Lori Graham
Contributing Writer
CHRISTIANSBURG – Iron Tree Brewing Company in Christiansburg is hosting Balance and Brews, a yoga class that meets the second Saturday of each month for an “all-level” experience of healthy movement and ending with a beverage of the participant’s choice.
Lauren Lucas, yoga instructor and a licensed social worker in the New River Valley, has joined up with Iron Tree Brewing Company to teach yoga classes. A Christiansburg resident, Lucas says she started practicing yoga years ago to help improve her own mental well-being. As a social worker, she also works to provide others in the community in need of mental health resources and support. So, incorporating the two things together just seemed to fit. She began teaching the classes at the brewery in October 2022 and has enjoyed combining her two passions.
Classes are beginner-friendly but also cater to people who have yoga practices of their own or want a bit more of a challenge. Lucas offers a variety of poses with modifications for participants as needed so that everyone can walk away from the session feeling a sense of accomplishment.
“I want to encourage people to do what feels good for their bodies and be able to do this when they go home as well,” said Lucas.
Sessions begin at 10:45 a.m. and are typically about an hour. Attendees are encouraged to stick around after class is over though, as the brewery opens at noon. The cost of the one-hour session is $20 and includes a rewarding yoga class and a beverage choice of the brewery’s craft beer or a non-alcoholic beverage.
What does one typically bring to a yoga session? Lucas says that participants can bring their own yoga mat if they wish or use one that she provides at the event. The instructor says she also provides blocks to support participants in some of the poses.
“Blocks are made from cork or foam and are shaped like a large brick. They are helpful to assist yoga participants that need to bring the earth closer,” said Lucas. “If you are reaching down, and your legs are straight and you can’t reach your toes, you can use the block for stability or added support.”
Registration or sign-up is currently not required for the event. Participants should plan to show up approximately 10-15 minutes ahead of time to sign a waiver and find their space. Contact information for any additional questions can be found on the event’s Facebook page titled Balance and Brews. Iron Tree Brewing Company is located at 5 Roanoke St., Christiansburg.
All abilities are invited to attend, with the next event on Saturday, May 13 at 10:45 a.m.
