Page 185 - Adhiyoga Purana

MerrySoul – A Journey of Yoga, Growth, and Friendship
When MerrySoul first met Adhiyogi, she encountered more than just a yoga teacher — she found a guide, a friend, and a source of unwavering inspiration. His presence was uplifting and rejuvenating, his teaching style uniquely personal. He had a gift for pushing students past mental barriers they never knew existed, all while greeting them with warmth, the best Chai tea, and his signature mantra: “Focus the mind.” At first, she thought it was simply a nice phrase. By the end of the training, it had become her personal compass.
Adhiyogi’s teaching could take place anywhere — a park, a rock formation, a parking lot, a studio, or a small room. His light-hearted approach, punctuated by spontaneous humor and stories, melted away self-consciousness and brought joy into even the most challenging lessons. He infused his classes with music and chanting, making each moment vibrant and alive. His message was clear: yoga is everywhere, and it is for everyone.
This initial connection set the stage for a deeper commitment. MerrySoul went on to complete her 500-hour Teacher Training with Adhiyogi, a journey that stretched over two years and transformed her understanding of yoga. The second part of her journey became the heart of her story. Adhiyoga, as she learned, was not just another style of postures — it was a profound, authentic approach to living yoga. Through Adhiyogi’s book, with each chapter framed as a sutra he had composed, she absorbed philosophical insights that illuminated every aspect of her practice.
Training with Adhiyogi was never confined to a single place. Lessons happened in RVs, parks, parking lots, and classrooms. He offered her — and every student — not just asanas, but an immersion in philosophy, chanting, pranayama, meditation, and yogic living. The coursework was supported by books, videos, CDs, and translations in multiple languages. His dedication was relentless, and his passion for making yoga accessible to anyone, anywhere, was unmistakable.
During this time, MerrySoul grew close to her fellow trainees, forming bonds that would last a lifetime. They came from different paths but shared the same transformation, the same laughter, the same challenges, and the same deep respect for their teacher. She began the program seeking to refine her physical postures but emerged with something far greater — a profound self- understanding, a deepened spiritual practice, and the confidence to share yoga with others.
Her connection with Adhiyogi extended beyond training hours. She assisted him with Spanish translations, helping to bridge his teachings to a wider audience. Even after her formal certification, she stayed in touch, exchanging ideas, learning, and deepening their shared love for yoga. Over time, this bond evolved into a forever friendship, one rooted in trust, mutual respect, and the shared joy of bringing authentic yoga into the world.
Today, MerrySoul looks back on her journey with gratitude. Adhiyogi didn’t just give her the skills to teach yoga — he gave her wings to fly, a mind more focused than ever, and a heart ready to share light wherever she goes.
OM Shantiḥ.
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