“Parampara” is a term in Sanskrit that describes the succession of knowledge, which is passed down from teacher to student. It is a legacy of learning and, also, what makes the ashtanga yoga tradition interesting and alive. The lessons and method is passed down live from one teacher to the next, and while each student processes and distills this learning in his or her own way, the essence of the teaching is also persevered and treasured and practiced.

I knew I wanted to go Mysore, India, to the source of ashtanga yoga because all the teachers who I had studied with had gone there themselves to learn. Without realizing it, I was a part of the parampara. On my first trip in 2010, I understood what it meant to have a teacher as well as what it meant to be a student. And, now, my students, especially those who are now teaching are also a part of this lineage whether they know it or not, because many of my own important yoga lessons, which I share, have come from teachers who are connected to this very source.

Even in my absence, the teaching will continue because the knowledge of yoga is alive and well in all those who have practiced with me. Many mysore programs around the world cultivate the interests of students who are keen to learn, who have shown a great love and dedication to the practice. When we train assistants, we teach the way we ourselves were taught, and that parampara is a seed that grows in each person.

I could not be more content knowing that I am leaving the mysore program in the hands of those who deeply love it, who are a part of our community, who have grown from it, and who respect the process in which yoga transformation readily happens. I wanted to take a moment to introduce our assistants who will be taking over the program while I am in India. Each are already teachers in their own right and I have myself become a better teacher from the insights that they have brought into the space the year and a half that they have been assisting.

Marwa Saleh first discovered yoga 10 years ago, but started to become a dedicated ashtanga practitioner when she started to practice at Mysore Zamalek at Nūn Center in 2018. From her yoga journey, she has learned to respect and appreciate the here and now, especially with the world changing inside and out. Her yoga philosophy: Yoga is one of the many ways to touch your inner wisdom, to rediscover what you already know in your essence.

Marwa Osman has been practicing yoga for 6 years, and has been studying with us in Mysore Zamalek for the last 4 years. Her yoga philosophy is: “Surrender!” Among her favorite yoga lessons is how to practice non-attachment, that by putting in the effort with no attachment to the results we are able to access a greater freedom of being.

Yasmine Seoud has been practicing yoga since 2017 and started practicing with me at Mysore Zamalek in 2019. Yoga has taught Yasmine to be more present and has enabled her to listen to her inner voice. Yoga is about learning the balance of holding on and letting go, on and off the mat.

As a teacher, I could not be more joyful to see students grow and to see students grow to become good teachers themselves. I could go on and add to their bios, and sing their praises, because I am really proud of them, but I think its only fair that you discover the wonderful assistance, teaching and thoughtfulness that these three women will surely bring into the room these next two months. Enjoy!