Yoga makes you a kinder person

If your friends have dropped hints about anger management classes more than once, you might want to listen up. Canadian-based yoga instructor and ‘blissologist’ Eoin Finn says that his form of yoga makes you a “kinder person.”

If your friends have dropped hints about anger management classes more than once, you might want to listen up. Canadian-based yoga instructor and ‘blissologist’ Eoin Finn says that his form of yoga makes you a “kinder person.”

“Blissology is about turning ancient teachings into an expression that modern people can understand,” explains Finn. “It’s about combining the physical aspects of yoga with sensitivity to the body’s needs. This reflects in your relationships with family, friends and the environment.”

A yoga practitioner since 1987, Finn moved to Hawaii, which he describes as one of the “Meccas of Ashtanga Yoga.” “The way yoga is taught in the west is very different from what’s promoted in India,” he says.

“It almost feels like it became more popular in India after it became a hit in the west. In India, you need to be a very serious aspirant to become a yogi. But while there is much emphasis on discipline, you don’t come away with a lightness of heart.”

He admits that while many look at the ancient practice as just another slimming exercise, there are enough that take it very seriously. “People do use the physical aspect of it to lose weight and tone up, and that’s very popular in the west. But there are many others who really take it seriously and even take on ancient Sanskrit names because they connect with the teachings. Since our society has turned away from religion because of the way it’s been politicised, people are looking for some form of moral and ethical guidance, which they find in yoga,” Finn explains.

Eoin Finn’s workshop is on November 27th and 28th from 10 am to 12.30 pm at Yoga Sutra, Chinoy Mansion, Warden Road. Call 32107067.