Seniors and community members interested in meditation will soon be able to learn techniques in a guided course at the Munday Activity Center.

Starting July 11, the center will offer weekly classes from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at its West Second Street location. Classes will be free for participants over 60 with a suggested $2 donation.

Dana Peveler, executive director of the center, said the classes came as a suggestion from some of the participants at the center, like most of their other activities.

"We had some requests for meditation after people had been hearing about the benefits in our yoga and Zumba classes," Peveler said. "We think it complements some of the other activities here."

Classes will be guided by Sheila Clark, who also instructs the yoga class. Clark will be leading participants through mindfulness exercises and breathing techniques that Peveler said helps promote relaxation and stress relief and has other health benefits.

Peveler said she has been practicing some form of meditation almost daily for about 20 years and encourages community members to try something new.

"I think the meditation gives several benefits, but it also offers an opportunity to participate in a social activity," Peveler said. "All of our activities help get folks out of the house and hopefully involved in the community."

An article from staff at the Mayo Clinic cites meditation as helping with anxiety, depression, asthma and even irritable bowel syndrome.

Meditation is offered in group class settings, but Peveler said participants will be learning a skill they can practice on their own throughout their day.

Peveler said new classes such as meditation are an example of the variety of activities the center tries to offer for the different age groups participating at the center.

"We are always listening to our community to offer things they want from educational opportunities to exercise," Peveler said. "If one of these days we have to offer rock climbing, I gladly would."

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Munday Center to teach meditation - messenger-inquirer