Candlelight Yoga

Candlelight Yoga
(Photo taken by Francesca Knotgen, 2025)

To gain a better understanding of mindfulness practices, I went to a candlelight Yoga session provided by the North Recreation Center at The Ohio State University. The class utilizes deep breathing practices and a vin-yin style yoga flow. This practice will help me understand a type of practice that could be implemented in the backseat of the car. The following is an expert taken from the university recreation website describing the class.

"Looking for somewhere to stretch and decompress? Come practice mindful movement in this vin-yin style yoga class will leave you feeling refreshed, mentally and physically. The first-half of class will focus on heat-building postures that will enhance your balance, strength and flexibility. The second-half will concentrate on deep stretching and restorative postures. Meet your body where it’s at as we link breath with movement to gain the most from your practice. All levels are welcome! (The Ohio State University, 2017)."

This experience was very interesting in the scope of my research project because it allowed me to explore movement and deep breathing as a means to relax. The room was also dimmed with the use of candle light. There was soft ambient noise and music playing in the background to help create the overall relaxing environment. This is similar to what I am trying to invoke in car rides. I was interested to see their techniques to create a calming space. I found the session to be extremely peaceful, and a main factor was the combination of sounds and lighting. I thought the class was extremely successful at calming me down after a super busy week. This was a very beneficial class that provided me with a first-hand experience at potential meditative practices to promote during car rides.

References:

The Ohio State University Recreation & Physical Activity Center. (2017). Candlelight yoga (NRC 210). Ohio State University Recreational Sports. Retrieved September 22, 2025, from https://recregister.osu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=30e45d09-6eea-4039-9f8c-ceb3b8082a0d

AI was used to check grammar for this reflection.

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