Hi! I’m Penny Hoober. I’m
proudly 64 years old, a mother and a grandmother. I’ve been
working part-time at my church for 20 years. I’ve been married
to a wonderful man for 38 years. I have been doing chair yoga since
June of 2005.
I had a stroke and my neurologist suggested practicing
yoga. I called three yoga studios, and when they heard I was “post stroke” they
did not want me to attend classes there. My daughter kept researching
and found Liz’ chair yoga class. She called Liz and after a nice
conversation, I went to my first class. I was looking for more balance
in my life and help with severe anxiety and other health issues, including
high blood pressure.
At first I was somewhat skeptical, but I kept coming to class and after
6 weeks I began to notice subtle shifts and benefits. Now if I am unable
to attend class I really miss it. My anxiety kicks in and my depression
worsens. The classes have become a social time for me and I have made
some wonderful new friends. My Monday class is a great way to start my
week and keeps me going for the rest of my week. All the other students
are non-judgmental and it is wonderful knowing that they are all dealing
with their own health issues.
I have made incredible strides in lowering my blood pressure.
I went from readings of 190/120 to 115/62. My doctor was shocked and
amazed.
I have found ways to incorporate brief yoga breaks into my life. I do
little “bites” of yoga all day long. Just dropping my tongue
to the bottom of my mouth makes such a big difference in how I feel,
both physically and mentally. I don’t make time to do an entire
hour of yoga on my own, but the small things Liz suggests that we do
during the day have made a big difference in my life.
I really enjoy the way Liz keeps the classes interesting by mixing things
up. The classes are not monotonous and she is very sensitive to the needs
and mood of her students. This program really does help your mind and
body. It brings balance to your life but you do have to work at it.
Yoga has now become a part of my daily life and I find
myself incorporating more and more each month. The release of tension
makes such a big difference
in my life. If you are thinking about joining a class or purchasing the
videos, give it a try – not just once but several times – and
you will be hooked on chair yoga!
