By Joan Bragar

My online connections with the Ashram have been a godsend. I participate twice a week in online yoga classes taught by the Swamis. 

The benefits of Svaroopa^® yoga have been huge through my online yoga therapy sessions with the Swamis. I fully recovered from two major surgeries within a year.  I now can engage in life with full mobility and strength. This is increasingly important as I turn seventy.

I’ve also taken additional online classes, including the Magic of Ujjayi program, Gurudevi’s illuminating Telecourses, and her “live from the Ashram kitchen” Yogic Nutrition course.  I even participated in my first Shaktipat retreat online!  

So I feel very close and connected to the Ashram.  My knowledge, commitment and dedication to this spiritual path have deepened over the past few years. I now offer seva (volunteer service) to support the work of Svaroopa^® yoga in the world.

Last year, I got to Downingtown PA for my first in-person Shaktipat Retreat.  I was happy to be there in person at last, and Gurudevi greeted me warmly.  

During a dinner, I had a funny and fun-loving conversation with some of the swamis.  It was about how tall they had thought I was from seeing me on Zoom. Some thought I was taller, and some thought I was shorter.  That seemed to be the only information that wasn’t easily discernable online.  Everything else — including emotional connection and physical and spiritual development — had occurred through several years of virtual programs.

I am always surprised that more people don’t take advantage of these weekly classes with true Svaroopa^® yoga masters. The organization’s website makes it easy to find and sign up for classes and programs.  I invite you to join me.