Vik Vad is not your typical yoga practitioner. Emerging from an afternoon class at a local studio in basketball pants and a T-shirt off the rack of a trendy South Congress outfitter, he scrambles to change into a smart suit and tie combination. After all, he has to give a speech in an hour, as he is a candidate running to be elected as the local Tax Collector and Voter Registrar. “I actually used to teach yoga, but now I only have time to take a class before getting back to campaigning,” he laughs. “But a once-a-day yoga practice is very important to me—it gives me balance, focus, and a nice workout too!”
In recent years, Austin has become a hub for yoga enthusiasts, and the number of studios and schools throughout the city has mushroomed. With styles ranging from sweaty routines in hot rooms, to posture and breath control, to quiet candlelit meditation settings, the scene offers something for anyone interested, or just curious. “It’s really a healthy way to spend time, meet new friends, and draw attention to the mind and body,” Vik states. “But this modern trend actually has its roots in a very disciplined, and spiritual practice for complete integration and well-being,” he adds.
This central Texas town is also the state capital, and center of a very active political community. And when you have a booming novelty like yoga in such a place, the two can mix in very eclectic ways. “It’s funny, people ask me how a peaceful, inclusive pastime can possibly blend with something so contentious,” Vik Vad says with a grin. “Yoga gives a person a steady mind, that is difficult to disturb even during conflict, and the ability to understand the many facets of an issue, even if forced to choose only one course of action.” We trust that he means that even in the political battleground, one can find some semblance of accord.
Whatever the outcome of the coming November election, if yoga and politics can so seamlessly mix, then perhaps anything is possible.
source: www.prweb.com
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