Letter: Ron Hart wrong about yoga

I read the Jan. 3 column by Ron Hart "Yoga: don't do something — sit there" that aggravated me to no end. I know I speak for the thousands of women and men who have reaped the benefits of yoga. Not only does it strengthen our bodies, but also our mind and spirit.

Apparently, he knows nothing of its true value. He jokes about the participants regardless of their intentions or what they get out of their classes. The fact that women go just to show off their yoga outfits or trying to impress anyone but themselves is ridiculous. That would be a personal choice.

I personally have been in various gyms that offer all kinds of exercising equipment and "rehab" facilities. While they work fine for many, they didn't help me as much as yoga has.

I'm a 77-year-old woman who has a titanium knee and a new hip. Without yoga to keep me limber, strong and at peace with myself, I would be depressed and weak, I'm sure.

As far as the cost, it is minimal for all the benefits received. Also, there are several yoga classes taught for individual needs, which makes it easy to find the right class for everyone.

If one feels spiritual at the end of the class while in deep meditation, all the better.

Valerie Gomes

Yuba City