Unity through Yoga

Largest yoga class in Africa

What drove 700 people from all walks of life in Cape Town, South Africa to Maynardville Park on a lazy Saturday morning?

The rain notwithstanding, everyone stood in neat rows and followed the instructions of a Sri Sri Yoga teacher.

From standing in the warrior yoga posture to the downward dog posture, people were happy to gently stretch and pull their bodies. Some quiet, almost meditative as they moved from one posture to another – others laughed as they experienced postures, they never have before.

The atmosphere was charged, with the sound of Aum as the sun broke through the clouds, lighting up people’s faces through the drizzle.

As the rain got heavier, the teacher, Gerlinde Vassen suggested people stop the class to get under cover, but the participants continued, saying they didn’t mind the rain.

Copenhagen goodwill Ambassador, Laura Lykkegaard Selander said, “My family had a fantastic time, I hope you do it again!”

November 20, 2010, became significant as it marked the largest yoga class on the African continent.

The yoga class marked the start of the Art of Living festival. Good health was the flavor of the day as over 60 stalls exhibited amongst others, organic food and holistic therapies.

Children had their faces painted and got to meet their favorite character, Barney, while the parents took part in the yoga, had a massage or browsed through the stalls.

A diverse line up of bands and other live entertainment including Generations for Change dance group, kept the festive atmosphere vibrant, despite the weather. People from all walks of life attended the festival, showing Cape Town that we really all do belong to a One World Family.