I am currently in Niigata City, Western Japan teaching an intensive (January 8-20). In very few other places have I been as well received as I have been in this very special place. The students here never have failed to shower me with respect, humility, generosity and great affection. It truly makes want to return here as frequently as I possibly can. When there is this kind of bond between a teacher and students, there is a dynamic in the teaching/learning process that is especially powerful and magical. Hearts open and lives are touched in extraordinary ways.

These kinds of experiences make me realize just how blessed we are in this life. Through the sacred gift of the tradition of yoga, we are all able to unlock the incredible potential that lies within all of us. Each and every one of us has the capacity to create such an extraordinary life. The only thing that obstructs our capacity to live the most special kinds of life are the limitations that we place on ourselves through our minds. What we believe about ourselves, the way that we see ourselves, what we think about all the time is what we become.

The real power in these miraculous practices that we have inherited is that they work so deeply to cleanse our minds of the thoughts that blind us to our own magnificence.

During my time here in Niigata, I have begun teaching the Yoga Sutras for the first time. Each time I share these timeless verses with others, I am completely blown away by the impact that they have people's lives. There is an energy and a wisdom that is contained in the Sutras that is totally alive. I have seen its effects on myself and others time and time again. It is incredible to realize just what kind of riches we have blessed by in the form of these ancient and timeless practices and works of wisdom.

I am filled with joy and humility and gratitude in the face of the abundance of what I am able to experience in this life. With each passing day, I am inspired more and more to share all these gems that I have been blessed with. There has never been a greater time to be alive. I have no doubt about that.

OM Namah Shivaya...!!

Govinda Kai