Ridgeites get their stretch on at Yoga in the Park

The penultimate Yoga in the Park session, sponsored by Assemblymember Nicole Malliotakis and State Senator Marty Golden, was hosted at Shore Road Park on Monday evening, September 8.

Despite the weather, the class drew several dozen local Ridgeites who were looking to get away from the stress in their lives, on par with the 100 participants the other classes have attracted on average.

The program originated in Staten Island as a way for victims of Hurricane Sandy to cope with loss and the burdens the storm put upon them.

“I wanted to do something to deal with the enormous amount of stress,” said Malliotakis.

The sessions consistently drew crowds of people and after a while Malliotakis decided to introduce the events to Brooklyn.

The classes are led by 5 Boro Power Yoga and focus primarily on beginners. However, “It’s a good activity for everybody regardless of age or ability,” commented Malliotakis. “It’s great for building focus, physical fitness, and calming your mind.

“It’s been a real success in Brooklyn as well and we’ve had a good turnout with all the classes,” Malliotakis added. “I look forward to doing it again next summer.”

The final class will be held on September 21 at 12 p.m. Participants should call Malliotakis’s office at 718-987-0197, or Golden’s office at 718-238-6044, to register.