Although more than 1,000 people could be seen in warrior pose Saturday morning on LaSalle Road in West Hartford, the atmosphere was serene and “warring” was likely the furthest thing from their minds as the largest group ever turned out for “Yoga on LaSalle.”

Barbara Ruzansky of West Hartford Yoga, assisted by representatives of more than 20 other yoga studios, led the crowd through a 75-minute class designed to accommodate participants of all ages and abilities. At least one four-legged furry creature also joined in the fun.

Saturday morning in West Hartford is usually busy, but instead of cars pulling up in front of the LaSalle Road Starbucks to grab a macchiato, the closed street was wall-to-wall yoga mats, a drum beat slowly and steadily, and the community joined together in a spiritual and meditative start to the day.

“Namaste” was the oft-heard greeting.

The class ended with several enthusiastic communal “Om’s” as the crowd dispersed and regular weekend activities commenced, the sense of peacefulness lasting as long as possible.

Photo credits: Amy Melvin and Ronni Newton

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