The Connection Between Ashtanga Yoga Student and Teacher

I had the fortune of being an Ashtanga Yoga student at Jois Yoga in Greenwich before it closed recently. Two aspects that stood out at Jois were:

• Universal respect for the traditional yoga practice
• High degree of respect/reverence for the teachers

Sarath and Saraswathi Jois at Jois Yoga in Greenwich, CT

Most of the practitioners I befriended seemed to be extremely dedicated and well read. They followed Krishnamacharya/Pattabhi Jois guidelines such as:

• Practice Mysore Style Ashtanga each day (ideally first thing in the AM) with practice beginning at the same time each day
• Practice asana every day except Saturdays
• Follow the eight limbed path, live by the yamas and niyamas
• Teacher Led Ashtanga Primary Series on Fridays
• No asana practice on Full Moon or New Moon Days (click here to find out why)
• Practice mostly with one teacher and form an intimate student/teacher bond

The final bullet point on the list stood out to me the most. One of the students made a gift in the form of a Sanskrit mantra on a slab of wood for her teacher.

The Sanskrit yoga mantra translates to read:

Let us together be protected

Let us together be nourished and blessed

Let us together join our mental forces in strength for the benefit of all

Let our efforts be luminous and joyful

May there be no discord between us

Let there be peace in all realms

This mantra comes from the Jois family and is featured in Sharath Jois’ book (see book review here). This gift from student to teacher speaks volumes to the impact that the teacher has had on her life.

It’s a touching piece that beautifully articulates the importance of a harmonious relationship between the student and the teacher. The mantra also speaks to peace (in the final line) in a broader context, which I think is a beautiful intention. If you identify with this mantra, you’ll probably enjoy this version of the Ashtanga Yoga Opening Mantra.

If there’s been an important yoga teacher that you’ve had in your life, consider reaching out to him or her and express your feelings. A gesture like this can go a long way.

Has there been a specific teacher in your life who has had a profound impact on you? We’d love to hear your story 🙂