Yoga, once seen as something for a small group, is now popular across Jeddah for its benefits to the mind, body, and lifestyle.
New Delhi,22 April: In the heart of Jeddah, yoga is experiencing a quiet but powerful revolution. What started as small group sessions in wellness centers and private studios has blossomed into a city-wide movement — drawing in students, professionals, and even seniors seeking balance in both body and mind.
Yoga, an ancient Indian practice rooted in physical postures, breath control, and mindfulness, has gained remarkable popularity in Jeddah over the past few years, especially among health-conscious youth and working professionals battling high-stress routines.
“Yoga helped me recover from burnout,” says Lama Al Harbi, a 29-year-old marketing executive. “It gave me mental clarity and helped me reconnect with my body after long, stressful workdays.”
Wellness with Cultural Respect
Local studios now offer yoga with cultural sensitivity, often modifying sessions to align with modesty and comfort. Women-only classes, Arabic-language instruction, and fusion formats like "Yoga with Qur’anic Reflection" are gaining traction.
“There’s a beautiful harmony between yoga and our values,” says Fatima Al Madani, a certified instructor who runs classes in north Jeddah. “We focus on mindfulness, stillness, and gratitude — principles that complement Islamic spirituality.”
From Fitness to Holistic Health
Doctors and physiotherapists are also advocating for yoga as a non-invasive tool for lifestyle management. “Yoga is now being prescribed alongside conventional therapy for patients with back pain, anxiety, and hypertension,” says Dr. Ahmed Nazer, a wellness physician at a private clinic in Jeddah. “Its impact on mobility, sleep quality, and mental health is impressive.”
Community, Not Competition
Weekend events in Corniche parks and beachside sessions have become common, with locals attending in abayas and activewear. The emphasis, instructors say, is on community, not competition. “It’s not about touching your toes — it’s about finding peace,” laughs Rana Siddiqui, a yoga teacher originally from India who has lived in Jeddah for over a decade. “Yoga is now part of Jeddah’s diverse cultural rhythm.
Looking Ahead
With growing acceptance, more wellness centers are training Saudi instructors, ensuring the practice continues to evolve within the local context. The message is clear: in Jeddah, yoga is no longer just a trend — it’s becoming a way of life.
with Agency/DD/ Inputs
