About

The symbol for Om – the universal mantra in yoga

Grampian Yoga Association was founded 40 years ago, in 1984, as a branch of the Scottish Yoga Association (now known as Yoga Scotland).

The first Chairman was Richard Ward, supported by Secretary Margaret McAllister, and Treasurer Shelagh Brown. Ian Scorgie, who founded the Aberdeen Yoga Centre in 1960, became the Association’s Honorary President. Charitable status was obtained early on.

It is worth mentioning the following members who have over the years dedicated their time to the GYA.

Chris Benton was elected Chair at the AGM in March 1986. She remained in this position until she stepped down for personal reasons in 2004 after serving 18 years. Pam Welsh was elected as Secretary at the same AGM and took over the Treasurer’s post in addition in March 1990.

Joan Honeyman was elected as a Committee member in March 1984, at the GYA’s first AGM. She served as Chair from 2004 until 2008, having served 24 years. Pam and Joan retired from the GYA Committee at the AGM in March 2011 at which time they were granted Lifetime Honorary Membership. Janet Ollason was elected as Chair in 2008 and served until 2012 when she also received Lifetime Honorary Membership.    Ally Summers joined GYA in the early 1980s, became GYA Chair in 2015 and resigned from this post in 2019.   She continued as a Committee member until 2021 when she retired from the Committee and was given Lifelong Honorary Membership.