Why we started myYogaTeacher

{"slug":"why-i-started-myyogateacher","recentPosts":[{"id":"clgc1nu7j1uwk0birznqai3x1","slug":"10-yoga-poses-for-multiple-sclerosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"10 Yoga Poses to Enhance Wellness for Multiple Sclerosis Patients","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Learn about Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis and how it can help manage symptoms. Improve your quality of life with these yoga poses.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Discover yoga for multiple sclerosis - improve your quality of life with these poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-11T09:12:29.35505+00:00","coverUrl":"aydrjq4doquwuaot8kt7.jpg","content":{"text":"Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While there is no cure for MS, practicing yoga can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Before starting a yoga practice, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.\\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nStress and Fatigue Reduction: Yoga provides a calming and relaxing effect on the body and mind, which can help ease the mental and physical stresses of MS. It can lead to a reduction in fatigue levels and promote a more peaceful state of mind.\\nImproved Balance and Coordination: MS can cause issues with balance and coordination, but yoga can help improve these areas. The practice of yoga involves movements that require balance and coordination, which can improve the function of the nervous system.\\nIncreased Flexibility and Strength: Yoga poses require the use of muscles that may not be utilized in everyday activities. Practicing yoga regularly can lead to increased flexibility and strength, which can improve overall fitness levels.\\nRespiratory Function Improvement: MS can affect respiratory function, but yoga can help improve breathing patterns. Certain yoga practices involve deep breathing exercises that can help increase lung capacity and oxygenation of the body.\\nPain Management: MS can cause pain and discomfort, but yoga can be an effective tool for managing these symptoms. The gentle movements of yoga can help relieve tension and tightness in the muscles, which can reduce pain and improve overall comfort.\\nImproved Overall Health and Well-Being: By providing a range of physical and mental benefits, yoga can improve overall health and well-being for individuals with MS. Regular practice can promote a sense of inner calm and peacefulness, which can positively impact all areas of life.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Multiple Sclerosis Symptom Management\\nSeated or chair yoga poses are ideal for individuals with limited mobility, while standing poses are suitable for those with greater mobility. Focus on poses that improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, such as:\\n\\n1.Child's Pose (Balasana): \\n\\nSit on your heels with your knees apart, and fold your torso forward, resting your forehead on the floor. Stretch your arms forward, palms facing down. Hold for 5-10 deep breaths.\\n\\n2.Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): \\n\\nStart on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Inhale and lift your chest and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow pose), and exhale, rounding your spine towards the ceiling (Cat pose). Repeat for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n3.Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms out to the sides, and gaze over your right hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n4.Tree Pose (Vrksasana): \\n\\nStand with your feet hip-distance apart, and shift your weight onto your left foot. Place your right foot on your left thigh, and balance here. Place your hands in prayer position at your heart or extend your arms overhead. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5.Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): \\n\\nFrom a tabletop position, walk your hands forward and lift your hips up and back, forming an inverted V-shape with your body. Press your hands and feet into the ground and hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 45 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms overhead and gaze forward. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\n\\n7.Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana): \\n\\nLie on your stomach with your elbows under your shoulders and forearms on the ground. Press into your forearms and lift your chest up, keeping your shoulders relaxed. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n8.Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-distance apart. Press into your feet and lift your hips up, keeping your arms and shoulders on the ground. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Triangle Pose (Trikonasana): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Extend your arms out to the sides and reach forward with your right hand, placing it on your shin or a block. Gaze up at your left hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n10.Corpse Pose (Savasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your arms and legs extended. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing your body to fully relax. Stay here for at least 5-10 minutes.\\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nHere are some breathing and meditation practices that can be incorporated into a yoga practice for multiple sclerosis symptom management:\\n\nDeep Breathing: Sit comfortably and take deep, slow breaths through the nose, filling the lungs completely. Exhale slowly through the nose, releasing all the air. Repeat for several minutes.\\nAlternate Nostril Breathing: Sit comfortably and use the thumb to close one nostril while inhaling through the other. Then, use the ring finger to close the opposite nostril while exhaling through the first. Repeat for several minutes.\\nMindful Breathing: Focus on the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the body. If the mind wanders, gently bring the focus back to the breath.\\nBody Scan Meditation: Lie down or sit comfortably and bring attention to each part of the body, starting from the toes and moving up to the head. Notice any sensations or tensions and release them as you move through each part.\\n\\nConclusion\\nPracticing yoga can provide many benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis, including reduced stress and fatigue, improved balance and coordination, and increased flexibility and strength. Incorporating yoga poses and practices into your routine can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider and find a qualified yoga teacher to begin a safe and effective practice."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg55sr3657wd0airoeszt66q","slug":"yoga-for-carpal-tunnel-syndrom","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Carpal Tunnel: Top 10 Yoga Poses, Benefits, FAQs","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms with yoga! Discover 10 poses to reduce pain and improve wrist and hand health. Learn best practices and protect yourself.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Relieve carpal tunnel with yoga! 10 poses to manage symptoms and improve wrist and hand health.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-06T13:33:53.820514+00:00","coverUrl":"fyzezortjqar8ovbd4vf.jpg","content":{"text":"Do you ever experience pain or tingling in your hands and fingers? It could be carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition that affects many people who use their hands and wrists frequently. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which can lead to discomfort, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.\\nFortunately, yoga can offer a natural and effective way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. In this article, we'll explore some yoga poses and practices that can help relieve pain and improve flexibility in the wrists and hands.\n\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nYoga has many benefits for overall health and wellness, and it can be particularly helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are just a few of the benefits:\\nReducing pain:\\n Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrist and hand, which can reduce pain and discomfort.\\nImproving flexibility: \\nTight muscles and tendons in the wrist and hand can exacerbate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help improve flexibility and mobility.\\nReducing stress:\\n Stress and tension in the body can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.\n\\n\\nYoga Poses for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nYoga poses, or asanas, can be a powerful tool for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few poses to try:\\n\n\\n1.Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, reducing pain and stiffness. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the floor, outside your left thigh. Bring your left heel toward your right buttock. Cross your left arm over your right arm and bring your palms together. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n2.Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Lift your hips up and back, straightening your arms and legs. Press your hands into the floor and lengthen through your spine. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\n\\n3.Garudasana (Eagle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help strengthen the muscles in the hands and wrists, which can improve grip strength and reduce pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Bring your right arm under your left arm, and bend both elbows to bring your palms together. Cross your right thigh over your left thigh. Balance on your left foot and hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n4.Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, promoting flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet about 3-4 feet apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Reach your right arm forward and hinge at your hip to reach your right hand toward your right shin or the floor. Extend your left arm straight up toward the ceiling. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n5.Padangusthasana (Big Toe Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for your big toes with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Marjariasana (Cat Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin to your chest. Repeat for several breaths.\n\\n7.Bitilasana (Cow Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Hold for a breath or two, then return to neutral spine.\n\\n8.Matsyasana (Fish Pose):\\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the chest and shoulders, relieving tension in the upper body and reducing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. To perform this pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips and slide your hands, palms down, under your buttocks. Press your forearms and elbows into the floor and lift your chest. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose):\\n \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the inner thighs, hips, and groin, which can alleviate pressure on the wrists and hands. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with the soles of your feet together and your knees bent out to the sides. Hold your ankles or feet with your hands and gently press your knees down toward the floor. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n10\\n.\\nUttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)\\n: \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for the floor with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths. If you have difficulty reaching the floor, you can place your hands on blocks or a chair seat.\n\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nIn addition to yoga poses, breathing exercises and meditation can be helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few practices to try:\\nDeep Breathing:\\n Taking slow, deep breaths can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nGuided Meditation:\\n Guided meditations can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can in turn reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nVisualization:\\n Visualizing the body healing and repairing itself can help reduce pain and promote healing in the wrists and hands.\n\\n\\nTips for Practicing Yoga with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nWhen practicing yoga with carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to listen to your body and modify your practice as needed. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:\\nUse Props\\n: Props like blocks or straps can help make poses more accessible and comfortable.\\nModify Poses\\n: If a pose is too painful or uncomfortable, modify it or skip it altogether.\\nBe Mindful\\n: Pay attention to your body and how it feels during your practice. If a certain pose or practice is causing pain or discomfort, stop and modify or skip it.\\n\\nConclusion:\\nManaging carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms can be a challenge, but incorporating yoga into your routine can be a natural and effective way to find relief. By practicing yoga poses, breathing exercises, and meditation regularly, you can improve flexibility, reduce pain, and promote relaxation in your wrists and hands. Give it a try and see how yoga can benefit your carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms today!\n\n\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\n\\nQ1. How can yoga help people with carpal tunnel syndrome?\\nAns: \\nYoga is a great way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms! Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrists, hands, and arms, which can relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling. Plus, practicing yoga can help reduce inflammation, increase flexibility, and improve circulation in the affected area.\\n\\nQ2. What yoga poses should you avoid with carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to avoid yoga poses that put too much pressure on the wrists or require excessive bending or flexing of the hands. Poses like Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose), and Plank Pose can worsen carpal tunnel symptoms and should be avoided. Instead, focus on poses that gently stretch and strengthen the wrists and hands.\n\\nQ3.What are the best practices for carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n In addition to practicing yoga, there are several other best practices for managing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks that strain the wrists and hands, using ergonomic tools and equipment to reduce strain, maintaining good posture, and engaging in regular exercise and stretching to promote overall health and flexibility. It's important to take care of yourself both on and off the mat!\n\\nQ4.How can you protect yourself from carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Using ergonomic tools and equipment, taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, and maintaining good posture can all help reduce your risk. Engaging in regular exercise and stretching can also help keep your hands and wrists healthy and flexible. Remember to listen to your body and take action if you notice any symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands or wrists. A healthcare provider can help diagnose and treat any issues before they become more serious."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg3manw0c2300bk8q089x7gd","slug":"yoga-for-improved-mobility","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Top 10 Yoga Poses for Improved Mobility: Unlock Your Body's Potential","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga is an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn about the best yoga poses for improving your mobility.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-05T11:40:10.955124+00:00","coverUrl":"mo0n5st8ek3dj2p0m8ib.jpg","content":{"text":"We know that yoga can help elevate your mental and emotional wellbeing, but it’s actually an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.\\nWhat do we mean by mobility, and why is it important? Mobility refers to the level of ease with which you can move your body. This affects your ability to walk, run, lift, and engage in physical activities like sports, dancing, or just playing in the backyard with your kids or grandkids. Your level of mobility directly translates to your overall well-being, and it can greatly influence whether or not you experience chronic pain.\\n\\nHow Yoga Improves Mobility?\\nA typical yoga practice includes performing a holistic routine of stretches that work to improve your flexibility, balance, and strength — which all directly impact your mobility. Let’s break down how each of those factors work.\\nFlexibility refers to the range of motion between your joints and muscles, and an inflexible body is rigid, stiff, and achy, with a relatively small range of motion. A regular yoga routine can help lengthen and strengthen your muscles, improving your range of motion while preventing injury and reducing your risk for chronic pain. Along with increasing mobility, improving your flexibility also puts less strain on your body overall.\\nBuilding strength is crucial to achieve better mobility, since stronger muscles give you better stability, balance, and control over your movements. Yoga targets muscle groups and makes them stronger, more toned, and more capable of increased movement with more control. Increasing strength also helps prevent injury, improves your sense of balance, and reduces your risk for issues later in life – like osteoporosis.\\nIt may be surprising to learn that yogic breathing can also help improve your mobility. By calming your mind, improving your awareness, and relaxing your body, you can build a greater connection with your physical self and reduce tension. This can lead to an increase in your range of motion and a better understanding of your personal limitations.\\nThe best part about yoga is that it's low impact, and it's approachable for everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are, or whether or not you’re a beginner. You can start out with slow, gentle movements that can greatly improve your mobility without the risk of injury. You can also practice yoga in the comfort of your own home, by following the sequence below or working with one of the many qualified yoga instructors available here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Better Mobility\\nTo get started practicing yoga for improved physical mobility, try performing the poses below several times per week over an extended period of time. \\n1.Sun Salutations\\n\\nStart at the top of your mat in Mountain pose, with your hands in prayer position. With flowing, dynamic movement, progress through the following postures 3 or more times:\\nUpward Salute\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nLow Lunge (left foot forward)\\nPlank\\nFour-Limbed Staff pose\\nUpward Facing Dog or Cobra\\nDownward Facing Dog\\nLow Lunge (right foot forward)\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nUpward Salute\\nReturn to Mountain pose\\nRepeat\\n\\n2. Chair Pose\\n\\nStand in Mountain pose at the top of your mat, with your hands at your sides and feet hip distance apart. As you inhale, raise your hands over your head, with your arms parallel with your ears. As you exhale, hinge slightly at your waist, bend your knees and lower your torso forward as if you were about to sit down in a chair. Keep your core engaged and your spine straight while you hold this posture for several breaths.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position, with your hands and knees on your mat. Push up from your hands and knees, lifting your hips until you are balanced on your hands and feet, with your body resembling an inverted “v.” Keep your head in between your arms, ears balanced over your shoulders, and stay in this pose for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Low Lunge\\n\\nFrom your position in Downward Dog, you can easily transition to Low Lunge by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. With your right leg behind you, gently kneel on your right knee. Inhale as you reach your arms up over your head, parallel with your ears. Expand your chest, lengthen your spine, keep your chin level and your gaze focused forward in front of you.\\n\\n5. Plank\\n\\nLie face down on your mat, and using your palms to push up from the floor, lift your body until you are balanced on your palms and the toes of your feet. In this pose, your body should be positioned in a straight line, with your gaze directed at the floor in front of you. Hold for a few breaths, or for 30-60 seconds if you are feeling strong in this pose.\\n\\n6. Cobra Pose\\n\\nStart by laying with your stomach facing down on the floor, with your legs straight and your arms folded under your head. Place your palms on the mat parallel to your chest. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your rib cage keeping your hands underneath your shoulders. With a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat, arching your back. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest.\\n\\n7. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n8. Bow Pose\\n\\nLie down on your stomach with your forehead against the mat and your hands resting at your sides. Inhale and engage your core, slightly lifting your torso up, bending your legs and grabbing your ankles with each hand. Open your chest and lift your chin, so that your gaze is facing forward. Maintain a steady breath while holding this pose, allowing your body to gently rock back and forth with each inhale and exhale. Release after 20-30 seconds.\\n\\n9. Bridge Pose\\n\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Interlace your fingers on the floor underneath you and lift your hips higher, while staying in the pose for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n10. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes.\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clg0gw3o0ycc30ak0rlfm4ea9","slug":"yoga-for-endometriosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Endometriosis: 6 Easy Poses to Try at Home","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can help ease symptoms of endometriosis, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with the condition.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best yoga poses for endometriosis symptoms.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:45:34.990165+00:00","coverUrl":"htglzgglkwtr6is6mzmi.jpg","content":{"text":"Endometriosis is a disorder that affects about 190 million women worldwide, causing painful periods, infertility, and other severe symptoms that can significantly reduce the overall quality of their lives. While science is still working to fully understand endometriosis, right now there are a few ways in which women can manage the symptoms of this painful condition, including medication, surgery and various forms of therapy. Yoga can also help ease symptoms, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with endometriosis.\\nYoga helps reduce the troubling symptoms of endometriosis in a few different ways. The overall practice of yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for operating the body's relaxation and digestive responses. These responses tell your body to slow down and rest, which are crucial when it comes to reducing the pain, anxiety, and stress that comes with endometriosis.\\nYoga also enhances blood flow to your reproductive organs, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Yoga poses work to stretch the muscles and tissues around your uterus and ovaries, which can help reduce the intensity and duration of menstrual cramps.  Endometriosis commonly causes intense chronic pain in the pelvis, lower back, and hips, which yoga can help alleviate through gentle stretches and movement that help open up and relax the muscles in these areas.\\nEndometriosis can also cause infertility due to scarring around the reproductive organs, but yoga can help offset this issue by increasing blood flow to the area and lowering inflammation. Yoga also works to balance your hormones by reducing cortisol and other stress hormones and regulating your menstrual cycle.\\nIn terms of mental health, yoga is one of the most effective tools in managing anxiety and depression, which are common symptoms of endometriosis. This condition can cause immense chronic pain, which typically results in emotional distress that yoga can help alleviate. Yoga sends signals to your mind and body that encourage both to relax, reducing tension, calming anxious thoughts, and improving your sense of well-being.\\n\\nWhat Types of Yoga are Best for Endometriosis?\\nThere are many different kinds of yoga, but if you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis you may want to stick with gentle postures like those you would perform in Hatha, Restorative, Gentle, or Yin yoga. These types of yoga focus on easy, low-impact movement, along with relaxation and stress reduction, and they typically involve some type of yogic breath work – which can also help reduce inflammation and chronic pain.\\nIf you’re considering yoga for managing your symptoms of endometriosis, there are certain precautions you should take in order to avoid making those symptoms worse. While you’re on your period, it’s important to avoid inverted postures that might interrupt or change your body’s natural flow. If a specific posture causes pain or discomfort, exit the pose immediately and take a break. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid any kind of position that doesn’t feel good. If you’re unsure about your alignment or you’d like some guidance on how to practice yoga for endometriosis, you can enroll in an online class or book a private session with one of the instructors here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\n\\n6 Easy Yoga Poses for Endometriosis\\nIf you’re experiencing the painful symptoms of endometriosis, try the gentle poses below for some relief.\\n1.Child’s Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n2. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n3. Fixed Angle Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat with your knees bent and the soles of your feet pressed against each other. With your spine straight, press your hands behind you and gently open up your chest and tuck in your abdomen. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n4. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nSit in the center of your mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Take a deep inhale and raise your arms directly over your head. As you exhale, slowly lean forward and place your head and chest on top of your legs, and grab your big toes with both of your hands. Tuck your chin and curl abdomen, relaxing your lower back as you sink into this pose. Hold for one minute.\\n\\n5. Supine Twist Pose\\n\\nLie on the floor with your knees bent and bring them to your chest. Slowly and mindfully drop your left side while extending your arms outward in a “t” shape. Hold this pose for about 30 seconds while breathing mindfully. Bring your knees back to your chest, and then repeat on your right side.\\n\\n6. Legs Up The Wall Pose\\n\\nPlace a folded blanket parallel against a wall. Sit sideways in the middle of the blanket, and turn yourself toward the wall, lifting your legs up and propping them against the wall. Lay back comfortably, rest your head and neck on the floor, and fully straighten your legs. Spread your arms out to your sides with your palms facing up. Allow your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to completely relax. Breathe evenly and mindfully while holding this pose for 5-8 minutes.\\n\\nPranayama for Endometriosis\\nYogic breath work can help ease feelings of stress and anxiety, while giving you tools with which to manage pain. Try these breathing exercises to encourage a sense of calm and relaxation.\\n1.Nadi Sodhana or “Alternate Nostril Breathing”\\nExhale completely, and then place your right index finger onto your right nostril, and breathe deeply in through the left. Alternate and place your thumb over your left nostril, and exhale through your right. Continue alternating, repeating at least 10 times.\\n\\n2. Ujjayi or Ocean’s Breath\\nStart by breathing in through your mouth. As you exhale, pull in your chin in toward your body and so that your throat is partly constricted. Then, breathe in and out through your nose, making a slight sound that is similar to the ocean.\\n"},"category":["yoga_poses"]},{"id":"clg0fojrzxeqr0biq6yvfzdjk","slug":"yoga-for-acid-reflux","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga and Digestion: 8 Poses to Help Ease Acid Reflux Symptoms","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga helps alleviate symptoms of acid reflux and prevent onset by reducing stress and anxiety, activating your digestive system, and improving your posture.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best poses for reducing acid reflux.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:11:42.97583+00:00","coverUrl":"ckauzlgegiwd249grkhg.jpg","content":{"text":"If you experience acid reflux on a regular basis, then you’re already familiar with how it typically unfolds. It often starts with a burning sensation in your chest and the repeated urge to burp and let go of accumulated gas. There are lots of reasons why acid reflux occurs, including a number of lifestyle factors like poor diet and emotional stress. Thankfully, yoga can help manage symptoms and reduce episodes if they are stress-related. \\n\\nHow Yoga Helps with Acid Reflux\\nOne of the ways that yoga helps reduce acid reflux is by reducing stress and anxiety. These are the common culprits for acid reflux, because they cause your body to engage in a cascade of fight/flight/freeze responses that includes increased production of stomach acid. By reducing your stress and anxiety, you can help your body avoid switching on that fight/flight/freeze response.\\nAnother way that yoga can reduce acid reflux is through improving your posture and alignment. Poor posture can contribute to chronic acid reflux by placing too much pressure on your stomach and esophagus. Yoga postures that correct your alignment — like Downward Facing Dog and Standing Forward Fold — help relieve this pressure and prevent the onset of acid reflux. It’s important to note that in order to truly improve your posture, you need to practice these poses regularly and for the long term – over time they can help reduce your risk of developing acid reflux in the first place.\\nYoga can also help regulate your digestive system, which is another factor that contributes to acidity. When food gets stuck in your digestive tract, it can cause gas and bloating, slowing your entire digestive system down, which eventually manifests in your stomach with an acidic reaction. By stimulating your digestive system, you can help your body move and process food smoothly through your digestive tract without gas, bloating, or acidity.\\nOne of the most important ways yoga can help prevent acid reflux is by strengthening your diaphragm, which is the muscle that prevents acid from moving up into your esophagus. When the diaphragm is weak or tense, it can actually allow acid reflux to rise up from your stomach and push its way into your esophagus, which is what causes that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Yoga postures that promote diaphragmatic breathing, such as Seated Forward Fold and Corpse pose can help strengthen this muscle and prevent acid reflux.\n\\n\\n8 Effective Yoga Poses for Acid Reflux\\nIn order to get the most benefit from practicing yoga for acid reflux, it’s recommended that you develop a regular routine that involves performing yoga at least 3-4 times per week for 6-9 months. This isn’t a quick fix, but with a long term commitment you can reduce the onset of acid reflux and improve your overall quality of life.\\nThe poses below are basic, primary yoga poses you can practice in your very own home. If you’re unsure how to practice the postures, or you’d like some professional guidance, try working with one of our certified yoga instructors at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n1.Mountain Pose\\n\\nStart by standing at the top of your mat with your feet hip distance apart. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, with your spine straight and your chest lifted. Your gaze should be focused straight ahead of you while you breathe easily and gently. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\n\\n2. Standing Forward Fold\\n\\nStand at the front of your mat, feet hip distance apart. Exhale and bend forward from the waist, with your knees slightly bent and touching your hands to the floor in front of your feet. Inhale and exhale, allowing your torso to extend without rounding your back. Lengthen and soften your neck, and let the muscles of your thighs and lower back open and release any built-up tension. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nWith your hands and knees on the floor, push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Seated Spinal Twist Pose\\n\\nSitting with your knees bent and your feet tucked in next to your left butt cheek, inhale with your spine straight, lifting your chest. As you exhale, rotate your torso to your right. Position your right hand on the floor just slightly behind you, and rest your left hand on your right knee. On your next breath, rotate a little more as you exhale, turning your head to look over your right shoulder. Hold this pose for 20 to 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n6. Child’s pose Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n7. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nStart by sitting on your yoga mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Come onto your sit bones and inhale with a straight spine. Raise your arms over your head and as you exhale, begin to bend forward by hinging at your waist. Slowly lower your torso toward the tops of your legs, allowing your spine to curve forward as you reach your legs. Hold this pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n\\n8. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["yoga_poses"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"clee59nvz1oep0bk9tkte7fbf","slug":"yoga-for-fibromyalgia","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"5 Gentle Yoga Poses for Fibromyalgia Relief (Beginner's Guide)","createdAt":"2023-02-21T11:09:34.123634+00:00","coverUrl":"vhmolmfdae8b320czb3c.jpg","content":{"text":"Pain, fatigue, headaches, depression, sleep problems — these are just a few of the wide-ranging symptoms of fibromyalgia. Affecting roughly 4 million people in the United States alone, this disorder causes pain all over the body through a malfunctioning of the nervous system. Science has yet to uncover specific causes for fibromyalgia, and its typically diagnosed in women more than men.\\nFor the 2-4 percent of the population suffering from fibromyalgia, life often revolves around managing the disorder, since the various symptoms can severely disrupt normal daily functioning. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but regular exercise, stress management, and quality sleep can help. It’s also vitally important that fibromyalgia patients take care of their mental health, since the disorder can cause depression and anxiety.\\n\n\\nHow Yoga Can Help Fibromyalgia?\\nWe know that yoga can help strengthen your body, increase your flexibility, and improve your well-being even without a condition like fibromyalgia. But scientists are affirming that yoga can indeed help patients suffering from the symptoms of fibromyalgia and improve their quality of life. \\n\\nA scientific study in 2020\\n found that performing yoga on a daily basis for nine months or more can reduce muscle fatigue associated with fibromyalgia and improve sleep patterns. Researchers prescribed a fibromyalgia patient with yoga postures that would strengthen muscles and relieve stress, while increasing flexibility and mobility. Over time, the patient experienced positive results, such as improved sleep, increased energy levels and improved stability. Plus, the yoga therapy was inexpensive in comparison to other treatments.\\nThis wasn’t the only study to find that yoga and meditation can help patients with fibromyalgia. By holistically strengthening the body, increasing flexibility, decreasing inflammation, reducing stress, and improving balance, sleep, and circulation, yoga can counteract the troubling symptoms of fibromyalgia and help patients stay active and present in their lives.\\n\\nPracticing Yoga for Fibromyalgia\\nAs the numerous studies have confirmed, a routine practice of yoga can help reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia. But it’s important to remember this isn’t a quick fix — regular, long-term practice is key. Yoga is not a cure for fibromyalgia and works best in conjunction with other treatments. \\nThe best types of yoga for fibromyalgia are those that focus on increasing strength and flexibility, reducing stress, and lowering inflammation. Avoid hot or strenuous types of yoga such as Power or Bikram yoga. If you’re not sure if yoga is right for you, consult your doctor before you move forward with yoga therapy.\\nYou can practice yoga for fibromyalgia in the comfort of your own home by taking an online course at\\n \\nMyYogaTeacher,\\n or by getting started with the poses listed below. Make sure you remain mindful of how your body feels, and give yourself a break if a pose or sequence feels uncomfortable, strenuous, or causes any pain.\\n\\n5 Yoga Poses for Fibromyalgia Relief\\nBegin with the poses below to help reduce your symptoms of fibromyalgia.\\n\n1. Mountain Pose\\n\\nThis pose is a strengthening yoga posture that improves your stability and helps center your mind and body for the rest of your yoga routine.\\nStart by standing at the top of your mat with your feet hip distance apart. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, with your spine straight and your chest lifted. Your gaze should be focused straight ahead of you while you breathe easily and gently. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\n2. Standing Forward Fold\\n\\nNot only does this pose increase flexibility in your calves, hamstrings, and lower back, but it also decreases stress.\\nStand at the front of your mat, feet hip distance apart. Exhale and bend forward from the waist, with your knees slightly bent and touching your hands to the floor in front of your feet. Inhale and exhale, allowing your torso to extend without rounding your back. Lengthen and soften your neck, and let the muscles of your thighs and lower back open and release any built-up tension. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n3. Cat Cow\\n\\nTo improve your flexibility and mobility, try practicing Cat Cow on daily basis. This pose can also help relieve tension.\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n4. Child’s pose\\n\\nChild’s pose is a calming posture that is effective at reducing stress and inflammation by lowering your blood pressure.\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\\n\\n5. Corpse pose\\n\\nTypically performed at the end of every yoga sequence or class, Corpse pose allows your entire body to relax and destress. \\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes.\\n\\nYoga Meditation for Fibromyalgia\\nDisrupted sleep patterns is just one of the symptoms of fibromyalgia, but calming yoga meditations can help. Specifically, Yoga Nidra — commonly knowns as the “Yoga of Sleep” — can help you unwind and get ready for bed. Regular practice of Yoga Nidra can also improve your sleep patterns over time. \\nIt’s best to practice Yoga Nidra lying down in a comfortable position while listening to a guided meditation. Audio recordings of Yoga Nidra meditations are available for free online, or you can ask a family member to help guide you through the meditation by reading the script below:\\n\\nYoga Nidra Fibromyalgia\\nRelax and focus on the rise and fall of your own breath. Notice each inhale and exhale, and how your body naturally pauses at the top of your inhale, and for a slightly longer moment at the end of your exhale. Observe this natural rhythm of your breath without controlling or forcing it. Allow any tension to dissolve as you become one with this rhythm. \\nOnce you’ve tuned into your breath, begin a scan of your entire body. Start with your hands, noticing each finger starting with your thumbs. Allow your attention to drift up your arms and to your shoulders, and observe the rise and fall of your chest as you breathe. Give your body permission to relax as you move your attention down your torso to your legs, your knees, your calves, your feet and your toes.\\nAs you continue your scan, gently release any feelings of negativity or judgment. If an area of your body feels tense or resistant to relaxation, gently accept those feelings and continue to move through the rest of your body. Allow any thoughts to float past your awareness and disintegrate as you continue your scan. Finish the meditation by silently expressing gratitude for your body.\\n\\nFAQs about Yoga for Fibromyalgia:\\n\\nWhich yoga is best for fibromyalgia?\\nFor people with \\nfibromyalgia, gentle forms of yoga that focus on slow movements and deep breathing are typically recommended\\n. Restorative yoga, gentle Hatha yoga, and Yin yoga are all great options for people living with fibromyalgia. These types of yoga can help alleviate pain, stiffness, and fatigue, while also promoting relaxation and stress relief.\\n\\nWhat type of yoga is best for chronic pain?\\nFor chronic pain, restorative yoga and gentle Hatha yoga are two great options\\n. Restorative yoga uses props such as bolsters, blankets, and blocks to support the body in gentle, passive stretches. This can help alleviate pain and reduce stress. Gentle Hatha yoga incorporates slow movements, deep breathing, and mindfulness, which can help reduce pain, increase flexibility, and promote overall well-being.\\n\\nCan yoga make fibromyalgia worse?\\nYoga is generally considered a safe and beneficial form of exercise for people with fibromyalgia. \\nHowever, certain types of yoga that involve intense stretching or strenuous movements may aggravate symptoms such as pain and fatigue.\\n It's important to listen to your body and only engage in yoga practices that feel comfortable and safe. Additionally, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program.\\n\\nIs restorative yoga good for fibromyalgia?\\nYes, restorative yoga is a great choice for people with fibromyalgia.\\n Restorative yoga uses props to support the body in gentle, passive stretches, which can help reduce pain, stiffness, and fatigue. The focus on relaxation and stress reduction can also help with symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Restorative yoga is a safe and accessible form of yoga that can be practiced by people of all ages and abilities."}},{"id":"claw7wcdkpmue0akb2dexmcnb","slug":"yoga-for-weight-loss-dec-22","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Welcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Free Yoga for Weight Loss Event!","createdAt":"2022-11-25T08:04:13.345163+00:00","coverUrl":"hm7hviovmruyz1r1qmie.png","content":{"text":"You’re invited to the three-day yoga event from December 2-4 dedicated to helping you lose weight and live your healthiest life!\\nUse yoga to get fit, stay fit, and feel better!\\n\\nDespite what you may have heard, yoga \\ncan\\n help you lose weight, and lose it fast. The combination of stress reduction, physical exertion, and creation of new habits make yoga a great avenue for weight loss. \\n\\nAnd MyYogaTeacher makes sure you don’t have to do it alone!\\nDid you know that you can burn anywhere from 180-600 calories an hour doing yoga?! That’s a lot! And because a regular yoga practice comes with \\nso many\\n more benefits than weight loss, it’s worth it to try it out if you haven’t already! \\n\\nThe impacts of living a yogic lifestyle are nothing but positive, so we hope you’ll join us for the 3-day Yoga for Weight Loss Event!\\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Better Emotional Balance Event:\\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know!  We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\\n[NEW!] Referred friends & family:\\nDid you refer a friend or family member to MyYogaTeacher? We’re so grateful for you!\\nYour family or friend should create a free account (they’ll get 2-weeks of access plus three complimentary 1-on-1 sessions). And if they sign up for membership, you both get $100 off MyYogaTeacher credit.\\n\\nDiscover all the best ways yoga and meditation help you have emotional balance. So you can live your life to the fullest, even during times of stress.\\nWe've put together an entire schedule of relaxation classes dedicated to helping you relax and sleep better.\\n\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\\n\\n\\nWeight Loss for Beginners: Mindful Movement with Kanishka\\n\\nFriday, December 2 from 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n⁠Click here to find out more or book this session\\n\n\\n\\n\\nScared to start a weight loss class because of your lack of fitness or flexibility? This beginner hatha yoga for weight loss class is for you! Join this introductory beginner hatha yoga class designed to help you build strength, flexibility, and stamina and boost your confidence as you pursue your weight loss goals.\\n\\n\\nYoga for Weight Loss: Stretch and Sweat with Ravin\\n\\nSaturday, December 3 from 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\\n⁠Click here to find out more or book this session\\n\n\\n\\n\\nYou can lose weight with yoga! Low impact exercise with a big impact on your health. This intense hatha yoga session for all fitness levels is guaranteed to work up a sweat and improve fitness, flexibility, and endurance. Join us!\\n\\n\\nHealthy and Fit: Yoga Asanas for Weight Loss with Gomati\\n\\nSunday, December 4 from 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n⁠Click here to find out more or book this session\\n\n\\n\\n\n\\nYoga makes it easy to prioritize your health! Get started on your weight loss journey in this 90 minute class dedicated to helping you get fit, healthy, and happy! Also, discover the important role your hormones play in your health. Join us!\\n\\nLet our expert yoga instructors guide you on a journey to better health! Here at MyYogaTeacher, we value building relationships with our yogi students and truly care about their health and wellness goals! MyYogaTeacher is unique in that you aren’t just a student when you join our community. You’re a friend! \\n\\nWe offer these events so you have the tools and guidance to live in harmony with your inner self, outer self, and the world. So you can move in the world with peace and good health. \\n\\nExperience weight loss in a way that works for you and \\nwith\\n you and build a consistent habit of making space for your health and wellness! We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\\n\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check out other weight loss related yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n\\nKanishka Pandey\\n\\n\\nAnuj Poonia\\n\\n\\nMonica Agarwal\\n\\n\\nAbhishek Bodhi\\n\\n\\nRavin Arya \\n\\n\\nGomati Woli\\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Weight Loss Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"}},{"id":"ckfqzkgt402b70179zy67ywb2","slug":"the-sequel-of-my-weight-loss-story-started-in-2011","author":{"name":"Annelise","teacherMytSlug":"anneliese-1","pictureUrl":"Annelise.jpg"},"title":"The sequel of my weight-loss story started in 2011","createdAt":"2020-05-12T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"wt7l7ttfrsewvuvrqsqp.png","content":{"text":"The landscape had been treacherous, marred by some very steep trails and some very long plateaus. I had tried every quick-fix in the book that promised to get me to my 30-kg lighter destination — the soya flour diet, fit for life, the IN-famous GM diet, Atkins… I even spent 30,000 rupees to be plugged to vibrator machines and kneaded like dough in the hope of getting off my well-trodden weight-loss path leading nowhere.\\n\\nMy morale was low and I hated everything about myself. Needless to say I fell off the wagon to bounce back to my happy 94-kg frame.\\n\\nThen one day, I won the lottery: I finally got a seat in an NLP practitioner course I had been chasing for 6 years! Dr. Richard McHugh (Dick), an Irish Jesuit priest, had been ordaining NLP disciples for decades in India.\\n\\nMy turning point was an NLP exercise that fired something off inside me –  and it’s been a magic carpet ride, to say the least. Loving myself and knowing exactly what my goal looked, sounded, and felt like, I embarked on my journey yet again, determined to travel light.\\n\\nI then decided to go all-in and license as a Master NLP Practioner and Trainer with the co-founder Dr. Richard Bandler in the States and the UK.\\n\\nAs the weight fell off, I realised that the other burning issue I had was hormonal ups and downs as I had embarked on a very uncertain perimenopausal roller coaster ride. The sudden surprises from very painful breasts to breathless palpitations had me in a spin. After much searching, I decided to put on my researcher lab coat again, and immersed myself in research on digestive health and its impact on the mind, hormones and weight.\\n\\nIn Jan 2016, I began my \\nyoga teacher\\n journey, specialising in yin yoga –  a gentle, meditative practice that works on not just the physical, but the subtle energetic and emotional body as well.\\n\\nI have since spent my time in personal sadhana, studying anatomy, various teachers’ styles, and the application of \\nyogic philosophy\\n in contemporary times. I’ve taken off for yoga retreats to Gokarna, Kerala and Goa, India to steep myself in my practice and surround myself with like-minded yogis.\\n\\nToday I meet my body where it is, listening deeply and gently supporting it as it rides each new wave.\\n\\nSo, this is what I've learnt and am on a mission to teach you:\\n\\nNurture your adrenal glands that produce the stress hormone cortisol. As we move towards menopause, the responsibility of estrogen production is placed on the adrenals, making it even more vital you reduce your exposure to stress of various kinds – mental, physical, nutritional, etc\\n\\nMost of the major hormonal glands correspond with the energy centers in the body (read chakras). Bringing about this balance on the physical often requires work on the emotional, mental and Spiritual. I use \\nyin yoga\\n and essential oils to bring me back to equanimity.\\n\\nTrack your cycle, make sense of patterns and follow the moon to restore your natural rhythm.\\n\\nSo remember, you can stay in control when you know how.\\n"}}],"relatedPosts":[{"id":"ckfqz2rgo02090136wdoy1f70","slug":"a-review-from-a-real-student","author":{"name":"Nikki Miller","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":"nikki-miller.jpg"},"title":"A Review from a MyYogaTeacher Member","createdAt":"2020-01-10T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"1-First-we-check-in.jpg","content":{"text":"We were just so excited to see Nikki's review of myYogaTeacher that we asked if we could also share it here. We are LOVING her excitement and enthusiasm for finding HER TEACHER!\n⁠\\n[CTA-REVIEWS]\\nGuest post by Nikki Miller\\nWhen the student is ready, the teacher will appear attributed to Buddha Siddhartha Guatama Shakyamuni\\n\\nMaybe you've heard that one? You’re ready to up your yoga game, but where is your teacher? \\n\\nThey’re in your living room.  \\n\\n\\nI mean, not right now (don’t freak out). But they can be in your living room, if you’re ready for one-on-one online yoga instruction, in private, in your home - with a real \\nlive\\n yoga teacher trained in India. \\n\\nConfession: I wasn’t ready. How would that even work? #skeptical\\n\\nI only tried myYogaTeacher because of three words: \\nFree Trial Period\\n. At least it would motivate me to get on my yoga mat and skip that last hour of Netflix binging. \\n\\nFully ready to bail the moment the app got confusing or annoying (nobody has time for a half-baked app), I signed up and the app proved seamless. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves—we haven’t even gotten to the yoga yet!\\n\\n\\n\\nMe and Pranjal!\\n\\nI set up my yoga mat in living room and a real, live yoga teacher met me online through the two-way camera on my laptop. Pretty cool… but how could she instruct me through a camera? Still skeptical. Still ready to bail.  \\n\\nShe asked about my goals and how my body was feeling (I happened to be recovering from a shoulder injury) and then she tailored the practice to my specific needs that day. \\n\\n\\nWhen we got to my Nemesis Pose (the one I always struggle with) she proactively offered \\nmodifications\\n — and I actually felt at ease in the pose. Yoga. Epiphany.  \\n\\nAlong the way I asked ALL the questions: Can we go back to the last pose? Can we slow down (or speed up) a bit? Can you tell me more about [insert every question I’ve ever had about \\nyoga poses\\n]?\\n[CTA-GC]\\nAfterwards they sent me a recording of the session. (Confession: I had absolutely no intention of watching it! I’ve seen myself in the mirror at the studio. Hard pass). But I caved, and the replay revealed how my body came in and out of poses and where I was misaligned until performing the modifications. \\n\\n\\nMy understanding advanced more than it had in months. \\n\\n\\nI had found my \\nyoga teacher\\n.  \\n\\nNot everything was smooth sailing, though:   \\n\\n1)    Setting up the audio harshed my zen. In order to get your entire yoga mat on the screen, you have to place your laptop/device pretty far away, but then it can be difficult to hear through the speakers. In the end, I opted to use my mobile phone for the audio—which worked fine but became distracting while navigating around the mat.\\n\\nOne teacher spoke with a pronounced accent that I struggled to understand. I’d rather say more “OM” and less “Can you repeat that please?”\\n\\nI tried other teachers over time, and while you learn something from every teacher, not all were the right fit for me. It’s similar to finding your yoga studio home: you’ll know it when you find it.\\n\\n\\nSharing physical space and community with other yogis at the studio will always be an important part of my yoga experience. And if I’m desperate I might mimic a pre-recorded \\nyoga class\\n again. But myYogaTeacher is now a critical arm of my yoga practice. \\n\\n\\nIt’s where my experience is expertly tailored to my unique needs. It’s where I can ask questions and receive immediate feedback. It’s where my practice truly advances. \\n\\nIt’s where I found my teacher. \\n\\nAnd all from my living room. (Confession: Sometimes still in my pajamas.)\\n"}},{"id":"clas104kemz1o0bimrwa5ir7s","slug":"yoga-gift-card","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"10 Reasons To Give The Gift Of Yoga This Holiday Season","createdAt":"2022-11-22T09:40:07.784715+00:00","coverUrl":"eomsfhhpzm6rc4ndnem3.jpg","content":{"text":"As the holiday season takes off, it’s not always easy to find the perfect gift for all the special people in our lives. Trying to be unique or give something that stands out can be difficult. But yoga is the gift that keeps on giving! When you give someone the gift of yoga, you’re reminding them how important it is to take time for themselves. Helping them to create space and routine they may not have otherwise. Thinking of giving a \\nMyYogaTeacher gift card\\n for the holidays? There's so many reasons to give the gift of yoga and mindfulness this season! If you’re a yogi, you know the many benefits of yoga and how helpful it is to your day to day life! But maybe there’s someone in your life who has yet to discover the gift of yoga! \n⁠\n⁠\\nHere are the top 10 reasons to give the gift of yoga to someone you love. \\n It’s good for the environment!\\n Gifting a virtual gift card means no wrapping paper. Even if your recipient lives overseas it’s easy to just email the gift right to their inbox!\\nIt promotes self-care! \\nWhen you give the gift of yoga, you’re giving someone you love the chance to take time out of their busy schedule to practice self-care and self love. It’s such a beautiful way to show gratitude to those around us. \\nIt becomes a routine. \\nDid you know it takes 21 days to build a habit? When you give the gift of a month with \\nMyYogaTeacher \\nto someone, it will become part of their routine and lifestyle. And they’ll be grateful you gave them such a beautiful gift. Which brings us to the next reason….\\n \\nYoga creates a community. \\nFor those of us who are still working from home or may live far from those we love, MyYogaTeacher’s online classes give us a chance to create a yoga community while staying home. We look forward to our weekly classes with expert teachers and the friends we make along the way. \\n It’s good for the body! \\nUsually around the holidays we tend to indulge in the name of celebration. Yoga is a great way to balance out celebrating with mindful movement. \\n \\nIt will last long after the holidays.\\n A lot of times, we buy gifts for the moment and the facade wears off quickly. Rather than another useless gadget, yoga gives you the opportunity to learn something new. \\n Yoga can jumpstart your New Year’s goals! \\nMost of us start our fitness goals after the holiday rush. But by giving the gift of yoga, you give your loved ones a leg up on the gym game! \\n If you’re a member, it’s an opportunity to spend more time together. \\nPurchasing a gift card for a friend or family member means you can take classes together even if you’re apart! \\nYoga improves your outlook. \\nIf your loved one has had a tough year or is moving through a hard season in their life, yoga is a great way to increase happiness and overall outlook by introducing them to a mindful practice.\\n It relieves the effects of holiday stress. \\nBetween the shopping, parties and traffic, the holiday season can be \\nvery stressful\\n. Giving the gift of yoga to a stressed out holiday shopper could be just what they need to reset for the end of the year. \\n\n\\nA\\n giftcard to our virtual yoga platform\\n is great for so many people! Having a hard time knowing if it’s right for your recipient? Here’s our top five list! \\nFor that special someone who needs to relax.\\nFor someone in recovery from an injury.\\nFor someone who loves to workout.\\nFor the college student or teacher on holiday break.\\nFor a busy parent. \\nHead over to our website to grab your \\ngift cards\\n so you can do yoga with someone special in your life this holiday season. \\n"}},{"id":"claqtt90v1oog0bimezcei2yq","slug":"yoga-with-your-partner","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Practicing Yoga with your Partner : 14 Yoga Poses Practice To Deepen Your Connection","createdAt":"2022-11-21T13:31:03.531635+00:00","coverUrl":"arv0lxzhmqel1ad4vmxv.jpg","content":{"text":"Are you looking to deepen your connection with your partner? Feeling detached? Yoga is a great way to reconnect with yourself and your relationship. If you’ve never practiced yoga with your partner, there's no time like now to get started! And Myyogateacher is the perfect place! You can practice with your partner at home, in your safe and secure place. \\nBegin your journey with us today! \\n\\n\n\\nWhy Should Couples Practice Yoga Together?\\nAccording to a \\n2016 study\\n, a mindfulness practice with your partner can result in a higher quality relationship. Being present in the experience with your partner is key. Yoga can be your form of “couples therapy” and here's why! \\n1. Promotes Happiness\\nWe know your partner already gives you butterflies but on days you're feeling down, connecting together with your movement and breath can boost endorphins. \\n2. Improves your Communication\\nWhen you start to practice yoga together, you and your partner learn to take non-verbal cues as you move. This practice off the mat, will improve communication by learning to read each other's body language and facial expressions. \\n3. Improved Sex\\nYoga teaches us how to move with our partner's body and breath. This will enhance your sex life because our bodies will better understand how to respond to one another physically. \\n4. Reduces Stress, Anxiety and Anger\\nPracticing yoga or physical activities together can help us understand what upsets our partner which will make us more understanding of their triggers and emotional responses. It can also help us learn how to help our partner cope with stress through breathwork. \n⁠\\n\\nWhat are the Benefits of Couples Yoga?\\nWhen you start to practice yoga together with your partner, the effects are long lasting. Here are some of the benefits of joining bodies on the mat. \\nInitiates physical and emotional support. Yoga forces you and your partner to physically lean on one another for support. Like the grown up version of a “trust fall”. \\nCreates shared memories & experiences! There’s nothing more memorable than learning a new skill or trying something scary with the one you love. \\nStrength and stability. If you’re ready to take the plunge into building a practice together, you will emotionally grow together in stability and strength while also using your physical strength to hold each other up. How cosmic and beautiful!\\nAnd of course, MORE LOVE! What could be better than building a deeper connection with your partner? \n⁠\n\\nWhat is Tantric Yoga?\\nTantric yoga is designed to help you build and strengthen your relationship with your partner through connected bodies and energies. When most people hear “tantric” they assume it’s always about sex but the practice is about fostering the relationship between two partners. If you’d like to build a tantric practice into your partner yoga experience, you can end your session with a “Tantric yoga meditation.”\\nWant to give it a try? Here’s a set of beginner steps to start your tantric connection. \\nFocus on your breathing.\\nSlow down. Start to deepen your inhales and exhales together. \\nMake eye contact. Look into your partner's eyes and focus. \\nStart engaging your senses. (hear, feel, taste, smell, see) \\nSee where you end up! \n⁠\\n\\nHow does Yoga Together Promote Intimacy?\\nHave you ever told your partner you’re “not on the same page” as them? When you start doing yoga together, you’ll never say that again. When we practice yoga, we become present in our bodies. We connect our movement to our breath and no matter what’s going on around us, we can breathe and stay focused. When we do yoga with a partner, we fall into sync together. We become one. Your breath, movement and bodies will start to naturally fall into the same rhythm together. This rhythm will create a closeness that will promote more intimacy in everything you do with your partner. The “yoga” you do together off the mat will be more rewarding and fulfilling because you choose to connect with your practice. \n⁠\\n\\nReady to deepen your connection with Yoga? \\nYou can practice with us at \\nmyyogateacher\\n from the comfort of your own home. Try a two week free trial on us! Our classes are live with authentic, expert Indian yoga instructors to guide you through your practice. Looking for a more private experience? Try our 1-on-1 classes where the practice is built just for you and your partner! To start, build your practice at home with your partner using these beginner poses. \n⁠\\n\n\\n14 Yoga Poses to Try With Your Partner\\nThese yoga poses for 2 will help you move together while building intimacy, trust and security:\\n\\n1. Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose)\\nDo this pose facing each other. Put your hands on your partner’s knees.\\n\\n2. Chair Pose (Utkatasana)\\nDo this pose back to back. Hold each other up as gravity pulls you down. \\n\\n3. Seated Forward Bend Pose (Paschimottanasana)\\nBring your feet to your partner’s and reach forward to join hands. Pull each other into the stretch. \\n\\n4. Revolved Chair Pose (Parivrtta Utkatasana)\\nHold opposite hands and twist the outside arm open. Switch sides. \\n\\n5. Down Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana) \\nEasy: Come to child's pose and have your partner put their hands on your lower back in downdog. \\nHarder: Bring your feet to your partner’s lower back and come up into an L shape. \\n\\n6. Child's Pose (Bālāsana)\\nStack your child’s pose over your partner’s. \\n\\n7. Tree Pose ( Vrikshasana)\\nStand side by side and join hands. Use your strength to hold each other up.\\n\\n8. Standing Forward Fold Pose ( Uttanasana)\\nHinge at the hips and reach for your partner's arms around both your legs or hold hands in your bend. \\n\\n9. Camel Pose (Ustrasana) \\nInstead of reaching back, let your heart open but hold your partner's outer arms. Let your hearts face each other. \\n\\n10. Boat Pose (Navasana)\\nFace one another and connect your feet with your knees bent. Lift your legs straight if you can. When you’re ready to balance, hold hands. \\n\\n11. Side Angle Bend Pose (Utthita Parsvakonasana) \\nStand in warrior two opposite your partner. With the arm that's down, grab hands. \\n\\n12. Warrior 3 Pose (Virabhadrasana)\\nWhen hinging at the hips, bring your hands to your partner’s shoulders and lift your back (opposite) leg. \\n\\n13. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)\\nHave one partner stack their feet on the other’s thighs then lift up. You can keep your hands on the ground or hold hands together. \\n\\n14. Savasana Pose\\nCome together to finish your practice!\\nBring one hand to your heart, and one to join your partners. Breathe deeply together and relax.\\n\n\\nIf you’re feeling the love, keep the connection going by making your practice more consistent.  Now you have all the tools you need to build a stronger connection with your partner! Join us online and start your at home practice today! \\n"}}],"blogContent":{"id":"ckfqxov60014x0178pen9w4xk","slug":"why-i-started-myyogateacher","author":{"name":"Jitendra","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":"jitendra1.png"},"title":"Why we started myYogaTeacher","createdAt":"2020-01-18T00:00:00+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-10-03T12:48:18.596533+00:00","coverUrl":"image-1_37.png","seoDescription":"Hear from MyYogaTeacher's co-founder, Jitendra, about why he decided to start an online yoga studio and why he's so passionate about its success.","content":{"text":"\\n\\n\\nHaving started 3 companies, I believe, there are two kinds of startup ideas.\\n\\nFirst, there are ideas that make intellectual sense – I mean ideas where you can think of a need, talk to customers and imagine a way to deliver a service in an economically viable fashion to address that need.\\n\\nBut myYogaTeacher is the second kind of idea. The ideas where you personally feel the need. These are ideas where you feel a sense of \\nmission\\n and you are compelled to pursue them because you feel that the universe and your entire life has been building up for you to bring the idea to reality.\\n\\nYou see – My name – Jitendra – is derived from Sanskrit and it means “one who has control of his senses.” For the most part, I felt I lived up to this but while running my previous startup I found myself miserable and losing control.\\n\\nOn the outside, I had it all together. I owned successful companies, had tons of friends and a great family. I had everything I wanted and worked so hard for … but despite all of that, I had thoughts running like trains in my head I could not control, I was not sleeping well, not exercising enough, counting the days to my next break and feeling like there was more to life. There was something that I was missing. You know what I mean?\\n\\nI felt sad and depressed pretty much every day. My eating habits were terrible and all my efforts to improve fell flat. My mind circled in unhealthy thought patterns that I just couldn’t stop.\\n\\nI didn’t feel good in my body, I didn’t feel good in my mind, and I didn’t feel good in my life.\\n\\nNow, I’m originally from India. Of course I had heard about Yoga since I was a child. Even here in America, Yoga is a big deal. A regular \\nYoga practice\\n creates peace, drastically increases health and well-being and can even help you to lose weight.\\n\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\n\\nThese were all the things I desperately needed.\\n\\nBut, despite knowing all that, I didn’t want to go to a yoga studio! I was out of shape, totally inflexible and just plain self-conscious.\\n\\nMy old friend, who lived in India and practiced Yoga everyday, said the best way to learn yoga was the classic Guru–shishya relationship that has been passed down for generations. To put this in modern terms (and to pass on the outdated “guru” idea), this meant having a connection with a teacher to learn from directly. A teacher who could get to know me and my unique struggles. My friend offered to find someone for me and I agreed.\\n\\nHe delivered!!!\\n\\nHe found me Pranjal, a yoga teacher with 8 years of teaching experience and 1,600 hours of certified teacher training! Yes, you read that correctly – a whopping 1,600 hours of training.\\n\\nBut, she lived in Pune, India and I was in California! So we decided to try practicing through video calls.\\n\\nI was skeptical – Yoga is a physical thing! Was she going to see me well? Would she be able to tell how I was doing and give me the guidance I needed? I was just starting out and was going to need A LOT of help.\\n\\nBut Pranjal was amazing!\\n\\nShe helped me build the strength and \\nflexibility\\n to perform the postures really well. She guided me towards realistic goals. I could feel and notice the improvement in each session.\\n\\nThe flexibility, strength and ability to meet challenging postures in my yoga practice was spilling into my mental health as well.\\n\\nI was happier, calmer and able to make healthier decisions (and stick to them). I was losing weight and the stress from building my businesses practically vanished. I still get stressed but I don’t take it home with me.\\n\\nAfter a few months, I felt ready to go practice in a yoga studio…\\n\\nWhat. A. Disappointment!!!\\n\\nAfter all the 1-on-1 personal attention I was getting from Pranjal, it was a bitter experience to finally feel ready to practice in public. The teacher had no time to focus on me.\\n\\nYeah, she would do (MAYBE) one correction during the class. But nothing more. She didn’t KNOW my body the way Pranjal did. She didn’t help me to set goals or work toward them. She didn’t change the pace of the class when I felt ready to\\n\\nIn the group classes, I was just another one of 30 people the teacher needed to keep track of.\\n\\nAfter a few classes of that, I sprinted back to Pranjal!\\n\\nBut something was off…with all my tech skills and entrepreneurial spirit, I needed to share this with other people. I knew there were tons of people too busy to go to a studio, too shy to practice in front of others. People who need and want the 1-on-1 personal attention that will help them to progress, heal, and grow fast!\\n\\nI knew there were so many people out there ready and waiting for yoga to transform their lives.\\n\\nWith a team of amazing people, I started myYogaTeacher to improve physical and mental well being of the entire planet. To help empower you to take positive steps forward in your life. And even to heal the symptoms of pain and illness that we’ve seen yoga heal.\\n\\nSound’s big, doesn’t it?\\n\\nIt’s a bold mission, but I also know that our teachers have the power to make it a reality for every one of our students. So I brought together a team of awesome engineers to start working on myYogaTeacher.\\n\\nBut, most importantly, I hired a group of scouts in India to find the best yoga teachers in the country.\\n\\nAfter 8 months of hard work, it’s time for the big test! We launched recently and I am so excited to see this venture grow. I value all of my businesses, but helping people improve their physical and mental health through a personal connection to one of the best \\nYoga teachers\\n of the East is close to my heart.\\n\\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\\n\\nI genuinely hope you try and enjoy your time with myYogaTeacher. We would sincerely love to hear from you. Email us, call us or chat with us through the app.\\n\\nYour friends in growth, health and wellbeing!\\n","html":"<p></p><iframe\n          width=\"640\"\n          height=\"360\"\n          frameBorder=\"0\"\n          allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\"\n          allowFullScreen\n          title=\"https://player.vimeo.com/video/385473661\"\n          src=\"https://player.vimeo.com/video/385473661\"\n        ></iframe><p></p><p>Having started 3 companies, I believe, there are two kinds of startup ideas.</p><p></p><p>First, there are ideas that make intellectual sense – I mean ideas where you can think of a need, talk to customers and imagine a way to deliver a service in an economically viable fashion to address that need.</p><p></p><p>But myYogaTeacher is the second kind of idea. The ideas where you personally feel the need. These are ideas where you feel a sense of <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/company-mission-culture\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/company-mission-culture\">mission</a> and you are compelled to pursue them because you feel that the universe and your entire life has been building up for you to bring the idea to reality.</p><p></p><p>You see – My name – Jitendra – is derived from Sanskrit and it means “one who has control of his senses.” For the most part, I felt I lived up to this but while running my previous startup I found myself miserable and losing control.</p><p></p><p>On the outside, I had it all together. I owned successful companies, had tons of friends and a great family. I had everything I wanted and worked so hard for … but despite all of that, I had thoughts running like trains in my head I could not control, I was not sleeping well, not exercising enough, counting the days to my next break and feeling like there was more to life. There was something that I was missing. You know what I mean?</p><p></p><p>I felt sad and depressed pretty much every day. My eating habits were terrible and all my efforts to improve fell flat. My mind circled in unhealthy thought patterns that I just couldn’t stop.</p><p></p><p>I didn’t feel good in my body, I didn’t feel good in my mind, and I didn’t feel good in my life.</p><p></p><p>Now, I’m originally from India. Of course I had heard about Yoga since I was a child. Even here in America, Yoga is a big deal. A regular <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">Yoga practice</a> creates peace, drastically increases health and well-being and can even help you to lose weight.</p><p></p><p>[CTA-DEFAULT]</p><p></p><p>These were all the things I desperately needed.</p><p></p><p>But, despite knowing all that, I didn’t want to go to a yoga studio! I was out of shape, totally inflexible and just plain self-conscious.</p><p></p><p>My old friend, who lived in India and practiced Yoga everyday, said the best way to learn yoga was the classic Guru–shishya relationship that has been passed down for generations. To put this in modern terms (and to pass on the outdated “guru” idea), this meant having a connection with a teacher to learn from directly. A teacher who could get to know me and my unique struggles. My friend offered to find someone for me and I agreed.</p><p></p><p>He delivered!!!</p><p></p><p>He found me Pranjal, a yoga teacher with 8 years of teaching experience and 1,600 hours of certified teacher training! Yes, you read that correctly – a whopping 1,600 hours of training.</p><p></p><p>But, she lived in Pune, India and I was in California! So we decided to try practicing through video calls.</p><p></p><p>I was skeptical – Yoga is a physical thing! Was she going to see me well? Would she be able to tell how I was doing and give me the guidance I needed? I was just starting out and was going to need A LOT of help.</p><p></p><p>But Pranjal was amazing!</p><p></p><p>She helped me build the strength and <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\">flexibility</a> to perform the postures really well. She guided me towards realistic goals. I could feel and notice the improvement in each session.</p><p></p><p>The flexibility, strength and ability to meet challenging postures in my yoga practice was spilling into my mental health as well.</p><p></p><p>I was happier, calmer and able to make healthier decisions (and stick to them). I was losing weight and the stress from building my businesses practically vanished. I still get stressed but I don’t take it home with me.</p><p></p><p>After a few months, I felt ready to go practice in a yoga studio…</p><p></p><p>What. A. Disappointment!!!</p><p></p><p>After all the 1-on-1 personal attention I was getting from Pranjal, it was a bitter experience to finally feel ready to practice in public. The teacher had no time to focus on me.</p><p></p><p>Yeah, she would do (MAYBE) one correction during the class. But nothing more. She didn’t KNOW my body the way Pranjal did. She didn’t help me to set goals or work toward them. She didn’t change the pace of the class when I felt ready to</p><p></p><p>In the group classes, I was just another one of 30 people the teacher needed to keep track of.</p><p></p><p>After a few classes of that, I sprinted back to Pranjal!</p><p></p><p>But something was off…with all my tech skills and entrepreneurial spirit, I needed to share this with other people. I knew there were tons of people too busy to go to a studio, too shy to practice in front of others. People who need and want the 1-on-1 personal attention that will help them to progress, heal, and grow fast!</p><p></p><p>I knew there were so many people out there ready and waiting for yoga to transform their lives.</p><p></p><p>With a team of amazing people, I started myYogaTeacher to improve physical and mental well being of the entire planet. To help empower you to take positive steps forward in your life. And even to heal the symptoms of pain and illness that we’ve seen yoga heal.</p><p></p><p>Sound’s big, doesn’t it?</p><p></p><p>It’s a bold mission, but I also know that our teachers have the power to make it a reality for every one of our students. So I brought together a team of awesome engineers to start working on myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>But, most importantly, I hired a group of scouts in India to find the best yoga teachers in the country.</p><p></p><p>After 8 months of hard work, it’s time for the big test! We launched recently and I am so excited to see this venture grow. I value all of my businesses, but helping people improve their physical and mental health through a personal connection to one of the best <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp/\">Yoga teachers</a> of the East is close to my heart.</p><p></p><p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t</p><p></p><p>I genuinely hope you try and enjoy your time with myYogaTeacher. We would sincerely love to hear from you. Email us, call us or chat with us through the app.</p><p></p><p>Your friends in growth, health and wellbeing!</p><p></p>"},"category":["yoga"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p></p><div classname=\"iframe-video\" style=\"width: 100%;position: relative;\"> \n        <img src=\"https://images.myyogateacher.com/icons/transparent_16_9.png\" alt=\"iframe\"\n        style=\"/* position: absolute; */top: 0;width: 100%;\">\n        <iframe frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen=\"\" \n        title=\"https://player.vimeo.com/video/385473661\"\n        src=https://player.vimeo.com/video/385473661\n        style=\"width: 100%;top: 0;position: absolute;height: 100%;\">\n        </iframe>\n        </div><p></p><p>Having started 3 companies, I believe, there are two kinds of startup ideas.</p><p></p><p>First, there are ideas that make intellectual sense – I mean ideas where you can think of a need, talk to customers and imagine a way to deliver a service in an economically viable fashion to address that need.</p><p></p><p>But myYogaTeacher is the second kind of idea. The ideas where you personally feel the need. These are ideas where you feel a sense of <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/company-mission-culture\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/company-mission-culture\">mission</a> and you are compelled to pursue them because you feel that the universe and your entire life has been building up for you to bring the idea to reality.</p><p></p><p>You see – My name – Jitendra – is derived from Sanskrit and it means “one who has control of his senses.” For the most part, I felt I lived up to this but while running my previous startup I found myself miserable and losing control.</p><p></p><p>On the outside, I had it all together. I owned successful companies, had tons of friends and a great family. I had everything I wanted and worked so hard for … but despite all of that, I had thoughts running like trains in my head I could not control, I was not sleeping well, not exercising enough, counting the days to my next break and feeling like there was more to life. There was something that I was missing. You know what I mean?</p><p></p><p>I felt sad and depressed pretty much every day. My eating habits were terrible and all my efforts to improve fell flat. My mind circled in unhealthy thought patterns that I just couldn’t stop.</p><p></p><p>I didn’t feel good in my body, I didn’t feel good in my mind, and I didn’t feel good in my life.</p><p></p><p>Now, I’m originally from India. Of course I had heard about Yoga since I was a child. Even here in America, Yoga is a big deal. A regular <a\n            class=\"inline-cta\"\n            id=5ec79001-3391-44f7-87be-0f1d98910c60\n            href=\"/signup?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckfqxov60014x0178pen9w4xk&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=Why we started myYogaTeacher&entity_slug=why-i-started-myyogateacher&page_or_popup=/articles/why-i-started-myyogateacher&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n            onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"5ec79001-3391-44f7-87be-0f1d98910c60\")\n            title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n            data-title=\"Why we started myYogaTeacher\"\n            data-slug=\"why-i-started-myyogateacher\"\n            <u>Yoga practice</a></u>        \n            </a> creates peace, drastically increases health and well-being and can even help you to lose weight.</p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"},{"type":"HTML","value":"<p></p><p>These were all the things I desperately needed.</p><p></p><p>But, despite knowing all that, I didn’t want to go to a yoga studio! I was out of shape, totally inflexible and just plain self-conscious.</p><p></p><p>My old friend, who lived in India and practiced Yoga everyday, said the best way to learn yoga was the classic Guru–shishya relationship that has been passed down for generations. To put this in modern terms (and to pass on the outdated “guru” idea), this meant having a connection with a teacher to learn from directly. A teacher who could get to know me and my unique struggles. My friend offered to find someone for me and I agreed.</p><p></p><p>He delivered!!!</p><p></p><p>He found me Pranjal, a yoga teacher with 8 years of teaching experience and 1,600 hours of certified teacher training! Yes, you read that correctly – a whopping 1,600 hours of training.</p><p></p><p>But, she lived in Pune, India and I was in California! So we decided to try practicing through video calls.</p><p></p><p>I was skeptical – Yoga is a physical thing! Was she going to see me well? Would she be able to tell how I was doing and give me the guidance I needed? I was just starting out and was going to need A LOT of help.</p><p></p><p>But Pranjal was amazing!</p><p></p><p>She helped me build the strength and <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\">flexibility</a> to perform the postures really well. She guided me towards realistic goals. I could feel and notice the improvement in each session.</p><p></p><p>The flexibility, strength and ability to meet challenging postures in my yoga practice was spilling into my mental health as well.</p><p></p><p>I was happier, calmer and able to make healthier decisions (and stick to them). I was losing weight and the stress from building my businesses practically vanished. I still get stressed but I don’t take it home with me.</p><p></p><p>After a few months, I felt ready to go practice in a yoga studio…</p><p></p><p>What. A. Disappointment!!!</p><p></p><p>After all the 1-on-1 personal attention I was getting from Pranjal, it was a bitter experience to finally feel ready to practice in public. The teacher had no time to focus on me.</p><p></p><p>Yeah, she would do (MAYBE) one correction during the class. But nothing more. She didn’t KNOW my body the way Pranjal did. She didn’t help me to set goals or work toward them. She didn’t change the pace of the class when I felt ready to</p><p></p><p>In the group classes, I was just another one of 30 people the teacher needed to keep track of.</p><p></p><p>After a few classes of that, I sprinted back to Pranjal!</p><p></p><p>But something was off…with all my tech skills and entrepreneurial spirit, I needed to share this with other people. I knew there were tons of people too busy to go to a studio, too shy to practice in front of others. People who need and want the 1-on-1 personal attention that will help them to progress, heal, and grow fast!</p><p></p><p>I knew there were so many people out there ready and waiting for yoga to transform their lives.</p><p></p><p>With a team of amazing people, I started myYogaTeacher to improve physical and mental well being of the entire planet. To help empower you to take positive steps forward in your life. And even to heal the symptoms of pain and illness that we’ve seen yoga heal.</p><p></p><p>Sound’s big, doesn’t it?</p><p></p><p>It’s a bold mission, but I also know that our teachers have the power to make it a reality for every one of our students. So I brought together a team of awesome engineers to start working on myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>But, most importantly, I hired a group of scouts in India to find the best yoga teachers in the country.</p><p></p><p>After 8 months of hard work, it’s time for the big test! We launched recently and I am so excited to see this venture grow. I value all of my businesses, but helping people improve their physical and mental health through a personal connection to one of the best <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp/\">Yoga teachers</a> of the East is close to my heart.</p><p></p><p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t</p><p></p><p>I genuinely hope you try and enjoy your time with myYogaTeacher. We would sincerely love to hear from you. Email us, call us or chat with us through the app.</p><p></p><p>Your friends in growth, health and wellbeing!</p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"why-i-started-myyogateacher","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"signup","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/why-i-started-myyogateacher","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz37hsu0cj0a76mgb4594m","name":"[CTA-FREECLASS]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz4d5stsye0b75dtlx1w0n","name":"[CTA-TRENDS]","description":{"html":"<p>Get ahead of the next trend and practice with authentic Indian yoga teachers! Sign up today and <strong>get 2 free private yoga sessions PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong>. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Practice with Authentic Indian Yoga Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz6nq0tqdr0c258titvagg","name":"[CTA-REVIEWS]","description":{"html":"<p>Find out what all the hype is about! <strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>103,478 Happy Students &amp; 12,086 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reviews</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz7nzktu400b752fym6wpw","name":"[CTA-HATHA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private hatha yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(including tons of daily Hatha yoga classes). No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Hatha Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>with Authentic Indian Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cky90p88g3zgc0d23yz6taont","name":"[CTA-NASAL]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>to relieve post nasal drip and clear out your sinus. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic Indian yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Post Nasal Drip &amp; Clear Your Sinus Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyirvl8g25ce0c70cldmca2g","name":"[CTA-TRATAKA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>with experienced Trataka teachers. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Candle Gazing Meditation) with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Learn Trataka (Candle Gazing) Meditation Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyisqh482ck60b79rp1r1jcg","name":"[CTA-YIN]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong>, work with an experienced yoga therapist to reduce (and even eliminate) your back pain. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Yoga for Back Pain’) with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Therapy – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Back Pain Safely &amp; Effectively Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyitki4w2liz0b30tqpzhy4i","name":"[CTA-KRIYA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions </strong>for Kriya Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation <strong>and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Practice Kriya, Pranayama, and Meditation Today!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyitxgyg2pot0b79lu1fcpp1","name":"[CTA-BREATH]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions </strong>for yogic breathing techniques (pranayama) and <strong>2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong>, like ‘Stretch and Breathe’, ‘Kriya, Pranayama, and Meditation’, and many others. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong> Learn Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Pranayama!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckykb6i2o1o7f0b368s1m7qow","name":"[CTA-LYMPHATIC]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong> for lymphatic drainage &amp; immunity enhancement. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group yoga classes</strong> (including daily yin-yoga) when you sign up today! No credit card required to sign up.</p><p></p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions –  </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>for Lymphatic Drainage &amp; Boosting Your Immune System!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl2vqlpyfe3yh0biohgxyx2hg","name":"[CTA-LEAD]","description":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl4gnwnrlga640ck37gutx7sn","name":"[CTA-GC]","description":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"}],"post":{"id":"ckfqxov60014x0178pen9w4xk","slug":"why-i-started-myyogateacher","author":{"name":"Jitendra","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":"jitendra1.png"},"title":"Why we started myYogaTeacher","createdAt":"2020-01-18T00:00:00+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-10-03T12:48:18.596533+00:00","coverUrl":"image-1_37.png","seoDescription":"Hear from MyYogaTeacher's co-founder, Jitendra, about why he decided to start an online yoga studio and why he's so passionate about its success.","content":{"text":"\\n\\n\\nHaving started 3 companies, I believe, there are two kinds of startup ideas.\\n\\nFirst, there are ideas that make intellectual sense – I mean ideas where you can think of a need, talk to customers and imagine a way to deliver a service in an economically viable fashion to address that need.\\n\\nBut myYogaTeacher is the second kind of idea. The ideas where you personally feel the need. These are ideas where you feel a sense of \\nmission\\n and you are compelled to pursue them because you feel that the universe and your entire life has been building up for you to bring the idea to reality.\\n\\nYou see – My name – Jitendra – is derived from Sanskrit and it means “one who has control of his senses.” For the most part, I felt I lived up to this but while running my previous startup I found myself miserable and losing control.\\n\\nOn the outside, I had it all together. I owned successful companies, had tons of friends and a great family. I had everything I wanted and worked so hard for … but despite all of that, I had thoughts running like trains in my head I could not control, I was not sleeping well, not exercising enough, counting the days to my next break and feeling like there was more to life. There was something that I was missing. You know what I mean?\\n\\nI felt sad and depressed pretty much every day. My eating habits were terrible and all my efforts to improve fell flat. My mind circled in unhealthy thought patterns that I just couldn’t stop.\\n\\nI didn’t feel good in my body, I didn’t feel good in my mind, and I didn’t feel good in my life.\\n\\nNow, I’m originally from India. Of course I had heard about Yoga since I was a child. Even here in America, Yoga is a big deal. A regular \\nYoga practice\\n creates peace, drastically increases health and well-being and can even help you to lose weight.\\n\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\n\\nThese were all the things I desperately needed.\\n\\nBut, despite knowing all that, I didn’t want to go to a yoga studio! I was out of shape, totally inflexible and just plain self-conscious.\\n\\nMy old friend, who lived in India and practiced Yoga everyday, said the best way to learn yoga was the classic Guru–shishya relationship that has been passed down for generations. To put this in modern terms (and to pass on the outdated “guru” idea), this meant having a connection with a teacher to learn from directly. A teacher who could get to know me and my unique struggles. My friend offered to find someone for me and I agreed.\\n\\nHe delivered!!!\\n\\nHe found me Pranjal, a yoga teacher with 8 years of teaching experience and 1,600 hours of certified teacher training! Yes, you read that correctly – a whopping 1,600 hours of training.\\n\\nBut, she lived in Pune, India and I was in California! So we decided to try practicing through video calls.\\n\\nI was skeptical – Yoga is a physical thing! Was she going to see me well? Would she be able to tell how I was doing and give me the guidance I needed? I was just starting out and was going to need A LOT of help.\\n\\nBut Pranjal was amazing!\\n\\nShe helped me build the strength and \\nflexibility\\n to perform the postures really well. She guided me towards realistic goals. I could feel and notice the improvement in each session.\\n\\nThe flexibility, strength and ability to meet challenging postures in my yoga practice was spilling into my mental health as well.\\n\\nI was happier, calmer and able to make healthier decisions (and stick to them). I was losing weight and the stress from building my businesses practically vanished. I still get stressed but I don’t take it home with me.\\n\\nAfter a few months, I felt ready to go practice in a yoga studio…\\n\\nWhat. A. Disappointment!!!\\n\\nAfter all the 1-on-1 personal attention I was getting from Pranjal, it was a bitter experience to finally feel ready to practice in public. The teacher had no time to focus on me.\\n\\nYeah, she would do (MAYBE) one correction during the class. But nothing more. She didn’t KNOW my body the way Pranjal did. She didn’t help me to set goals or work toward them. She didn’t change the pace of the class when I felt ready to\\n\\nIn the group classes, I was just another one of 30 people the teacher needed to keep track of.\\n\\nAfter a few classes of that, I sprinted back to Pranjal!\\n\\nBut something was off…with all my tech skills and entrepreneurial spirit, I needed to share this with other people. I knew there were tons of people too busy to go to a studio, too shy to practice in front of others. People who need and want the 1-on-1 personal attention that will help them to progress, heal, and grow fast!\\n\\nI knew there were so many people out there ready and waiting for yoga to transform their lives.\\n\\nWith a team of amazing people, I started myYogaTeacher to improve physical and mental well being of the entire planet. To help empower you to take positive steps forward in your life. And even to heal the symptoms of pain and illness that we’ve seen yoga heal.\\n\\nSound’s big, doesn’t it?\\n\\nIt’s a bold mission, but I also know that our teachers have the power to make it a reality for every one of our students. So I brought together a team of awesome engineers to start working on myYogaTeacher.\\n\\nBut, most importantly, I hired a group of scouts in India to find the best yoga teachers in the country.\\n\\nAfter 8 months of hard work, it’s time for the big test! We launched recently and I am so excited to see this venture grow. I value all of my businesses, but helping people improve their physical and mental health through a personal connection to one of the best \\nYoga teachers\\n of the East is close to my heart.\\n\\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\\n\\nI genuinely hope you try and enjoy your time with myYogaTeacher. We would sincerely love to hear from you. Email us, call us or chat with us through the app.\\n\\nYour friends in growth, health and wellbeing!\\n","html":"<p></p><iframe\n          width=\"640\"\n          height=\"360\"\n          frameBorder=\"0\"\n          allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\"\n          allowFullScreen\n          title=\"https://player.vimeo.com/video/385473661\"\n          src=\"https://player.vimeo.com/video/385473661\"\n        ></iframe><p></p><p>Having started 3 companies, I believe, there are two kinds of startup ideas.</p><p></p><p>First, there are ideas that make intellectual sense – I mean ideas where you can think of a need, talk to customers and imagine a way to deliver a service in an economically viable fashion to address that need.</p><p></p><p>But myYogaTeacher is the second kind of idea. The ideas where you personally feel the need. These are ideas where you feel a sense of <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/company-mission-culture\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/company-mission-culture\">mission</a> and you are compelled to pursue them because you feel that the universe and your entire life has been building up for you to bring the idea to reality.</p><p></p><p>You see – My name – Jitendra – is derived from Sanskrit and it means “one who has control of his senses.” For the most part, I felt I lived up to this but while running my previous startup I found myself miserable and losing control.</p><p></p><p>On the outside, I had it all together. I owned successful companies, had tons of friends and a great family. I had everything I wanted and worked so hard for … but despite all of that, I had thoughts running like trains in my head I could not control, I was not sleeping well, not exercising enough, counting the days to my next break and feeling like there was more to life. There was something that I was missing. You know what I mean?</p><p></p><p>I felt sad and depressed pretty much every day. My eating habits were terrible and all my efforts to improve fell flat. My mind circled in unhealthy thought patterns that I just couldn’t stop.</p><p></p><p>I didn’t feel good in my body, I didn’t feel good in my mind, and I didn’t feel good in my life.</p><p></p><p>Now, I’m originally from India. Of course I had heard about Yoga since I was a child. Even here in America, Yoga is a big deal. A regular <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">Yoga practice</a> creates peace, drastically increases health and well-being and can even help you to lose weight.</p><p></p><p>[CTA-DEFAULT]</p><p></p><p>These were all the things I desperately needed.</p><p></p><p>But, despite knowing all that, I didn’t want to go to a yoga studio! I was out of shape, totally inflexible and just plain self-conscious.</p><p></p><p>My old friend, who lived in India and practiced Yoga everyday, said the best way to learn yoga was the classic Guru–shishya relationship that has been passed down for generations. To put this in modern terms (and to pass on the outdated “guru” idea), this meant having a connection with a teacher to learn from directly. A teacher who could get to know me and my unique struggles. My friend offered to find someone for me and I agreed.</p><p></p><p>He delivered!!!</p><p></p><p>He found me Pranjal, a yoga teacher with 8 years of teaching experience and 1,600 hours of certified teacher training! Yes, you read that correctly – a whopping 1,600 hours of training.</p><p></p><p>But, she lived in Pune, India and I was in California! So we decided to try practicing through video calls.</p><p></p><p>I was skeptical – Yoga is a physical thing! Was she going to see me well? Would she be able to tell how I was doing and give me the guidance I needed? I was just starting out and was going to need A LOT of help.</p><p></p><p>But Pranjal was amazing!</p><p></p><p>She helped me build the strength and <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\">flexibility</a> to perform the postures really well. She guided me towards realistic goals. I could feel and notice the improvement in each session.</p><p></p><p>The flexibility, strength and ability to meet challenging postures in my yoga practice was spilling into my mental health as well.</p><p></p><p>I was happier, calmer and able to make healthier decisions (and stick to them). I was losing weight and the stress from building my businesses practically vanished. I still get stressed but I don’t take it home with me.</p><p></p><p>After a few months, I felt ready to go practice in a yoga studio…</p><p></p><p>What. A. Disappointment!!!</p><p></p><p>After all the 1-on-1 personal attention I was getting from Pranjal, it was a bitter experience to finally feel ready to practice in public. The teacher had no time to focus on me.</p><p></p><p>Yeah, she would do (MAYBE) one correction during the class. But nothing more. She didn’t KNOW my body the way Pranjal did. She didn’t help me to set goals or work toward them. She didn’t change the pace of the class when I felt ready to</p><p></p><p>In the group classes, I was just another one of 30 people the teacher needed to keep track of.</p><p></p><p>After a few classes of that, I sprinted back to Pranjal!</p><p></p><p>But something was off…with all my tech skills and entrepreneurial spirit, I needed to share this with other people. I knew there were tons of people too busy to go to a studio, too shy to practice in front of others. People who need and want the 1-on-1 personal attention that will help them to progress, heal, and grow fast!</p><p></p><p>I knew there were so many people out there ready and waiting for yoga to transform their lives.</p><p></p><p>With a team of amazing people, I started myYogaTeacher to improve physical and mental well being of the entire planet. To help empower you to take positive steps forward in your life. And even to heal the symptoms of pain and illness that we’ve seen yoga heal.</p><p></p><p>Sound’s big, doesn’t it?</p><p></p><p>It’s a bold mission, but I also know that our teachers have the power to make it a reality for every one of our students. So I brought together a team of awesome engineers to start working on myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>But, most importantly, I hired a group of scouts in India to find the best yoga teachers in the country.</p><p></p><p>After 8 months of hard work, it’s time for the big test! We launched recently and I am so excited to see this venture grow. I value all of my businesses, but helping people improve their physical and mental health through a personal connection to one of the best <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp/\">Yoga teachers</a> of the East is close to my heart.</p><p></p><p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t</p><p></p><p>I genuinely hope you try and enjoy your time with myYogaTeacher. We would sincerely love to hear from you. Email us, call us or chat with us through the app.</p><p></p><p>Your friends in growth, health and wellbeing!</p><p></p>"},"category":["yoga"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":[{"session_uuid":"4b9c8592-39a6-4441-8280-54094abc08ab","student_uuid":"5d7e7eaa-6d15-4f77-8f57-89e4f6f47a22","teacher_uuid":"481e299f-51d5-46d9-b643-09e6a3aa7c28","teacher_name":"Umesh Balavaradaraju","teacher_first_name":"Umesh","teacher_slug":"umesh-2","teacher_photo":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/v1589549828/teacher/photos/sbx7hdb2bzbkpgvdqmiu.jpg","group_session_name":"Expressive Dance: Nritya and Yoga","group_session_description":"In Sanskrit, nritya means \"dance.\" Explore how your body best expresses itself in this session, a mix of contemporary dance movements, Indian-folk martial dance and yoga. For non-dancers too, this session helps you deepen your yoga practice and improves posture, alignment, strength, and flexibility.","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681342200000,"local_session_time":"Wed, Apr 12th, 4:30 PM PDT","no_of_participants":4,"group_session_limit":200,"time":"4:30 PM","target_audience":"Intermediate","student_created_date":"","student_created_day":"","last_attended_time":"","start_date_std":"2023-04-12","class_page_uuid":"408d0e9c-72c7-4487-a592-5a61fdefe7d4","class_type_uuid":"9a8cf313-e44f-4b04-a121-356a9bab80db","allow_booking_by_everyone":0,"featured_in_recommended":0,"teacher_recommendation_score":0,"reco_key":"","reco_val":"","self_booked":0,"group_session_student_uuid":"","banner":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/f_auto,q_70,w_792,h_420,g_auto,c_fill/v1635831193/workshops/ljr6jnf7qgl8olqtzham.png","bootcamp_workshop_uuid":"","bootcamp_workshop_slug":"","goals":["Increase strength and flexibility"],"health_keywords":[],"show_book_button":1,"non_member_participants":1,"max_non_member_participants":75,"is_premium_group_session":0,"session_type":"GROUP_SESSION","class_page_slug":"yoga-with-dance-by-umesh","class_page_name":"Expressive Dance: Nritya and Yoga","hide_from_newbie_trial":0,"hide_from_beginner_trial":0,"recommended_for":"","available_slots":{"day_full":"Wednesday, Friday & Monday","day":"Wed, Fri & Mon","days":["Wed","Fri","Mon"],"days_full":["Wednesday","Friday","Monday"],"slots":[{"uuid":"4b9c8592-39a6-4441-8280-54094abc08ab","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681342200000,"epoch_end_time":1681345800000,"title":"Today, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"97f8b324-3a01-4783-b23e-9499b58693f2","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681515000000,"epoch_end_time":1681518600000,"title":"Fri, 14th Apr, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"83cf95be-0b26-47c2-8a5a-0536429e4f59","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681774200000,"epoch_end_time":1681777800000,"title":"Mon, 17th Apr, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0}],"session_time":"4:30 - 5:30 PM"},"in_pref_time":0},{"session_uuid":"716774aa-79a0-4d7c-9da3-c3cccfdfd9de","student_uuid":"e0e01623-be30-4d38-94ac-fdb41180de21","teacher_uuid":"ffd65b13-5f83-4297-b38a-b0fa6190256a","teacher_name":"Gourangi Melana","teacher_first_name":"Gourangi ","teacher_slug":"gourangi-1","teacher_photo":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/v1668002350/teacher/photos/uzthvsu3tlr1qeymaw2j.png","group_session_name":"Kids Yoga: A Fun Way to Grow Strong (7-9 Years)","group_session_description":"Introduce your kids to the fun and benefits of yoga with Playful Yoga for Kids. This practice is designed specifically for children and combines yoga postures, breathing exercises, and games to help them build strength, flexibility, and balance. It also helps them to relax, focus and have fun. Give your child a chance to develop both their physical and emotional well-being with Playful Yoga for Kids","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681342200000,"local_session_time":"Wed, Apr 12th, 4:30 PM PDT","no_of_participants":5,"group_session_limit":200,"time":"4:30 PM","target_audience":"All Levels","student_created_date":"","student_created_day":"","last_attended_time":"","start_date_std":"2023-04-12","class_page_uuid":"1588c649-ddba-4e8f-a5c5-a78da539d557","class_type_uuid":"1b443c6e-ec1e-4a68-9883-991ab3b11637","allow_booking_by_everyone":0,"featured_in_recommended":0,"teacher_recommendation_score":0,"reco_key":"","reco_val":"","self_booked":0,"group_session_student_uuid":"","banner":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/f_auto,q_70,w_792,h_420,g_auto,c_fill/v1656007831/group-classes/yga93iu2lhyrlyiwczz1.png","bootcamp_workshop_uuid":"","bootcamp_workshop_slug":"","goals":["Increase strength and flexibility","Sleep better","Advance my yoga practice","Ease stress and boost mental health"],"health_keywords":[],"show_book_button":1,"non_member_participants":0,"max_non_member_participants":75,"is_premium_group_session":0,"session_type":"GROUP_SESSION","class_page_slug":"kids-yoga-for-by-gourangi","class_page_name":"Kids Yoga: A Fun Way to Grow Strong (7-9 Years)","hide_from_newbie_trial":0,"hide_from_beginner_trial":0,"recommended_for":"","available_slots":{"day_full":"Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Monday & Tuesday","day":"Wed, Thu, Sun, Mon & Tue","days":["Wed","Thu","Sun","Mon","Tue"],"days_full":["Wednesday","Thursday","Sunday","Monday","Tuesday"],"slots":[{"uuid":"716774aa-79a0-4d7c-9da3-c3cccfdfd9de","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681342200000,"epoch_end_time":1681345800000,"title":"Today, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"33b49f7d-443d-40b9-8602-53bd137ed2e7","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681428600000,"epoch_end_time":1681432200000,"title":"Thu, 13th Apr, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"e77eae91-0e1a-4ce7-bba6-c3c2a3b8ec84","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681687800000,"epoch_end_time":1681691400000,"title":"Sun, 16th Apr, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"a6daf779-1cb9-4cb4-9ea8-a4ee4581b179","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681774200000,"epoch_end_time":1681777800000,"title":"Mon, 17th Apr, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"91df83b2-ac97-4e3e-b273-1256a3b5afd4","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681860600000,"epoch_end_time":1681864200000,"title":"Tue, 18th Apr, 4:30 - 5:30 PM","self_booked":0}],"session_time":"4:30 - 5:30 PM"},"in_pref_time":0},{"session_uuid":"217052b0-801e-4e25-91d3-1f9c5efc02f6","student_uuid":"6ea535b8-e859-4928-9126-a1091b887db7","teacher_uuid":"dee1c77a-34c8-4d1c-8a49-270adfce47a3","teacher_name":"Namrata Tiwari","teacher_first_name":"Namrata","teacher_slug":"namrata-1","teacher_photo":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/v1670321215/teacher/photos/nvqov6yyugww956ep1nt.jpg","group_session_name":"Strength and  Balance: Yoga with Weights","group_session_description":"Take your yoga practice to the next level by adding weights. Build strength, improve balance and increase flexibility. A perfect class for beginner-level students who want to challenge themselves.\n\nAll movements will be slow controlled and mindful and work on your shoulders, thighs, hamstrings, glutes, and all muscle groups.\n\nBenefits -\n* Increase core strength\n* Lowers blood pressure\n* Healthy heart\n* Joint Stability\n* Relief from Joint pains ( knee, shoulder....)\n\n","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681345800000,"local_session_time":"Wed, Apr 12th, 5:30 PM PDT","no_of_participants":6,"group_session_limit":200,"time":"5:30 PM","target_audience":"Beginner","student_created_date":"","student_created_day":"","last_attended_time":"","start_date_std":"2023-04-12","class_page_uuid":"1ab11bc0-30be-4469-a6f4-2438ccce2b2c","class_type_uuid":"1476ba88-1e9b-43c2-ac17-e5270224af07","allow_booking_by_everyone":0,"featured_in_recommended":0,"teacher_recommendation_score":0,"reco_key":"","reco_val":"","self_booked":0,"group_session_student_uuid":"","banner":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/f_auto,q_70,w_792,h_420,g_auto,c_fill/v1668677308/group-classes/hasgtkb7lrdnkwl6doml.png","bootcamp_workshop_uuid":"","bootcamp_workshop_slug":"","goals":["Increase strength and flexibility","Heal from a medical condition like pain or injury","Sleep better"],"health_keywords":[],"show_book_button":1,"non_member_participants":1,"max_non_member_participants":75,"is_premium_group_session":0,"session_type":"GROUP_SESSION","class_page_slug":"community_class_Yoga-with-weights_Namrata-Tiwari_e2b2c","class_page_name":"Strength and  Balance: Yoga with Weights ","hide_from_newbie_trial":0,"hide_from_beginner_trial":0,"recommended_for":"","available_slots":{"day_full":"Wednesday & Sunday","day":"Wed & Sun","days":["Wed","Sun"],"days_full":["Wednesday","Sunday"],"slots":[{"uuid":"217052b0-801e-4e25-91d3-1f9c5efc02f6","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681345800000,"epoch_end_time":1681349400000,"title":"Today, 5:30 - 6:30 PM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"cacde4dd-a4ca-4013-9fa7-4abbc3d383f8","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681691400000,"epoch_end_time":1681695000000,"title":"Sun, 16th Apr, 5:30 - 6:30 PM","self_booked":0}],"session_time":"5:30 - 6:30 PM"},"in_pref_time":0}]}