My name is Hilal, a proud mother of two wonderful children, and a Turkish expat living in Pune, India. When I first came to India, I was seeking balance in my life—mentally, physically, and spiritually. Little did I know that I would not only discover the transformative power of yoga but also find a second home, a new family, and an unforgettable journey at Swasti Yoga Center.
A New Beginning with Yoga
I enrolled in the Level 1 Yoga Protocol Instructor Course (YCB Certified) at Swasti Yoga Center to deepen my understanding of yoga and wellness. I expected to learn postures, breathing, and philosophy, but what I received was much more profound. Every session, every class, and every interaction added layers of meaning and connection to my life.
The environment at Swasti is unlike any other—it’s nurturing, inclusive, and deeply rooted in authenticity. The teachers here live yoga, not just teach it. Their simplicity, depth of knowledge, and compassion made learning so much more than an academic experience—it was a journey of the self.
A Family Beyond Borders
Swasti is not just a yoga school—it is a home away from home. We are not just students sharing a classroom; we are a global yogic family. Coming from different countries, cultures, and walks of life, we bond over yoga, shared values, and friendship.
Our regular potluck parties are a celebration of unity in diversity, where baklava and Turkish coffee meet masala chai and Indian thali. These moments are not just about food—they are about culture, love, and heartfelt exchanges.
Our children are also part of this beautiful journey. They engage in learning Indian art, music, and culture—while also proudly teaching Turkish phrases and traditions to their Indian friends. It fills my heart to hear my kids now speaking words in Marathi, Hindi, and even Sanskrit!
Deeper Learning and Inspiration
What impressed me most about Swasti is how they blend traditional yogic wisdom with modern scientific learning. As part of the course, we visited medical colleges to study anatomy and physiology, which helped me understand the biological mechanisms behind each asana and breathing technique.
Participating in International Yoga Day events with the Swasti team was an honor—sharing yoga with people from all over the world in such vibrant energy. I never imagined myself performing and teaching yoga in public spaces in India, and yet, here I was—grounded, confident, and glowing with inner strength.
From Level 1 to Level 2: A Natural Progression
After completing my Level 1 course, I felt a strong calling to continue the journey. I immediately enrolled for the Level 2 Yoga Wellness Instructor Course at Swasti. The transition felt natural because I wasn’t done growing—my body had become more flexible, but more importantly, my mind and spirit had opened up.
In Level 2, we go deeper—not just into advanced practices, but into understanding how to guide others toward wellness, both physically and mentally. Swasti doesn’t just train yoga instructors—they inspire true wellness ambassadors.
A Cultural Exchange that Nurtures the Soul
As a family, we’ve made lifelong friendships here. From group study sessions to festivals like Holi and Diwali, from emotional support during tough days to laughter during chai breaks—every moment here feels magical. My children are growing up in a multicultural environment that I could have only dreamed of. They are now global citizens—grounded in values, respectful of traditions, and open to learning from everyone.
A Journey That Transformed Me
When I first came to India, I never imagined my Teacher Training Course (TTC) would be so life-changing. I came seeking a certification. I found myself. I found peace, confidence, purpose, and a beautiful community that makes me feel loved and seen.
Yoga at Swasti is not just about poses or exams. It’s about living the yogic life—one breath at a time, one mindful choice at a time. It’s about walking the path of health, compassion, gratitude, and unity.
To Anyone Considering Yoga in India
If you’re reading this and wondering if a TTC in India is the right step, trust me, it is. Especially at Swasti Yoga Center, where you’re not treated as a student, but as a cherished part of a global family.
Come for yoga, stay for the transformation.
Namaste and Teşekkür ederim.
– Hilal, from Turkey
Level 2 Yoga Wellness Instructor Trainee, Swasti Yoga Center, Pune
