Assila Hotel held a two-day event in Jeddah to mark World Wellness Weekend on Sept. 22 and 23 to instill a sense of fitness and self-care among the people.
Both Saudi and expatriate women participated in the activities that the luxurious hotel organized to observe the day such as Zumba (a cardio dance routine), yoga and other interactive workouts.
The room buzzed with lights as a group of women followed Eman Salim, the Zumba instructor, who seemed to be more high-powered than the rest of them. She conducted that energy to her audience who tried their best to keep up with her as she led the crowd.
“I have always loved dancing. Whenever I get the chance, I dance and dance. So, just like that I wanted to teach the people whatever I knew and now I am a coach at a ladies gym,” said Salim.
She said: “I absolutely love the fact that Saudis are promoting such events. These events are not only fun and they also promote self-confidence in people, which is extremely important.”
Salim told a story of hard work at the gym so did her words when she advised the audience: “Do not be afraid; if there is a single person left who believes in you then that’s all you need to achieve your goals. Be brave and be yourself.”
After a short break, the class that followed was yoga for relaxation led by Jessica O’Kelly, an English teacher by day and a yoga instructor by night. O’Kelly took the ladies through a peaceful journey of different stretches and flexibility- enhancing positions.
“The main goal of World Wellness Day is to remind people that fitness is fun. I am extremely happy with the turnout for the events, especially because I deal with young girls at the university. Seeing their inclination toward being fit and choosing healthy options makes me happy,” according to Salim.
At the end of the day, the women were being treated with delicious seafood.
