To understand how my approach to relaxation through yoga and meditation can help you physically, emotionally and spiritually, I am giving some space here to my students’ own experiences of learning the practices described in this book. I hope you find their words inspiring.
‘Soon after giving birth to my son, my mother became terminally ill and I unexpectedly faced motherhood as a single parent. Although I seemed on the outside to be coping, I remained in a state of grief and shock for almost four years, at which point I met Yogi again and began practising his techniques. From these, particularly the Science of Relaxation meditation and the exercise for breathing into the medulla, I learned to find a centre in myself again. I learned that patience and acceptance were key in moving on. I also learned to remain grounded in my body regardless of physical discomfort or emotional pain, to see myself more clearly and to reconnect to my heart. I accepted that the crumbling away of my old existence was part of my life’s plan. Doing these meditations doesn’t mean that life suddenly becomes easy and pain-free, but that you develop the inner strength to deal with whatever comes your way.’ – Mary, writer, mother, producer and co-founder of the Yogi Ashokananda School
‘Until I met Yogi, I was a very anxious, nervous person. I constantly judged myself and was uncomfortable expressing myself to others. Yogi uses relaxation techniques that guide you deep into the core of your existence. Here you can experience your true nature. Once I became familiar with my attachments I became less interested in them. I am now able to experience my life much more openly, express myself and share and receive love and knowledge, without false judgment holding me back. A whole new world has opened up for me.’ – Michelle, yoga teacher
‘By doing Yogi’s pranayama and asana exercises, I have gained focus mentally and now have better control over my “monkey mind”. Indeed, as I made a stronger commitment to my practice I found myself gaining strength both physically and professionally.’ – Paula, professor of law
‘Seventeen years ago my beloved son Jack suffered severe brain injury at birth. Yogi’s exercises have helped me to learn how to disengage from my fears and go within, to reach a place less disturbed by anxiety, where I can connect with “who I really am”. I pass on Yogi’s teachings where possible to Jack. He particularly enjoys the Rising Sap meditation and regularly requests it. It gives him more awareness of his physical body and also reduces his spasms. We also use the breath techniques in hospital or during other stressful moments to help Jack tolerate invasive and painful procedures.’ – Karita, special needs teacher and therapist
‘My seven-year relationship had just broken down and I was also experiencing menopausal symptoms. I decided to attend Yogi’s training. Now I enjoy my life much more, I am better able to deal with my commitments and responsibilities and my relationships generally have improved.’ – Jackie, beauty therapist and yoga teacher
‘I was holding onto trauma from my past, despite my chanting practice. I asked Yogi to help me. His powerful meditation techniques have moved mountains inside. I don’t have the same level of pain any more and I feel much more connected. He also has given me clear guidance for dealing with obstacles in my path with calmness and inner strength.’ – Nikki, singer and voice coach
‘An auto-immune disease had left me with inflammation of the spinal cord. This caused epileptic-style fits in my legs and I was unable to control my bladder. Emotionally, I was in turmoil. Yogi’s Science of Relaxation meditation was a great help to me as it calmed my nervous system, released a lot of tension and reduced the number of fits I had. At the same time I was able to improve my muscle tone and build up strength. Over a period of time my lungs got stronger and my awareness increased.’ – Apollonia, secretary and mother
‘I came to India to study Odissi dance but I was suffering from a back injury. Yogi selected the right practices to heal the injury and improve my whole physical condition and my ability to cope with my pain.’ – Yuval, professional classical Indian dancer