Stretch your mind, body with poetry, yoga at the library

Jan. 10, 2006 12:00 AM

If you think Gilbert's library is limited to books and reading, think again.

This month, residents can sample yoga and try their hand at writing poetry.

Classes have been offered in flower arranging, English as a second
language, infant massage and American Sign Language.

And the best part: All classes are free.

Community members who have always longed to write prose will have
their chance to develop their skills with teacher Andrew Chanse.

The 28-year-old Gilbert resident began working as a librarian at the
Southeast Regional Library four months ago after completing an
undergraduate degree at Arizona State University and a graduate degree
at the University of Arizona.

Along with his university classes, Chanse developed a passion for
poetry, taking graduate level workshops and developing his own style.

Chanse said he is hoping to encourage others who have always wanted to
write a poem.

Offering a 16-week course with eight classes, the class will allow
others to develop their own writing style.

"I want to help people find their own voice. That's the hardest part,"
Chanse said.

The class will include sharing each other's writing and some tips, Chanse said.

Chanse, who moved to Gilbert in August 2002, said he enjoys being part
of the community and is looking forward to sharing his talent with
others.

If poetry isn't your passion, maybe a bit of stretching and moving is
your style. Angela Pryor, who moved to Gilbert 18 months ago, will
teach a yoga class.

When a yoga studio opened in September near Pryor's home, she was one
of the first to join.

A yoga fan, Pryor said she was so impressed with the concept that she
has become the director of marketing and sales at Vitalize Studios
Yoga for Everyone.

The studio, at Warner and Lindsey roads, has its own yoga technique.
Workouts are short and can be geared to any level.

The free class at the library is designed to make yoga more desirable
and accessible for residents.

"It's an intro class for those who have never done it, or tried it and
didn't enjoy it," Pryor said.

The hourlong class will start with a question-and-answer period
followed by a demonstration of some of the basic moves.

Yoga allows those who haven't exercised for years as well as those who
are fit to benefit, Pryor said.

The Vitalize Studios yoga classes are 45 minutes, shorter than most
yoga classes. The studio's three owners developed the Vitalize
program.

Pryor said she enjoys her new job and loves the Vitalize program.

"I love it because I'm able to use all my practical business
experience from the past with something that's really good to offer to
the public," she said.

To register for either class at the Southeast Regional Library, call
(480) 539-5119.
--
http://sanjaytewari.blogspot.com
http://spaces.msn.com/members/sanjaytanya/
http://spaces.msn.com/members/uttaranchalnews/