Yoga is a central part of my life – physically and spiritually, and spending at least a couple of hours in a yoga studio per week has become a safe space in my routine. For years before college, I would do yoga at home through videos on YouTube, but the turning point for me was attending in person classes with other people. The first in person class I took was here at the Anna Fascitelli Fitness & Wellness Center.

From there, I was able to flourish in my practice, as well as gain an interest in something I might’ve never tapped into originally.
I’ve never been the biggest gym person, but I learned quickly that there were multiple other ways to take advantage of the facilities offered to find something that interests me. The classes are really easy to access, and they’re free and included in tuition, which is great when you’re in college and trying to save as much money as you can. All you have to do to sign up is go on IMLeagues a day before the class you intend to take to ensure you get a spot. Since my very first class, it has been clear that instructors are very knowledgeable about the practice and are always willing to help anyone who needs it. To this day, I try my best to go at least a couple of times a week, whether that is by myself or with a friend.

I can’t believe that it’s only been two years since I started practicing yoga routinely, as it is so ingrained in my day to day. Attending yoga classes on campus helped me improve my time management in order for me to get everything done while also making time for myself. I’ve carried these practices home with me throughout breaks, and also through my semester abroad. While at home and abroad, I went to yoga classes just like I did through yoga classes here at URI. Initially, I assumed yoga to be solely a physical activity, but it turned out to be mainly mental. Taking 30 minutes to an hour out of my day to stretch my body and focus on being through breathwork has done wonders for my mental health; I get better sleep while simultaneously feeling more energized, and I’m spending less time scrolling on my phone and more time in the present moment.

I was lucky enough to find a passion for yoga, but there are so many options as well. Make sure to register for your next activity via campus recreation on IMleagues! You never know what’ll happen if you find time to try new things and meet new people – you may even find some things that’ll stick with you for the rest of your life.

By: Hannah Wainman
Major: Political Science
Graduating by: 2027