Zsuzsi

I first encountered yoga in 2021 during a vinyasa flow class. At the beginning, my practice was rather irregular and impulse-driven, continuing this way until the end of my second year.

With a degree in economics, I was already working for my third multinational company at the time, which I left behind in a sudden surge of momentum, driven by complete disillusionment and a search for answers. I moved abroad hoping for a fresh start, and amid many difficulties, one stable point remained: my daily asana practice. Back then, I knew nothing about yoga philosophy; I simply practiced the asanas as my sole anchor.

After moving back home, unsure of which direction to take, I completed a teacher training. Among the many mandatory readings, the first book I happened to pick up was the Bhagavad Gita. I believe this is where it all truly began. Simply reading it felt like a remedy for my anxieties, a balm for the heart. This book was followed by many other wonderful readings; I studied, read, and my world opened up — it was a truly beautiful summer.

That summer, during my required teaching observations, I went to Astoria to try a hot yoga class. The class was taught by Noémi, and at the end she came up to me and suggested that I try Ashtanga at Bandha Works; she practiced there and thought I would enjoy it. Encouraged by her words, I signed up for the beginner course in November, which was followed by my first Mysore practice in December.

Since then, my world has changed significantly. I have received many answers, and a genuine journey of self-discovery has begun.

The practice helps to quiet inner turmoil and tension, and through the silence and awakening awareness, it allows insight into the processes of the mind, its contents, and our inner workings. It is a gift to have a space like the shala, where—without words—we strive toward a shared intention and breathe together. I love the sacredness of the mornings, the energy that fills the practice space, the homely warmth of shared tea and gentle smiles, and the possibility to exist here honestly, without filters.

I believe that yoga can help everyone live a fuller life, and that one day, after long wanderings, we may finally find a place to anchor.