As well as being the powder capital of the world, Niseko is offering an increasing amount of off-hill activities, much to the joy of locals, and I am sure, much to the delight of those who don’t want to ride every minute of their vacation.
I was tickled about the opening of new yoga studio Powder Yoga this season, and when I heard they were hosting a workshop called Boom Shakti at new complex The Orchards, I signed myself up immediately. I probably would have opted in for anything with the word ‘Boom’ in the title, but this collaboration of four local yoga teachers especially appealed to me.
The Orchards boasts a community centre known as The Gatehouse, and this spacious area was the site for last Sunday night’s yoga fest.
Waiting for the fun to begin!
It started out like a slumber party, with everyone sprawled on their mats chatting and laughing, but things got serious pretty quickly as we all launched into a mantra. If you have ever experienced the sensation of singing or chanting in unison with 30 strangers, you will know what a powerful feeling it can evoke. I could tell from the lovely baritone element that there were at least a few men in the class, and we seemed to have a good mix of tourists and local faces.
Teachers Kanami and Ai give us a run down before class
Instructors Iku, Marika, Ai and Kanami guided us through a 90 minute session which incorporated Ashtanga, Yin, and Vinyasa style yoga, followed by that wonderful period of relaxation where you hope that the teacher is going to come around and ‘adjust’ you (aka massage your neck). They didn’t disappoint!
Marika shows us why she’s teaching and we’re watching…
Afterwards we moved on to the lounge to enjoy some drinks and snacks, and although they provided lots of healthy yogi-type snacks, my friends and I focused on the chips…
Keep your eye out for more interesting events from Powder Yoga during your visit to Niseko! The studio is open until the end of March, and they have regular calendar events such as the yoga/onsen/lunch combo for only ¥2000, which seems to be a bit of a bargain.
Namaste snow friends!