During the Training: Immersion in Jivamukti Yoga

The 75-hour Jivamukti Yoga Teacher Training began on March 17, 2025—a ten-day immersion in Bali. Upon arrival, I felt no anxiety about who I would meet, the curriculum, or my readiness for the program. My heart and mind were open, focused, and prepared to absorb everything this experience had to offer.

Meeting my teachers in person was an incredibly moving experience. Anna, Connor, and Yuri—whom I had only seen on Jivamukti Yoga Digital—were now right in front of me. It felt surreal yet deeply affirming. I could see myself as part of this lineage, walking the path alongside them one day.

Anna, one of the facilitators from Russia, was strict yet profoundly graceful. Her discipline, dedication, and depth of knowledge left me in awe. Connor, based in Jivamukti Paris, had an energy that was both mystic and grounding. His philosophical wisdom was immense, and I found myself drawn to every word he shared. Then there was Yuri, my entry point into Jivamukti Yoga, a mentor, and an advanced teacher from Japan. Her meticulous attention to detail and her devotion to cultivating Jivamukti Yoga for Japanese practitioners were inspiring. Thanks to her, so many of us from Japan were able to embark on this journey together. Her heart is vast, warm, and filled with the true essence of seva—selfless service.

The Deepest Lessons: The Magic of Assisting & Philosophy

One of my biggest takeaways from the training was learning the art of Assisting—the magic touch that first captivated me when I attended Jivamukti yoga classes. I had been looking forward to this, and experiencing it firsthand solidified my love for it. Assisting is an ongoing practice, and I know I need to refine my skills, but I am embracing this first step wholeheartedly.

Beyond the physical, I also immersed myself in the philosophical foundation of Jivamukti Yoga—the tenets and core elements that shape this path. I want to continue deepening my understanding of these teachings, revisiting and embodying them fully in my practice and teaching.

The Power of Sangha: Friendship & Support

This journey would not have been the same without the incredible people I met. Saaya, a former colleague from my days at lululemon, reentered my life after seven years. She introduced me to Yuan Yuan, a colleague of Saaya, and Edita, a dedicated practitioner from London. Together, we supported and uplifted one another, practicing from morning until evening, pushing through challenges, and celebrating our small victories.

One of the most unforgettable moments was passing the final exam together. There were only seven spots available for certification right after the course, and only those who were ready to give a full Spiritual Warrior class could take it. The fact that we all succeeded together felt like the truest expression of collegiality, friendship, and soul connection.

To be continued...