An ascetic discipline. A form of simple mediation. A recommended practice for health and relaxation. Yoga is defined as all of this and more; it is a lifestyle. In the words of Sanskruti Swad, a student of Lodha World School, Palava, and national level Yoga competitor, "Yoga is a medium to connect to my higher self and seek the peace of mind whenever things get too tiring or if I ever feel like I've lost myself in the crowd. Yoga liberates me in a way that feels very safe and comfortable. At Lodha World School, Palava, my yoga coach, Harshad Nere, guided me throughout this beautiful journey. Because of the support I have received from my surroundings, I reached the National Level of competitive Yoga at just the age of 13. I am thankful to Palava for everything it has given me."
On the occasion of 'International Yoga Day,' citizens of Palava came together to practise a lifestyle they lead daily. Owing to the rainy weather and keeping in mind the health of the young and old, the yoga session was held indoors at Lakeshore Greens. The Palava City Management Association organised the 'Yoga Hour' led by resident Monika Pawar, a Yoga Naturopath. She is pursuing her Master's in Yoga Therapy and is the founder of Yoga.Fitnesse, which offers classes in Lakeshore Greens. Accompanying her was Mr. Shinde.
Beginning with the introduction of Yoga and simple dynamic breathing exercises, the hour-and-a-half basic yoga session included Vakrasan, Bhujangasan, Virabhadrasana II followed by Tadasana, Utkatasana, and the challenging Suryanamaskar. The enthusiastic audience of over 100 residents, including a 12-year-old and a 65-year-old, motivated one other to perfect their posture and increase their hold.
While chatting with Monika post the session, we learned what made her begin her journey as an entrepreneur. She said, "Being a yoga teacher and practitioner, I always wished to have my sessions in an environment that facilitates me with all the basic elements of life - Air, Water, Sky, and pure oxygen. At Palava, I found them all, and it led to a remarkable change in myself as well as my teaching practices that led to me launching ‘Yoga.Fitnesse."
As said by Mae West, “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” And we are humbled to witness Palava offer the opportunity to make the right choices.