07/29/2026
Happy Guru Purnima!🙏
Guru Purnima is a day of gratitude - a day to honor the teachers who have helped us grow and the lineage of knowledge they have preserved and shared. In the yogic tradition, a guru is not simply someone to admire. A guru is someone who helps remove ignorance, encourages self-inquiry, and points the student toward a clearer understanding of themselves.
This naturally brings us to the teacher student relationship in Ashtanga. Traditionally, Ashtanga was learned through a long-term relationship with one teacher. Students practiced consistently under their guidance, often for many years. The teacher observed the student’s progress over time, offered new postures when appropriate, and came to understand not only the student’s body but also their habits, mindset, and approach to practice. In return, the student showed up with patience, trust, and commitment.
Today, we have access to more teachers, workshops, online classes, books, and social media than ever before. This has made the practice more accessible, but it has also changed the nature of the teacher–student relationship. We can collect information quickly, yet deep understanding still takes time.
Guru Purnima reminds us that yoga is not only about learning postures. It is about learning how to learn. The real practice grows through consistency, humility, curiosity, and trust.
Today, we express our gratitude to all the teachers who came before us, to those who continue to guide us, and to every student who helps keep this beautiful tradition alive.
Happy Guru Purnima🙏
