Beachcombers strolling past Magnolia Terrace on Hollywood Beach will encounter more than the crisp, blue ocean and rainbow-colored beach umbrellas. They will also see rows of people situated on mats or towels undulating in unison under the gentle guidance of yoga instructor Tiffany Weber while Eastern music and burning incense fill the air.
They are participants in Hollywood Beach Yoga, the latest activity on the Beach that is quickly gaining popularity among an eclectic and loyal following. They come together on the Beach for an hour of inspiration and exercise and to share a sense of community all for no cost. Participants can make a donation if they wish.
A recent graduate of the Aananda Yoga Teacher Training located in Ft. Lauderdale, Weber was inspired to establish the Hollywood Beach Yoga movement in response to her perceived need for a place where people from all walks of life can benefit from the healing powers of yoga. She envisioned an opportunity where participation is not limited to an individual’s financial disposition. Her desire was to establish a yoga practice where no one is turned away because of his or her inability to pay. Everyone is welcome at Hollywood Beach Yoga.
“Hatha yoga dates back to the 15th century in India,” Weber said. “It was developed to purify the body prior to entering a deep state of meditation. It is practiced to promote physical and mental health, and it induces a profound sense of well-being.”
Rita Regev, a Sunny Isles real estate executive, is an avid participant and big supporter of Hollywood Beach Yoga. She uses the yoga classes as a tool for managing stress and bringing balance to her life.
“The morning sessions prepare me for my hectic days with increased energy and a sense of spiritual well-being,” she said.
Although information about the classes can be found on meetup.com, much of its explosive growth is attributed to word-of-mouth as new participants share their positive experiences with friends and co-workers. For example, Abelina Cardona heard about the spiritual get together through a co-worker. She likes to attend the evening sessions to unwind after her busy work day at a local branch of a major bank.
“Tiffany’s yoga sessions provide me with the perfect outlet to detoxify from work and escape from life’s distractions,” she said. “I feel cheated every time I miss a class.”
Classes meet Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. at 2501 S. Ocean Drive.
For more information, contact Tiffany Weber at 954-551-9265 or visit http://www.meetup.com/Hollywood-Beach-Yoga/events/17235366/#comments.
