The diverse advantages of yoga are no secret; and on May 7, 2017, Medstead got a closer look at these benefits. During a retreat taking place at the Village Hall between noon and 4:30 p.m., numerous participants had the opportunity to partake in a restorative and informative session of this physical art. The origins of these occasions are credited to Barbara Janzen, who, through a compelling narrative, brought this rejuvenation and relaxation to the community.
Janzen was once the Tae Kwon Do instructor in Medstead and had successfully applied for a sports grant through the Saskatchewan Lotteries Community Grant Program. A change of circumstance precluded her teaching her native sport, which, she indicates, is what led her to yoga. Getting to know first-hand the benefits of yoga, and knowing that the funds needed to be allocated to a sporting activity, Janzen decided to commence with these retreats.
Janzen indicated that, at first, the grant covered the entire cost of the event. Since the funds have dwindled the grant is covering just hall rental costs. The coverage is at times left to the discretion of those dispersing the grant. This is a great benefit as it allows for the charge per person to be a mere $30. On May 7, this nominal fee covered the lessons taught, as well as the tea break which separated the four hour session. According to Janzen, since the start of the retreats it has been the same group of ladies who attend.
The retreat was instructed by Pamela Sexsmith, a yoga teacher based out of Lloydminster, who has been the instructor since the inception of these events two years ago. In this time, Medstead has hosted four yoga retreats. This particular event had a focus on gentle, restorative yoga.
The commencing two hours of the May 7 retreat included gentle stretching and detoxification techniques, whereas the latter portion of the event had its focus on relaxation techniques. Sexsmith practices largely in Tibetan yoga, and brought with her a Tibetan Acupressure Mat. According to the organizer, participants walked across in an experience akin to a bed of nails and received reflexology treatment through the soles of their feet.
Yoga is certainly gaining in popularity, with a number of classes and retreats across the region and province at large. Some retreats within the district area have incorporated activities other than yoga, including Reiki healing and the creations of Malla necklaces. As noted in conversation with Janzen, these necklaces are adornments worn by yogis to focus on meditation in a way that is not dissimilar to counting prayers on a rosary.
As to the personal significance of these retreats, Janzen noted, “I personally find that they are so soothing. (You) go in and chill for the day and come home and sleep like a baby.”
There are a plethora of different types of yoga, regions of origin, and benefits to be had there from. Varying from yoga for insomnia, pain, relaxation or rejuvenation, there truly are benefits to be had for every person. According to Janzen, four hours can seem like a lot, but those that attend know that it is a very relaxing experience, stating, “Taking a day to relax and be good to yourself, it’s a positive thing.”
On an optimistic note, locals will have another opportunity to dispel stress and restore balance as another event is being planned for the fall season. This is likely to occur in August or September. The organizer has indicated the potential of expanding the curriculum of the upcoming event, with the possibility of including Reiki healing. Given the success of the preceding four seminars, including the May 7 retreat, undoubtedly the autumn endeavour will be a positive and soothing experience for all attendees.
