Yoga has been around for almost 5,000 years—even before humans learned to write. Not many things have that long of a proven track record.

At Chagrin Yoga, they are proving that the health benefits of yoga are timeless.

“Yoga is not a fitness fad but an age- old practice that creates well-being and perfect harmony between your body, mind and soul,” says Robin Pastor, co-owner of Chagrin Yoga.

“We are thriving and constantly improving after more than a year in business. It is rewarding to see how we are helping our clients, from weight loss to alleviating back pain to adding joy to someone’s life.”

Everyone is greeted like family, from toddlers to octogenarians streaming in and out of the studios. “We make everyone feel welcome in a warm and encouraging environment,” says co-owner Darcy Providente, who is an Educated Registered Yoga Teacher.

A fitness instructor for more than 20 years, she helps students glean the most health benefits, including increased flexibility, joint mobility and circulation, as well as mental wellness.

Here’s what Chagrin Yoga students have to say about their journey into yoga.

“After a serious motorcycle accident I was apprehensive about trying yoga, fearing I couldn’t do it and keep up with the class,”

Jack Sedlak shares. “Kathy Hammonds is truly caring and concerned about everybody’s well being. I actually can’t wait for the next class.”

Mary Jo Weber says, “Yoga gives every part of your body a workout. Learning how to get upside down on some of the poses gives you a different perspective and I am open to looking at things in a new way. Yoga helped me become more open minded in many ways. Every instructor here has a special gift to share with the students.”

A student who asked to remain anonymous shared these comments: “I want to express my total gratitude for all that Chagrin Yoga is bringing to this community and to me personally. I was fighting my way out of addiction and living with debilitating back pain. I came to Chagrin Yoga broken but through my own perseverance and the encouragement from my instructors, I am glad to say that I am finding freedom from my chains. I have beaten my addiction and have experienced healing in my body. This experience has freed me up to tap into joy again and I am grateful to the point of tears.”

“Yoga has helped me be more patient and step back and observe things before I react,” says Karen Baldridge, a client for more than a year. “It gives me an overall feeling of calmness.”

Unlike many fitness centers that offer a few types of yoga, Chagrin Yoga has more than 60 weekly classes, taught by 22 seasoned instructors. Classes are offered in a variety of yoga styles, from Beginner’s Yoga to Sunday Groove, Slow Flow, Power Vinyasa and Bikram Hot Yoga. New this spring is Tai Chi, a form of Chinese martial arts that complements yoga, which is taught by Edward Niam.

Classes take place in eco-friendly studios. In addition to the Bamboo Studio and Root Studio, there is a new 1,800-square-foot Sage Studio complete with surround sound and a high heat and humidity system that will definitely make you sweat. New to Yoga? You don’t need to be flexible to be able to quiet the mind, you simply need to have the desire to show up and do your best. And at Chagrin Yoga, your first class at the studio is free.

As part of its overall wellness philosophy, Chagrin Yoga also offers massage and reflexology, as well as unique workshops. 

This winter Chagrin Yoga began a school to teach 200-hour level teacher training for those interested in becoming instructors or those who just want to learn about yoga on a deeper level. The fall session will run August through November, 2011 on Sundays.

“Yoga is a life-long journey on your mat and off your mat elevating your consciousness by intertwining breath, mind, body and spirit with an overwhelming sense of love,” says Darcy. “We invite you to join us on this rewarding path.”

Chagrin Yoga is located at 524 E. Washington Street in Chagrin Falls. Chagrin Yoga is open seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, call 440-247-4884 or visit www.chagrinyoga.com.