Her Journey So Far

Pooja was introduced to the world of yoga by her mother during her childhood. As a Bharatanatyam dancer in trainer, Pooja quickly realized the immense benefits yoga could bring to her dance practice. Her dance teacher recognized her potential and began incorporating yoga movements into her training, allowing Pooja to develop strength, flexibility, and a deep connection with her body.

Pooja's passion for both dance and yoga grew side by side. She participated in yoga competitions throughout her school years and earned numerous prizes, demonstrating her dedication and talent. With a focus on her dance career, Pooja dedicated herself primarily to her art until 2018, when something inside her shifted.

A profound realization sparked a desire within Pooja to delve deeper into the practice of yoga. Eager to expand her knowledge and share her passion with others, she enrolled in a 200-hour teacher training program at the prestigious A1000 Yoga Academy in Bangalore, Karnataka, India. There, she studied Hatha Yoga, Yoga Sutras, basics of Ayurveda, Yoga Philosophy, Pranayama, and Pratyahara, deepening her understanding of the ancient practice.

Following her training, Pooja took the next step and began teaching at two yoga studios in her neighborhood, inspiring her students with her expertise and enthusiasm. The following year, in March 2019, Pooja completed a rigorous 300-hour teacher training course, further honing her skills in Hatha Yoga asanas, the Primary Series of Ashtanga Yoga, and basics of Sivananda Yoga. She also delved into the realms of Dharana (one-pointedness) and Dhyana (meditation) practices, realizing the immense power and transformative potential they held.

To her surprise and delight, Pooja was offered a teaching position at the very academy where she had studied, validating her dedication and commitment to the practice. This opportunity boosted her confidence and encouraged her to pursue teaching as a serious endeavor.

In October 2019, Pooja's life took a significant turn as she moved to the United States due to personal commitments. The ensuing years proved challenging for her, both personally and professionally. However, these difficulties became a catalyst for Pooja's deepening understanding of yoga sadhana—the dedicated practice of yoga. Despite being thousands of miles away from her family, in an unfamiliar culture and amidst a global pandemic, Pooja felt empowered by her strong connection to yoga and the philosophy it encompassed.

Yoga philosophy gradually unveiled Pooja's true self, prompting her to further her profound journey of self-discovery. She began sharing her experiences and the wisdom of yoga philosophy with her students, using the physical practice of yoga, called asana practice in the East, as a medium for transformation and self-awareness.

With a master's degree in Industrial Psychology from Bangalore University, Pooja put her knowledge to use by working at a mental health clinic in Coral Gables, Miami. However, she soon felt a calling for something more, sensing a deeper purpose within her. This led her to make the bold decision to pursue a second master's degree in International Disaster Psychology, specializing in Trauma and Global Mental Health, at the University of Denver in Colorado.

Her time in the United States—three and a half challenging years—allowed Pooja not only to achieve financial stability but also to cultivate emotional strength and stability. These experiences prepared her for her upcoming academic journey, where she aims to merge her passion for public service, trauma healing, and the rich philosophy of yoga.

With the fall of 2023, Pooja eagerly anticipates the start of her master's program. She feels immense gratitude towards her dance teacher, who first introduced her to yoga, as well as all her yoga teachers who guided her along the path. Pooja also expresses her deep appreciation for the souls who supported her throughout the way and still continue to support and encourage her.