28/07/2026
In yoga, teachings were traditionally passed from guru to student through an unbroken lineage, or paramparā, over many years.
Today, we can access almost anything through books, podcasts, courses and social media. Knowledge is everywhere, but availability does not necessarily bring wisdom.
Every day, we are guided by teachers, traditions, experts, algorithms, friends and our own conditioned beliefs. Yet how often do we stop to consider what, or who, is shaping our understanding?
It is easy to keep gathering information without ever embodying it. We dig many shallow holes, hoping to find water, when what we seek may require us to stay in one place and dig more deeply.
This is why the role of the guru has traditionally been so important. A teacher does not simply offer more information. They challenge our assumptions, point out where we may be deceiving ourselves and guide us back when we stray.
Many of us may never experience the traditional guru–student relationship, so we need to choose our sources carefully.
Do not mistake visibility for wisdom. Notice whether a teacher welcomes sincere questions, whether their teachings are grounded in tradition, and whether their guidance deepens your discernment or asks you to surrender it.
And remember that every teacher is human. We can respect someone deeply without placing them on a pedestal.
On Guru Pūrṇimā, take a moment to ask:
- Where do I turn when I don’t know?
- What voices have become influential through repetition or convenience?
- Am I staying with the teachings long enough for them to change me, or am I always turning towards the next shiny object?
We offer gratitude for the teachers and teachings that guide us, and for our responsibility to choose those sources with care.
