In 1982, the Olivia Newton-John song, “Let’s Get Physical” became the alma mater of the exercise craze that swept the nation and the business of fitness was off and running. Gyms began sprouting up like dandelions and the healthy California lifestyle, along with the accompanying fashions became a huge trend. It was the first time that I can recall that New Yorkers were taking a cue from Californians, against their better judgment. There was a small group of us that were already body conscious that worked out at one of the few gyms in New York City, namely Better Bodies. The gym catered to female body builders and a handful of gay men. It was our secret handshake of shared sensibilities. We already knew that looking great got you laid, plenty. Over the decades, yoga and spiritual practices have also trickled into the marketplace, another “LA thing” but New Yorkers overall are too busy for that kind of stuff. But the tide is turning. Yes, I know Yoga is from India and bla. But I am trying to make a point here.
Congratulations darling. You are the most spiritual practitioner on Earth...or in New York City anyway.
Yesterday in The New York Times Style section there was a piece, Is the Spirit of Competition in the Soul of Yoga? Yoga champions? Medals? Olympics? These are some words bandied about in the article and it is most distressing, or annoying. Must everything become a competition before it is accepted as legitimate? How many incredibly annoying people do you see rushing about with their yoga mats? People who need to take a chill pill, or a yoga class. The business of spirituality has taken on a whole new turn now, beyond the E.ST., Actualization and the Landmark hullablaoo. We now have Life Coaches falling off trees, like those illegal aliens that hover at the entrances to Home Depot. Spirituality is now a big business and the need for a Yoga Competition is the natural progression. Inner peace? Not the motivation anymore. Being able to SAY that you have inner peace is the real thing. It’s the illusion of inner peace that has taken the top spot. So, now we need a song. Shall we ask Olivia Newton-John?
hilar, i can just see those life coaches hanging from the trees!
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