West explained that her classes are intentionally structured to make participants feel comfortable from the moment they sit down. Each 45-minute session begins with a body scan and breathing exercises to help participants settle in and become aware of how they are feeling physically and mentally. From there, the class moves through seated stretches and movements before transitioning to light standing balance work, using the chair for support as needed.
The flexibility of the class is one of the reasons it has become such a welcoming environment for the community. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace and modify movements depending on how they feel that day. Some attendees use canes, while others simply appreciate the added stability and confidence that the chair provides.
West’s passion for yoga and meditation began decades ago. As a nurse practitioner working with highly stressed patients, she became increasingly interested in the connection between mental and physical health. That interest led her to additional training, conferences, and eventually yoga teacher certification. Over time, her focus expanded beyond healthcare settings and into the community, where she now leads both yoga and meditation opportunities in Morrison.
The Tuesday morning chair yoga classes continue to attract a loyal group of participants, many of whom are retired and enjoy the casual, drop-in format. There is no registration process or fee attached to the class, allowing people to attend whenever their schedules permit. The relaxed structure has helped create a supportive environment that emphasizes consistency, accessibility, and personal growth rather than performance.
During the episode, West also guided Emma Watts through a short chair yoga demonstration. The session highlighted how breathing and movement work together to create relaxation and body awareness. One of the first exercises involved slowly raising and lowering the arms in rhythm with the breath, helping connect the mind and body through intentional movement.
West also introduced the cat-cow pose, a seated spinal movement that alternates between arching and rounding the back. The exercise helps improve spinal mobility while encouraging participants to move mindfully with their breathing. Throughout the demonstration, West emphasized the importance of pausing after each movement to observe how the body feels.
The mini-session concluded with a standing balance pose called the pose of ascension. Using the chair for stability, Watts practiced shifting her weight and lifting one foot off the floor while focusing on a fixed point ahead to improve balance. The pose offered multiple levels of difficulty, allowing participants to choose the variation that felt most comfortable.
The demonstration showcased how chair yoga blends flexibility, balance, concentration, and mindfulness into one approachable experience. Rather than focusing on perfection, the practice encourages participants to stay present and listen to their bodies.
Chair yoga classes take place on Tuesdays from 9 to 9:45 a.m. in Morrison. The classes are free and open to anyone interested in participating. Those seeking more information can contact Rebecca West by phone at 815-718-3699 or by email at allthingsyoga@gmail.com.
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