Page 80 - Adhiyoga Purana

A Musician’s Journey into Stillness: John Kerry's Yoga Story
For John Kerry, a gifted saxophonist and university-level music educator, life often moved at a hectic tempo—fast-paced rehearsals, performances, classes, and administrative responsibilities that rarely allowed time for stillness. But something shifted when he stepped into the Authentic Yoga class taught by Adhiyogi.
It began during a Fall semester when John enrolled in Adhiyogi’s class at George Mason University. Though initially drawn in by curiosity and a need for physical balance, what John discovered was far more than just yoga postures. Each session began with focused check-ins, philosophical reflections, and sometimes Sanskrit chanting. This was not a typical fitness class— it was a sanctuary for the mind and body.
On December 16, 2005, John shared his first reflections:
“I have studied Yoga before, but this class has deepened my appreciation for it. Neel (Adhiyogi) is a wonderful teacher, and he is very flexible with the students. I recommend this class to anyone who is interested in learning the philosophy and history of Yoga.”
He found that the Authentic Yoga approach not only helped him physically but also gave him intellectual and spiritual grounding. What struck John most was the emphasis on philosophy—a rare gem in yoga classes that too often focus solely on fitness.
By the end of 2006, John had not only continued the class but found his life increasingly enriched by it. On December 26, 2006, he reflected again: “Neel's classes offer so much to his students. His Yoga classes are comprehensive, and he is extremely knowledgeable. Students get much more than exercise—they learn about proper breathing, philosophy, chanting, and posture. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from him.”
The sessions became his weekly reset—a time to slow down, breathe with awareness, and reconnect with his inner self. As his appreciation grew, so did his commitment.
By November 30, 2007, John was still attending classes and expressed a sense of spiritual and personal clarity through his continued practice:
“Saturday mornings with Neel ji this year have brought forth a singular aspect—namely, do your part in life. Coming to terms with this dimension in day-to-day life has unfolded incalculable mahatva (importance) for my career, my family interaction, and my life compass.”
Yoga was no longer an activity for John—it was a way of life. It began influencing his music, his teaching, his emotional resilience, and his relationships. He started seeing connections between the discipline of breath in yoga and the breath control needed for his instrument. The calm cultivated on the mat transferred into performances, reducing anxiety and increasing presence.
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