For Carol Sele, yoga has been more than a livelihood and exercise regime; it has proven to be transformative.
Sele, owner of UnsizeMe hot and warm yoga studio in Oak Harbor, began practicing as a teenager, after studiously examining the images in her mother’s yoga book.
“It has transformed my life,” Sele said.
“I was pretty much a Type-A personality,” she said, joking to fellow instructor Amy Brinkley. “I bet you can’t even picture me as a Type-A personality.”
As an adult, Sele dedicated her life to healing, working as a massage therapist and, in 2002, began her career as a yoga instructor.
Sele is also the founder of Whidbey Island’s YogaFest, which will commence its third year from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, July 25, at Fort Nugent Park.
Hundreds are expected to gather for the festival.
It is also an opportunity for beginners to observe or try their hand at some poses in a casual environment, alongside experienced practitioners.
Sele, Brinkley and manager Ally Jyothi Behne noted the rewarding experience of seeing students benefit from the practice they so enjoy.
“I see them transform every time they walk out of the studio, every time they practice,” said Sele.
“You can see the peace that they’re experiencing,” said Brinkley.
One of the instructors will present a yoga demonstration prior to the group class during the festival, in order to introduce newcomers to basics.
“We really want kids and grandparents to start coming,” Sele said.
New this year will be an assortment of hula hoops for children — and kids at heart — to play with.
As in years past, the festival will also include a live music performance and a free raffle with prizes donated from multiple community members and businesses.
Lotus Tea Bar and Studio of Oak Harbor and Maya Shakti Yoga and Wellness Center of Anacortes will also be participating, as will a local chiropractor.
Admission to YogaFest is free with a donation of a canned food item. The food will be donated to Help House.
Check-in will begin at 10:30 a.m.
For more information, visit unsizeme.com
