86-year-old yoga instructor celebrates 30 years of service
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Patricia Merriman has received a Long Service Award from Sport Liverpool after reaching a milestone of teaching yoga at the University for 30 years.
Yoga classes taught by Patricia unite the body and mind through breathing techniques, the benefits of which include muscle and joint flexibility, strength and vitality and relaxation. If you were ever in doubt about the effectiveness of these health benefits, then look no further than Patricia herself as a prime example. Having just turned 86-years old, she’s as sprightly and keen as ever to carry on teaching yoga.
In July 2018 Patricia reached her significant 30-year milestone, and to mark this amazing achievement, she was presented with a long-service award and flowers by her Sport Liverpool colleagues.
As an inspirational character and valued member of the Sport Liverpool team, a couple of her class regulars provided some feedback on her work:
Dr Klara Wanelik from the Institute of Integrative Biology said: “It is always a pleasure to go to Patricia’s classes. She is a dedicated yoga teacher, with a huge amount of experience and a wonderful personality. From your class, thank you for your many years of service Patricia - for sharing your experience with us, for teaching us how to keep our bodies and minds healthy, and for sharing some laughs with us along the way!”
Until moving away, Jayne Garner attended Patricia’s yoga classes for 11 years. Jayne said: “Her patience and wisdom extended far beyond yoga exercises. I hope she understands how valuable her teaching is and what a pleasure it is to be in her class. I miss her immensely!”
Patricia had a short break from teaching yoga, following triple heart by-pass surgery at the age of 80. She recovered from this quickly and was soon back on the yoga scene. Patricia's other interests include going to the Opera and playing the grand piano. She also holds a pilot's licence!
The University would like to congratulate Patricia on reaching her 30 year milestone.