About Our Practice

Hello Everyone,

 

There is a saying… yoga brings you back to yourself. For me, that saying has taken on new meaning. It has been a long ride, and now with a heart full of gratitude, I am back at the helm of Shanti Om Yoga! 

 

When I stepped away from Shanti six years ago, (even though my son, Austin Jai was stepping in), I thought I was closing that chapter, and my life as I knew it here in Portland. But it didn’t turn out how I had planned, and I have learned a lot since my return back to Portland. My practices have been letting go of how I thought my life should be, and to trust, embrace, and enjoy the life that is working its way into my true consciousness. That all came through many channels and pathways, but one of the biggest was the call back to Shanti Om.

 

The past few years have been quite a journey. My move to Costa Rica held a lot of sweetness, but was also an extremely challenging and heartbreaking time in my life. It was a long round about ride coming full circle back to my home here at Shanti Om Yoga, and I can’t begin to describe the honor and gratitude that I feel. 

 

Most of you know how special Shanti is to me. Born in the back of a bus in India over 25 years ago, Shanti has been so much of my life, as well as my saving grace on many levels. Coming back into this space is no exception. I feel the power, beauty, love and support more than I ever have in my whole life! I am returning somewhat of a new person. I am still scared at times, yet I am also stronger, more independent, and certainly more humble. My time away gave me an even deeper appreciation for the space at Shanti. The  community that we built together as well as a deeper appreciation for the power of Yoga!

 

My heart is full of gratitude for my son, Austin Jai, who kept the studio going even through covid, which was not an easy task. Shanti wouldn't have made it this far without his love and commitment and I am amazed at the love and loyalty so many of you showed him over the years. Thank you!

 

There are many reasons I am excited to come back to Shanti Om Yoga. One of the biggest is the connection of the community. I am blessed to see and feel this beauty in the space each day now (as I am in the studio a lot)! I truly feel the power and energy that Shanti holds to help heal, strengthen, and connect us… which we need now more than ever! 

 

My intention coming back is to listen to what you need, to nourish the community we have built, and to ensure that Shanti remains a welcoming haven for everyone who walks through the door. I want to continue to make a difference locally as well as globally… through practices using our hearts, and our actions (karma yoga).  We will continue to support Families for Children Orphanage in India, an orphanage that Shanti has served for over 25 years, and one that I am madly in love with! And I see us doing even more, using Shanti as a conduit for pure goodness. That is my vision and my hope! 

 

I look forward to seeing your faces, sharing the space with you on the mat, and to begin this new chapter together. My door and my heart are always open, and I am eager to hear your thoughts, your dreams, and your stories.

 

Thank you all from the bottom and every corner of my heart!

Namaste

Bhakti