BY KAREN BOSSICK
Maris Degener is a yogi and a yoga teacher.
And this 17-year-old has an eating disorder.
This young California woman’s story of healing is showcased in the hour-long film “I Am Maris: Portrait of a Young Yogi.”
And a free screening will be offered at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4, at the Wood River Performing Arts Theater in Hailey’s Community Campus.
The screening is being provided by a collaboration of organizations: Blaine County Recreation District, Blaine County School District, The Advocates, NAMI, Blaine County Probation, Footlight Dance Girls on the Run, Blaine County Probation, Crisis Hotline and Lululemon.
These organizations will have informational resources on display from 5:30 to 6 p.m. and a free intro to yoga will be provided from 5:15 to 5:45 by BCRD to the first 20 to show up.
The film looks at the drive for control and perfection, as well as the social pressures that contribute to eating disorders. It shows how Maris heals from her eating disorder and depression by various means, including teaching yoga and creating her own art while diving into therapy. And it shows how she inspires others.
The film is not dark. Rather, it offers hope.
“The film shows us how amazing we can be, not only in spite of, but because of our struggles,” said Directors Laura VanZee Taylor and Arlana Garfinkel, whose award-winning feature documentaries include “Trumbo,” “Boys of Summer” and “A Juice Box Afternoon.” “Mental illness is not a weakness, but a catalyst for building strength, spirit and empathy.”
The film features animation by Brandon Eversole