UAF’s Community Yoga Club: Bridging Students and Local Residents
By Amber McCain
“Yoga is not about touching your toes; it’s what you learn on the way down.” — Judith Hanson Lasater
Established in April 2004, the Community Yoga Club at the University of Alaska Fairbanks fosters a unique connection between students and the broader Fairbanks community.
Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m., the club hosts yoga classes at the University Park building, welcoming participants from all walks of life. Students can enjoy these sessions free of charge, while community members are invited to join for a donation of five dollars or to volunteer their time (e.g., sweeping the room or cleaning the mats) in exchange for free classes.
The club features a rotating lineup of local instructors, each bringing their own unique style and perspective to the practice, helping to create an engaging and inclusive atmosphere. With class sizes ranging from 10 to 30 participants, there's plenty of space for newcomers to find their place on the mat.
The club is about more than just practice; it’s also about building relationships. Yoga is a practice that dates back over 5,000 years and comes from the Sanskrit word yuj, which means “to yoke” or “to unite.” This spiritual discipline aims to unite the body, mind and spirit. The supportive environment the UAF Community Yoga Club offers encourages individuals to engage, share and grow together.
“The community, the people, and the opportunities within the club” was president Hazel Probst’s response to what her favorite part of the club is. “Just being part of a bigger thing that’s existed for years and benefits the Fairbanks community” said Probst.
The club is actively seeking new members, particularly students for board positions, to help steer its future. This year, they are hoping to implement a yoga teacher training scholarship for one or two students, allowing the applicant to become a certified yoga instructor. To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be actively involved with the yoga club and simply apply.
Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a curious beginner, the mat is waiting for you. Come and experience the warmth of community with the UAF Community Yoga Club every Saturday at 9:30 a.m.