One of the greatest Yoga Masters on the planet, Sri K Pattabhi Jois, made his transition today. Pattabhi Jois is responsible for the Ashtanga Vinyasa system of Yoga, which is one of the most widespread systems of Yoga on the planet with hundreds of thousands of practitioners. Almost all modern day styles of Yoga, including Vinyasa and Power Yoga have been inspired by the Ashtanga system. Basically, anyone who has appreciated the gift of Yoga can offer thanks to Pattabhi Jois for his devotion and commitment to sharing and living the techniques and teachings of Yoga, so that we can benefit and grow in a positive way, thanks to his wisdom and knowledge. I said in class tonight, that it’s my understanding he was not suffering from any disease, only from the effects of the human body aging and growing tired, which, even Yogis at some point retire this vessel. I also said that once a person has encircled the globe several times, learned how to do every Yoga pose, and inspired hundreds of thousands of people on the planet to practice Yoga to align with their highest Self, really what else is there to fulfill here? He probably just realized his mission was complete. I love some of these quotes of his:

“If we practice the science of yoga, which is useful to the entire human community and which yields happiness both here and hereafter – if we practice it without fail, we will then attain physical, mental and spiritual happiness, and our minds will flood towards the Self.”

“Do your practice and all is coming.”

I never had the chance to meet Pattabhi Jois, although I hoped I might at some point. But, I am grateful for his incredible teaching which has inspired me in so many ways. Thank you, guruji, for being a true Yogi and sharing your inspired wisdom with us.

This weekend I’m going back to the homeland, Chagrin Falls, Ohio, to visit with family and friends. There is a festival in my hometown every Memorial Day called Blossom Time, and it’s the weekend when all of the reunions happen so I’m looking forward to seeing many dear friends. It’s a blessing to get to return. I’ll also be offering a class at a local Yoga studio there called Nishkama Yoga. I’m looking forward to connecting with the Yoga community there, as well. Other than that, thank goodness for the sunny, clear skies we’ve been enjoying in Dallas the past couple of days. It’s been beautiful! If I’m not back before I go, I’ll be back to write more when I return. Happy Memorial Day weekend…enjoy much rest and relaxation with family, friends and yourSelf…

Om shanti…

And, go Cavs!