Let’s face it.
We know dozens of people who wouldn’t step onto a yoga mat for all the tea in China.
We don’t blame these skeptics, not one bit.
As a matter of fact, many of us used to be the same way.
Our prejudice against yoga dated back to our first encounter with it—perhaps a clumsy attempt at a downward dog or a failed headstand.
It felt awkward, even a bit ridiculous.
But then, I met my first yoga teacher, Yuddhi Widdyantoro.
He is a yoga instructor with a passion that’s as deep as his stretches, has a way of making even the most rigid skeptic bend—literally and metaphorically.
His journey into yoga wasn’t about chasing trends or shedding pounds.
It was about finding comfort in his own skin, a journey that began with a simple desire to be at ease with himself.
The Turning Point
That was my introduction to yoga came in December 2010, when I joined the Yoga Gembira community, founded by Yuddhi Widdyantoto, at Taman Suropati.
It was there, under the guidance of him that I discovered the transformative power of yoga.
I felt more focused, my immunity improved, and my mind became calmer, I recalled.
What started as a casual interest on weekend soon turned into a lifelong passion. That simple.
The Yoga Philosopher
What sets Yudhi apart is his philosophical approach to yoga.
He doesn’t just teach poses; he teaches a way of life.
Yoga is like a tree that grows endlessly, he says. Some people enjoy its fruits, others use its wood, and some burn its branches for warmth.
There’s no wrong way to benefit from yoga, as long as you don’t claim your way is the only right one.
His teaching style is as diverse as his philosophy.
He doesn’t stick to one type of yoga. Instead, he adapts his practice to suit his needs and those of his students.
To relax and meditate, choose Yin Yoga. For strength and endurance, go for Ashtanga or Power Yoga. And if tired? Just rest.
All of my teacher’s ways of thinking and stances shaped my attitude towards yoga as well.
The Community Builder
In 2021, I took my passion a step further by founding a yoga community in Maja, Banten.
Inspired by the spirit of Yoga Gembira that my teacher founded, this new community welcomes everyone, regardless of their experience level.
Yoga is for everyone. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress and self-discovery.
This inclusivity spirit is what makes yoga special in many ways for me.
Sharing My Passion onward
Now I’m a certified instructor with over 200 hours of training from a Registered Yoga School (RYS), Indonesia Yoga School (Jakarta), and additional certifications from Nirvikalpa Yoga School (Bandung, Indonesia).
What I learned from all this is how to build my ability to connect with my students.
Whether I’m teaching a gentle yoga class for beginners or a dynamic Vinyasa flow for seasoned practitioners, I always try to bring a sense of joy and authenticity to every session.
My Other Passion
Beyond the mat, I am also a professional writer, copywriter, editor, and translator.
He has contributed to blogs and co-authored a book titled “Menemukan Makna, Merayakan Cinta” (Finding Meaning, Celebrating Love), which explores the deeper aspects of yoga.
A portion of the book’s proceeds goes to social causes, reflecting Akhlis’s belief in giving back to the community.
Recently, he has shared some of insights and tips on yoga practice and all related things via his lynk.id page: www.lynk.id/akhlisp.
Simply click the link on my Instagram bio @akhlis to find out more about my insights and tips.
Now It’s Your Decision …
So, if you’ve ever doubted the power of yoga, let me change your mind.
One session with him, and you’ll understand why so many have traded their skepticism for a yoga mat.
As I would say: Don’t be a dope—get on the mat and experience the magic of yoga.
Contact me via email akhlispurnomo@gmail.com for a yoga class that will suit your personal needs and goals.
See you on the mat… (*/)
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