A Shrewsbury yoga centre has been awarded nearly £4,000 in a bid to encourage rural communities to engage in gentle yoga to improve their health and happiness.

The grant, awarded to Jenna Blair Yoga,  will provide access to free sessions to support not only physical but mental wellbeing for those in rural isolation in the county.

Jenna Blair, founder of the yoga and wellbeing centre said: “Rural isolation is a big challenge for individuals, communities and families across Shropshire.

“We are only too aware of this and feel that yoga and the many benefits it brings should be accessible to all.

“This is something we are passionate about at Jenna Blair Yoga.  

“We know what a powerful tool yoga is in supporting our wellbeing, not least through the incredible physical benefits of such as improved balance, mobility, bone density and muscle strength as well as tool for anxiety, stress and depression.  

“We also find that when people engage in this type of mindful activity together friendships are formed, and community bonds are strengthened so we’re delighted to be able to offer new classes to rural communities thanks to this generous funding.” 

Classes will be available in the county in September, and will be initially offered to communities in Wem, Craven Arms, Ludlow and Snailbeach.

Locals across Shropshire who feel they could benefit from the free yoga classes are being asked to get in touch with the centre to express their interest in the free sessions, which have been made available through the Vibrant Shropshire grant scheme.