Overview
I am a yoga therapist with an MSc in Yoga Therapy and a certified Yoga Protocol Instructor accredited by the Ministry of AYUSH, YCB, and the Government of India. My journey began over 4 years ago as a volunteer and online trainer at Bharat Yoga Vidya Kendra, The Satsang Foundation, where I taught children, beginners, intermediate practitioners, and senior citizens, while mentoring teacher training students, conducting sessions, and contributing to outreach such as yoga in prison. Exposure to the traditional and seva-based teachings of the Bihar School of Yoga and the scientific approach of SVYASA University shaped my perspective, blending tradition with research-driven understanding. My MSc enriched my ability to work in therapeutic and academic settings, while my engineering background nurtured structured thinking that bridges yogic wisdom with modern science.
Personal Journey and Teaching Philosophy
Teaching Style
My teaching style is calm, approachable, and adaptive to the needs of each student. I draw from the traditional foundations of Hatha and Ashtanga Yoga while making the practices accessible and meaningful, rather than overwhelming. Students can expect a balance of traditional practices and modern understanding in classes that build strength, flexibility, and balance, while also emphasizing breath, relaxation, and inner awareness. I encourage step-by-step progress, guiding students to listen to their own bodies and experience yoga not just as exercise but as a holistic journey toward well-being.
What drew me to Yoga
I was first drawn to yoga during a particularly challenging period in my life. What continues to inspire me is the subtle, transformative effect yoga has on me and the people around me. Today, yoga is much more than physical exercise. It is a path to balance, inner peace, and growth. It helps me feel connected to myself and others, find stillness amid life's chaos, and share that sense of well-being with the world.
My Years of Yoga Teaching
I have been teaching yoga for over 4 years, beginning as a volunteer and online trainer at Bharat Yoga Vidya Kendra, The Satsang Foundation, Madanapalle. Along the way, my journey includes exposure to the traditional, seva-based approach of the Bihar School of Yoga and the scientific perspective on yoga, stress management, and therapies at SVYASA University, Bangalore. Over the years, I have taught diverse groups ranging from children to senior citizens, guided teacher training students, conducted personal and group sessions, and contributed to outreach programs such as school-based yoga research and prison yoga. My MSc in Yoga Therapy further enriched my teaching experience in academic settings, strengthening both my practice and research-oriented approach.
Journey into Yoga
My yoga journey was unplanned and unfolded naturally during a challenging phase in my life. I first encountered a PDF of yoga asanas reviewed by Sri M for the 2019 Sacred Grove Retreats. Although they appeared simple, these yoga practices had a subtle yet profound effect on me. I began practicing on my own and gradually noticed a shift within and around me. What started as a way to cope with my pain eventually evolved into a journey of transformation, and today my inspiration comes from the deep, positive impact yoga can have on oneself and others.
Personal Growth Through Yoga
Yoga has helped me grow in ways I never expected. It started as something simple I did to cope with pain and challenges, but over time, it became a journey of transformation. I've noticed subtle changes in how I respond to stress, how I connect with my own body and mind, and how I relate to others. Practicing and teaching yoga has given me a sense of inner balance, peace, and purpose. Seeing even minor improvements in myself and others brings me genuine joy and serves as a reminder that growth occurs internally and subtly, which we can then share with the world.
Evolution of Practice
My practice has evolved gradually, starting as a way to cope with a difficult period in my life. At first, it was about learning the postures and following routines, but over time, it became much more than that. I've learned to listen to my body, observe my mind, and connect with my inner self. Teaching others and seeing the subtle changes in them has also shaped my own practice, helping me approach yoga with patience, awareness, and a deeper sense of purpose.
Strengths as a Yoga Teacher
I believe one of my strengths as a yoga teacher is the ability to connect with students of all ages and backgrounds, understanding their individual needs and guiding them patiently. I draw on both my technical and analytical background and my deep yogic training to make the practice accessible, structured, and meaningful. I'm attentive, observant, and empathetic, which helps me notice subtle changes in students and support their growth. Most importantly, I strive to teach not just postures but the holistic essence of yoga, helping students experience balance, calm, and well-being in their lives.
Core Yoga Principles
The principles that have shaped my practice the most are Santosha, contentment, and Tapas discipline. Santosha reminds me to stay present and grateful, finding peace in every step of the journey rather than chasing perfection. Tapas, on the other hand, keeps me committed and disciplined, helping me grow through consistent effort and dedication. Together, they have taught me that yoga is about balance, embracing both acceptance and determination, which continues to guide my practice and teaching.
Adaptability for Different Levels
I adapt yoga for different skill levels by focusing on the individual rather than the pose. For beginners, I simplify practices, break movements into smaller steps, and use clear cues with modifications. For more experienced students, I introduce variations, deeper awareness of breath, and advanced postures where appropriate. My goal is to create a supportive space where everyone, regardless of age or experience, can practice safely, progress at their own pace, and experience yoga as a personal journey rather than a competition.
Populations & Topics I Focus On
Kids Yoga (Balavidya), General/All-levels Asana, Yoga for Seniors, Therapeutic / Injury-rehabilitation, Pranayama & Meditation, Philosophy / Chanting & Mantra, Teacher Training (TTC) Faculty, Corporate / Workplace Wellness
