For Haseena Nazar, yoga is just an exercise that is beneficial to mental and physical health. She sweeps away the notion of yoga being a religious activity or affiliated with any particular religion.
“Yoga helps a person to have a healthy mind and thoughts, and this, in turn, will have a positive effect on the body,” Haseena, an instructor for seven years at Art of Living Abu Dhabi, said.
Haseena had to undergo seven surgeries with uterus-related problems. It was then that Bindu Anil, a friend, introduced Haseena to the world of yoga. And it worked like a miracle cure for her.
“After I started practising yoga, I never needed another surgery,” she said. “Bindu was my teacher too. I had a hormonal imbalance and other physical issues but there were big improvements once I started yoga.”
Yoga, she said, has helped her recover mentally and physically. “I started practising yoga 13 years back.” And her association with the Art of Living centre is 10 years old now. She is among the most experienced instructors at the centre.
Despite religious controversies and myths about yoga, Haseena’s family never discouraged her from joining yoga classes. “My family has realised the benefits of doing yoga. My husband also does yoga. This is good for physical and mental health,” Haseena said.
She said the United Nations declaring June 21 as the International Yoga Day has helped connect the entire world. “Yoga is an exercise which is extremely beneficial for the expats. We live a very stressful life and yoga helps tackle depression and anxiety,” Haseena said.
She said many people have benefitted from yoga classes. “Everyone knows about the benefits. We have some 50 teachers and hundreds attending the classes.”
She pointed out that many youngsters are now joining the classes. “We have one as young as six years in the ‘Little Angel’ group.”
She said anyone can feel the difference and benefit from a six-day course. “Just try breathing exercise Sudarshan Kriya. It will relieve the body of stress and help have a sound mind,” Haseena said when asked about most popular asana.
Haseena’s students said their instructor is an inspiring figure and someone who has benefitted immensely from yoga.
“When we learnt about how she has benefited, we too joined classes here,” a student said, as the batch gathered for an Iftar at the centre.
Haseena’s group took part in the International Yoga Day celebrations being held at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
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