Why Yogathon?  Why not!

AUGUST 1, 2017

Why Yogathon?
Why not!

By Chelsea Lees

As the hot summer days persevere, we are yet again looking forward to the upcoming annual Yogathon event. If you are unaware of what this amazing endeavour entails, it is certainly a spectacle worth partaking in at least once.

Considered to be one of the world’s largest charity events, cities from around the world join together to complete 108 sun salutations in attempts to raise funds and awareness for a very special program, Care for Children. 

This program is committed to bringing free education to India’s rural population of children, providing opportunities that are not otherwise found.  So far, they have been responsible for the education of over 55,000 kids. By coming together to practice yoga, this year on August 19th, we are not only financially contributing to this cause, but we will be contributing energetically as well. 

Santosha’s own Lisa Tierney taught a portion of the event last year. “The energy was amazing, I felt so honoured to be able to lead some sun salutations at the Yogathon,” said Lisa. “I was 7 months pregnant with our sweet boy and it felt like a gift for both him and I to soak in the energy of the collective. “So many people coming together for such a great cause is an inspirational experience to say the least. “I saw so many friends from the yoga community and I was reminded how strong we are when we stand, or in this case, downward dog together.”

The event has become so big that the venue had to be changed this year. What could once fit in Stephen’s Avenue has now been moved to the River Walk. Think yoga on a big scale.  Hundreds of participants gather together to complete 108 sun salutations, it truly cultivates a sense of awe. Charitable perspective aside, it is a firm indicator of just how strong our yoga community is here in Calgary.  Teachers and practitioners from a number of studios and backgrounds gain this unique opportunity to come together and achieve something profound. 

The results can be nothing short of remarkable.

Alanda Hager, another one of Santosha’s teachers, attended last year’s Yogathon as a practitioner. “It was a pretty happy go-lucky community vibe,” said Alanda. “There were free massages from Massage Heights, so when I got tired I went over and got a free shoulder massage. “You get to be a part of the Santosha community. If you are already a part of the community, you get to practice with all of your yoga friends.”

Whether you are down for some good yoga, good community time, or good karma, sign up to be a part of the Santosha Yogathon team! It is certainly worthwhile attending!  #Riseforthecause!