Muscat – During Ramadan, the holy month of devotion, gratitude and self-discipline, it is important to keep the body and mind strong. Fasting, when accompanied with effective yoga practices, has shown to be a powerful source of detoxification and strength. In order to assist ladies in achieving mindfulness and relaxation during the month of Ramadan, Aasana Yoga Studio in Muscat has introduced ‘Ramadan Yoga’ sessions.

Yoga is an effective detoxification and purification technique for the mind and body. Mild asanas and pranayama help to balance the body’s cycles during the fasting days, reducing migraines and headaches. “When combined with fasting, breathing techniques such as Kapalbhati and other yoga techniques produce immediate results. These calm the mind, lowering stress and boosting focus and sleep quality,” said Shobha Naik, lead instructor at Aasana Yoga Studio.

With relaxing asanas and mild stretches, these sessions have been specially designed for women who are fasting to help them to continue yoga during Ramadan. “These yoga sessions during Ramadan have been really helpful. These have not only made me feel active during the day while fasting but also given me mental strength to deal with stress and remain calm,” said Maymwona al Mahrazi, a participant of the Ramadan Yoga sessions.

Mahesh Naik, who has been running Aasana Yoga Studio for the past four years, said, “We wanted the women who regularly practise yoga with us to continue doing so during this month, as well as facilitate new women to embark on this journey that improves the quality of life.”

While the primary goal of fasting is to become closer to God and demonstrate empathy, it is also beneficial for cell regeneration, weight management, and maintaining a young and healthy lifestyle. Yoga provides comparable advantages, and practising it while fasting can have remarkable effects.

“I have fibromyalgia and constant migraines, yet I feel completely different after these Ramadan Yoga sessions. Because of my illness, I used to find it difficult to move and had little energy during the days of fasting, but practising yoga has truly been a magical experience for me,” said Heidi Elborlossey, describing her experience with the sessions.

Yoga is an ideal way to gain a positive outlook and spontaneity in life during this holy month, when the entire country is blanketed in a peaceful atmosphere, eliminating distractions and focusing on religion, introspection and family bonding.

(Contributed by Aashna Sanghani)