ALTHOUGH it’s an ancient practice, yoga has become the exercise of choice for hundreds of people in recent years. To quote one devotee: “Everyone is getting their ‘om’ on these days!”

And for good reason it seems. According to latest research, practicing yoga has many health benefits, from boosting your immunity​, helping you sleep better and tackling stress.

To celebrate International Yoga Day 2018, there will be free silent yoga classes on the beach between Bournemouth and Boscombe today. Ten different classes will take place from 7am to 8.30pm offering various options for people of all ages and abilities. To register, visit eventbrite.com/o/fitliving-uk-and-silent-yoga-uk-17415039874

The event is also a preview to FitLiving UK in Bournemouth on September 28-29. Organiser Ali Sheik said: “We are also working with Dorset Mind, who will be speaking to people about the benefits that yoga can have with mental health issues. The classes will take place throughout the day. Greet the day with a morning session, come down with your company/school, or take part in after school yoga or finish off the day with a sunset yoga disco session.”

He added: “This is an exciting opportunity for the people to experience yoga for the first time, or try out a different class.”

Park Yoga Bournemouth is also hosting a one off pop up yoga session in Bournemouth Central Gardens at 5pm today opposite the town hall. Park Yoga is a free community event, usually held every Sunday from 10am to 11am, throughout the summer.

Instructor Nina Fox of JooJoo Yoga, confirmed they will also be opening a yoga studio above Pret a Manger in Bournemouth on July 12.