Calm the mind and body
HOUGHTON – Donations are not a pre-requisite however discretionary donations are welcome as this is the only source of funding for these classes.
Many of the older generations of Joburgers will remember The Wilds Nature Reserve as a welcoming sanctuary, a popular place for wedding photographs and a family recreational venue.
After years of increasing crime and prolonged neglect, however, The Wilds seemed to have seen the end of the road and was all but written-off.
Photographer Carl Ballot noted, however, that this public gem had been revived through the remarkable vision, tenacity and leadership of artist James Delaney and a community of volunteers. He added that one of the activities that illustrated the reserve’s revival was an outdoor yoga class, welcoming everybody (as long as you have a body, breath and a mat.) to the Giraffe Lawn every Sunday at 8:00.
Classes vary to some degree from week to week and include elements of African Kemetic yoga, yoga flow and ecstatic dance. A typical week sees some newcomers and there are also regulars who have made this time their own for several months.
According to Ballot, yoga, it seems, is continuing to gain popularity exponentially, and is essentially the science and philosophy of well-being (all about connection, anchored in the ever-present breath of ‘the moment’). “It is increasingly touted, especially in the craziness of our world today, that regularly taking some time out to invest in self is hugely important – and enjoyable,” he said.
“The invitation is open to all – to stretch, calm the mind, breathe and, in short, ‘reset’ yourself while having fun in these beautiful surroundings. Soul food.” He added that the classes were organised and led by Dale de Klerk of #BeingMe Yoga Studio, with Jarrod Levin, Iva Amidzic and other instructors offering something different from time to time.
“There is no fixed or compulsory charge for taking part, although discretionary donations are welcome as this is the only source of funding for these classes. The ability to donate is certainly not a pre-requisite to joining in, and everybody is welcome including family groups, first-time yogis and everybody who already embraces yoga as a core part of their wellness regime.”
Details: To find out more, follow Friends of the Wilds, Joburg or BeingMe Yoga Studio on Facebook, send Dale de Klerk a WhatsApp message on 083 449 7040 or simply arrive shortly before 8:00 on a Sunday (weather permitting).
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