VIETNAM, November 20, 2005: While the Vietnamese are enjoying the benefits of development, some of the accompanying pitfalls – stressful jobs, less time for extracurricular activities, and maybe even a few extra pounds – have inspired many women to take up yoga, a simple, healthy answer to all of these problems.
Trung Hieu and Thanh Ha report: Hao, a woman selling sweetened porridge on Yen Phu Street, was so passionately reading a book she did not realize that we were standing there. Finally Hao looked up. She smiled and explained that she was focusing on studying the yoga techniques in her book. She is one among thousands of women in Ha Noi who have been lured by yoga and both its physical and mental health benefits. Nguyen Thu Hang, 29, sales manager of a Japanese joint venture company, said she had switched from practising aerobics to yoga. “I am so busy and stressed at work and my boyfriend suggested that I try yoga and meditation. My mind becomes more tranquil and peaceful each day that I practise it,” she said.
Thai Van, a trainee at the yoga club on Dang Thai Than Street, said her class usually has 20 women of different ages and just a few men. Previously, practising yoga was considered a “luxury” for rich and intellectual people only. Today, it has become fairly common, attracting people from all different social classes, especially young women. Women trainees in yoga classes in Ha Noi may come from different walks of life, but they are all friendly to each other, making for a pleasant class experience.