Young Saudi Couple Brings Yoga to Every Home
Khalid Al-Zahrani and Haifa Mahzari, a young Saudi couple, are on a mission to spread the benefits of yoga to every household in their community.
After years of research and practice, they founded Ananda Yoga Studio in Jeddah in 2019. The couple offers free courses and continues to give back to the community.
“Yoga has a profound impact on both the mind and body. We aim to assist those in need and advocate for yoga across all age groups because of its joint benefits and suitability for all ages,” Mahzari explained. “We also conduct voluntary and awareness classes.”
Mahzari initially had little knowledge about yoga until she met Al-Zahrani, whose dedication to the practice inspired her to give it a try. After delving into yoga literature and conducting research, she recognized the value and health perks of yoga, eventually becoming obsessed with it.
Al-Zahrani had trained under various instructors, including Nouf Al-Marwaai, the first Saudi yoga acharya and president of the Saudi Yoga Committee. His dedication to yoga was evident, leading him to obtain various certificates and awards in the field.
Fast Facts
• Khalid Al-Zahrani and Haifa Mahzari founded Ananda Yoga Studio in Jeddah in 2019 after years of research and practice.
• Their team participated in the Saudi Yoga Asana Championship organized by the Saudi Yoga Committee and won several medals.
• The center also provides qualified instructors for various Chinese martial arts.
Al-Zahrani proudly shared, “We participated in a competitive yoga tournament and clinched medals in multiple years, thanks to the support from the Saudi Yoga Committee under the Ministry of Sport.”
Recognizing his contributions, the International Yoga Sports Federation nominated Al-Zahrani for an advanced coaching program, acknowledging his work with “Team Ananda,” the first Saudi yoga asana squad.
Expressing his gratitude, Al-Zahrani stated, “The Saudi Yoga Committee has been incredibly supportive, providing me with training, certifications, and even a scholarship for an instructor program in Switzerland.”
With plans to expand their reach across the Kingdom, Ananda Yoga Studio has become a beacon for yoga enthusiasts in Jeddah. Al-Zahrani emphasized the Kingdom’s encouragement of yoga practice for a healthier community, both physically and spiritually.
The studio offers a variety of yoga sessions, including classes for children, anxiety, and stress relief. Additionally, they provide expert instructors for Chinese martial arts like kung fu, shaolin, and chi kung.