Mayo Clinic Health System – Red Cedar in Menomonie, 2022 Community Benefits

Yoga at the Library Promotes Mental Health and Physical Wellbeing

Participants enjoying yoga on a beautiful day in Menomonie
As we entered year two of the pandemic, it was evident our communities were yearning for a sense of normalcy. The need for activities to promote mental health and wellness was greater than ever, so Mayo Clinic Health System and the Menomonie Public Library collaborated to offer Dunn County residents free yoga classes every Monday morning. 

Tina Tharp, community engagement specialist with Mayo Clinic Health System in Northwest Wisconsin teaches the classes. When they began in February 2022, classes were only offered virtually. As the weather warmed, classes moved outside, and participants were able to enjoy fresh air and the stunning scenery of yoga by the lake. Among the many benefits, yoga can help foster mental calmness, reduce stress, increase muscle tone, and support joint health.

"The Menomonie Public Library works to support community health and wellness by also offering a Story Walk in a city park, publicizing area events, and helping people navigate consumer health resources online and in our collections,” says Jolene Sterk, director at the Menomonie Public Library. “Yoga on the library lawn has been particularly popular, with an average of 15-20 participants attending each week. We are happy to partner with Mayo Clinic Health System to improve quality of life for people who work, play and live in Dunn County."

Both organizations also participate in Dunn County’s health coalition, “Health Dunn Right” and the Chronic Disease Prevention Action Team. Mayo Clinic Health System has hosted Music and Movement classes at the library in the past and is grateful to continue working together.