Gamer Yoga

Gamer Yoga 

One time class: $20 Saturday 11:00-12:30

This class was developed in response to the particular posture challenges of the gamer. Gentle yoga stretches and exercises address the forward head posture, strengthening the muscles of the upper back and opening the chest. This helps prevent the body from laying down fat cells to protect the spine and forming a neck hump. There are exercises to keep fingers, hands and wrists flexible and healthy, and hip work to prevent low back pain. There is a big dose of restorative postures to calm and align the body in mindful ways reminding the gamer of what good posture and alignment feels like, while attending to spine health and flexibility as well. The playlist for this class was a collaborative effort with actual gamers, and some of the OST’s make for truly beautiful yoga class music. 

Instructor: Donna Rucinski Harrington

Donna received her initial yoga training at Kripalu in 2011. A former software engineer and technology teacher, her career took a turn when she switched from teaching Robotics to teaching yoga at a local high school. The opportunity to learn more about the effects of yoga, mindfulness and nature on humans and to apply secular and evidence-based endorsement of the benefits of yoga appealed to her inner scientist. The classes for teens who sometimes struggle with anxiety, stress, or depression gave new meaning to her work. She tries to present an array of yoga experiences by teaching Vinyassa, Hatha, Yin and Restorative to her students. But Restorative is a clear favorite of both the students and the teacher, as it gives all a chance to settle deeply into the present moment in a sweet, nurturing way. She received her Restorative Yoga Certification at Kriplau in January of 2018. 

She curates her playlists for the enhancement of the yoga experience, as well as to the changing and particular tastes of a younger generation. Donna has four grown-ish children, is a proud resident of Lowell, and enjoys writing, reading, biking and hiking.