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Army veterans Andy Williams, left, and Chris Rivera, right, take part in a yoga class at Los Positas College on Thursday, March 7, 2013 in Livermore, Calif. The Warrior One yoga program was designed specifically for military veterans, student veterans, and their families. Students learn and practice yoga postures, and ways to modify them for healing injuries, anxiety and PTSD. (Aric Crabb/Staff)

LIVERMORE -- Pleasanton resident Andy Williams put his body through the ringer during his 12-year Army career, including a stint in Iraq in the first Gulf War.

In 1993, he was hit by a drunken driver, causing injuries to his neck and back. However, he continued jumping out of planes as a paratrooper and Airborne Division sergeant. The work took its toll.

"I'm constantly in pain," Williams said. "Everyday activities are very difficult for me, but I get through it."

Seeking relief for her husband's injuries, Andy's wife, Denise, discovered WarriorsOne Yoga, a new yoga class exclusively for veterans and their spouses at Las Positas College. The three-month class began Feb. 21 and is held every Thursday in the college's Athletic Center. Offered through the schools' Community Education program, it's free for veterans enrolled at Las Positas, the $10 charge reimbursed by the Veterans First program. Nonstudent veterans and their spouses can sign up for $30.

After just two sessions, Williams said he's already benefiting from the stretching exercises. Also diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, Williams says the relaxation he gets in the yoga room is a welcome relief from his symptoms.

"I don't like large groups. I don't like loud noises," he said. "So being in there with the calming music -- it just seems peaceful."

Taking Williams and a handful of veterans through the breathing exercises and poses is instructor Suzanna

"It's a motivated group," Spring said. "They're used to working hard. If anything I have to tell them to not work so hard."

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WarriorsOne yoga course at Las Positas College helps veterans heal