Momtaz opened Kabul’s first yoga studio in 2015. Now more than 50 women come to Momtaz Yoga Centre every day. As well as yoga classes, there are also zumba, wushu and karate classes, all taught by female Afghan trainers.

Momtaz, 45, was teaching at a fitness club elsewhere in the city, where the popularity of her yoga classes grew. Supported by her husband, she openedher studio on the same premises as his web design business in Karte Char, in west Kabul. It has thrived, despite criticism that yoga is not for Muslims.

Fakhira Mamtaz runs a class at her yoga studio in Kabul.

Being in nature is an important part of her yoga philosophy, so she often takes her classes outside. She believes her students “must immerse themselves in nature and experience the changing seasons”.

Back at home, Fakhia cares for her nine-year-old daughter, Farangis, and seven-year-old twin sons, Shahryar and Shahrukh, as well as her elderly mother, Tahira. She says her husband is her strongest supporter.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/apr/08/trailblazing-women-of-kabul-afghanistan-a-photo-essay