4.17.26 I CHOOSE YOUR MOAI GROUPS TODAY!
Wellness is more than fitness, nutrition, and a balanced lifestyle - it’s about connection, purpose, and living well together. That’s why we’re excited to lead moai groups for the Blue Zones Project Riverside, helping bring one of the world’s most powerful longevity practices right into our community.
The word moai (pronounced mo-eye) comes from Okinawa, Japan - one of the original Blue Zones, where people live some of the longest, healthiest lives on earth. A moai is a small, committed group of people who come together regularly to support one another in living healthier, happier lives. It’s a built-in circle of encouragement, where friendships deepen, accountability grows, and well-being becomes a shared journey rather than a solo one. Research from the Blue Zones Project shows that people who are part of a moai experience stronger social connections, reduced stress and loneliness, improved physical and mental health, and a greater sense of purpose.
As moai leaders, Margot Chabot, Catherine Murray, Cherie Robinson, Melissa Shaw, and Kristin Varner are facilitating five unique moai-based yoga experiences for ten weeks this spring, creating intentional spaces where people can gather, connect, and thrive together.
Joining a moai is simple. Just choose classes that feel right for you from the list below, add them to your calendar for the full ten weeks (April 18 – June 27), and make a gentle commitment to show up regularly. It’s ok if you have to miss a few. Just come as you are, be consistent, and allow space for connection to unfold. Have fun with it - get to know the people around you, share a few moments before or after class, and notice what begins to grow when community comes together around shared wellness practices.
Moody Mondays Moai with Cherie Robinson
Mondays 7:30-8:30 PM at Community Yoga Center
A deeply calming experience using restorative yoga and relaxation practices to help you reset and recharge - together.
Slow Deep Stretch Moai with Margo Chabot & Melissa Shaw
Tuesdays 5:45-6:45 PM at Community Yoga Center
Slow, deep stretching that gently and tenderly creates space in the body, mind, and heart.
Seated Yoga Moai with Kristin Varner
Wednesdays 5:15-6 PM at All Saints Episcopal Church
A gentle, accessible yoga practice focused on breath, mobility, and stress relief - perfect for all levels. This group emphasizes slowing down and tuning in together.
The Art of Vinyasa Moai with Catherine Murray
Saturdays 7:30–8:45 AM at Community Yoga Center
Build resilience and energy through strength-based movement and functional fitness. Support one another in feeling strong, capable, and empowered.
Yin Yoga Moai with Kristin Varner
Saturdays 9–10 AM at Community Yoga Center
Slow, deep stretching in a space for conversation, reflection, and shared intention. Light movement combined with guided discussion helps strengthen the bonds that make moais so powerful.
Wellness sticks when it’s shared. When you show up each week and see familiar faces, when someone notices you’re missing, when you celebrate small wins together - that’s where real change happens. That’s the magic of a moai.
We invite you to be part of this exciting new moai experiences. Whether you’re looking to move your body, reduce stress, or simply feel more connected, there’s a moai for you. Let’s build something meaningful - together. Your community is waiting.
