Meditation, relaxation and exercises to improve posture were the themes of a special yoga class recently conducted for women in Sharjah. The “Yoga In The Island” session was held recently at Al Noor Island, one of Sharjah’s latest and most picturesque tourist and leisure destinations, in collaboration with Sharjah Ladies Club.

Timed to take place as the sun was rising, the “Yoga In The Island” session attracted around 50 women, where they enjoyed the spiritual lift that the island’s ambiance offers. The morning session was conducted by popular yoga guru Aksana, who led the ladies through a series of exercises designed to benefit their minds, bodies and souls.

“Al Noor Island’s landscaping and facilities were inspired by nature, with the goal being to create the perfect central destination for its residents and visitors to relax in and enjoy peace of mind. The Island is designed to create a tranquil and calm haven for all away from the noisy city - we are delighted that Sharjah’s women enjoyed their early morning yoga class at the island,” said Marwah Obaid Al Shamsi, Manager of Al Noor Island.

Khawla Al Serkal, Director General of Sharjah Ladies Club said: “At Sharjah Ladies Club we are committed to communicating with institutions and organisations whose vision it is to elevate the role of women in the UAE and to contribute to their advancement in all spheres of society. Ourinvolvement in this event forms part of our strategy to facilitate Sharjah Ladies Club members' participation in an array of diverse activities - we were delighted that the club’s Yoga trainer Aksana presented the Yoga session in such a simple yet fun and engaging way.”

The ladies attending the hour-long sunrise yoga session at Al Noor Island came from a variety of cultural backgrounds, with some beginners in the discipline and others more advanced

practitioners. All were led through a series of exercises by Aksana, with practices focusing on breathing, meditation and posture flexing. At the conclusion of the session, a number of ladies praised the ideal environment for the activity, with its relaxing and soothing views over the Khalid Lake. They requested that the session be repeated regularly, weather permitting.

Designed to combine art and nature in harmony, Al Noor Island was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah in December last year in a move timed to coincide with the emirate being selected as the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2015. More than 28,000 people visited the destination in its first month of being opened to the public.