FAQ/How to Donate

Yoga means “to yoke” or “union” together body, mind and spirit. Its benefits are holistic in nature. Physically, it can help increase and return flexibility and strength. Mentally, is provides methods to reduce stress and anxiety. Spiritually, it may help develop greater resiliency. Yoga and its conscious coordination of breathing and movement may be what you’re looking for. Movement is good for the body, and yoga postures help relax muscles, as well as stimulate and elongate them, increasing flexibility and strength. Yoga postures enhance blood and lymphatic flow and boost the body’s internal purification process. Yoga helps practitioners become aware of themselves, while calming the mind and increasing focus. Yoga is especially good for those with breast cancer because it can be performed throughout the treatment, surgery and recovery process. Gentle movement can allow the student to learn about their new body. Its practice can offer a number of ways to understand one’s inner strength, and it addresses the physical and emotional afflictions experienced with breast cancer.

Each class has been carefully created with guidance from physicians, physical therapists, breast cancer survivors, and yoga practitioners and teachers who are survivors. There will be elements of meditation, breathwork and appropriate physical movement in each class. Some classes are 45 minutes; some are an hour – you are asked to stay the entire time. If you need a break, please know there is seating in a back room where you are more than welcome to sit and take time if you need. Classes will involve seated and reclined postures; others will have standing movement. Some classes will offer a chair if desired. Practitioners are encouraged to adapt for themselves, and the teacher will always be present to offer customizations. You may read full descriptions of the offerings under the “Classes” section.

Sign up ahead of time through “Book” in the “Classes” section. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early in order to connect with the teacher and set up for class. You will be asked to sign a waiver at your first visit and fill out a brief questionnaire. You may choose to speak with your health care provider before beginning any yoga classes.

Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to bend at the waist and knees and move your arms (if able). If you have a yoga mat, blocks or a bolster (if a restore-type class), you are welcome to bring them, but they are also available at the studio for your use. If you are interested in weekly journaling prompts or you would like to write about your yoga journey, bring a journal and pen. Bring a water bottle with you along with any other items you need to sustain yourself during our time together. When you arrive, please take off your shoes inside the door.

No! All classes are prepared with all levels of practitioner in mind. Your teacher will be there to guide with verbal cues and will take part in portions of the class with you to demonstrate postures. You will be bare foot or sock-footed during your class – your choice!

Sign up ahead of time through “Book” in the “Classes” section, or through the Yoga & Co. website: www.yogaandcodsm.com under “Book a Class” and “Soulful Healing Flows.”

Classes, unless otherwise noted, take place at Yoga & Co., 2326 University Ave., in Des Moines. There is street parking in front of the building and some parking in the back. Please note: Doors lock when class begins to avoid interruptions.

Email soulfulhealingyoga@gmail.com; or text or call Melissa: 515-681-7731.

If you sign up through www.soulfulhealingyoga.com, you will receive an email if class needs to be canceled unexpectedly. Notices also will be posted on Soulful Healing Yoga’s Facebook page.

No! All classes are free for those with breast cancer, survivors and previvors. If you are interested in attending with your friend or loved one, there is a suggested donation of $15.