Story by Kathryn Kusyszyn, BA, RNCP      |         August 5, 2009

Have you noticed the increasing number of yoga classes advertised in Sooke? Have you seen people carrying their yoga mats with smiling and contented looks on the their faces?

We are fortunate that the practice of yoga is growing in popularity and Sooke now hosts a wide variety of classes with more to come in the fall. There are classes for beginners as well as those with experience, for those with injuries or looking for gentle stretching and relaxation and for those seeking vigorous activity. Yoga is adaptable to the individual and so there is something for everyone. Contrary to what you might think, you do not have to be flexible to ‘do’ yoga. All you need is a willingness to practice.

Dr. Timothy McCall, MD, yoga instructor and author of the popular book Yoga as Medicine, lists 50 health conditions that are benefited by yoga according to scientific studies. These include: alcoholism, anxiety, asthma, cancer, diabetes, fibromyalgia, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, schizophrenia and kidney failure. See www.drmccall.com for details.

So what is this ancient healing practice and how does it work? The Sanskrit word yoga means “to yoke or to join or unite”. It refers to the joining of body, mind and spirit. Yoga is not a religion, there is no dogma to follow. Rather it is a philosophy rooted a group of ancient scriptures. Through practices such as meditation, breathing exercises (pranayama), and physical postures (asanas) among many others, insights into the nature of existence arise.

Many Westerners seek greater flexibility, strength, stamina, and energy and all these health benefits can be achieved, but they are secondary. The real benefits come from deeper self-awareness and conscious living.

Numerous styles of yoga have developed over time. Fortunately, in Sooke we have a variety of qualified
instructors who are enthusiastic about sharing their practice. Check out yogainsooke.ca for profiles of instructors and class schedules. Also watch for announcements about a new yoga studio opening in Sooke this fall.

More about yoga can be learned by watching the beautiful DVD Yoga Unveiled by Gita and Mukesh Desai, available from the Sooke library. Other informative websites include yogajournal.com (library, blog and daily insights) and traditionalyogastudies.com (articles, glossary, online courses).    MM

Kathryn Kusyszyn, BA, RNCP is a nutritionist and yoga instructor in Sooke. www.yogakat.ca

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