Isothermal Community College is offering two new healthy living classes, Yo-Chi and Gentle Toning, at the Polk Center in Columbus. 

Yo-Chi combines two disciplines that have survived for hundreds of years: Yoga and Ta’i Chi. Yo-Chi is a fusion program that gives you benefits in both stability, strength, mobility and flexibility. 

Yoga focuses on stillness and finding stability. T’ai Chi focuses on slow, controlled, never-ending mobility. Doing these disciplines together, either alternating or in combination, can help increase your overall wellness.

Gentle Toning focuses on toning the muscles of the upper and lower body using very slow movements coordinated with the breath. Gentle Toning also focuses on balance with the aid of a chair if needed.

As we age, muscle tone and balance decrease. The class’ intention is to improve muscle tone, balance, core strength and flexibility by mindfully focusing on each area we exercise.

Participants in both the Yo-Chi and the Gentle Toning classes must be able to get down onto the floor and back up at least once.

The classes are taught by Jo Rytter, a certified Kripalu Movement Instructor who has been teaching various exercise/movement classes for 18 years. Rytter has also completed training in Yo-Chi and the Golden Hearts Senior Fitness Program. She has taught classes across the Foothills, and teaches several classes at the ICC Polk Center.

New six-week sessions for each class begin in March. Yo-Chi starts on Monday, March 5, and Gentle Toning starts on Wednesday, March 7. Classes are at 10 a.m. and last for one hour.

For more information or to register, contact the Polk Center at 828-894-3092. More details are available online at www.isothermal.edu/learnstuff.

– Submitted by Kate Barkschat