In the hustle and bustle of life, finding moments to unwind and recharge can feel like a luxury. But at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, students and employees now have a unique opportunity to pause, breathe, and stretch—right in the heart of the Ivy Tech Lawrence site library. Introducing Yoga in the Library, a free weekly series designed to promote mindfulness, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
Led by David Roberts, a therapeutic massage instructor at Ivy Tech Indianapolis and a certified yoga instructor, this series offers a 45-minute session every Wednesday at noon through March 5. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mats and embrace the chance to slow down, even if they need to leave early to get to class.
A Mindful Mission
The brainchild of Ivy Tech Indianapolis Health Sciences Librarian Laura DuPont, Yoga in the Library is more than just a fitness class—it’s a wellness initiative rooted in the library’s mission to support student success.
“I wanted to offer students a way to unwind and recharge, especially with the stress that comes with college life,” DuPont shared. “As a space that fosters learning and inclusion, I saw the library as an ideal setting to promote this mindful activity. Yoga in the Library aligns with the library’s mission by supporting students’ overall health, helping them manage stress, and providing a space for mental clarity—important elements in fostering academic success.”
The benefits of yoga are well-documented: improved concentration, reduced stress, enhanced memory, and increased productivity. For students at Ivy Tech who juggle coursework, jobs, and personal responsibilities – often at an accelerated rate – these benefits can be transformative.
DuPont sees Yoga in the Library as a way to cultivate a more holistic campus culture.
“Yoga creates a more holistic campus environment, encouraging students to include mindfulness in their academic lives,” she explained. “It’s a chance for students and staff to relax, meet others, and take a break from the demands of school, all while still staying connected to the library as a supportive space.”
The program also reflects Ivy Tech’s commitment to fostering a sense of community. By offering a shared experience that prioritizes well-being, Yoga in the Library invites participants to connect with one another in a meaningful way.
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A Positive Response and a Bright Future
Since its launch, the response to Yoga in the Library has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Participants have expressed gratitude for having a moment of calm in their busy schedules,” DuPont said.
The series is the result of a collaboration between DuPont and Roberts, who has long incorporated yoga stretches into his therapeutic massage classes to help students better understand the practice. When Roberts began pursuing his yoga instructor certification, the stars aligned for this partnership.
“I had been wanting to implement this for a while, and I had talked with David about it a few times when he came in with his classes,” DuPont recalled. “Then when he started getting his yoga instructor certification, we were able to work out this seven-class series. My fingers are crossed I can keep it going.”
Looking ahead, DuPont hopes to expand the initiative by integrating other wellness activities, ensuring the library remains a hub for both academic and personal growth.
Join the Movement
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner, Yoga in the Library offers something for everyone. It’s a chance to step away from the chaos of daily life, reconnect with yourself, and embrace the supportive community that Ivy Tech provides.
So grab your mat and head to the Lawrence library every Wednesday at noon through March 5. Your mind, body, GPA, and/or work will thank you.
As DuPont puts it, “Yoga invites participants to slow down and recharge.” In a world that often feels like it’s moving too fast, that’s an invitation worth accepting.
For more information about Yoga in the Library, other wellness initiatives, or interactive events at Ivy Tech Indy’s Library, visit their website.
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About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
