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Yoga in Subterranean Space Offers Solace to Residents in a Ukrainian City Under Persistent Russian Artillery Fire

by Sophia Chen
8 comments
Yoga in Conflict Zone

Within an underground location in a city on the front lines of Ukraine’s Donetsk region, residents convene tri-weekly in the early hours to practice yoga as a coping mechanism against the unrelenting bombardment from Russian military artillery.

The underground area in Kramatorsk is filled with the calming resonance of ambient music, set against a backdrop of palpable humidity.

Serhii Zaloznyi, a 52-year-old yoga instructor, softly guides the attendees into a meditative state, stating, “We disengage from the outside world.”

Intermittently, the flow of water coursing through the building’s plumbing disrupts the peaceful melody, serving as an unspoken reminder that the session takes place in a subterranean setting.

Zaloznyi resumes, emphasizing that a sense of “peace, serenity, and equilibrium are felt deep within one’s core,” as participants focus on their breathing with eyes shut.

For those in attendance, the “outside world” signifies life in a city perilously close to the front lines, punctuated by sirens and the cacophony of explosions that regularly interrupt their daily routines.

Located approximately 30 kilometers (about 20 miles) from the combat zone in Donetsk, Kramatorsk is a hotspot for some of the most intense military activity in eastern Ukraine.

In late July, the impact of a Russian missile on one of the city’s prominent restaurants led to the loss of 13 lives, leaving the community in a state of shock.

Despite the dire circumstances, this humble basement in a residential area has become a sanctuary where individuals gather to attain a sense of security and stability. These yoga sessions occur as scheduled, in defiance of the external chaos.

Zaloznyi recounts that, initially overwhelmed by the conflict, individuals found solace and grounding here. “They discovered peace in their hearts and souls, as well as a sense of stability,” he noted.

Viktoria Omelchenko, 47, a participant who initially left Kramatorsk but later returned, states, “Yoga has restored my emotional equilibrium. The practice has taught me to manage fear, to find harmony, and to achieve balance. These sessions are particularly invaluable given the volatile situation in our city.”

When hostilities first broke out, Zaloznyi transitioned to online classes as many regular attendees had evacuated to safer areas. He resumed face-to-face sessions this past spring as residents began to return.

The previous location, once a gym, now serves as a makeshift shelter stocked with emergency water supplies for families seeking refuge. Zaloznyi relocated his classes to a former beauty salon, abandoned by owners who fled the city.

Though the room is adorned with remnants of its past life—photos from hairstyling seminars and dusty bottles of professional-grade shampoo—the yoga practitioners remain undistracted. They follow Zaloznyi’s instructions, transitioning between asanas with eyes closed. Windows are taped over to mitigate the risk of glass shattering during an attack.

Zaloznyi notes, “During instances of artillery fire, the basement’s added safety lends an extra layer of serenity.”

Sessions are priced at 90 Ukrainian hryvnias (approximately $3), and attract a consistent group of five to six individuals. Valentyna Vandysheva, 61, who joined three months ago, cites both health benefits and emotional regulation as motives. “The exercise helps balance emotions, reducing the emotional impact of the external disturbances,” she said.

Zaloznyi remains optimistic that through the collective practice of restorative yoga, participants not only support one another emotionally but also foster a communal spirit. “Our space has become a living entity in its own right. It offers us a sense of familiarity and safety,” he concluded.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Yoga in Conflict Zone

What is the main focus of the article?

The article centers on how residents in a front-line city in Ukraine’s Donetsk region use yoga as a coping mechanism against the constant stress and danger posed by Russian artillery attacks.

Where do these yoga sessions take place?

The yoga sessions take place in a basement in Kramatorsk, a city approximately 30 kilometers from the combat zone in Donetsk.

How often are these yoga sessions held?

The yoga sessions are conducted three times a week in the early morning hours.

Who leads the yoga sessions?

Serhii Zaloznyi, a 52-year-old yoga instructor, leads these sessions, guiding participants into a meditative and peaceful state.

What is the cost for attending one of these sessions?

The cost for a single session is 90 Ukrainian hryvnias, which is approximately $3.

How do participants feel about these yoga sessions?

Participants report a sense of emotional balance, reduced fear, and a newfound ability to handle the stressors of living in a conflict zone. They find the sessions invaluable, especially given the city’s volatile situation.

What was the original location for these yoga classes before the conflict escalated?

Before the conflict, the yoga classes were held in a gym, which has since been converted into a makeshift shelter stocked with emergency water supplies for families.

How has the yoga instructor adapted to the changing circumstances?

Initially, Serhii Zaloznyi transitioned to online classes when many residents fled the city. As people began to return, he resumed in-person sessions and relocated the classes to a former beauty salon.

Is the article suggesting that yoga is a solution to the conflict?

No, the article does not suggest that yoga is a solution to the military conflict. Rather, it highlights how the practice serves as a coping mechanism, providing emotional support and a sense of community for residents in a volatile situation.

Who are some of the participants mentioned in the article?

One participant mentioned is Viktoria Omelchenko, a 47-year-old resident who initially left Kramatorsk but returned a few months later. Another is Valentyna Vandysheva, 61, who joined the classes three months ago for health benefits and emotional regulation.

More about Yoga in Conflict Zone

  • Coping Mechanisms in Conflict Zones
  • The Psychological Impact of Living in a War Zone
  • Yoga for Stress Relief: A Comprehensive Guide
  • The Donetsk Conflict: An Overview
  • Ukrainian Hryvnia Currency Conversion Rates
  • Civilian Life During Armed Conflict

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8 comments

KevinZ September 17, 2023 - 11:10 am

what a great community spirit. The participants even support each other emotionally. that’s what we all need.

Reply
MikeT September 17, 2023 - 1:21 pm

Are there any similar programs in other war zones? Would be interesting to see how different cultures adapt and find peace in chaos.

Reply
JaneDoe September 17, 2023 - 2:02 pm

Its so touching to see people finding ways to cope in such dire circumstances. Kudos to the instructor for keeping it going despite everything.

Reply
EmilyR September 17, 2023 - 4:14 pm

amazing how something as peaceful as yoga can exist in a place that’s anything but. Just shows how resilient the human spirit is.

Reply
PaulG September 17, 2023 - 7:04 pm

Is 90 hryvnias a lot for them, given the economic condition there? Just curious.

Reply
SarahW September 17, 2023 - 7:10 pm

Kramatorsk is just 30km from the front line? and they still do yoga? That’s incredible and kinda inspiring too.

Reply
JohnSmith September 18, 2023 - 2:46 am

Wow, really didn’t know that yoga could be such a relief in conflict areas. This article opened my eyes to how people are coping there.

Reply
LisaQ September 18, 2023 - 4:01 am

The details really got to me. The gym turned into a shelter, the beauty salon turned into a yoga studio. It’s like life finds a way, y’know?

Reply

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