Modern vs traditional yoga

Yoga is known for the mental and physical benefits that it has brought to the western world. There have been medical researchers in the world that have recognised the benefits of yoga and meditation to overcome depression and anxiety.

In the Hindu history, there was a feeling that those who were practicing yoga, particularly in the early days, where mentally disturbed or did not have a good relationship with their parents. If we look at the world we live in, I am not surprised why thousands of people have decided to stretch their body!

But how far did we go with yoga? At the beginning there were ‘hippies’ who had the opportunity to transform a trip in India into a spiritual journey bringing the practice to the western world and transforming it into a business.

Since the ‘boom’ of yoga, I have noticed that there are more qualified teachers than students. There are bizarre businesses created with the knowledge of chakras, mantra, mudras and chants.

I have started to search more online to find out what it is going on around the world. Here is just a snapshot of the madness out there:

‘Orgasmic Yoga Institute’ in Canada for individuals, couples and groups. Orgasmic yoga has been known for the last twenty-five years and explores the potential of erotic massage and mindful masturbation. The practice comes from ‘sexological body workers’ who are essentially sexual educators who support individuals and couples to teach them more about the body, sex and sexuality, working on sexual issues or concerns. They refer to ‘The new school of erotic touch and body electric’.

If you are in Canada you may want to try ‘Ganja Yoga’. Yes that’s right, Ganja yoga! Ms Dussault teaches Ganja yoga in her studio and at the Hot Box Café in Toronto’s Kensington market last Friday of every month. A 90 minutes class with live music and nibbles after the class. You have to bring your own pot and the students will have an initial informal chat with the teacher to see if they attend the class just to get stoned. I know, I cannot believe it either!!!!

If you are dynamic, energetic and a fashionista, Voga Yoga is for you. Founded by Juliet Murrella, a set designer in the fashion, film and design industry. She qualified as a yoga teacher in 2011 in India. You’ll get to dress in 80s attire, exercising to the beat of great tunes. This will make you feel confident to make moves with your body.

Have you heard about Doga? You will be able to practice yoga with your best friend: your doggy. That’s right! Founded by Mahny Djahanguiri, a children book’s writer and an animal lover. Will you be able to perform the Upward-Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana) pose better than your dog?

There are yoga’s classes for all, but if you feel like a bit ‘old school ‘ there are low cost classes in UK. Teachers are qualified in India under Swami Ramdev. The classes are focused on breathing exercises (pranayama) and physical postures (asanas). Click here to find out more.

How about you, have you found your balance in this modern world? Are you more traditional or westernised?

Namaste.