Meridian Hill Hall Opens Doors for Yoga Classes

 Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual discipline with orgins in ancient India. For Brandon Copeland, it is much more than that--it is an opportunity for him to find inner peace and sort through every day struggles.

Copeland, a senior psychology major from Atlanta, will be instructing yoga classes in Meridian every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and these classes offer an alternative to normal workout routines.

Pursuaded by his girlfriend, Copeland attended a yoga class and thoroughly enjoyed it. He then decided to dedicate his time to the teacher-training program at Yoga District in D.C. "The situation is a win-win," Copeland said. "I get to do something I love and help Howard students improve their physical and mental health."

While Howard provides plenty of outlets for having a good time, these classes will allow students to try something that has not been offered in the past; a combination of health wellness, meditation, and the chance to tune in and chill out.

Improvement in muscle tone, flexibility, stamina and stimulation of the immune system are just some of the benefits of yoga. Other advantages stem from yoga's original purpose of reducing stress and improving concentration while calming the mind and body.

As a former football and soccer player, Copeland looks to incorporate athleticism into his technique. While more movement should be expected--not just stretching--Vinyasa Flow yoga will provide students with a vigorous workout. The exercise links together poses performed at a fast pace and has a special focus of coordinating breathing patterns with movements.

Copeland also looks to build a career around his passion for yoga. The psychology major is seeking a professional career as a psychiatrist. His plans are to create a wellness center that will incorporate yoga to help patients in the mental and spiritual aspects of their lives.

Next semester, Copeland plans to establish a yoga club on Howard's campus to help students advance in the discipline. The main objectives of yoga are to transform and to obtain liberation and enlightenment, and students will definitely experience some personal growth.

Current yoga classes are held in Meridian Hill Hall at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. The first class is free, then there is a $6 fee for students thereafter.

"I am more accepting of the good and the bad life has to offer. Yoga has changed my life," Copeland said, "and I hope it will do the same for others."