Elgin Yoga Centre having open day
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Elgin Yoga Centre is holding an open day this Saturday to allow more folk to learn about the practice.
Paul Gibson, who runs the centre, used to combine yoga with being a stonemason.
However he hung up his tools during lockdown and is now a full-time teacher.
The 44-year-old believes everyone can benefit both physically and mentally from its stretching and breathing exercises.
Paul says: "Yoga has been around for about 7000 years, so if it's a 'fad' it's certainly been a very long-lasting one.
"And, now, modern technology is starting to prove that its benefits are valid.
"The idea behind the open day is to encourage people along who don't know much about yoga or are a bit nervous about walking into a class.
"Yoga's image is that it's quite gymnastic, but I tailor every class to the people who are in it.
"It really is something that can help everyone feel better."
Paul adds with a laugh: "One local football club are coming along to classes now, so if they are playing in the Champions League next season then I'm claiming the credit."
Paul was just winding up a session when the Northern Scot caught up with him this morning.
Among the class was Peter McKay, who looks years younger than his age of 76,
The former construction worker, who's one of the rising numbers of men coming along, says yoga has cured him of his back problems.
Lieselotte Franke, meanwhile, took it up after being told by a doctor that she needed a hip replacement.
That was two years ago and the Roseisle resident is still going strong.
Also present was Charis Edward Wells, who said: "I love the way it makes me feel as well as the fact that it's not competitive."
Meanwhile, Paula Harte stated her posture has vastly improved since she took up yoga.
Paul's own mum, Betty, will be running a stall at the Elgin Farmers Market on Saturday directing folk to the centre which is on the second floor above Focus Martial Arts on Thunderton Place.
Betty also took up the practise earlier this year after Paul persuaded her.
She said: "I feel so much better it isn't true. I've also lost a lot of weigh and I'm much more flexible."
The Elgin Yoga Centre's open day is on from noon-4pm on Saturday, August 20, with refreshments available.
More information about both the day and the centre's regular classes is available on its website as well as by emailing info@elginyogacentre.com
Paul can also be contacted on 07867 976959.
The centre also welcomes guest teachers once a month from the Classical Yoga School which has a studio in Perth.
