Open Up: Supported Yoga for Autism

Supported Yoga for Autism emphasizes a comfortable and nurturing environment for participants to explore movement and mindfulness. This class provides ample time to work through transitions and explore poses at your own pace, to help everyone best experience it in their own ways.

Participants are encouraged to bring a caregiver or friend for added support, fostering a sense of safety and community. This class aims to create a space where everyone can express themselves, build confidence, and enjoy the benefits of yoga.

Through mindful awareness and community support, Inclusive Ballet encourages self-exploration and personal growth, making it an ideal space for anyone looking to enhance their wellbeing.

• This is an affinity group for any participant identifying as autistic; their caregiver, family, and friends are welcome.

• Many participants in this class are supported by a caregiver, friend, parent, or communication partner to help facilitate their experience.

• The focus of this class will be learning to link breath with movement to encourage a deeper understanding and connection with our physical bodies. This is a slower moving class with ample time for transitions.

• At times during classes, some participants may need to make sudden movements or sounds.

• This class is suitable for participants 18+

• This class is usually led by Anea Michelle.

• Open Up classes are designed to be accessible for people with and without disabilities. They are for everyone! We consider all of our classes “sensory sensitive/friendly” and our facilitators work to meet the unique needs of the students in the class and create a supportive environment. If you have a support need that you’d like to let us know about, or a question about the class email us at [email protected].

• Please be aware that at times during classes, some participants may need to make sudden movements or sounds. We welcome you to bring your own headphones if you think you will need them and we also have a relaxation space in the back of the studio.

• We have mats and supportive props at the studio, and feel free to bring your own if you’d like.

• All new participants will be asked to sign a waiver, studio agreements and optional photo release upon arrival at the first class. You can read the terms here.

• Classes are free because we want to remove barriers to participation. If you are able to contribute and help us keep classes on the schedule, a regular monthly donation helps us do that! www.open-up.org/donate

Host or Publisher Open Up (www.openuppittsburgh.com)