MC Veteran-Students Visit Yoga Ashram

For the second semester in a row, Manhattan College has provided incoming veteran-students, enrolled in particular sections of RELS 110 (The Nature and Experience of Religion), the opportunity to participate in a program run by the non-profit organization called Warriors at Ease. This program took place at the Sivananda Ashram and Yoga Retreat on Paradise Island, the Bahamas, from October 9-13. The daily program included a variety of activities, beginning each morning with a 1.5-hour asana (yogic posture) practice taught by one of the ashram’s expert yoga teachers, who is himself a five year veteran of the Israeli military. In addition, each day the group participated in two multi-hour sessions run by Warriors at Ease. These sessions were aimed at teaching individuals a variety of techniques that allow one to move from sympathetic nervous system responses, fight or flight responses, which are anxiety laden responses, to parasympathetic nervous system responses. The latter produce a greater sense of calm and relaxation. Among the techniques offered were a number of different breathing exercises and guided meditations, which train one to simply watch one’s body, senses, and feelings.

With the exception of the vegetarian diet and the mid-semester exams, the evaluations from the participants were very positive. There was a unanimous appreciation for the opportunity afforded, for many of the techniques that can be helpful stress reducers, and for the chance to bond with other veteran students at Manhattan College. The Department will offer two specially designated sections of RELS 110, which will be listed as RELS 161, next semester. These sections will be taught by Dr. Saracino, the chair of Religious Studies.