Life style
Yoga – valuable tool to navigate challenges of modern life
‘A Yoga instructor’ is probably not the first answer you will hear from most people when you ask ‘What do you want to become one day’. So how is it Veena Fernando decided to follow this path? How did she realise that teaching and practising yoga helps to improve flexibility,strengh and body awareness. It may also relieve stress and anxiety
“For Veena Fernando, yoga is a lifestyle that guides her through clarity and awareness to her inner narrative and the relationship within herself and with others. “Yoga empowers me through confidence in owning and claiming my energetic power and being grateful to my body and breath. This practises which are now integrated into my lifestyle has helped me to overcome anxiety” said Veena .
is e mindful practice grew, she thought she had to take measures to share the joy and peace, she was experiencing from Yoga with many others
Veena Fernando, is one of the popular Yoga instructors, shares her views about the purpose of Yoga on your daily life and how to move towards a healthy lifestyle. Through her Yoga instructions, she hopes to motivate a new paradigm of intellectually active people and spirit and encourage to pursue this passion at any age.
Veena, is also a well known wildlife photographer . She echoes “Wildlife photography really ignites my soul. It is a way to share incredible experiences with animals”.
She says “Everyone dreams, only a few have the courage and conviction to turn them into reality. I am a Yoga instructor, whose dream was woven into reality’.
A firm believer in the power of the practice, she had a passion for Yoga from early childhood. This passion for Yoga got louder, clear, stronger everyday and I finally listened to my heart calling.
My mother was one of the first Yoga instructors in Sri Lanka, back then. She would hold classes and distribute papers filled with images and instructions on how to learn and follow Yoga practices, but strangely, my mother never encouraged me to follow in her footsteps, nor did she teach me Yoga, she said.
“My early interest is for Kandyan dance forms which connected me to physical fitness. Even after I got married and began raising two boys, I stayed committed to fitness at the gym”
Perhaps Yoga was part of her life and her initial foray was just a once a week classes. Then with the outbreak of pandemic, she turned inward and found solace in daily Yoga practices.
She continued ” It was during this time that I truly began to feel the pro found changes Yoga brought to my body and mind. Soon my curious mind delved me to crave deeper knowledge about this ancient practices,’ said Veena.
The turning point in my Yoga journey was joining the Myrus Fitness and yoga studio Colombo. From then onwards, I never turned back. My passion for yoga grew, I was determined to learn more about the techniques, the human body and the nervous system, meditation and the deeper aspects of Yoga, this became an intellectual and spiritual pursuit.Then I started to absorb as much knowledge as I could. It taught me how to love more , to accept my present moments fully and to be thankful for my life.”
After she completing her teacher training, she realised that the understanding she gained wasn’t something to be kept dormant. It is always her hope that she can share this wisdom with others.
That was her beginning of her journey This transformative journey what she experienced with herself and others gave her the confidence and strength to start and grow her business.
“The first thing I invested was her time and effort to articulate my message of Yoga effectively and communicate with a broad spectrum of potential Yoga followers”.
Can you talk about your clientele and types of yoga practises ?
As a yoga teacher. 1 focus on creating a balanced and supportive practice that resonates with my school clientele.
My teachings approach emphasize mindfulness. breath awareness, and postures that cater to mostly beginners who know nothing about yoga.
In this day and age with stress how you in the modern day?
Yoga offers valuable tools for navigating the challenges of modern life, providing physical, mental, and emotional benefits that are especially relevant in today’s fast-paced world.
How has yoga helped u in your daily life.?
The physical practice of asanas releases built-up tension, while meditation allows me to ground myself and let go of stress. This combination of movement and mindfulness gives me a sense of balance, making it easier to handle both personal and professional responsibilities. Through yoga, I find resilience and presence, which positively impacts every area of my life.
Wild life Photography is also Veena’s hobby
How did it feel after you taught your first ever class?
I felt a powerful mix of exhilaration and gratitude. It was such a rewarding experience to share this beautiful practice.
I felt humbled and inspired, knowing that I could help guide others towards inner peace and well-being. It affirmed that teaching or sharing my yoga knowledge was’t just a profession – it was a calling.
What do you think makes a good yoga teacher ?
A good yoga teacher creates a supportive, safe, and empowering environment that helps students find peace, strength, and confidence both on and off the mat.
As a instructor what is your mission, what do you like to achieve ?
As an instructor, my mission is to broaden people’s understanding of yoga as a holistic practice. Many see yoga purely as physical postures, but it’s so much more—a system of healing and self-care that offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental health.
I’m passionate about educating people on how practices like breathwork, or pranayama, can help manage conditions like high blood pressure by calming the nervous system, while specific asanas can support issues such as diabetes by enhancing circulation and supporting metabolic health.
Can you tell us about your classes do you incorporate medidation into them
Yes, I believe it’s a fundamental part of a complete yoga practice ?
I enjoy incorporating focused meditation techniques like Trataka (candle gazing) and third-eye meditation into my classes, especially for students who want to deepen their mindfulness practice.
Each class typically begins with a short meditation to help students center themselves, letting go of the distractions of the day and becoming present in the moment. This sets a mindful tone and allows them to connect with their breath and body more deeply.
What challenges does yoga help you to overcome ?
Yoga has been invaluable in helping me overcome a variety of challenges in my life: Managing stress and anxiety: Yoga helps me keep stress at bay, which is essential in my role as a business entrepreneur. Through practices like breathing and meditation, I’m able to release tension and approach daily challenges with a clearer, calmer mindset.
Maintaining Physical Health:
The physical aspect of yoga has helped me overcome stiffness, improve flexibility, and build strength,
Yoga has given me tools to approach life’s demands with a sense of ease and balance, helping me stay grounded and resilient amid the complexities of modern life.
What are your favourite part about being a yoga instructor ?
Witnessing students grow in their practice is incredibly rewarding. I love being part of their journey and seeing the positive changes in their lives. I get to help people to find peace,strengh and empowerment through teaching
I enjoy educating students about the holistic benefits of yoga, beyond just the physical postures. Sharing insights on breathing and meditation, and the philosophy of yoga allows me to inspire others and deepen their understanding of the practice Teaching yoga also encourages my own personal development. Each class is an opportunity for me to learn more about myself, refine my skills, and deepen my practices.
Pegasus Reef Hotel brought a refreshing twist to the festive season with its much awaited ‘Tropical Christmas’ themed holiday activities by lighting the Christmas Tree and welcoming Santa to the tropics a press release said. The celebrations provided a unique and joyful experience for the whole family, blending the traditional warmth of the festive season with the vibrancy of a tropical setting. The beautifully lit tropical Christmas tree set the tone for both an unforgettable evening and a magical holiday season for all. Guests enjoyed a host of activities including interactive elements for children, including surprise Christmas gifts and photo opportunities with Santa said the release.
The centre piece of the festivities was Santa who made a grand entrance to the event having escaped the cold of the North Pole, to spread the joys of Christmas to young and old in a warm tropical setting. This added to the ambience and brought out that true festive spirit. Tropical-inspired cocktails were available along with delicious food to offer additional flavour to the celebrations.
Commenting on the celebrations, Renuke Coswatte, General Manager of Pegasus Reef Hotel said, “Our Christmas celebrations have always been highly anticipated and has set the tone for the season. This year, by giving festive traditions a tropical twist, we were able to provide our guests, their friends and families a truly unforgettable start to the holiday season. From ‘Santa’s Welcome Party’ coupled with the ‘Tropical Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony’ and with what we have in store in December, the celebrations will truly be unforgettable.”
Pegasus Reef Hotel has garnered a reputation for hosting exciting festive events over the years, making it a top choice for year-end parties for all. So much so, that the hotels Christmas festivities are eagerly anticipated throughout the year. This year’s ‘Tropical Christmas’ celebration was an ideal opportunity for families, couples and friends to celebrate the season in a warm and inviting setting, that features activities for all.
Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Santa’s welcome party brought the magic of ‘Tropical Christmas’ to life blending traditional holiday festivities added with tropical charm. Pegasus Reef Hotel warmly invites everyone to join in the upcoming seasonal celebrations and create cherished family memories that will last a lifetime.
For more information on future events, contact Pegasus Reef Hotel on 0112049600, follow them on social media at facebook.com/Pegasusreefwattala or www.instagram.com/pegasusreef_wattala and visit their website at www.pegasusreefhotel.com.
This festive season, step into a world of allure at Taj Samudra Colombo, where the spirit of Christmas is brought to life with joy, celebration, and heartwarming experiences said a press release.In the words of Kris Kringle from A Miracle on 34th Street, “Christmas isn’t just a day; it’s a frame of mind.” At Taj Samudra, we embrace this philosophy with a delightful array of offerings designed to spread joy and festive cheer to our guests throughout the season said the release.
From gourmet hampers to festive family dinners, the Christmas carvery market, and the iconic Christmas goodies hut, our kitchen team has created a magical atmosphere for guests to enjoy, share, and celebrate this season of giving.
Luxury Seasonal Hampers and Wine
This Christmas, Taj Samudra offers the ultimate luxury gift experience with customized seasonal hampers. Choose from a selection of premium wines, Champagne, sparkling wines, and exclusive beverages, along with Christmas cakes, puddings, festival chocolates, cheese, seasonal cookies, and more. Curated to perfection, these hampers are the ideal way to indulge your loved ones with festive joy.
Christmas Carvery Counter
Indulge in the flavors of the season at our Christmas Carvery Counter, featuring a homemade charcuterie station brimming with delicious offerings. Enjoy lamb salami, beef salami, smoked lamb, honey ham, chicken cold cut, smoked seer, chicken liver pate and a variety of other delectable treats, perfect for gathering and sharing with friends and family.
Christmas goodies hut at the lobby
Visit the delightful Christmas goodies hut in our lobby, a stunning display of handpicked seasonal treats created by our award-winning chefs. The Goodies Hut, open daily from 10:00 am to 9.00 pm, offers an array of beautifully decorated seasonal goodies and carefully selected gift items—ideal for gifting or enjoying yourself.
Christmas eve celebrations
On the eve of Christmas, join us for a traditional Christmas eve dinner buffet at Ports of Call, where festive delicacies, live action stations, and mouthwatering desserts await. Santa will make a special appearance to delight the young and the young-at-heart. Additionally, enjoy a festive à la carte lunch and dinner at Golden Dragon, Navratna, and YUMI, our stylish Japanese resto-bar.
Christmas Day Festivities
Celebrate Christmas Day with a traditional festive lunch at Ports of Call, featuring all-time favorites such as succulent turkey and a wide selection of Christmas specialties. Our Executive Chef Sajesh Nair and his kitchen brigade will craft the perfect Christmas spread to satisfy every craving.
The said experience an unforgettable musical evening with The Traveleer Sound Duo from Budapest
The release said The lattice lobby lounge for an unforgettable musical experience with The Traveler Sound Duo from Budapest, Hungary. Known for their captivating performances, this talented duo brings a diverse repertoire that spans pop, rock, jazz, and more, offering something for every music lover. Catch them live every Tuesday to Sunday from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm and enjoy their soulful melodies and dynamic sound in the heart of our vibrant atmosphere. They will also be performing during our renowned Sunday Brunch at Ports of Call, adding the perfect soundtrack to your delightful dining experience.
Unwind and Celebrate at YUMI Japanese Resto Bar and Poolside – Daily Happy Hour from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
This holiday season, experience the magic of Christmas at Taj Samudra Colombo, where every corner of the hotel radiates the joy and warmth of the festive season.
Christmas is here and we are eager to begin the celebrations. Everything about December is breathtaking and spectacular, with the rapid shift in the weather and the increasing camaraderie. The cherry on top is the excitement of the New Year itself! The joyous month of the New Year and Christmas is filled with delicious delicacies, elegant decorations, lovely attire, and joyful vibes everywhere. Dressing up for Christmas in warm and fashionable red outfits is something we all love. However, if you are still confused about your Christmas attire, don’t worry, we are here to rescue you. When it comes to fashion and style, no one can do it better than our Bollywood queens. Here are some red-hot looks from our fav Bollywood divas to inspire your Christmas outfits.
Kiara Advani is a true fashionista who can pull off any look. While co-ord sets are among the season’s hottest fashions. In a red-coordinated ensemble, Kiara is offering fashion advice to everyone. Her ensemble is the ultimate Christmas attire since it perfectly combines sexiness and elegance. She is wearing a bustier crop top and a high-rise skirt that accentuate her physique. Bronze bangles and earrings completed Kiara Advani’s outfit as
accessories. With this attire, you’ll definitely steal the show.
Huma’s red formal outfit serves as the ideal Christmas dress inspiration for you if you are not a fan of fancy attire and prefer a sleek and refined look. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal function, pantsuits look great on any occasion. In addition to being fashionable, it will also keep you warm. She looks great with a full-sleeved crimson jacket with a wide horizontal white stripe at the bust and straight-fit ankle leggings. For the best appearance, pair it with stud earrings and minimal makeup. Sara is a diva and she is slaying fashion goals in her little red dress with white frills.
If you wish to grab all the attention at the Christmas party then take cues from Sara and choose a red hot bodycon thigh-high slit little dress. Pair it up with a matching red jacket for the glam look and you will be ready to rock the Christmas party.
Among all the divas, Rakul Preet Singh is one of the most fashionable. The actress always dresses well, whether it’s in a gorgeous gown, party attire, or just something that’s too ethnic. Her red corset-style dress is stunning and a must-have for your Christmas wardrobe. It has an off-the-shoulder design, full sleeves, and a fitting nature. To get the glam look, wear it with pointed shoes and diamond drop earrings.
Talking about fashion and style and not mentioning Deepika Padukone is not fair. The queen of Bollywood looks amazing no matter what she wears. If you are tired of wearing dresses and gowns and want to try something different, her vibrant red power suit that exudes boss-woman energy is the ideal outfit inspiration. Her quirky bralette, which had a crisscross neckline, was polished off with a layer of preppy flair thanks to the oversized blazer’s design.
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