Discover A. G. Mohan’s Astonishing Yoga Journey!

A. G. Mohan: A Legacy in Yoga 

Early Life and Introduction to Yoga 

A. G. Mohan, born in 1945 in Chennai, India, is a renowned yoga teacher, author, and co-founder of the Svastha Yoga & Ayurveda. His journey into yoga began in the early 1970s when he became a dedicated student of the legendary T. Krishnamacharya, often referred to as the “father of modern yoga.” Mohan’s dedication to his teacher and the practice of yoga has spanned over four decades, during which he has made significant contributions to the field of yoga and its global dissemination. 

Training Under T. Krishnamacharya 

Mohan’s training under Krishnamacharya was rigorous and comprehensive, covering various aspects of yoga, including asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control), meditation, and yoga philosophy. Krishnamacharya’s teachings emphasized the importance of adapting yoga practices to suit the individual’s needs, a principle that Mohan has carried forward in his own teachings. 

Founding of Svastha Yoga & Ayurveda 

In 1995, A. G. Mohan, along with his wife Indra Mohan, founded Svastha Yoga & Ayurveda. The center aims to promote holistic health and well-being through the integration of traditional yoga and Ayurveda practices. Svastha Yoga & Ayurveda offers a range of programs, including teacher training courses, workshops, and retreats, designed to cater to the needs of modern practitioners while staying true to the traditional teachings of yoga. 

Influence and Legacy 

Mohan’s influence extends through his renowned students, who have become prominent yoga teachers and practitioners themselves. These students have played a significant role in spreading the principles of Svastha Yoga globally. 

• Nitya Mohan: A. G. Mohan’s daughter, Nitya Mohan, is a highly respected yoga teacher and musician. She has been instrumental in integrating the principles of yoga with music therapy, creating a unique approach to holistic healing. Nitya has conducted numerous workshops and training programs worldwide, sharing her expertise in both yoga and music. 

• Dr. Ganesh Mohan: Mohan’s son, Dr. Ganesh Mohan, is a medical doctor and yoga therapist. He has combined his medical knowledge with traditional yoga practices to develop therapeutic yoga programs for various health conditions. Dr. Ganesh Mohan has authored several books and research papers on the therapeutic applications of yoga, contributing significantly to the field of yoga therapy. 

Publications 

A. G. Mohan has authored several influential books on yoga, which have been translated into multiple languages and continue to inspire practitioners globally. Some of his notable publications include: 

• “Krishnamacharya: His Life and Teachings” (2010): This book is a personal tribute to T. Krishnamacharya, offering insights into his life, teachings, and philosophy. It includes anecdotes from Mohan’s time with Krishnamacharya and provides a comprehensive overview of his contributions to modern yoga. 

• “Yoga for Body, Breath, and Mind” (1993): This book explores the integration of physical postures, breath control, and meditation in yoga practice. It provides practical guidance on using yoga to achieve holistic well-being and is a valuable resource for both beginners and advanced practitioners. 

• “Yoga Therapy: A Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Yoga and Ayurveda for Health and Fitness” (2004): Co-authored with Dr. Ganesh Mohan, this book delves into the therapeutic applications of yoga and Ayurveda. It offers detailed instructions for using yoga practices to manage various health conditions and improve overall health.

• “Yoga Reminder” (2015): This book is a collection of essays and reflections on the practice and philosophy of yoga. It provides insights into the deeper dimensions of yoga and offers practical advice for integrating these principles into daily life.

Philosophical Contributions 

Mohan’s teachings are deeply rooted in the traditional Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga. He believes that yoga is not just a physical practice but a spiritual discipline that can lead to self-realization and inner peace. His approach to yoga is holistic, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual practices. 

Mohan emphasizes the importance of the eight limbs of yoga (Ashtanga), as outlined by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. These limbs include ethical guidelines (yamas and niyamas), physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), sense withdrawal (pratyahara), concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana), and ultimately, union with the divine (samadhi). He teaches that mastery of the physical postures is essential for progressing to the higher stages of yoga. 

Impact on Therapeutic Yoga 

One of Mohan’s most significant contributions to the field of yoga is his emphasis on its therapeutic applications. He believes that yoga can be used as a tool for healing and improving overall health. Under his guidance, many individuals have used yoga to manage chronic conditions, recover from injuries, and improve their overall quality of life.

Mohan’s approach to therapeutic yoga involves a careful assessment of each individual’s needs and the development of a customized yoga practice to address those needs. This personalized approach has helped many individuals achieve better health and well-being.

Global Influence 

A. G. Mohan’s impact on the global spread of yoga cannot be overstated. He has traveled extensively, teaching yoga in various countries and adapting his teachings to suit different cultural contexts. His ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds has helped him build a global following. 

In the United States, Mohan’s influence is particularly strong. He has conducted numerous workshops and seminars, and his teachings have been incorporated into many yoga teacher training programs. His emphasis on personalized yoga practices has resonated with practitioners seeking a more individualized approach to yoga.

Later Years and Legacy 

In his later years, A. G. Mohan continues to teach and inspire students around the world. He remains active in the yoga community, demonstrating the vitality and longevity that yoga can bring. His contributions to yoga have been recognized and celebrated by the global yoga community.

Mohan’s pioneering efforts have helped transform yoga from a niche practice into a mainstream phenomenon. Today, millions of people around the world practice yoga, benefiting from the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being that it offers.

Conclusion 

A. G. Mohan’s life and work serve as a testament to the transformative power of yoga. His dedication to the practice and his commitment to sharing its benefits with others have made yoga accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. As we continue to explore and expand the practice of yoga, we owe a debt of gratitude to this remarkable teacher and visionary. 

His legacy lives on through his publications, his students, and the countless individuals who have been touched by his teachings. A. G. Mohan’s contributions to yoga have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.