ENR3301 - Gentle Yoga & Meditation for Kūpuna

Delivery Options In-person (Oahu)

Kapiolani Community College - CECS

Course Description

This course is designed for kūpuna and friends seeking gentle practices to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Through mindful movement, breathing techniques, and guided meditation, participants will explore ways to improve flexibility, balance, mobility, relaxation, and overall quality of life.

Classes will incorporate gentle stretching, strengthening, breathwork, and relaxation practices that support stress reduction, restorative sleep, and healthy aging. Participants will learn accessible techniques that can be adapted to a variety of abilities, energy levels, and mobility needs, helping them develop greater body awareness and confidence in movement.

No prior yoga or meditation experience is required. Chairs and other supports will be available, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.

Course Outline

This Gentle Yoga and Meditation for Kūpuna course supports holistic wellbeing, community connection, and cultural grounding by offering safe, accessible movement, breathwork, and guided meditation that reduce stress, improve balance, and honor kūpuna as knowledge holders. Participants practice together in a supportive space that weaves in themes of aloha, gratitude, and perseverance, building social bonds and transferable skills like self-awareness, self-management, and practicing well-being that align with the Hoʻomau Learning Program’s focus on resilience and lifelong learning.

Learner Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a short, gentle yoga sequence, using a chair or other supports as needed, to improve flexibility, balance, and ease of movement in daily life.
2. Apply simple breathing and meditation techniques to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support restful sleep.
3. Adapt yoga movements and mindfulness practices to meet their individual needs, abilities, and energy levels while developing a sustainable home-based wellness routine.