Integrity and Truth

When searching for a Yoga teacher or school.....

In the western world the culture of Yoga is beginning to emerge strongly as a new alternative towards health practices. Yet, as it is an eastern cultural perception, certain factions of the western world are trying to either control Yoga or exploit yoga; both in the name of commerce.

It is important to understand Yoga as a 'spirit, mind, body' health system and not as a business or a product to market. The more that one may evolve in their practice of Yoga, the more that one may see how the West is beginning to abuse this resource. For example; an ad of a woman meditating while holding a credit card in her 'chin mudra' formed hand; or even the ridiculously overpriced 'yoga accessories' as well as overpriced Yoga instructors whom claim that their systems and affiliates are the leaders of Yoga.

Yoga is about attaining 'Self-Realization'. Yoga means 'Union'. Yoga does not compete.

The western world loves to prove its worth through paper before proof of ability and so many active facilities expect a Yoga instructor to have a 'teachers certificate' or they will send one of their own co-ordinators away for a week to attain one at a rather ridiculous cost. Some Institutes may charge thousands of dollars for a one month program that the participant then can make claim that he or she is a 'certified Yoga teacher'.

We do not disagree with the idea of a certificate; however, we do disagree with how most of them are attained. This is not a reality in the culture of true Yoga. It takes years to develop and refine ones understanding of true transformation, as well as learning and mastering all of the vital breaths. If an instructor is not proficient in the breath (pranayama) and understanding of the ecology (of the body) and economy (of the energy) of the body, than it is not True Yoga that is being taught.

It is always wise to consider the experience of your Yoga teacher wherever you go in the world to learn Yoga. If your prospective teacher is registered with a 'yogic' organization, consider their own personal background and experience before the 'glamourous' aspect of the affiliate. Buying a 'membership' into an affilation does not make one a qualified Yogin (or teacher).

  Please never feel undermined to ask your prospective Yoga teacher their background of experience and daily practice. You are worth the knowledge of our knowledge and the respect of true health and safety. If your teacher is not 'refined' in Yoga safety and proper ergonomics it will be to your disadvantage. Have fun with your Yoga, but please be safe and intuitive!

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