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In honor of International Yoga Day, which falls on Wednesday, June 21st, Casa de Campo Living spoke with naturopathic physician Kyra Montagu regarding the benefits of yoga and her wellness programs at Casa de Campo.

Yoga is a practice that connects the body, breath, and mind. Specialists consider it an excellent approach to address the physical and mental health issues affecting numerous individuals today.

Montagu, who began teaching yoga classes as part of her medical profession, recognizes that one of the most significant benefits of this practice is its accessibility to everyone, from young children to individuals with different abilities.

Among the benefits of yoga for individuals is the enhancement of flexibility and muscular strength, contributing to maintaining a fit body and shedding unwanted weight. It also aids digestion, the endocrine system and improves sleep.

On an emotional level, this discipline helps to regulate stress and anxiety levels. “Many people nowadays experience stress and anxiety. Yoga offers deep breathing techniques, and the movements performed during each session are synchronized with this breathing, thereby releasing emotional tension”, expressed Montagu.

Montagu explains there are different styles of yoga, but the one she primarily teaches is Hatha, the “yoga of the moon and the sun.”

“Everything we do in this yoga is focused on deep breathing and movements that balance both sides of the body. Forward and backward. It can be faster and slower, but I always work with physical-mental and emotional balance,” she says.

According to Montagu, the effects of yoga are quickly noticeable. “Within a class or two, you begin to see the results, which extend beyond the physical,” she adds.

Yoga is very profound; people think it is something simple. It is. But when you do it correctly, you understand its depth. Yoga helps you to be happier and healthier,” Montagu says.

Wellness Programs at Casa de Campo

Kyra Montagu is establishing several agreements with Casa de Campo hotel management to offer a comprehensive wellness program for all residents and guests.

Regular yoga sessions are among the activities available, taking place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at Minitas Beach at 8:00 a.m.

This summer, Montagu is organizing a wellness program incorporating yoga, martial arts, foot self-massage classes, aerobics, and other disciplines. The classes are scheduled for July and August, with further details to be announced later.

It’s worth mentioning that Montagu collaborates with the Human Resources Department of Casa de Campo Hotel in a program called “Wellness Wednesday.” Every Wednesday, she visits all hotel departments, teaching employees breathing techniques, meditation and stretching exercises. In the dining area, she instructs them on preparing healthy food to reduce work-related stress levels.

Celebrating International Yoga Day at Casa de Campo

In the Dominican Republic, the celebration of International Yoga Day is gaining momentum, and Casa de Campo fully embraces it.

On Sunday, June 18th, a yoga training event occurred at Minitas Beach, led by Kyra Montagu.

The activity began at 9:00 a.m. with a group of enthusiasts who did not miss the opportunity to learn about this wholesome discipline.

Enveloped by the warm Caribbean breeze and the soothing sound of the waves, participants engaged in various postures and meditations under Montagu’s guidance. With over three thousand hours of teaching experience, Montagu expertly led the session.

The following photographs were taken by Mairobi Herrera, during the yoga session held at Minitas Beach, on Sunday, June 18, 2023.