Will We Be Practicing at 83?

By Judi Harvin

Virginia and Judi

At age 83, Virginia Cizek is almost assuredly the most senior student at Focus Yoga (not asking our students for age, I can’t verify that, but I’m just betting). Virginia joined us for the first Gentle Yoga class taught by instructor Sue Chilton in April, and along with the other dedicated students, has been attending that class regularly since. This is her first experience with yoga, maybe just a little surprising if you consider that I own Focus Yoga, and Virginia is my mother! 

FY: How many classes have you taken so far? 

Virginia: 4 or 5

What kind of exercise were you doing before?  

I never took a formal exercise class before. At home, I practice exercises on the ball for my back and stomach. I’ve had low back pain off and on for years.

Were you nervous to attend your first class?  

I didn’t know what to expect, it was all a surprise. I was a little nervous. The other women there had had some classes and knew what Sue was talking about, but I really had to keep my eyes open to see what she meant. I understand better now what’s coming next, but I still have to watch. After my first class the backs of my legs and calves were a little sore, but that wears off. 

You must have liked it, because you keep coming (and I know you wouldn't if you didn't like it!) What do you like about the class?  

Everything gets exercised, even my toes. Sue starts with the toes and works all the way up to neck, head shoulders. We exercise everything.

What’s the hardest part of the class for you? 

I’m not used to having my eyes closed. I’ve never been able to balance, and at 83, I doubt that’s going to get any better. I also have a problem with meditation. I can’t concentrate. I try. I think it’s getting a little better. 

I sit in the back office working and hear a lot of laughter coming from the studio. What’s that about?  

Oh, class is very informal. If one of us can’t do something, we make a little joke and Sue comes and help. We aren’t self-conscious at all about not being able to do everything. 

Everyone is friendly and when I can’t do something, they stop and I stop. Like the other week, we were up against the wall standing on one foot, with the other foot against our ankle. Sue said to take our hands away from the wall....no way can I do that, so I don’t do it. I have trouble with balance.

So, you’ve had about 5 classes now. Are you going to stick with it?  

Yes. Every week I understand more about what the teacher is doing. I really like the fact that the class covers the whole body.