Psalms & Stretches began in 2016 with an idea. At the time I was teaching several Pilates classes and started to include a relaxation at the end. 

 

is the class I wanted to go to. A place to combine tending to my exercise needs, worshipping through movement (being a dancer this is how I creatively express myself!) and also pursuing my relationship with God, and being disciplined about learning some scripture for myself.

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Exercise and meditation are widely recognised for their physical and mental health benefits, but I believe they are God-designed tools to help us thrive in life and grow in our relationship with Him, not just to pursue our own wellness and self-care (although this are import also!).  But wellness isn’t just about our physical and mental health but our spiritual health too - perhaps most importantly.

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"I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears." Psalm 34 vs 4

 

This is why prayer is an integral part of Psalms & Stretches. Our class is not just a mindful approach to exercise but an opportunity to draw closer to God; the true source of our wellbeing. 
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As Christians we have a perfect example in Jesus, who regularly spent time by himself praying to his Father God and studying scripture. Yet amongst the distractions of modern life, it can be a challenge to set time aside to find the focus and connection we yearn for. Modern technology makes communication more accessible than ever, and yet it is not uncommon to feel disconnected. This discord can be continued in a similar way through our physical experience also; although were given bodies that were designed to move, many of us now lead sedentary lives and despite being made in the image of God, many of us struggle with our body image. 

 

What we need most is deep connection, with God, with ourselves and with others. 

 

Psalms & Stretches is a class where we actively pursue this connection using prayer, meditation on the Word of God and exercise. And we do this in real time, together.

 
"Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him." Psalm 62 vs 5
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Our vision is for our classes to be accessible for people from all walks of life, meeting together in different locations but united in their intention. It is an individual experience and an opportunity to worship as an ensemble; doing the same moving meditation, praying through the same Psalm and worshipping God with one body.