Last weekend at Centro Sharazad in Bologna, I had the honor of serving as an interpreter for Swamiji Jagdish Kapri during a seminar on the Eight-Limbed Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga) in the Satyananda tradition. Two immersive days where precision in practice met the master’s calm and welcoming presence, creating an atmosphere of deep yet effortless engagement.
The Depth of the Satyananda Method
Swamiji guided participants through the principles of Swami Satyananda Saraswati’s classical Yoga, a path that balances discipline with ancient wisdom. Central to the teachings were mudras—symbolic gestures that activate subtle energies—and Nadi Shodana techniques, presented not as mere exercises but as tools for inner transformation. Each practice was accompanied by theoretical explanations that unveiled their deeper meaning, rooted in yogic scriptures. This approach reminded us that Yoga, above all, is a science of being.
Teaching with Serenity and Clarity
What made these days unique was Swamiji’s style—a blend of millennia-old knowledge and a composed, almost smiling demeanor. Despite the complexity of the topics, he conveyed concepts with ease and clarity, fostering an environment where even the most technical details felt accessible. His measured and reassuring presence allowed everyone to approach the practices without tension, as if each movement were an invitation to explore with trust.
Translating Yoga: A Practice of Listening
For me, interpreting for Swamiji was an act of active learning. It wasn’t just about translating words but grasping the essence of what was being shared—every Sanskrit term, every instruction carried layers of meaning. I had to listen deeply, almost as if I were both student and mediator between two languages. This experience reinforced my understanding of Yoga as a constant translation—of sensations, energies, and states of consciousness.
A Diverse Class, A Shared Energy
The group was wonderfully heterogeneous—actors, dancers, long-time yogis, and complete beginners. Yet, despite these differences, everyone was fully engaged. The practices—from mudras to energizing exercises—created a space where each person could find their own rhythm. It was remarkable to see a classical dancer, a seasoned yogi, and a first-timer breathe in unison during Nadi Shodana, or move with the same focused calm through guided sequences.
Gratitude
Heartfelt thanks to Sara at Centro Sharazad for making this encounter possible—an experience not just of learning, but of authentic connection. Because when Yoga is shared with this depth and simplicity, it becomes more than a practice—it becomes a language that unites.