When I began studying under Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, founder of the Ashtanga Vinyasa method, I learned a foundational truth: in traditional yoga, agni — the heat that transforms the body — comes from within. It’s cultivated through rhythmic breathing, unwavering focus, and subtle energetic locks (bandhas) that generate warmth from the inside out.
Even in Mysore, India, where Jois taught, practice traditionally began in the cool, pre-dawn hours. The body’s warmth was earned through movement and breath, not given by the thermostat.
I could see he was seeking a deeper answer — one that made sense beyond the poses. Working at a resort, he witnessed countless western guests who, despite having material abundance, often seemed unhappy, stressed, or in conflict. It was clear he wanted to understand more.
I shared with him that many people believe their “home” is their house or their car — something external. But the only true home we ever have is our body.
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- A house can be lost and replaced.
- A car can be taken and bought again.
- But our body? It’s the only true home we are given.
Serenity by the Sea
Sunday March 14th 4-5:15pm
Come join world renowned yoga teachers Tim Miller and Stacy McCarthy this coming Sunday for a free yoga class on Moonlight Beach in Encinitas!!
This class was put together by the staff at Lululemon in Carlsbad as a sincere gesture to unite all the many communities of yoga in the local San Diego area!! This class is donation based and all donations will be given to the Surfrider Foundation! After class there will be an optional beach cleanup with Surfrider providing all the materials, bags, gloves, etc to do so.
So bring your yoga mat, some warm clothes, and an open heart to attend what will hopefully be the largest yoga class ever recorded in San Diego history!! Imagine a huge crowd of people breathing peace together!! We might help shift the earth a bit!!
