SOUTH PORTLAND – This spring and summer the South Portland Recreation Department is offering a new activity – yoga sessions at Willard Beach. The first session begins at 5:30 p.m. on May 29.

The cost is $60 for six weeks or $12 per class for drop-ins, who must pay cash. Call 767-7650 or see https://apm.activecommunities.com/southportlandcommctr for registration information.

Instructor Ethan Kauffman, who teaches yoga classes and workshops throughout southern Maine as well as offering one-on-one sessions, said, “This harsh winter inspired me to figure out a way to offer yoga on the beach.”

Kauffman said that the practice of yoga is known to promote relaxation and relieve stress and “I imagine the relaxation benefits must be doubled while enjoying sunshine and the sounds of the ocean.”

In addition to offering stress relief, Kauffman said the practice of yoga also helps strengthen the body, increase range of motion and promote flexibility.

For the beach yoga sessions, Kauffman will offer a Vinyasa flow class suitable for all participants. The goal is to offer movements that are synchronized to the rhythm of the breath.

Attendees must bring their own mat, water bottle and sunscreen. The first class will meet by the Snack Shack. See

www.ethankauffmanyoga.com or email to

[email protected] for more information about Kauffman and his philosophy.

– Kate Irish Collins

Local yoga instructor Ethan Kauffman will offer yoga sessions at Willard Beach in South Portland this spring and summer.