Arts briefs: Beginners can try yoga at Lake Elmo Park Reserve

Common yoga poses are on the menu for an introductory workshop Saturday, May 2, at the Lake Elmo Park Reserve's Nordic Center.

The workshop runs from 9-11 a.m. and is followed by four one-hour classes, from 6-7 p.m., each Thursday from May 7-28.

The series is for beginners and those curious to learn ways to improve their yoga practice.

Health benefits include stress release, increased balance, flexibility, muscle tone and mental awareness.

A series pass costs $25, which includes the workshop and classes. Otherwise, the workshop is $10 and classes are $5 each.

All vehicles must have a valid vehicle permit ($5 a day or $25 annual). The program is for those ages 14 and older; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Participants should arrive 10 minutes early and bring their own yoga mat. Registration is required. For more information, call 651-430-8370.

Gentle flow yoga classes are offered on Friday mornings in Hudson, Wis. Classes are from 9:30-10:45 a.m., at the Phipps Center for the Arts.

The Hatha Yoga class is appropriate for all ages and fitness levels. Participants should wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat.

Classes are ongoing and may be taken or started at any time.

Punch cards may be purchased for $130 per 10 classes and are valid for four months. Students only pay for the classes they attend. If preferred, there is also a drop-in fee option of $16 per class.

Punch cards may be obtained at the Phipps Center, 109 Locust St., Hudson, Wis., in person or by mail. Or call 1-715-386-2305, ext. 101, or go online at www.ThePhipps.org.

A half marathon and 10K and 5K runs all start at 8 a.m. May 17 at Carpenter St. Croix Nature Center, north of Hastings.

The half marathon route takes runners past many orchards. The 10K run winds through the woodlands and savannas along the nature center's trails. And a 5K walk/run is a fast straight route down St. Croix Trail.

A 2K Fun Run, which starts at 11:15 a.m. or as soon as the last half marathon runner finishes, takes participants on a quick loop of the center's Oak Savannah Trail.

Proceeds support the center's K-12 environmental education programs and habitat protection.

Visit the center's website to print out a half marathon or 5K training plan and see the course map.

A dress-up afternoon of tea and finger foods from Angelina's in the Park is being offered to girls and the women in their lives.

Woodbury's May Day Tea Party is May 2.

Activities include tea party bingo, a craft and photo opportunity. Bring your own tea cup and camera. Adults must register with their child, and there's a $12 per person cost.

The start time is 12:30 p.m. at Central Park's Valley Creek Room.

For more information, call Parks and Recreation at 651-714-3583; the tea party is activity No. 550910-06. You can also register online at www.woodburyrecreation.com.

No previous experience is necessary — only an interest in history, heritage and meeting new people is required.

Tour guide training is Sunday, April 26, at 1 p.m.

Kids in the seventh through 11th grades can become associate tour guides and participate as assistants. Associate guide orientation is May 17 at 1 p.m.

Check out the museum website at www.gammelgardenmuseum.org. Or e-mail gammelgardenlynne@frontiernet.net or call 651-433-5053.