Freedom of movement sounds glorious as we begin to emerge from a pandemic that has kept us cooped up in our houses and stressing out about our health and our future. Rita Adams, certified yoga instructor and owner of Rita’s Flow Yoga, wants to encourage us to get our bodies moving again. She has been teaching yoga in the Brooklyn, Michigan and Lenawee County area since 2000.
When I witnessed her walking forward, backward, and laterally through our neighborhood, I knew I needed to talk to her.
“It’s important to move our bodies in different ways to promote muscle and joint health. Improving our balance is important as we age to prevent injuries,” Rita said. “I practiced yoga in high school at the local YWCA. When I married my husband and moved to England for a couple years, I became passionate about it. For me, it has been life-changing.”
For some, yoga may sound challenging, but Rita encourages students to move at their own pace. She understands everyone’s body is different and her classes accommodate all fitness levels in a judgement-free, fun, and supportive environment.
“I tell my students to respect the limits of their bodies. I don’t want them to push, compare, or compete. Yoga is a practice of letting go, being where you are, and self-acceptance,” Rita said.
Rita’s vinyasa flow yoga classes emphasize helping ease pain, while improving posture and flexibility. Students learn breath work combined with sun salutations and balancing poses to improve overall strength and balance of mind and body.
“The beautiful thing about yoga,” Rita told me, “is it is beneficial for everybody and every body. It increases mindfulness, calms the brain, and reduces stress. It’s an empowering way to start the day.”
Rita, a mother of two, understands how hard it is to make time for ourselves when life pulls us in different directions. “I need to take care of myself, so I am able to show up for everyone else.” Rita said. “The self-care and self-awareness you cultivate on the mat is the staging ground for the rest of your life.”
Rita’s Flow Yoga makes practicing yoga accessible for everyone in the Brooklyn and Lenawee County area -- and beyond. On Tuesdays, she offers a virtual yoga class via Zoom on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM. Begin your day by stretching and practicing rhythmic breathwork to clear your mind, calm your spirit, and feel energized throughout the day.
On Thursdays, Rita’s Flow Yoga meets at the beautiful Hidden Lake Gardens at 9:00 AM. Classes meet in the main parking lot. For those who are not members of Hidden Lake Gardens, you will have to pay a $5.00 entry fee at the gate. The class will take a short walk to a scenic location where the class will begin. Be sure to bring your yoga mat, insect repellent, and sun block. If the ground is wet, everyone will stay in their walking shoes and do a combination of standing poses and walking. In case of inclement weather, the class will be rescheduled by 8 AM for the virtual online format.
Rita is passionate about yoga and sharing the health benefits of yoga with others. No matter your age, yoga can improve your health — mentally and physically. Her classes are $10, but she offers lower rates for those struggling through these trying times.
For more information, you can visit her website, FaceBook page, or text/call (517) 270–1977.
If you live in Brooklyn, Michigan area and have taken a class with Rita, please share your experience in the comments!