For those people not interested in twisting themselves into a pretzel, chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga suitable for anyone with restricted mobility.
Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre shifted the weekly class online in June, and after great feedback, plans to continue the class via Zoom, even as coronavirus restrictions ease.
"People that used to come to the face to face classes are saying they're enjoying the online classes, so they don't have to go out. It's quick and easy and quite convenient for people," said the centre's community development co-ordinator Nikki Boys.
"And we've had a number of people who have joined the class that would never have gone to a face to face class because it was too difficult with their health problems or transport issues."
Certified yoga therapist Sheila Annis from Woodford instructs the class on Mondays from 11.30am-12.30pm, focusing on the breath and mindfulness movement practices.
She said the class helped the body switch from the stressful fight or flight mode, into resting or parasympathetic mode, where the body has a chance to heal itself.
"Our bodies have forgotten how to switch into parasympathetic mode," she said.
"It wants to help itself but it needs the space. We are doing breath practices and general movements that can be done from a chair."
Early feedback suggests participants with limited mobility have seen an improvement in range of movement for daily functional activities such as getting dressed.
The class is free and support is available for anyone unfamiliar with Zoom. To register email Nikki at nboys@belongbm.org.au or call Belong Blue Mountains on 4782 1117 between 9am-4pm weekdays.
