Yoga is usually perceived as a Westernised practice that’s only for certain demographics, but I really think everyone should have the chance to practice,” Farah says
When her students asked for a yoga video to help them get through the day, yoga instructor Farah Mourad realized she could record videos to benefit everyone else, especially during these tough times! But this one isn’t just another yoga YouTube tutorial channel, it’s much more relatable, accessible, fun, and in ARABIC! “Yoga is usually perceived as a Westernised practice that’s only for certain demographics, but I really think everyone should have the chance to practice,” Farah says.
This had truly got me thinking, why am I only speaking English when my mother tongue is Arabic and I am teaching to Arabic speakers in Egypt? It makes no sense,” she adds
Acknowledging the abundance of English Yoga content, Farah felt the urge to create videos for Arabic speakers who don’t have a lot of options. Besides, during her on-ground classes, she noticed that some ladies were not familiar with the muscles names in English and felt more comfortable when she explained in Arabic. “This had truly got me thinking, why am I only speaking English when my mother tongue is Arabic and I am teaching to Arabic speakers in Egypt? It makes no sense,” she adds.
Now we had to ask her about this name she chose, Anupama. It means unique, different, and one of a kind. According to Farah, it describes her yoga journey and what she hopes she can offer through her content.
Although she does not like to set expectations, the feedback that Farah received so far was great. “A lot of people started yoga for the first time and gave me very positive feedback. Some people wait for me to upload new classes, which is really such an honour! Sharing this beautiful practice with people around the Arab world is truly humbling,” she adds.
Despite the technical challenges, Farah is aspiring to keep going while creating shorter videos, one pose at a time.
You can watch Farah’s Arabic yoga tutorials here