My Philosophy: Yoga for Real Life
Yoga isn't just about the poses. It is about being a happy practitioner, not a perfect one. Here is how I approach the journey on and off the mat.
I've been less on social media these days to avoid the race of life. I believe in being a happy practitioner, not a perfect yoga teacher. My imperfect is perfect for me. Be calm and kar kaam.
A live talk about maintaining and scaling up your practice. You don't have to give 100% in one day; give 1% for 100 days. Like the horse trainer, be patient with yourself.
My reaction when students ask when their headstand will come. Time lagenga! It takes time. The journey is about patience and consistent practice, not rushing to the destination.
My thoughts on Guru Purnima. Before you become a good teacher, you must be a good student. And before that, you must be a good human. All our practice is to help us become better as people.
I used to be scared to talk to people, but my journey through different jobs, like being a waiter, taught me how to connect. Yoga changes you, and hard work brings change.
What is advanced for you can be basic for someone else. Don't compare. Progress isn't just in asanas; it's in your mindset, your habits, and your behavior.
A talk about consistency. The goal for the first three months of practice should just be to show up. Small, realistic goals are what build a strong foundation for a lifetime of practice.
Some balancing asanas. Simple poses done with awareness and joy are as powerful as any advanced pose. Balancing poses help quiet the mind and bring your attention within.
When yoga and football come together. Trying to balance a ball while in Hastapadangusthasana was a fun challenge. It's good to play and not take everything so seriously.
Practice is like watering a plant every day. A little bit consistently is better than a lot all at once. Start slow, and gradually your practice will become a natural part of your routine.
About My Philosophy: The Journey On & Off the Mat
In my workshops, we do not rush to master the hardest pose in day one. I follow the '1% for 100 days' rule because consistency beats intensity every time. If you are tired of the constant race, come to my Mumbai sessions where we focus on small, realistic goals that actually stick, not just the ones that look good on camera.
I believe that yoga is a way of life that extends far beyond the mat. When I was younger, I avoided photos and stayed in the corners because of my insecurities. Yoga changed my life, and it can change yours, too. My teaching is built on four pillars: Mobility, Flexibility, Strength, and Awareness, but the most important part is how you show up mentally.
The 'Kar Kaam' Approach
My mantra is simple: 'Be calm and kar kaam' (just do your work). We often get caught up in wanting to achieve extreme goals—like running a marathon on day one or holding a complex headstand without prep. Instead, I teach the value of being a 'maintenance practitioner.' Whether you are in my Andheri or Malad studio, we work on consistent, achievable progress.
Why Slow is Fast
Like the horse trainer who didn't rush his horse but walked it, fed it, and cared for it, I believe in patience. My classes transition from dynamic movement to static holds, preparing the body for pranayama and meditation. You might not see a physical change in your asanas every week, but you will notice your sleep, food habits, and mindset improving. Those are the real results.
My Philosophy in Practice
- No Comparison: Your starting point is unique. What is advanced for you is basic for someone else, and vice versa.
- Props are Friends: I encourage using blocks, straps, and chairs to build safe foundations. It is not about how 'advanced' you look; it is about how safely you practice.
- Consistency: I would rather you practice 20 minutes every day than two hours once a week.
Whether you are joining an In-person Technique Intensive or an Online Deep Dive, my goal is the same: to help you build a relationship with your practice that lasts a lifetime. Let’s focus on the journey, not just the destination.
Ajinkya Meher
I wasn't always a yoga teacher; I was the shy kid avoiding photos in the corner. Today, I teach because yoga gave me a life, and I want to help you find yours—no ego, no perfection, just showing up.
Looking for a specific yoga focus?
Type what you are looking to work on, like specific poses or teaching styles.
More from Specialized Workshops by Ajinkya Meher