YC Teacher Portrait, by Angelica Rose

I always wanted someone to help me find the perfect asana alignment, the best meditation practice, and answer the myriad of questions I had about yoga, meditation, healing and even life from the yogic perspective.  Think about it: what would it feel like to get personal instruction for every basic asana pose and meditation technique, plus have all your questions heard and discussed? Imagine having a manual with all this information organized neatly so notes aren't even required!

Teaching the Purna Yoga 200-hour teacher training program is one of my favorite times of year because we get to do just that! From anatomy to meditation, from asana to poetry class, from nutrition to philosophy, the 200 hour program deepens not only the physical practice and mental understanding, but it fosters a deep connection with the Soul, the essence of who we truly are.

I started in the College of Purna Yoga not to become a teacher, but to become me. I had just left a demanding job and more than anything I wanted to heal myself. I felt lost, tired of my life, and just wanted something different... something special that could heal me and help me find some peace. Well, I found not only that, but a true adventure! I found a whole community of kind, thoughtful, and supportive people who were looking for something similar. I found holistic healing for all parts of me. But most importantly, I started to find myself.

Here is a small example. When I started the college, I was terrified, no, petrified, to speak in front of people. My heart would race and my mouth would become dry. I would shake and stammer and feel like death was imminent. Then afterwards I would be mortified about whatever I said! It was not a fun scenario to be in and was certainly not helpful in my life as it kept me small, insignificant and fearful. I had no idea that even this trait would be healed in the training. At first, I would dread poetry class and teaching practicum and I used to hide behind the other students hoping Aadil would forget about me. That didn't work out very well. Aadil knew all my tricks and apparently had x-ray vision. So my main focus when he'd call me up would be to survive long enough to be able to sit down again! However, through these gentle and light hearted activities with support from all sides, this part slowly began to trust that death was not, in fact, imminent and that speaking in front of others could actually be, dare I say it, JOYFUL. Now, one of my favorite sections to teach is the poetry section because I enjoy helping others find a way to free themselves from worn out fears and blossom into confident individuals.

I teach the 200-hour program because I want to share what I've experienced as well as let people know the astounding potential for growth and change that is possible. I have seen people as scared as I was become able to speak confidently from the front of the room. I have seen students bodies open up and become strong. I have watched a group of strangers turn into a supportive family over the course of the program. Undoubtedly, the most fun transformation to watch is their hearts opening and revealing to them new ideas, talents, and dreams. Seeing them beginning to find their potential, opening up to the possibilities and starting to find the joy of living from their hearts is my favorite part as a teacher.