Media Room

Balance. Breathe. Be.

These are lessons from Kristin Schwartz, a doctoral student at University of the Rockies. Schwartz, who is also a Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Yoga Teacher, is on a mission to teach people self-care and stress reduction.

“There’s a hole in our culture,” says Schwartz. “We’re told that we need to take care of ourselves, but we’re never really taught how to do so.”  

For Schwartz, University of the Rockies is providing her a platform to spread the word. “As a school of psychology, we are based on creating wellness,” says Schwartz. “It’s a great fit.”

For the community, Schwartz is leading a Mindful Stress Reduction workshop. In a small group setting, Schwartz teaches participants how to recognize, acknowledge and experience emotions that are encountered in daily life. Schwartz also teaches breathing techniques that help reduce daily stress.

“I use breathing, imagery and some movement to help people combat stress they encounter through daily living,” says Schwartz. “I’ve also promised that nobody in this class will sweat.”   

The multi-week group on Mindful Stress Reduction is held on Wednesdays from 5:00-6:00 p.m. through September 29 in the University’s Harvey House Auditorium (555 East Pikes Peak Avenue). The cost of attendance is $5 per session for members of the community and registration can be completed by phone at 719.442.0606.

With support from University of the Rockies, Schwartz is also offering free yoga classes to the University’s students, faculty and employees. About 20 people meet in the University’s auditorium on Wednesday afternoons to practice breath work, balance and relaxation techniques.

The free yoga classes are multi-level, and have served as an introduction to yoga for many faculty and staff members. “This was my first experience with yoga, and it turned out to be a very positive one,” said Dr. Lorri White, director of clinical training. “I will continue with yoga now, and I appreciate the University providing me the introduction and the opportunity to practice.”

About University of the Rockies

University of the Rockies is a graduate school specializing in master's and doctorate degree programs in psychology. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org), classes are offered online and at the University's Colorado Springs, Colorado, campus. For more information, please visit www.rockies.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 866.621.0124 x2513.