By Sueko, a Japanese Expat Living in India
When I moved from Japan to Pune as an expat, I was searching for something deeper, not just a yoga class, but an authentic experience that would nourish my mind, body, and spirit.
That’s when I found Swasti Yoga Center.
Enrolling in the 200-hour Level 1 Yoga Protocol Instructor Course at Swasti turned out to be one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It was not just about yoga postures—it was a complete immersion into the yogic way of living.
More Than a Certification—A Way of Life
The Level 1 course provided me with detailed knowledge of asanas, pranayama, yogic anatomy, philosophy, and meditation. Still, what touched me most were the values of yoga that I gradually began living: discipline, simplicity, gratitude, and self-awareness.
Each day, I felt more connected to myself and more inspired to embrace the yogic lifestyle both on and off the mat.
A Home Away From Home
What made my experience truly special was the warm and welcoming community at Swasti. As a Japanese student in India, I was nervous at first—but the students and teachers at Swasti quickly became like family.
We meditated together, practiced together, and even shared meals. The group chanting, Ayurvedic cooking, and community activities helped me understand Indian culture in such a natural and joyful way. I never felt like a foreigner—I felt included and respected.
Indo-Japanese Yoga Day: A Moment I’ll Never Forget
One of the most beautiful memories of my time at Swasti was the Indo-Japanese Yoga and Cultural Program organized on International Yoga Day.
We had Indian and Japanese students practicing yoga side by side, sharing our cultures through music, dance, and storytelling. It was a true celebration of unity in diversity—the real meaning of yoga.
That day, I truly felt that yoga is beyond language or nationality—it is universal.
A Message to My Japanese Friends
To my fellow Japanese students and expats living in India or even back home, I warmly invite you to experience yoga the way I did at Swasti Yoga Center.
Whether you are looking for health, peace, personal growth, or authentic yogic education, Swasti offers it all—with heart, integrity, and wisdom. And soon, the courses will be offered in both English and Japanese, making it even easier to join.
“At Swasti, I didn’t just learn yoga—I became yoga. This journey made me stronger, calmer, and more connected to who I truly am.”
Arigatou, Swasti!
Thank you, Swasti Yoga Center, for this unforgettable journey. I will carry these lessons with me for life, and I hope many more students from Japan will come and feel the same magic I did.
