from Aytana
With Gratitude
While looking back on the past years since meeting Ācārya and BYD staff, I’m reminded of the lion from the Gītā, chapter 10 and his ‘nature to look back while moving ahead’. The request to share our personal thoughts and impressions about the impact made on us, too appears as part of the intended teachings. Thank you for the opportunity!
I met Ācārya in 2007 through Jonathan. I had seen Ācārya from afar at a yoga convention in Israel some time previously. I had traveled to India a few times and commenced a yoga āsana practice in Israel. On nearing retirement, I traveled to India, this time seeking a deeper connection and teacher. I attended the first retreat on ‘The Ideal Couple’ and the year after that, at Ācārya’s suggestion, my husband agreed to join the second retreat.
Since then the meeting with Ācārya and visit to India help define priorities in my life. This journey of understanding that ‘my story’ is not ‘me’ helps manage steps needed to be taken or not, while pursuing the practice of quieting the mind in yoga and balancing ups and downs externally. Ācārya and his teachings have been there whenever needed. The impact is probably beyond my understanding but it is felt in my deepest being.
Firstly this connection enables the strengthening of intention. Ācārya and the teachers serve as most noble examples for me on nurturing, clarifying and deepening the intention on this path.
Secondly the act of well wishing which I try to think of daily, having Ācārya introduce this concept continually, is a supreme gift, with learning for myself to be a well wisher in this life. The worship we hear about, is pleasing others and this is an effort I aspire for in connections with family, friends and country and within myself. Taming the system by observing the disciplines gives me a more balanced day and practice.
Thirdly the knowledge in all the fields taught has given security and inspiration for attaining the goal. Since corona and the ongoing zoom teachings, the support and being involved in a like minded community lightens the days and without these the path would be harder for me.
With much love, gratitude and deep appreciation to you Ācārya for all and to Vijaya for your support and presence.
Witnessing the work done and the development of projects of BYD on the land and our visits there, are uplifting and a sign that even in these difficult times all is not lost.
Many thanks to those who have passed on your message in different ways and in classes, Ganapathiārya, Adarshārya, Ananthārya, Madhukeshvarārya, Sudeepārya and all the BYD staff and members. I appreciate your support and example of humility, dedication and pursuit of the authentic teachings and the sharing of them.
Namaste
Yōgakṣēma
Aytana
