Physical fitness and staying in good health have been two of the primary themes of health journals throughout the '90s. By studying these aspects of health, Jim Concotelli developed the Lexington Wellness Center.
The Wellness Center is held its grand opening this weekend. As of yesterday, the center will be offering free classes in walk and stretch, yoga, tai chi and chi gong through Saturday evening. On Friday evening, Kali Ray, an internationally renowned yoga instructor, will give a free introductory talk titled, "Yoga and Health."
The grand opening will provide people with a solid basis of what the Wellness Center provides.
"It (was) basically an open house to see the facility, meet the faculty, and provide free programs to those who are interested," Concotelli, executive director of the Wellness Center said.
The grand opening also provides people with an opportunity to sign up for the classes which are offered. UK students can receive a student discount. The classes range from walk and stretch to yoga.
The Wellness Center is the first of its kind in Lexington. The purpose of the center is to offer activities and educational programs which promote healthy lifestyles, wellness and self-care.
Lectures, daily classes and weekend workshops in easy movement exercises, stress management, nutrition and personal development are offered through the center.
Concotelli said that students should not shut their minds out to different types of exercise, including yoga.
"A lot of people may have images about what yoga's about. If they bypass their preconceptions, they can see the total benefit," he said.
Concotelli established the center after studying the effects of aging in people. He had noticed that those who worked out and maintained a healthy lifestyle tended to live longer.
"I have learned that through these methods we can maintain a healthy state, both physically and mentally."
The Wellness Center is located at 2891 Richmond Road, Suite 202 in Lexington.