A yoga master’s advice for staying zen on the road

SINGAPORE — If you have been studying yoga for the last 30 years, “travel rage” is probably something that never ever happens to you. Or maybe it does. Melbourne-based yoga master Paul Wooden says he still gets slightly peeved when he encounters arrogant travellers.

“They don’t respect the people of the place they are visiting; they expect to get what they want when they want it all the time,” he said, adding that he feels the hectic nature of tour groups further contribute to this bad behaviour.

But you can be assured you won’t be feeling any form of rush when you’re at a retreat with Wooden, including those he’ll be conducting at ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa next month. “Our yoga and meditation practice are tools to rejuvenate and nourish body, heart and soul, which you can take home with you to help keep in touch with yourself and on track into the future.”

Q: You’ve conducted several yoga retreats in different countries. Do you see similar issues and problems faced by your participants?

A: Yes, we are all humans trying to cope with the issues of work, family, relationships and health. The way our modern societies are organised is really quite challenging. More information does not equal more wisdom. I find that people everywhere are disconnected from themselves. They can never seem to find time for the deeper and more important qualities of human life to develop. Making space for yourself is important.

Q: How can people be less stressed in coping with the uncertainty and inconveniences travel brings?

A: I find it useful to remember that you have chosen to travel. Remember that if you are in the position to travel then you are one of the lucky ones. Most people on this earth simply cannot afford to. I always keep in mind how fortunate I am to have that choice. Rather than resist the challenges that inevitably come with travel, take them in — it is all part of the adventure and sometimes they make (for) the best stories.

Q: Your centre in Melbourne, Yoga Dharma Life, conducts Wild Dharma tours. What are they about?

A: We often run retreats in beautiful natural locations. Nature really has a deeply nourishing effect on us. It quietens our minds and nourishes our soul. And we are running a Wild Dharma tour in the Philippines in April and another one later in the year.

Q: What are your top spots to rejuvenate and relax in Melbourne?

A: I’d recommend the Latin street food eatery Kiki Riki and Bar Cortez in Fitzroy. Head out of the city to enjoy some of the beautiful countryside, in particular the Otway Ranges and the Great Ocean Road. It is a beautiful coastal drive with rich temperate rainforest. Serene Lim

Paul Wooden will be running weekend workshops, day retreats as well as a 3D2N residential retreat at ESPA at RWS from April 13 to 19. Visit http://www.rwsentosa.com for more details.