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Vets quieting PTSD through 'trauma conscious' yoga

QUINCY, Mass. — A new program just started in our state that's designed to help soldiers who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder.

At first glance, it's like any other yoga studio. But if you look closer, you begin to see and hear the stories of those who've served our country.

Gerry Martin, for example, spent years working on a submarine. Now, later in life, he's taking advantage of a class designed strictly for veterans and their families.

"I was in the navy," Martin said. "I can put your mind at rest. We're all in such a rat race these days, we don't take the time to calm down."

And that's just part of it. The other part is meant to help veterans battling PTSD. These yoga classes are designed to be "trauma conscious."

Instructor Lori Scott brought the program to Quincy after hearing about it in other states.

"When I heard that there was no progam in Massachusetts, I knew I needed to bring it to my hometown," she said.

Massachusetts is now the 25th state to offer this kind of class and this one is the first in the state.

"It's important because we can't forget about them," Scott said.

Chris Lewis served in the Marines in the early 90s, and while he doesn't suffer from PTSD, the value is something he welcomes and says so many others will likely too.
 
"We're always having so many things going on in our lives. It's important to slow down, breathe, relax and let some of that stress go," Lewis said.

The classes are every Wednesday night from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Quincy at President's Place.

The classes are free. They just want veterans and their families to have this kind of outlet.