Hatha Yoga

This class introduces them to a challenging yet at the same time nurturing practice that rejuvenates the body while freeing the mind from the negativity and stress that are part of living in an incarcerated environment. The class is additionally geared toward applying the principles of Yoga to emotional competency, particularly as it relates to anger, frustration and impulse control.

Among the benefits students have most often reported from taking the classes at San Quentin are: reduction of stress ("better able to deal with the mental and emotional strain of prison"), pain relief, improved sleep, "more able to focus on the positive rather than the negative," improved flexibility, and access to inner peace. The class is integral to IPP's larger goal of teaching prisoners the ability to respond rather than react through the practice and discipline of yoga. There are currently three weekly Hatha Yoga classes offered; two as part of the Success Program and one for life sentenced men.

Facilitator: James Fox is a certified Hatha Yoga instructor with more than 17 years of experience in various yoga disciplines. He works with at-risk juvenile boys and is trained in Yoga therapy for addiction. He has also received professional training in anti-violence facilitation and conflict resolution.