Dreaming East

I first traveled to India in the summer of 2011, following a dream to study the ancient science of Yoga in the land where it originated. My first teacher training thrust me deeply into the world of yoga, and I’ve spent the subsequent years of my life deeply rooted in the practices of asanas (poses), pranayama (breath control) and meditation. Ever since that first fateful trip, I knew I must return to this mystical and enchanting land again and again. I hoped and prayed for the time and space to return and deepen my studies, and the opportunity has once again presented itself to me.

On January 1, 2016, I will embark on another journey to India, to continue and strengthen my current practices and teachings. I will first be studying in Goa, India, under the guidance of Namito at Abhinam Yoga School. In the beachside city of Goa, I will be expanding my knowledge and offerings as a teacher of yoga and meditation, while focusing on my personal growth and development as a yogini. When I leave Goa, I hope to leave with an additional 300 hours of training in the field of yoga, to bring back and share with all of my students stateside.

Following my departure from Goa, I will head northward for hiking, meditation, reflection and self-study on the banks of the River Ganges, in the holy city of Rishikesh. Rishikesh is known to many throughout the world as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World.’ Many great saints and sages have traveled to Rishikesh to meditate on the holy river, and study yoga at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. The city is bursting with ashrams, schools, and shalas to meet the needs and desires of any/ all spiritual seekers. Sometimes called the holiest city in India, Rishikesh is a city devoid of meat, and alcohol. The city also gained popularity with Western soul-searchers after being visited by The Beatles in the 1960’s.

I look forward with great anticipation to my upcoming travels and experiences, and I am sure that when it is time to return home, I will be utmost grateful for the warm embraces of family, friends and students. I know in the depth of my heart, how much this experience will help me to grow and evolve, not only as a teacher and a yogi, but as a grateful human being. I find that I grow the most when I step out of my comfort zone… I think we all do. Stepping out of our comfort zone looks different for me than it looks for you, or for anyone else, but I encourage you to experience this not only in your workouts, but in your day-to-day life. We are here on Earth to consciously evolve, and sometimes (all the time) that takes guts, and a great leap of faith. I appreciate all of your prayers and well wishes for a safe journey, and I look forward to sharing my newfound knowledge and experiences with you upon my return.

Namaste

Angela