The past few weeks have been very thought-provoking for me. First, one of the most influential yoga teachers in my life (and in the world) passed away, B.K.S. Iyengar. Second, a new grandson was brought into our family. One passing and one welcoming.
There has been an enormous outpouring of comments, recollections, photos, and articles about how Iyengar Yoga has been and is so important to the immense growing popularity of yoga in the west. In 1976 I was encouraged by one of my teachers, Ganga White, to study in Ann Arbor, MI with many people who were responsible for bringing Mr. Iyengar to this country. There was no such thing as “teacher training”, but I moved to Ann Arbor and took 5 hours each day of classes from a variety of teachers, including Mary Palmer, whose daughter Mary Dunn became a much admired yoga teacher.
I loved my classes in Ann Arbor and stayed there for months. The teachers there taught me whatever they could and I spent hours more each day practicing what I was learning. That was my introduction to Iyengar yoga.
I continued my own studies with many more teachers, many among whom had become senior Iyengar teachers along the way. I also, however, enjoyed studying with teachers from different backgrounds. But I never forgot or ignored my “Iyengar roots”.
Some of the articles and blogs sum up many aspects of what impression B.K.S.Iyengar leaves behind and also what his legacy will continue to be. His passing also caused me to look back at my own life as a yoga teacher. I hope I have inspired many to find their own yoga paths, as my teachers always encouraged me to do.
And, yesterday, after a struggle with many complications and “against many odds”, my incredible daughter-in-law (and her husband, my terrific step-son) gave birth to a beautiful boy. Adding this blessing into our family, this new life full of potential and love, brought the cycle of life full circle. Passing and welcoming.
I have much to be thankful for: I am lucky to have been influenced by the vision of yoga that Mr. Iyengar created and developed. And, I am lucky to have a new member of our family. The cycle of life…
So, maybe take a few minutes to look at your life, appreciate what you learned from those you have lost, but also cherish those who are sharing it with you now.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to email me at shsh@yogawithshoosh.com.