By Debbie (Antarajna) Mandel

Twice I contracted Covid, in 2021 and 2023. Each time it turned into long Covid.

Then I had multiple physical issues. My whole body was in reaction: heart, lungs, eyes, toes, fingers, cancerous growths on my face, insomnia and more.

I asked Gurudevi about it. She recommended I do three hours of Ujjayi a day. My first reaction: that is impossible! I wasn’t consistent with 20 minutes a day.

My next reaction was how stupid it would be to not follow my Guru’s directions! Why would I even consider not doing what she suggests?

So, over a month, I slowly built three hours of Ujjayi a day into my life in fifteen-minute segments. After several months, Gurudevi added me getting Embodyment^® Yoga Therapy sessions. What? But I did it.

Yes, my health issues disappeared — lungs, heart, insomnia, and all the other Long Covid symptoms. And a few months later I contracted Covid again and had no residual effects.

I always have a choice to make — bumble along on my own or follow my Guru’s direction. Choosing the latter has never led me astray. It has enhanced my inner state and, therefore, my external life benefits.

As if that wasn’t enough, I received a bonus. With Ujjayi, time has expanded exponentially, so I always have enough time to do everything. And more.

Through following my Guru, I have expanded exponentially! I live deeper in Self. I have the stamina back to go to India again on our Ashram’s upcoming India trip “Coming Home to Self.” And that is truly a yoga miracle.