Synchronized swimming and strength and conditioning coach Jessica Gust brings students to a state of relaxation and flexibility, preparing them for the day every Friday morning.

Junior Santeyne Thornton, who attended the last two weeks of yoga sessions, said he enjoys what yoga does for his body and mind.

“I personally like yoga, because it’s relaxing and it helps me become more flexible,” Thornton said.

Gust said she did yoga with some teams before and realized they enjoyed it, so she decided to open it up to anyone who’s interested.

“I wanted to give all of our students the opportunity to participate in yoga at no cost, so we added the option on Friday mornings,” Gust said.

Besides being good for spiritual health, Gust said yoga offers physical and mental benefits for the body.

“On a physical level, it is great for mobility, strength, joint health and circulation,” Gust said. “The original intention of the physical practice of yoga was for it to be a moving meditation, so on a mental level, yoga can help increase focus, relaxation and has also been used to help treat some types of anxiety and depression.”

Thornton said yoga gets his body moving, but at the same time relaxes his mind for a bit.

“It’s a great way to get your mind off things and help you focus more,” Thornton said.

Freshman Emily Kirchner said she has thought about attending a class.

“I’ve had interest in doing it, because I think it would be calming. It’s something new compared to other sports,” Kirchner said.

Gust said she wants students to know yoga is accessible to everyone.

“The first thing students should consider is that you do not need to be bendy to do yoga,” Gust said. “Secondly, it is a great practice where students can learn tools for managing the stress that comes along with a busy student schedule.”

Kirchner said going to a yoga session would allow her to break out of her comfort zone.

“I’ve never done it before so it could be a fun new experience,” Kirchner said.

Gust said yoga continues to help her in aspects of her life.

“I love yoga because it has helped me learn so many things about myself and the world around me,” Gust said. “I have found that my yoga practice enhances all the other aspects of my life, especially my coaching and teaching.”

Yoga sessions with Gust take place at 6 a.m. in the field house every Friday morning.