Yoga; which originated in ancient India is a group of mental, physical and spiritual disciplines. A method of building awareness, strength and harmony in the mind and body; there are many benefits of yoga both physical and spiritual, which are increased flexibility, improved respiration, improved energy, vitality, cardio and circulatory health. In addition yoga helps in managing stress and improves a person’s mental well-being.
Over the last decade, Yoga has to some extent become a fad and trend in Colombo with some of the the authenticity of the practice being diluted by snob-value and sometimes a distorted portrayal of what Yoga truly stands for. In order to do justice to this extremely enduring discipline that requires total focus and commitment, we have picked a few places we could recommend to you to experience the genuine wisdom and pure practice of yoga.
Nanda Sri Hatha Yoga Institute: Our recommended service for technical excellence. A yoga centre spearheaded by Nanda Siriwardene, a local guru and popular practitioner who had learned from guru, Srikanth Abey who in turn was a student of world-famous B.K.S. Iyengar. There are three branch centres across Colombo. They teach methodical practices of asanas, pranayam, satkarmas, mudras and bandhas along with patient support guidance helping with correct positioning according to their physical capabilities. Contact: Tel: +94 112 810 671 / +94 777 264 034 E-mail: nandasri@sltnet.lk
Yoga with Shameema: A quiet retreat in Colombo 5, where the authentic practice of yoga is conducted in small groups amidst serene and homely surroundings with a waterfront and landscaped garden. Offering practices of Hatha yoga with asanas in Vinyasa style aimed at building strength, endurance and flexibility in the body as well as Pranayam which are beneficial in helping to strengthen the immune system where the lungs are made stronger so as to combat external germs. The style of yoga that is conducted is rather strenuous since it is more or less a body workout unlike the traditional slow moving yoga which is essential for those wanting to stay fit and tone the body whilst maintaining the balance of strength, focus and endurance. The instructor, also offers therapy and specialized sessions for those with backache, shoulder pain, and spondylosis among similar physical challenges. It is a place that has gained popularity purely through word of mouth and a following of over hundred regular participants without even a website for its promotions. Contact: Tel: +94 777 650 268 / +94 112 583 787 E-mail: shamima_hafeel@yahoo.com
Astanka Yoga Mandir: This reputable yoga centre which has been in operation for over 25 years, provides facilities and resources to learn and practice Yoga and even certified programmes for becoming a yoga instructor. They are affiliated to the Indian Cultural Centre and their intentions are to increase mental and physical health through the practice of Yoga. Astanka Yoga means the eight fold path; intended to improve the quality of life, wisdom and spiritual knowledge. Contact: Tel: +94 777 274 859 / +94 112 554759 E-mail: aym.lanka@gmail.com
The Om Space: Our recommendation for fun vibes and a relaxed session; a dedicated yoga studio, claiming to be Colombo’s first, located in Kirulapone. A variety of classes of different levels of practice of Hatha, Vinyasa, Sivandanda and Kundalini yoga are offered at this studio. There are workshops and excursions throughout the year which do help deepen the practice of yoga. The centre also offers reiki, Indian head massage, reflexology and even oracle card readings. Contact: Tel: +94 114 514 866 E-mail: theomspaceyoga@gmail.com
