Harmony Healing Arts Center is adding a new class just for men to its upcoming12-week Spring Yoga Session. The spring session begins April 6, and starting April 8, on Tuesday evenings from 7:15-8:15 p.m., yoga studio co-owner and yoga teacher Terry Lindsay will offer “Yoga for Men.” A yoga class just for men and tailored to the male body.

Lindsay says, “Men often have tight shoulders and tight hips, so aren’t usually as flexible as women. Men tend to be more competitive than women too, so they get quickly frustrated when they join a yoga class full of bendy women and can’t do what they do, so often don’t stick with it.”

It takes time, but a regular yoga practice will help men improve flexibility, muscle strength and tone, improve balance, and provide tools to reduce stress. Lindsay explains, ” Men are often weight lifters, a good thing, but weight lifting actually shortens muscle fibers, leading to reduced flexibility. Yoga can help lengthen muscle fibers, bringing the body more into balance-not to loose, and not to tight.”

When Lindsay first started practicing yoga 13 years ago he was 20 pounds heavier and could barely touch his toes. He says, “Yoga will put years back on your life. I’m 60 years old and feel in better shape now than I did in my 30s and 40s. It is never too late to start.”

The hour-long “Yoga for Men” class is open to beginners and those men already practicing yoga. “No incense, no music, and no chanting,” Lindsay says, “just a straight forward practice that will physically challenge participants and help them feel more comfortable in their bodies.”

The 10-week class costs $100. Those over 60 may take a $5 discount. Another $5 discount is offered for early registration (received by April 1). Make out checks to “Harmony” and mail to Harmony, P.O. Box 1457, Shepherdstown, WV 25443. Please call Terry Lindsay, 304-582-0179, if you have any questions about the class or about Harmony’ spring yoga program.

For more details about other classes offered during Harmony’s Spring Yoga Session visit www.harmonyhealingarts.org for the complete listing and for online registration. Harmony Healing Arts Center is located at 211 E. New Street, Shepherdstown.