing on stress reduction, breathing, and restoring overall balance in the body are the focus of how yoga can help prevent epileptic seizures.
Sciatica. The intense pain associated with sciatica can be alleviated with specific yoga poses. Here are 10 great ones to help relieve pain.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Studies of people with OCD have shown that practicing yoga has lead to a reduction in symptoms–resulting in less medication or medication no longer needed.
Constipation. Due to the practice of yoga and overall better posture, the digestive and elimination systems work more efficiently. If the practitioner also has a healthy diet, any constipation will be eliminated through yoga.
Allergies. Using a neti pot to clear the sinuses is an ancient form of yoga to help reduce or eliminate allergy symptoms. Certain types of breathing can also help clear the nasal passages.
Menopause. Yoga practice can help control some of the side effects of menopause.
Back pain. Yoga reduces spinal compression and helps overall body alignment to reduce back pain. Find a yoga pose to help lessen back pain here.
Thanks Meredith for this great list! Yoga with Gail. Updated 12/2021
Yoga in Nederland, Port Neches, Groves, Port Arthur, Tx. Jefferson Mid-County
Got your yoga classes and locations listed here! My classes and schedule don’t fit everyone’s schedule, so I thought I’d list out all the yoga that I know of here in Mid-County. (Beaumont & Orange listings at the end of this post.) Winter/Spring 2024.
Wednesdays: 1 PM CT. Free Yoga on Veterans Yoga Project Online Yoga Studio. Taught by local teacher, Gail Pickens-Barger. A Beginners’ Gentle Yoga for low back care class. Great for beginners and those with back challenges. Link below for getting a free account, then book the class. https://veteransyogaproject.org/vyp-classes
Wednesdays and Fridays: 11:00 AM at Lakeside Best Years Senior Center.
Chair Tai Chi with a Splash of Chair Yoga –45 minute class.11 AM Free for Beaumont residents, come a bit early if you are not a member of the center, to register. $4 fee for non-residents, and come a bit early to register. No equipment needed, grab a chair!
Beginners Yoga – 60 minute class. 10:30 AM Free for Beaumont residents, come a bit early if you are not a member of the center, to register. $4 fee for non-residents, and come a bit early to register. Bring a yoga mat, or grab one of Lakesides. Additionally go to the equipment closet and grab a yoga strap and yoga block. You can also do the class seated on the chair!
Nederland, Texas
YogaKiddos with Gail, at Wesley UMC in Nederland, Texas.
YogaKiddos with Gail, at Wesley UMC in Nederland, Texas.
YogaKiddos with Gail, at Wesley UMC in Nederland, Texas.
Yoga Private lessons available upon request 409-727-3177 yogawithgaileee@gmail.com https://yogawithgaileee.com
Exygon Health and Fitness 1001 Nederland Avenue, Ned. Tx 409-729-2592 Bring a yoga mat. $15 drop-in fee, included with monthly membership. http://exygon.com/
PowerHouse Gym in Port Neches Monday & Wednesday 6:30 PM $10 drop-in fee, comes with membership Hatha Yoga Class
YMCA of Port Arthur 6760 9th Avenue, Port Arthur, Tx 77642 409-962-6644 Yoga Tuesday/Thursday at 10:00 AM Friday – 10:00 AM – SilverSneakers YogaStretch $15 drop-in fee, included with monthly membership http://ymcasetx.org/health-well-being-fitness/
Farmers Market in Port Neches, Texas. Sarah teaches a donation class on those Saturdays when there
Benefits of Yoga for Kids – YogaKiddos with Gail Pickens-Barger
More benefits of Yoga for both kids and adults. Benefits of Yoga for Kids – YogaKiddos with Gail Pickens-Barger
Great infographic by Angela Moorad from OMazingKids Yoga
YogaKiddos doing the Snake Pose at Wesley UMC, with Kids Yoga Teacher, Gail Pickens-Barger
Kids Yoga in November 2019. Yoga with Gail
Over 20 years experience in teaching. Beginners, Low Back Care, Chair Yoga, Kids and private yoga at your place of business or home. 409-727-3177.
I was a presenter in a local health fair, and this was one of my poster sessions. Using the YogaFit Kids Cards, I am demonstrating the Salute to the Sun yoga sequence. Very common sequence that you will see in group yoga classes. Not all instructors teach the sequence in this manner. Available for demonstrations for clubs and organizations. Call Gail Pickens-Barger at 409-727-3177, leave voice message if I an unable to take your call.
International Kids Yoga Day. Yearly in April.
Noah’s Ark Yoga with Kids – Vacation Bible School – with Yogakiddos teacher, Gail Pickens-Barger
Created a new #ChairYogaDance routine to #thatthat by #PSY #Suga of #BTS Get your cardio fitness in, even seated on the chair. Inspired by PSY & Suga’s song and music video. Thank you!
#thatthat #chairyogadance routine to PSY’s new song. Featuring & Producer #Suga of #BTS
I thought, maybe this routine could be done seated on the chair. That way my folks who are challenged with their cardio fitness, could also enjoy dancing to this great song! Thanks #PSY and #Suga of #BTS for creating this great song and music video.
I am now teaching a weekly 45 minute Yoga Nidra Class for Veterans Yoga Project. Join me Sunday nights at 8 PM ET, 7 PM CT and 5 PM PT.
One of the Veterans who recently took this class with me told me that she had considerably less pain after taking this class. She thanked me for sharing this Yoga Nidra practice with her. That was so sweet of her to share!
There are a lot of yoga teachers and places to take yoga in Jefferson & Orange county Texas. I’m listing the ones that I know about. Please leave me a note if you know of others. Thank you. Sometimes my offerings do not match your schedule or yoga style. I teach yoga for beginners with an emphasis of easing back challenges. Gail Pickens-Barger 409-727-3177
Again, to start off this conversation, I only teach three public classes a week. So I try to keep in the know of what is also out there besides what I offer.
Mid-Jefferson County – Yoga
Port Neches: Several classes at both PowerHouse Gym and in the Gazebo at the Port Neches Park
Port Neches Library: Free chair yoga by one of my students, Ms. Carol. Wednesdays at 2 PM.
Carol Juneau teaching chair yoga at the Port Neches Library! Wednesdays at 2 PM!
Port Arthur: YMCA of SETX. Pam teaches three yoga classes during the day at the “Y”. Two are mat yoga classes, and the third one is the Silver Sneakers Yoga Stretch class. There is a new young lady also teaching a meditation class on Saturdays. Check out their online schedule for details.
Yoga with Gail. Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays
Nederland: HotWorks: Behind the Schooner restaurant. Go check out their website for details.
Nederland/Port Neches: We have several new instructors, who have received their teacher training that lives in Mid-County. Be on the lookout for their classes at the CrossFit locations here in Mid-County
Nederland – Exygon Health and Wellness Center. Mike, Sarah and Doneene teach yoga on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Additionally, there is choreographed yoga, BodyFlow that Lori teaches Mondays & Wednesdays. Additionally, there are several BodyFlow classes during the day. BodyFlow is also offered at the Beaumont Exygon. Again, go to their website to find out class times. BRING a YOGA MAT!. You can also get a three-day guest pass, or go check out their classes during launch week.
Orangefield, Texas – YogaVibe Studio – Lauren Cowart has this great yoga studio offering a variety of yoga classes and varied instructors.
Yoga Near Me – Nederland Beaumont Texas with Experienced Yoga Teacher Gail Pickens-Barger
Beaumont: Wow lots of instructors and venues.
Events: Cattail Marsh in Beaumont, Texas. Saturday Yoga. Check the Facebook page for registration.
Events: Barefoot Yoga. A twice-three times a year yoga festival is held on the lawn at the Event Center, Downtown Beaumont. Look this one up on Facebook.
Events: 5 Under Golf Center Yoga. On Saturdays once a month, various yoga teachers teach on the driving range over on Hwy 90/College Street. Look at SETX Events for dates/times/prices
Events: Goat Yoga. Held as a fundraiser in the late fall. Put on by the Nederland Recreation Center.
Events: International Kids Yoga Day – with Gail Pickens-Barger. First Fridays in April.
Events: Veterans Gratitude Week during two weeks in November. Fundraiser yoga for the Veterans Yoga Project
Events: Yoga at the Port Neches Brewery.
Events: Country Club Yoga. Yoga at the Brentwood Country club in Beaumont. Again, look thoroughly at the Facebook page to find events.
The Co-op. Formerly the location of Love Yoga in Beaumont. Several new collaborations of yoga teachers are teaching, yoga, tai chi and other exercise modalities.
Beaumont Power Yoga – Nicole runs this studio with a lot of class times and teachers. Again, go check them out! When I first moved to the area it was American Power Yoga.
Exygon in Beaumont with their BodyFlow choreographed classes.
Fe-SIO Relax and Stretch Studio in Beaumont, Texas. Go check out Melissa and more with their yoga classes and events!
Health and Wellness Center in Beaumont, both pilates, body focus, and yoga.
LakeSide Event Center – Best Years Senior Citizen Center. Both Celeste, Trisha, and I teach yoga/stretching classes for the City of Beaumont. Plus there is Tai Chi here, in addition to Zumba Gold! You’ll find the activity schedule on the Facebook page.
Lamar University – Yoga classes are regularly held at the Shelia Umphrey Rec Center!
Try a Gentle Yoga for Low Back Care Class with Gail. Currently, I teach four public classes
Wednesdays at 12:30 PM CST – Wellness Living. Get an account, download the app, if using a smart device, and sign in and book a class at https://veteransyogaproject.org/vyp-classes
Wednesdays at 6:15 PM CST – In-person yoga class 45 minute beginners at Wesley UMC/Ned. Tx $5 with food ministry items or $10.
Fridays at 10:30 AM CST – Yoga at Lakeside at the Best Years Seniors Citizen Center in Beaumont Texas. $4 for non-residents for “vintage” persons.
Grand Master presenting Dr. Paul M Teacher Level 3 Award. Mr. Lee receiving Teacher Level 3 Award from Grand Master Cheon Pyeong Nim
Ease back challenges and chronic pain thru beginners yoga & meditation practices with Gail PB 
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