 While with many people starting to tackle their new year's resolutions this week, yoga classes are welcoming new members. Sarah Winkleman takes us to a lakes area yoga association class to see why this option is becoming more popular. It's one way to burn calories and build muscle, all while focusing on breathing. Learn to deep breathe, that's a process that really gradually calms the body. It's a practice that has become increasingly popular due to the stress relief that it provides. As you breathe in, and if you breathe in a little bit deeper, the connection between the diaphragm and the heart is stimulated. In other words, that connection is reminded of its job and its job is to slow the heartbeat down. Breathe into the shoulders, breathe into the kidneys. For those looking to start off 2018 with a clear body and mind, the first step is on the mat. All these poses are designed to support the true shape of the spine. It's really very, very much about true posture. No matter your age. It's maybe much younger and much more flexible and I consider it anti-aging. By practicing a more personal form of exercise. It really is bringing together your body, mind, spirit, you know, so it's not just going out and exercising like going running or anything else. It's really an integrative practice. That students take with them throughout their day. If I can be more centered, then I just am more successful in my work life, my relationships, and feel better overall. And for Rob, who has been a yoga instructor for over 20 years, his classes focus on pain relief and healing. I had some lower back pain and as I started going to class, pain went away, but then I kind of got hooked in on a different angle, the mind, body, spirit connection. But no matter your reason for giving yoga a try, Rob says there's a style for everyone. No one should feel like there isn't some flavor of yoga that they can't partake in. Reporting in Niswa, Sarah Winkleman, Lakeland News. Lake Seria Yoga Association offers a variety of classes in Niswa and Brainerd. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.