By LAUREN STEINBERGER
Jericho High School is wrapping up the first year of its yoga course which was offered to students in grades 10, 11, and 12.
Jericho High School athletic director Mr. Mankowich explained how physical education offerings are evolving. “Now with the addition of yoga, it adds an element where kids are able to find something they like,” he said. In addition, he feels as though this course is very beneficial. “If you’re looking for that stress-reliever, but still working on muscular strength, endurance, flexibility, and hitting all of those fitness components, this would be a great course,” he added. Guidance counselor Ms. Moriarty is very excited about this new yoga course option. “I think it is such a good outlet for students to learn the practice of yoga because it will help them with their stress in everyday life for school and outside of school,” she said.
Physical Education teacher Ms. Funes teaches the new yoga class and is extremely excited about it. “Yoga is the best thing ever for not only your body, but for your mind too, and with all of the tests that you guys take here, it is very important to connect the two,” she said. Her class consists of basic yoga skills, fitness testing, yoga terminology and poses, partner yoga, and individual creations of salutations that students present to the class.
Junior Sophie F. took the class because she thought it would be “a good opportunity for me to destress during the school day.” Sophomore Veronica P. took yoga because she likes Ms. Funes, and “is looking forward to relaxing in a class.” On the contrary, varsity athlete and junior Jason D. explained that he did not take yoga since he prefers to get varsity release and this is not an option for the new course.
Senior Christine B. thinks this first year of yoga was a rewarding experience. “In my time in yoga I have learned a lot about managing stress, mindfulness, and allowing myself to concentrate on what I need.”
According to Mr. Mankowich, there are once again 8 sections of yoga scheduled for next year, and due to its popularity, incoming 9th graders are now allowed to register for the course.