KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 – Work demands. Family responsibilities. Social obligations. In our relentless pursuit of success, we often lose sight of what keeps us grounded.
Yet, the recently concluded Iyengar Yoga Festival 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, organised by yoga school BKS Iyengar Yogashala, demonstrated how yoga can be a powerful tool for managing life’s demands.
The event, held from June 21-23, was more than just a celebration of yoga; it was a testament to the versatility of this practice, and its potential to enhance overall wellbeing to attain work-life balance, reported FreeMalaysiaToday.com.
“In our daily work, our focus is constantly outward, engaging all our senses in external activities. Dedicating just one hour or 90 minutes to yoga helps prepare you for the rest of your day,” BKS Iyengar Yogashala founder Sri Nanda Kumar told FMT Lifestyle.
“This time serves as a way to recharge, enabling you to work more efficiently, stay focused, and become more aware of the outside world through a deeper understanding of your own being.”
This year’s festival embraced inclusivity: whether you’re a homemaker juggling multiple roles, a corporate warrior glued to your desk, or someone with limited physical abilities, there was something for everyone.
It drew participants from across Asia, uniting seasoned practitioners and curious beginners alike.
“Yoga is inclusive because it focuses on bringing awareness to the body, breath and mind, which are fundamental to every human being. This makes it accessible and beneficial to everyone, regardless of religion, race, gender, or location,” Sri Nanda added.
The sessions were crafted to highlight how the adaptive methods of Iyengar yoga – developed by and named after Indian yogi B K S Iyengar – can meet the unique needs of different populations.
The festival’s opening sessions on Pranayama breathing techniques and meditation were particularly impactful. These practices are foundational in Iyengar yoga, helping to cultivate a centred mind and a balanced nervous system.
For those juggling demanding careers and personal responsibilities, these techniques provide much-needed respite, allowing for moments of tranquillity amidst the chaos.
The “Yoga for Homemakers and Homeworkers” session was particularly relevant for those who spend long hours balancing work and household responsibilities. Additionally, gentle yoga for elders and those with limited physical abilities underscored the practice’s inclusivity, ensuring everyone, regardless of age or physical condition, could reap its benefits.
Day two brought a different energy as athletes and sports enthusiasts gathered for sessions such as “Yoga & Sports for Runners” and “Intensive Yoga on Backbends”.
Imagine the synergy between the discipline of running and the flexibility of yoga, as participants discovered how this practice could enhance recovery, prevent injuries, and boost overall performance.
The final day of the festival saw specialised sessions like “Yoga for Menstruation” and “Yoga for Pregnancy”, highlighting how Iyengar yoga supports various life stages and provides tools to nurture and support your body.
Inspired by the festival? BKS Iyengar Yogashala offers classes tailored for everyone, including corporate wellness programmes designed to alleviate workplace stress and enhance productivity.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, incorporating yoga into our daily routines might just be the key to achieving true work-life harmony.
