A more balanced article would acknowledge that it is problem­atic to produce accurate figures on injuries directly causally linked solely to the practice of yoga. Injuries can result from physical activity whether or not we are taking risks. This is not to say that yoga practice is without risk of injuries, which might occur due to the over enthusiasm of a student who wants to achieve more extreme postures and ignores the guidance of the teacher. It could also be that a student has an underlying health issue which they haven't shared with the teacher—a problem which can be exacerbated in very full classes in gyms etc.

Mr Black – the yoga teacher interviewed by Broad – is quoted as saying that he has no formal training for determining which yoga poses are good for a student and which may be problematic, preferring to rely on his 'ton of experience'. At the British Wheel of Yoga (the National Governing Body for Yoga), we do not rely solely on experience. Our teachers complete a rigorous diploma course (the only yoga teaching qualification in the UK equivalent to the first year of undergraduate study), which includes modules on physiology and anatomy, and gives advice and guidance on ways in which postures can be modified so that people with underlying health issues can practise safely. All our teachers have professional indemnity insurance and BWY members benefit from insurance that covers them against injury.

Anyone can practise yoga, regardless of age, sex or ability. As well as stretching and strengthening the body, yoga improves posture, promotes feelings of relaxation and has been linked to improved concentration, better quality sleep and a reduction of anxiety and depression. The British Wheel of Yoga, in con­junction with Sheffield University, is about to publish a research report into the therapeutic effects of yoga for health and well­being and, if Mr Broad's experience is anything to go by, we look forward to the comment and debate which we hope will be stimulated by our research. Maybe the biggest benefit for him is that, after the publication of his extremely inflammatory article in the New York Times, his book shot to the top of yoga category on Amazon.

Pierre Bibby CEO, The British Wheel of Yoga

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1. Attend BWY events throughout the country (not just SW Region).
2. Yoga events at low cost. BWY is not profit-driven and much is done by volunteers, so you get low prices and high quality.
3. Yoga events led by Yoga Practitioners of National and International standing.
4. Access to Members' section on Regional website with lots of information on ‘Whats on'. You can join in and share your views and news on the Members' forum and the new Topic of the month.
5. Discounted prices for yoga equipment from BWY yoga shop.
6. SW Regional AGM/Yoga Day - members only at very reduced cost.
7. BWY Congress - a residential weekend packed with an amazing range of yoga workshops.
8. Regular magazines to keep you up to date with what is happening both nationally (Spectrum) and in your region (SW News).
9. Loans/grants available to assist with some BWY courses (terms and conditions apply - see Regional Grants below)
10. A range of high quality Teacher Training and specialist modules available.

Additionally, for BWY Teachers:

1. Public liability insurance cover
2. REPS membership £14 instead of £25 per year
3. Training Days at low cost - tutors often deliver exactly the same days outside of the BWY at much higher cost to participants.
4. Teachers Training Week - seven days residential
5. Free website listing of all your classes
6. Free lineage advertising of yoga events in BWY YOGA 2
7. Financial assistance to set up specialist yoga classes or taster days (terms and conditions apply - see Regional Grants below)

To join the British Wheel of Yoga, or for more information, visit the BWY national website (opens in new window).

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In accordance with the commitment of the British Wheel of Yoga and also in line with the Four Year Development Plan 2007-2011 (obtainable from Central Office), the SW Regional Committee has made provision in the 2010/2011 regional budget for grants to be made available.

We do not have much spare money in the SW Regional 'kitty' and have had to budget carefully for the coming year, but we are pleased to be able to offer some financial assistance that hopefully can make a difference for the following:

• Taster Sessions – financial support for teachers to run a taster session in a particular area where they consider there is a need for a yoga class.
• Specialist Module Training – financial support for teachers who wish to further their training in specialist areas by taking a module course. There must be a need for specialist courses in the specified area.

Terms and conditions apply.
Full information, Policy Documents and details of making an application for these grants are obtainable from the
Regional Administrator 01752 863124

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