Self-help gurus or stress enhancers?

While trying to cope with stress, don't get drawn in by easy fixes or lured by packages offered by self-proclaimed stress busters. Instead, look for people with merit and qualifications in order to live hassle-free

With stress levels in the city reaching an all-time high, various art forms, including martial arts, mediation courses and healing courses, have become a thriving and prospering business.

If you have been a victim of stress and are looking for ways to vent it, go ahead and enrol yourself. But, beware of conmen lurking behind the charade, waiting to fleece you.

A case in point is 40-year-old Mazhar Asif Shaikh, a science graduateu00a0 from Nainital, who was arrested for hacking the website of a Japanese martial arts association and using it to dupe martial arts' tutors across India, Sri Lanka and other Asian countries over the past few years.

His game was exposed when the Mulund police arrested him and found out that he had hacked the portal, www.jkiindia.jkiworld.com

Heu00a0 claimed to be Director, Asia-Pacific, of Japan Shotokanryu Karate-do of India (JKI), and promised to provide affiliation to the association and entry into a tournament organised by JKI for a fee. The amount thus collected ran into crores of rupees, investigations later revealed.

T'ai chi has also started gaining popularity in the city for fighting stress.

However, there is no official association in India, which recognises or certifies the instructors of this art form.
"In these modern days of stress, t'ai chi helps in attaining inner clam, tranquility and perfect balance of your mind. It is helpful in stress management," said Sunil Samant, founder of Asian Academy of Tai Chi.

"T'ai chi is often confused with martial arts. It is a form of dynamic meditation," added Samant.

With several alternatives to stress management mushrooming all over the city, a greater number of cons have also emerged.

The police have warned the public about conmen who may be on the prowl, and waiting to prey on vulnerable minds. "One needs to be alert at all times and think rationally.

People may be cheated and duped of money too," said a senior police official, on condition of anonymity.

Commenting on the cons, the police added that they could only act if a victim came forward and registered a complaint.

"Some may be conned by theu00a0 attractive services and packages offered. Many, who are not true to their vocation, can also use it as a platform for networking. And the victim doesn't even realise that the purpose for which they may have joined the facility has become secondary," said a police official.

Here's where you can call to enrol

Classes for T'ai Chi
Asian Academy of Tai Chi
102 Sea Spray, Janaki Kutir, Juhu Beach, Juhu, Mumbai - 400049
Call: +(91)-22-61620532

International Academy Of Life
Sakun 15, Aram NGR II Opp Subway, Versova Beach RD, Andheri West, Mumbai - 400058
Call: 22-67307462
u00a0
Yudanshu Kobujitsu Karate-Do Federation
Dallas Building 15th 1st Floor, Opp Jain Health Clinic, Gyan Mandir Rd, Dadar West,
Mumbai - 400028
Call: 022-67306482

Classes for kickboxing
Shaolins Kung FU & Martial Art
Marathi Sanskrutik Mandal, Near Sejal Park Near Anna Bhau Sathe Maidan, Link Road, Goregaon West, Mumbai - 400104
Calll: 022-61426684

Indian Kick Boxing Association
118 City Mall, Above Fame Adlabs, New Link Rd,
Andheri West,
Mumbai - 400058
Call: +(91)-22-61636078

Jagruti Kendra, Vyayam Mandir
Opposite Elephanta Building, Near Diamond Market, Pandit Solicitor Marg, Malad West, Mumbai - 400095
Call: +(91)-22-61619385

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels