Bradbury Art Museum hosted the first of many yoga classes on Sept. 20, inspiring members of the community to stay active through the practice of mindfulness and meditation.

Nikki Arnell, an associate professor of graphic design, said she began conducting yoga classes to engage the students of the Arkansas State University and members of the Jonesboro community. Certified in yoga since 2013, she said she aims to teach the practice without pressure while focusing on subtle movements and awareness. 

“Yoga is not about winning or achieving perfection, it’s about teaching patience and strength,” Arnell said. 

When teaching the class, Arnell reminded the students to focus on breathing instead of their performance. She said her main goal is even if students find yoga too challenging, they can still benefit from stretching and taking a break from school or work.

“If yoga is too much for people, just think about it like you’re gonna stretch, take a break and calm down,” Arnell said. 

Arnell said her teaching style focuses on the movements, verbal cues and minimal physical touch. In this event, she teaches balance, strength and awareness through moving meditation.

“It’s all about balance and strength and awareness and all of this is a moving meditation,” Arnell said. 

Kaitlynn Everroad, a graphic design major from Oakland, Arkansas, said she recommends the class for those who are interested in fun and social interactions.

“I enjoy the calming influence of Professor Nikki, who ensures proper yoga techniques while encouraging students to listen to their bodies,” Everroad said. 

AnnElise Jarrett, a senior graphic design major from Paragould, said she recommends students join and participate in the yoga classes because it could open doors to discovering new hobbies.

 “This was my first time ever doing yoga,” Jarrett said. “Nikki was really professional and did really good leading us.”  

The next class will take place on Oct. 4 at 9:30 a.m. in BAM.  

Categories: Life