“In for a penny, in for a pound” has always been one of my favourite phrases.
About half way through my first stay in the Ashram, I learnt about the Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Programme (TTC). Variously described as challenging, gruellling (but nearly everyone says also rewarding), it is a fast track route to achieving Yoga teaching status. The result is an internationally recognised Yoga Teacher diploma certificate.
I was even more intrigued when I read on the website that: “A sincere desire to learn and openness to yogic techniques is required – a basic knowledge of yoga postures and philosophy is preferred, but not essential.”
So, if my body holds up, that’s what I am doing for the next month – learning to become a “Yogi Siromani”.
This will no doubt be a source of intense amusement for many who remember my stiff London life. When I mentioned my intentions to a Scots girl who had just completed the course, she looked me up and down and said “Well, playfulness is an essential yogic attribute”. I will endeavour to maintain a sense of humour at all times, though this may be difficult given the severe lack of free time, and the significant study requirements. I haven’t taken an exam in anger since 1993.
We have one quasi-free day a week, so I should be able to post every Friday if my muscles are up to it. The daily schedule can be seen here.
Emails of support/astonishment (andy@luddo.com) will be most welcome.
Andrew Duff 