The Yogi Speaks
First Published : 22 Apr 2011 12:23:00 AM IST
Last Updated : 22 Apr 2011 08:46:59 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Kamlesh Barwal, who has come to the city for the first time, is very happy with the enthusiasm Hyderabadis have shown towards yoga. She says, “It is wonderful to see so many smiling faces waiting for me. People of various age groups and from various walks of life are attending this workshop.”
The trainer is happy with the attendance of youngsters at the workshop as well. She further adds, “There are lots of youngsters who have joined the workshop. It makes me happy to see that they are more health conscious now and are working out. Yoga is our culture and they are going back to their tradition and roots, which is a good sign for the nation.”The workshop in the city is different from the ones conducted in other cities. According to Barwal, “Primarily, we are focusing on few asanas and pranayam. Whereas, in other cities we conduct advanced workshops and also hold teachers teaching programmes.”When asked whether Sri Sri Yoga is different from other yoga schools, Barwal replies, “Yoga by definition means union. Basically, the content is the same, but the method of delivering the content may be different. Yoga helps you connect with yourself and there are various techniques that have been passed down by many sages and maharishis. However, various institutes have adapted different techniques for this.”There is more commitment towards practice in foreign countries when compared to India. She says, “Commitment towards yoga practice is still maturing in India.The awareness has cropped up in the last five to six years. There are many young people who are committing towards a healthy lifestyle. The scenario is quite different in aboard nations. People there are more committed practitioners and have high levels of concentration.” According to the yogi, “Gym really helps to build up muscles and even refreshes your mind to a certain a extent. Whereas, yoga is more powerful. Youngsters, at this age, need detoxification of mind and from various emotions they are going through. This where yoga jumps in. Yoga gives you answers on how to control your numerous emotions such as anger, jealousy, stress.”It is also very important to take time out for rhythmic breathing, Sudarshan Kriya and meditation. She explains, “These three forms of yoga are very important as it not only creates a completely positive human begin but makes you healthy inside out. That is what I want for the society.”She was first introduced to the Art of Living at a very young age.This yoga instructor had a a rough time when she was in college as her health was not good.So she joined the art of living for maintaining good health and to overcome the college stress. What began as a practice soon turned into a lifestyle. She was inspired by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, his lifestyle and good deeds.She recalls, “I was always a humanitarian. I always wanted to help people and I found it in Art of Living. Initially, I was just a volunteer and I use to teach English in underprivileged schools and used to do satsangs as well. It brought me immense joy and I knew what I wanted to do in life”.This workshop is also seen as a fund raiser. Depending upon the city and the course, everybody has to contribute. This collection is then transferred to the Art of Living trust.
