Three yoga instructors in San Diego are expressing concern over the city’s recent ban of their free beachside yoga classes, which have been a tradition for over a decade.
City’s Enforcement Measures
According to Danielle Macgregor, one of the affected instructors, the city’s enforcement of the ban involved the use of large trucks to block their yoga classes, a measure she deems excessive.
Mobilizing Efforts for Change
In response to the ban, the yoga community is mobilizing efforts to regain access to their beachside practice.
Ban’s Impact Beyond Yoga
Laura Monk, another affected instructor, highlighted that the ban extends beyond yoga, affecting other group activities such as recovery support groups and family gatherings in public parks.
City’s Justification
The City of San Diego, through its Parks and Recreation Department, justifies the ban as part of updated ordinances regulating beach activities, with Rangers now enforcing the prohibition on group yoga sessions at Sunset Cliffs.
Concerns Raised by Instructors
Ray Takis, a yoga instructor, voiced concern over the targeting of yoga teachers in San Diego, emphasizing the broader implications of the ban.
Future of Beach Gatherings
Unless there’s a policy revision, the Parks and Recreation Department asserts that the ban will remain in effect, altering the landscape of public gatherings along the coastline.
