Engineer Yogi

BEFORE ĀSANA, THERE IS YAMA & NIYAMA.

Yoga begins long before we step onto the mat.

Yama guides how we relate to the world.
Niyama guides how we relate to ourselves.

Non-harming.
Truthfulness.
Non-stealing.
Wise use of energy.
Non-grasping.

Purity.
Contentment.
Discipline.
Self-study.
Surrender.

Āsana is not simply about how the body looks in a posture. It is an expression of how we live.

Live the foundation. Then, the practice deepens.

Asana practice is not about perfecting the body, but observing what arises within it.

Steady, yet easeful. Sthira sukham āsanam — the practice is not to conquer the posture, but to find stillness within it.

Another step deeper into the journey. 🕉️

Deep gratitude for the opportunity to study and be part of the Sivananda Yoga Tradition, not simply to add another certification, but to deepen my understanding, practice and experience of yoga.

Every tradition offers a different doorway into the same path - a deeper relationship with the body, breath, mind and ultimately, the Self.

And behind every journey are quiet forms of support, someone who believes, understands and simply allows you to keep walking your path. For that, I am deeply grateful. 🤍

As I continue learning from different lineages and teachers, I’m reminded that being a student never really ends.

Practice. Study. Experience. Integrate.

The journey continues. 🙏

Chanting is Yoga. 🕉️

One of the biggest misconceptions about yoga is that chanting is tied to a particular religion.

In the traditional practice of yoga, chanting is not about converting anyone. It is a practice of focus, mindfulness, gratitude, and inner stillness.

Many yoga classes begin or end with a chant because it helps settle the mind, connect the breath, and create a shared intention. Just as we use mindful breathing to calm the nervous system, chanting uses sound as a tool to cultivate presence.

You are always free to participate, listen quietly, or simply observe. Yoga honors individual choice.

There is no need to fear yoga chants. Approach them with an open heart and curiosity. They are part of a tradition that has been passed down for thousands of years, inviting peace, unity, and self-awareness.

As the Yoga Sutra reminds us:
"Sthira Sukham Asanam" — cultivate steadiness and ease, not only in posture, but in the mind and heart.

May our practice bring clarity, compassion, and peace, for ourselves and for all beings. 🙏

Two Powerful Sanskrit Chants in Yoga Practice

Many people hear these chants in yoga classes but may not know their deeper meaning. Each serves a unique purpose.

🕉 Sahana Vavatu
"May we be protected. May we be nourished. May we work together with great energy. May our study be enlightening. May there be no hostility between us."

This is a Shanti Mantra traditionally chanted before the study of yoga and sacred knowledge. It honors the relationship between teacher and student, creating a space of respect, unity, and shared learning.

🕉 Asato Mā Sad Gamaya
"Lead me from the unreal to the Real. Lead me from darkness to Light. Lead me from death to Immortality."

Also a Shanti Mantra, this is a profound prayer for inner transformation. It reminds us that the true purpose of yoga extends beyond the physical practice—guiding us toward truth, wisdom, and Self-realization.

Whether you're stepping onto the mat for movement, breathwork, or meditation, these ancient mantras invite us to practice with humility, awareness, and peace.

Om Śāntiḥ Śāntiḥ Śāntiḥ 🙏

Hello, August!

Starting the first week of the month with mindful movement, steady breath, and a calm mind. Join me on the mat as we cultivate strength, ease, and presence—one practice at a time.

"Sthira Sukham Āsanam" — Yoga Sutra 2.46
May your practice be both steady and comfortable.

See you in class. 🙏

Meet Teacher Gudo.
Guiding every practice with intention, strength, and mindful movement. 🧘‍♂️