Shazia Omar

Preventing dementia through yoga

High cortisol levels — produced during prolonged stress — can damage the hippocampus

1d ago

The hidden crisis: Exclusion of women from wellness spaces in Bangladesh

A woman’s self-actualisation, growth, and productivity are directly tied to her well-being. When women are deprived of holistic wellness, it affects families,

1m ago

How wellness retreats can boost mental health

Wellness retreats offer a transformative break from routine, blending meditation, yoga, and nature’s healing power. They promote inner peace, rejuvenation, and personal growth, providing tools to return home refreshed, balanced, and reconnected with oneself.

2m ago

Sankalpa: Your personal mantra for a meaningful year

A sankalpa, often translated as “intention” or “resolve,” is a heartfelt vow that aligns your inner purpose with your actions. Unlike traditional New Year’s resolutions that focus on external achievements, a sankalpa emerges from your core desires and is rooted in a sense of self-awareness.

3m ago

Unlocking the secrets to a longer health span

By improving health span, individuals can enjoy an extended period of productivity, independence, and joy.

4m ago

Youth wellbeing: More than just a trendy hashtag

Physical wellbeing and mental wellbeing are inextricably linked. To empower our youth with the knowledge and skills needed to be healthy in mind, body and spirit, a systems approach must be adopted.

8m ago

Is yoga the secret to enhancing memory and learning?

Emerging research suggests that yoga may serve as a preventive measure against dementia and cognitive degeneration.

9m ago

Why journaling matters

The act of journaling is not merely putting pen to paper; it’s a gateway to self-discovery, a path to healing, and a way to navigate the bustling world with clarity and purpose. Journaling inspires creativity as a writer and a sense of self-acceptance, as one begins to see events and emotions from a different perspective. It also helps us rewrite our own narrative, once, twice, weekly, daily, until we find a story that empowers us; a story of learning and healing and growth.

1y ago
July 2, 2019
July 2, 2019

Lions Breath – Roar Away Your Toxins!

Arguably Simhasana is the funniest looking yoga pose, but also, Lion’s Breath is a powerful way to release toxins and clear your mind!

June 18, 2019
June 18, 2019

Tête-à-tête with Tim Feldmann

Tim is one of the most amazing yoga teachers I have come across. Prior to yoga, he was a dancer, but a near-lethal fall left him unable to walk. Years of yoga helped him rehabilitate and heal. Today, we will venture into his amazing story.

April 16, 2019
April 16, 2019

A tête-à-tête with George Anthony

I had the pleasure of meeting George, an inspiring yogi, on one of my yoga training getaways in Koh Samui. His dedication to the practice, his sincerity and his humour, his commitment to his students, caught my interest. After exchanging a few words, I asked him for an interview and here it is.

April 7, 2019
April 7, 2019

The rise in the popularity of yoga

If the body is stiff and the mind is rigid, what life can one live? The practice of yoga is to remove weeds from the body so that a garden can grow. Yoga stretches and strengthens the mind, body and spirit. No wonder yoga is the top choice for people living healthy lifestyles.

March 19, 2019
March 19, 2019

Interview of a yogi: Ulfath Kuddus

I am my mother's biggest fan, and growing up, I did everything she did- I basically wanted to be her! She was really into yoga (and Jane Fonda)

March 5, 2019
March 5, 2019

Interview of a Yogi: Helena Rosenthal

Helena Rosenthal first encountered the Ashtanga Vinyasa method when she was just 19 years old. For the past 11 years, she has taught at her own shala Ashtanga Pitanga in São Paulo, among many other local studios.

January 1, 2019
January 1, 2019

Repose in Every Pose: Relaxation on the Mat

One of my favourite books on yoga is 'Light on Life' by BKS Iyengar. Revisiting the text after a couple of years, I am once again inspired by the insight Iyengar offers yoga practitioners. Below, I have tried to highlight some of his recommendations for practicing yoga postures (asanas).

December 18, 2018
December 18, 2018

Kapal Bhati — Frontal Brain Purification

Kapal bhati is a kriya, or yogic practice, which invigorates the brain and awakens the dormant centres which are responsible for subtle perceptions. Kapal means forehead. Bhati means light, but also 'perception' or 'knowledge.'

September 18, 2018
September 18, 2018

Healing Experience in Thailand

The course I took was a holistic immersion into three limbs of yoga. The daily practice consisted of two hours of breath work (pranayama), two hours of meditation (dhyana), one hour of chanting, as well as one hour of exercise (asanas).

July 31, 2018
July 31, 2018

Pranayama – Expanding Your Energy

There is a vital energy or life force flowing through us all, maintaining physical functions that keep us alive and healthy. Various cultures have assigned different names for this single life force; Qi, Chi, The Force. The Sanskrit term for life force is “prana.”