Two young entrepreneurs from the Valencia region of Spain, Paula and Angela, arrived in Pune with curiosity and a hunger to explore new business ideas. Students of Mondragon University Business School came to India as part of an international learning program. What they discovered during their two-week stay at Swasti Yoga Center was far more than academic insight – it was a deep encounter with yoga, Indian culture, and a new vision for wellness-driven entrepreneurship.
Exploring Yoga Beyond the Mat
From the moment they stepped into Swasti, Paula and Angela were introduced to yoga not merely as exercise but as a holistic science of life. Their daily sessions included asanas, breathing practices, and guided relaxation. They also learned yogic philosophy that highlights purpose-driven living, compassion, and inner resilience – fundamentals that align beautifully with conscious business models.
One of the most memorable sessions for them was the early-morning sunrise yoga practice in a lush garden. Surrounded by greenery and birdsong, they sensed yoga as a lifestyle rooted in nature, balance, and mindful presence.
Cave Meditation and Nature Immersion
The pair experienced silence and stillness through cave meditation at Bedse caves– a reflective escape into natural surroundings that allowed them to connect with themselves away from distractions. Their weekend nature hike and picnic lunch brought another dimension of wellness: joyful movement, sunshine, and a satvik meal prepared with love. They were introduced to traditional Indian nutrition that nourishes body and mind without excess or waste.
Creative Healing Through Art
Even off the mat, Paula and Angela explored yoga through creative expression. An art therapy workshop helped them channel emotions visually, understand mindfulness in action, and discover the therapeutic potential of creativity. This opened their eyes to how wellness programs can be enriched by integrative therapies, adding value for the global wellness tourism market.
Hands-On Sustainability: Trash Collection Activity
Recognizing the responsibility that comes with spiritual practice, Swasti also engaged the students in trash collection and eco-awareness activities. The experience made a deep impression on them: wellness must include caring for the environment and giving back to the community. This inspired them to think about how sustainability can be woven into future business offerings.
Cultural Immersion: Yoga Meets India
Swasti ensured that their time in Pune was a complete cultural immersion. Temple visits gave them a glimpse of India’s spiritual heritage and ancient architecture. A joyful “Om card game” introduced Sanskrit sounds and yogic symbolism in a fun and playful way. Each interaction with local people – from yoga instructors to Swasti community members – helped them build cross-cultural bonds that made Pune feel like home.
A New Entrepreneurial Vision
During their stay, Paula and Angela engaged in structured reflection sessions where they brainstormed how yoga could be integrated into innovative business concepts in Spain. They saw rising demand for meaningful travel, wellness programs, and mindful team-building experiences among European youth and professionals. By combining Spanish hospitality with authentic Indian yogic practices, they identified an opportunity that feels both exciting and socially impactful.
They returned from India not only with memories but a mission.
Becoming Channel Partners for Swasti Yoga
The duo now plans to collaborate with Swasti Yoga Center as channel partners, introducing more Spanish travelers to India’s yogic heritage. Their vision includes organizing retreats, student exchange groups, cultural immersion programs, and yoga-based leadership development workshops. Through this initiative, they aim to create a pathway for people from Spain to experience the profound transformation they themselves have felt in Pune.
They believe that yoga can expand perspectives, fuel creativity, and cultivate leaders who care about well-being – both personal and planetary.
A Journey That Just Began
Paula and Angela started as students on an international assignment. They left as ambassadors of Swasti Yoga and as budding entrepreneurs inspired by India’s ancient wisdom.
Their story reflects the growing global movement toward purposeful living and conscious business. And for them, Pune will always be the place where this exciting journey began.
