A free day of yoga and wellness activities will take place in Bedford Park next month.
The annual Yoga and Wellbeing in the Park event returns on Sunday 7 June from 10am-7pm.
Located next to the Pavilion, the accessible event will offer a range of 20 different activities aimed at all ages, abilities and interests.
Now in its ninth year, Yoga and Wellbeing in the Park will showcase and support local wellbeing talent, and create a celebration of movement and community connection in Bedford’s most loved green spaces.
Organised by Bedford Borough Council’s Sports Development Unit and sponsored by The Harpur Trust and Delomac Roofing, the event is part of the Great Big Green Week, a national celebration of community action on climate and nature.
Highlights will include dedicated SEND, women’s and family sessions, alongside classes led by two male teachers. Attendees can explore a wide range of practices, such as laughter yoga, a Reiki group session, cacao ceremony, breathwork, Qigong (similar to Tai Chi) and a sound bath.
All sessions are voluntarily led by locally-based qualified instructors who can help continue participants’ wellness progression. There will also be a British Sign Language interpreter at three sessions, including SEND kids, adults and families, Breathwork for adults, and Creative Vinyasa and Spoken Word for over 14s. Accessible to all, most sessions can be adapted to people who are less able and those with disabilities.
A Wellbeing Information Desk will be on site to offer advice and resources from local mental health services and charities. The Mindful Sport team are also on hand at the desk to provide attendees with information on regular activity sessions to improve health and wellbeing.
Last year, around 900 people attended the event.
And there is no need to book in advance; registration and wristbands will be available on arrival, along with a limited number of yoga mats and chairs for those who need them. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, said: “Whatever your age, background or fitness levels, there will be something at Yoga and Wellbeing in the Park for everyone.
“Every year it’s a fantastic opportunity to connect, engage in activities to boost your physical and mental health, in one of Bedford’s most beautiful spots.”
For a full schedule of sessions and more information, please visit www.bedford.gov.uk/yogaday