Cornucopia for your Wishes and Success!
Group Exercise Testimonials
Magdalena Grassi
February 2023
I met Neel when me and my dad were travelling though India for a month (January 2023). Our last stop we stayed in a beautiful homestay in Marari beach where Neel had the other of the two rooms. We previously had done an Ayurvedic treatment, where we also did yoga and I set myself the goal to teach myself how to do a headstand, however, no matter how often I tried I never quite managed to keep balance for a longer period of time.
So, when we met Neel and got talking about yoga, I asked him for suggestions on how to improve my headstand. After looking at my technique Neel then proceeded to assure me that with his help, I will be able to achieve my goal of perfecting my headstand-technique until the end of my stay in Marari beach (less than a week). And as a matter of fact, I did and now being back home in Austria I still practice my headstand daily.
Conclusively, it can be said that Neel and his willingness to share his broad knowledge about yoga have certainly enlightened my views on multiple aspects of life and his lessons will definitely have a continuous impact on my future mindset.
Clayton Yoga Shala - California
May 25, 2017
Thank you Neel for our 2nd year of teacher training in the Shala! You’ve been a great asset to our community in teaching Authentic Yoga - something not too easily found these days. It has been my great pleasure to attend your workshops, read your books, listen to your lectures and chanting, and to learn the AdhiYoga system. Mostly I am happy to have such a bright and pure soul like yours to call my friend and teacher! I am so impressed with your knowledge and experience, and the way you present the ancient and esoteric information in such concise and clear manner. Your understanding of the philosophy and tradition of Yoga is astounding. I look forward to many years of work and friendship and learning together.
Thank you, thank you for all you do - for all of us serious students of Yoga!
Love & Peace,
Laura Mullin
Owner, Clayton Yoga Shala
Ravindra Kukade, Civil Engineer, Pune
My experience during Yoga tught by Neel sir.......
I was suffering multiple pain at lower back. Doctor was not sure when this pain will be cured. I was helpless. My weight had also considerably increased.
On 10th November 2016 Mr.Neel sir luckily met me near his residence. I expressed my wish to have therapeutic yoga for pain & weight reduction. He examined my condition. Then started the therapy from next day.
It is now almost 37 days over for the therapy, pain has reduced. I have lost almost 8.5 kg of the weight.During this weight reduction program I am not feeling tired or Hungry. It is happening very easily. I had tried many options in past, but I was not able to reduce so much of weight.
Thanks to Neel sir for helping me.
Ravindra Kukade
Deepak Kulkarni, Business, India
Neel Sir,
I am very lucky to have a yoga teacher like you! As you know I had massive heart attack on 13 Feb 2016. One day my daughter in law asked me to meet you for recovery and fitness post heart attack. After discussion you taught me yoga for 15 days and gave me some diet instructions for fast recovery. I did all yoga exercises and also followed all your diet instructions. As you had said, in 6 months, there was a tremendous change in my body!
I became much fit and fine! In fact, so many people told me that I look very young and handsome! I am extremely thankful to you for your training of yoga. I appeal to everyone – please start doing Yoga for at least 20 mins a day for a better health !
Further: I started further Yoga Training with you on 15 September till to-date. And, I have gained further flexibility, loss of weight and deeper understanding of Yoga. This is prompting to enter Yoga Teaching profession. One of my close friend also joined you after seeing my progress.
Eileen Kragie, Yoga Teacher, Virginia, U.S.A.
I was extremely happy to have found you and your teaching when i did, and your help and instruction has enabled me to grow quickly. As i frequently write to you and tell you, i am forever grateful for that and for the solid foundation your teaching has given me in classical Indian yoga.
Developing an asana practice from books and videos is very difficult so your in-person teaching is extremely valuable. i bought one of Desikachar's books, actually two, in hopes that they would give me more guidance on the asana practices, variations in particular. i heartily agree that too much reading creates confusion but not having found a live teacher here that i like, i do my best.
Actually' like' is not it. It is finding a teacher whose background, practice and study is congruent with where you are and where you wish to go with your practice. i have always been very comfortable with you, as you were brought up in a yogic family, and are steeped in the spiritual practice of yoga.
Your workshops on chanting, and the inclusion of the memorization of a chant in your teacher training, have been very valuable. The historical background you provided on chanting was fascinating and increased my appreciation immeasurably of chanting and the passing down of knowledge by oral tradition as opposed to written. Your instructional materials are beautifully recorded and they make learning chanting very accessible. There seem to be numerous reasons and uses for chanting, of which you can elaborate upon easily. While i did not delve deeply into this component of yoga, i am enjoying working on memorizing the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the ones i have committed to memory are proving very useful as a teacher and as a practitioner. My students frequently comment on how much they enjoy the Prayer to Patanjali by the poet Bhartruhari... though i see in your book it is presumed to be written by him.
The many recordings you have made of chants is very useful. Simply listening to them is a powerful and beautiful experience. And relaxing.
Your latest book Adhiyoga, Authentic Yoga System of Neel Kulkarni, provides a wonderful detailed and in depth discussion of chanting for yoga and underscores the importance of it as an essential piece of a practice. For any student of yoga, the information provided and detailed explanations are invaluable. Your book is a wonderful & convenient resource.
Gaining a deep study of the important texts in classical yoga has been very beneficial, not only on a professional level but much more importantly on a personal one. As you pointed out in one of your many workshops, it is important to know with whom you are studying and how far removed that individual is from the original texts. Your study of Sanskrit, these ancient texts, your teachers and your personal practice make you an excellent teacher from which to undertake these studies.
Thanks to your keen and careful instruction, i am very much aware of the tremendous variation in the translations of the original works, much less the subsequent commentaries by each different writer. Understanding the definition of the terms being used and how they can change from work to work, and even within one work, has proved invaluable when studying these works. You carefully made that point early on when i began studying The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with you. And it was borne out quickly when i questioned your use of a particular term in your latest book. You quickly pointed me to your note in the beginning of your book which stated that some terms were not being used as commonly understood. It makes for challenging, frustrating and always, interesting study and reflection.
Certainly there are cultural differences between you and me, in addition to teacher- student and friend differences. All of that makes for interesting and confusing exchanges at times, but ones that are illuminating and full of life. It is a pleasure sharing these experiences in this life here with you. May your life be full and rich with many many blessings.
~your student, & your friend
Renée Tillston, Still and Moving Center, Honolulu, Hawai, U.S.A.
Aloha Neal,
We gained a lot from your visit. I particularly loved your insistence about clarity regarding WHY people are doing yoga: if we are trying for enlightenment, we are not going to get it by just doing asana practice. I also personally loved hearing you chant.
Thank you again for your visit. I hope that you met and enjoyed Joss Jaffe. Namaste,
Renee
In Adelaide, Australia
Dear Neel,
Thank you for sharing your time, knowledge and contagious smile with us! You have enriched our journey with your kindness. We look forward to seeing you again, keep in touch!
Love.. S and C
S and C
Thanks from Adelaide
Good morning, BroNeel, I wish you will stay longer in Adelaide, there is still so much that I want to learn from you . Lots and lots of love. PS Btw I really like your posts on Facebook.
Simona
Adelaide, Australia
Gratitude from Australian Lady
Sometimes in life we are very fortunate and we cross paths with someone special - the right person, at the right time, and in the right place so that we might fully appreciate the good fortune that life has been kind enought to smile upon us. This is for me right now.
Neel, I cannot possibly find words to express my gratitude I fell for the inspiration and joy meeting you has brought me. Except to say THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge, time and smile with me. With Love T (and A).
T (& A)
Adelaide, Australia
Hanna Mae Owens, Psychology Student, Virginia, U.S.A.
Neel, Thank you so much for everything you have done to help me and teach me on this trip. I am very lucky to he able to learn from you. I am amazed by your knowledge and generosity. I look forward to learning from you in the future.
January 2012
Hanna Mae Owens
Ashka Soni, Chemical Engineering Student, Pune, India
I personally feel that neel's class is very special since it not only gives u fitness but he also helps to give emotional stability in your life . Also he is a inspiration to us all since he is a very hardworking person himself . Apart from all that whenever he makes you feel that you are part of family . A lot of places can give you weight loss or whatever else you are looking for but he teaches you to always keep smiling . thank u neel
27 December 2011
Ashka Soni
Ashna Bhatia, Chemical Engineering Student, Pune, India
I think Neel is very nice as a person . He is not just a yoga teacher in my life but my mentor ,who gave my life new aspects .He is a keen observer .I am a very careless person from my nature and I never used to accept my mistakes. Within the one hour daily class Neel observed all these flaws in me and helped me to get rid of them . I am really blessed to have him in my life....
28 December 2011
Ashna Bhatia
Borders Bookstore Book Opening
Borders Bookstore Book Opening, Springfield, Virginia
Very well done. Interesting, knowledgeable. Good audience participation. Very able to answer questions. Great topic for the area. An Attendant, Borders.
06/19/2000
Women's Fitness Company, Springfield, Virginia
A surprise! A man in the Women's Fitness Company! But, he is gentle and non- threatening. I am glad his shorts were not see up-able, too much embarassing for him otherwise. Thanks, A student.
I really enjoy Neel's class. It feels good. Stretching, Twisting, and learning! I hope that he continues. Thanks Neel. A Student.
Some students may say he talks too much. However, I felt he is taking the time to instruct slowly on each move, make sure that it is understood and progressed with each
additional class. I get the sense that this is not really a class for others to just "drop-in". A Student.
Neel Yoga - Very much enjoyed the class. Would like some advanced moves.
The Yoga class on Wednesday was wonderful. Lot of opportunity for practice. Good instruction. A Student.
This instructor was very encouraging. He was able to clearly explain the hows and whys of the moves. A Student.
Winter 2000
Women's Fitness Company
Whole Foods Market, Springfield, Virginia
This was a fun and thorough introductory Yoga class. The principles were taught and I enjoyed it very much. Please have more! An Attendee
I found the class very informative. An Attendee
I particulary found the demo part of the lesson to be useful. Thank you. An Attendee
This was a very informative class for a beginner like myself. A great introduction to Yoga. An Attendee
Health and Yoga System by Neel Kulkarni - Good class. I enjoyed this introduction to Yoga and am anxious to start beginning a class. An Attendee
Very informative for the beginning Yoga person. Instructor was extremely knowledgeable. Very good! An Attendee
Thank you for the demonstration. I like the idea of learning more than the poses. An Attendee
Very nice session. Lots of information. Very interesting. Good instruction and good explanations. An Attendee
This class was very informative. The presentation was well organized! An Attendee 01/20/2001
Whole Foods Market
Bonnie Kendrick
EC, Alexandria, Virginia
Bonnie Kendrick, Yoga Teacher, Alexandria, Virginia
OM Shanti Dear Neel, Thank you so much for teaching the Sports and Health Club Yoga class last Thursday. Already two of the students told me how good the class with you was. Thanks.
05/25/2001
Thanks so much for taking the time to speak to me about my heart condition. I enjoyed the class and am looking forward to really getting into Yoga. My chest did not feel tight after the class. Please send me the information promised. I look forward to receiving the information.
06/02/2001
EC
Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Virginia
Dear Neel, Alongwith students, I would like to voice my appreciation for your efforts this past year to teach Yoga to students at Jefferson. I know it was difficult at times because of the poor setting and short time for the classes, but you always got the students to "make a happy face" and enjoy whatever time they had with you. Thank you again for your generosity of spirit and time. Program Sponsor, TJ.
Mr. Kulkarni, Thank you very much for taking the time to teach us Yoga. I really enjoyed it. I wish you could teach us next year. I am thinking about taking a class. Thanks again for teaching our Yoga class. Sincerely, A Student, TJ.
Dear Mr. Kulkarni, You are the coolest Yoga teacher ever. It was a very gracious thing for you to volunteer to teach Yoga and not expect anything in return. I learnt a lot this year and I have better physical and mental health because of the Yoga. Keep on relaxin' brotha' Peace out, A Student, TJ.
Dear Mr. Kulkarni, Thank you so much for your gracious service throughout the year. It was very nice of you to volunteer your services w/o expecting anything in return. I have learnt a lot this year about Yoga and I am grateful to you for this. My concentration and mental health have also improved, thanks to you. I am very grateful, and I hope to see you again. keep having a happy face. From, A Student, TJ.
Year 2001
Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology
Marilyn, Unitarian Church, Virginia
As for feedback on the yoga class: 1. Benefits received: learned very useful exercises to build towards flexibility with my body 2. Goal and Goal Achievement. Strengthen my back. I learned a number of good exercises to increase flexibility with the back muscles and, with practice, eventually strengthen them. 3. Positive points. The class provided me with good, detailed instructions and supervised learning sessions. 4. Improvement - with constant practice, my back does not bother me as much as it did prior to yoga classes.
5. Addition/modification suggested for future. - It would be a good idea to explain the importance of sequencing different exercise poses and also to highlight which part of the body the exercise is designed to strengthen (unless I misunderstood and all the exercises were for the back since many of us needed the same thing). Thank you very much for the classes and your understanding and patience with the class and each individual's needs. Good luck in your other classes. Cheers.
Winter 2001
Marilyn
Brian, Unitarian Church, Virginia
1. Benefits. Renewed interest in yoga. Upper body and back strengthening. Increased confidence in more difficult poses. 2. Goal. My goal was to find an appropriate teacher, one who would challenge me and discover my weaknesses. Have accomplished both. 3. Very light and friendly atmosphere. Attentive instruction. Well-rounded introduction to yoga and all its facets. 4. I would only improve the location. I am used to hardwood floors. As far as other classes go, I still need to work out my hectic schedule, but Sunday and Friday look like good options. Namaste.
Winter 2001
Brian
Northern Virginia Community College
Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria, Virginia
Mr. Kulkarni is very skilled and knowledgeable in the Yoga principles. I enjoyed the class very much.
11/08/2001
Susan Groger, Fairfax, Virginia
Thank you for your personal instruction. My goals of flexibility and relaxation were being accomplished in the 4 sessions. The class gave me a solid practice that I can utilize to continue in their achievement. It also gave me quite a challenge, especially with the strength and endurance issues of the Plank pose (wrists) and the Headstand (confidence). 4 weeks is not long enough to comment on the therapeutic value that the class/practice achieved in my right side scoliosis. However, just being able to move into most of the poses without pain or anticipation of pain was of value. Again, thank you.
10/27/2001
Susan Groger
Linda Lasley, Northern VA Community College, Virginia
a)Was the objective of the class met? My goal was stress reduction. I achieved this through learning new yoga positions. b) Level of Instructor Knowledge. Superior. c) Ability of Instructor communication. Excellent. Always answered questions and provided additional information. d) Instructor's willingness to communicate. Excellent. Before, after and during class the instructor made himself available to answer questions. e) Would you like to recommend this class to another? Definitely. f) Would you take another class from this instructor. Definitely and have made plans to do so. g) Any other comments. Wonderful class. h) How did you learn about this class. College sent "flyer" to my home regarding available courses.
11/13/2001
Linda Lasley
Linda Henry, Counsellor, George Mason Univ, Fairfax, Virginia
I am sorry that I have not been able to return to your yoga sessions at George
Mason. My schedule developed a conflict:) Are you planning to hold other sessions in the near future? I thoroughly enjoyed the classes I did attend and continue to practice what I have learned. Thank you!.
07/19/2001
Linda Henry
Judy
Judy, Yoga Teacher, Fairfax County Govt Center, Virginia
Sorry it has taken me so long to resopond. I do want to let you know that my students enjoyed your classs very much. They said if I ever need a sub again to please get you because you are very interesting. They felt very challanged!
Summer 2001
Anandi (Sandra) May, Yoga Teacher, Alexandria, Virginia
I have known Neel for a number of years, meeting him at a satsang at Yogaville. I am a Yoga Teacher since 1992, certified in Integral Yoga and Sampoorna Yoga (Yogi Hari). I must admit that I am totally impressed with the method taught by Mr. Kulkarni.
I teach from my home and invited Neel to teach on a few occassions. I attended the class myself, and I and my students were very inspired by his style of teaching. He began by talking about Yoga - why we do it and the many benefits derived from the practice of Yoga and the impact on the entire system - body, mind and spirit. The hatha portion was different from what I normally practice, but I felt energized and uplifted. Neel ended the class with a deep relaxation as he played a recording of himself chanting OM shantih. His knowledge of Sanskrit and Vedas is very inspiring.
Neel's profound dedication to teaching Yoga and its philosophy are something very special, and I feel that Yoga community will greatly benefit by having such an outstanding, unique, and authentic yoga teacher.
September 18, 2001
Anandi (Sandra) May
Bill Sachaw, Nurse Scientist, Alexandria, Virginia
I have been studying for a year now with Neel. He is a very good teacher and is extremely knowledgeable about the benefits of Yoga. I feel that I have made gradual progress in doing the poses so that I get the maximum benefit from them, both physically and spiritually. My ability to focus and my endurance for aerobic exercise have been enhanced by the practice of Yoga. In addition, one of my goals was weight loss, and Yoga has helped me in that respect as well. Yoga has definitely been a welcome addition to my life and has enhanced my overall feeling of well-being.
10/16/2002
Bill Sachaw
Yoanna I. Ganeva-Khanzada , Actress, Chantilly, Virginia
My goal was to achieve peace of mind and return my body comfort and flexibility. I achieved both with Neel's help and instruction. My work environment is very static-sit all day in front of a computer and I needed to rejuvenate myself to start feeling my body again. Yoga is all about you (the practitioner) and how you feel inside, observe from inside and make changes you want from inside. I felt in touch with myself again especially through meditation. Through Yoga, I felt the comfort of being in my own skin. I started loving myself again.
10/15/2002
Yoanna I. Ganeva-Khanzada
George Mason University, Fall 2002, Virginia
Excellent instruction, accommodations for Student levels. Very responsive to student concerns and desires. Would like to know the names of poses and their purpose. Achievement - the permanent 'knot' in my shoulder is gone, also less tense overall. Thanks for not trying to make me turn into pretzel.
LyndaV. lyndav@cec.sped.org
Appreciate very much the individualized instruction. The class has been great experience. You have challenged us all, but paying attention to the capabilities of each student, you have been able to get all of us to extend to our limits. Your sense of humor, knowledge, and insight have made the class interesting and informative. I look forward to the next one.
Thanks Neel.
John VK. johnand lyndavk@hotmail.com
This Yoga class introduced me to a number of challenging, and actually strengthening poses. I can actually do a headstand! Flexibility is a work in progress. Website graphics are good for practice. And always wear a smiley face: teacher's voice is inspiring, and amusing too. Lots of fun.
FRAN. plato42324@yahhoo.com
I have been enjoying this class and hope we might do something that can use more strength in our next session.
Goal is Scorpion Pose. Achieved Full Lotus Position. Instruction is Excellent and Instructor is Excellent.
Rana
I have achieved my goal of more flexibility and loosening my lower back. I hope to continue.
Stefan Roth
I enjoyed this session very much. The teacher has been, as always, very kind and focused on the class and the needs of the students. In addition, the other students have been much more responsible and regular than in the previous sessions, so this has contributed a lot to the success of each class. The new elements added to this class, such as the music during yoga practice, have made the class much more
enjoyable. Also, the recorded explanations have been very benefitial and focused on topics demanded by the students. The teacher was always on time and he stayed even
longer than the class schedule. Thus, we had a lot of opportunites for yoga practice, relaxation, and personal improvement. I am very glad I took this class! See you next semester,
Esperanza
A good course. I am more flexible now than when I started. Neel makes Yoga easy to understand for the novice. John
Best of the three semesters I have been attending. SG. 11/22/2002
George Mason University
Cathy Andrews, Government Admin, Alexandria, Virginia
For the past year, I have attended Neel's Hatha Yoga/Meditation/Philosophy/Chanting class. The class is very challenging, informative, and interesting. It is a multi-level class and Neel manages to tax us all to our full capacity! The meal Neel provides at the end of class is always tasty, nutritious, and welcome. When I began studying with Neel, my goals were to decrease asthmatic symptoms, lose weight, increase strength and flexibility, and to heal a knee injury. I no longer take any asthma medications, have lost 30 lbs, and have increased my strength and flexibility.
My knee has been slow to heal but, with the progress I've made thus far, I am still hopeful. While I attend classes faithfully, I must admit my actual practice outside the classroom has been sporadic. Thus, one of my new goals is discipline. I enjoy Neel's classes immensely. Neel is knowledgeable about a wide range of subjects and has a gentle, peaceful, patient spirit about him. I continue to recommend his classes and instructional aids to my friends, family, and co-workers. Really, I would recommend his classes to everyone. I wish you peace.
Cathy Andrews 05/08/2003
I met Neel Kulkarni in the summer of 2002 on the heels of an unsuccessful attempt to train for a marathon. It has been an auspicious meeting for me. At the time I was experiencing knee pain and asthma symptoms exacerbated by the training. In response to Neel's question about my goals for the class, I said I wanted more strength, flexibility, and to alleviate the asthmatic symptoms. Regarding the knee pain, Neel said, "Don't worry about it." Regarding the asthma he said, "The asthma can be eradicated in six months. Are you ready to make some changes in your diet?" Thus began my journey into yoga. I stand about 30 pounds lighter and no longer take any asthma medications. (I was taking pills and using an inhaler.) The knee pain is off and on, but lessening. Neel's personalized approach to teaching is most impressive. The exercise classes are challenging. The meditation/philosophy classes are stimulating. A different way of looking at the world than what I am accustomed to. What I enjoy as much as anything about the classes is the interesting people I meet. I would heartily recommend Auhtentic Yoga Classes to anyone.
10/28/02
Cathy Andrews
Basketball Team, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
As a college basketball coach for the last thirty-two years, I have spent a great deal of time trying to learn more and more about strength development, conditioning, and flexibility. We have had an outstanding basketball program with players who have been in great shape. However, this year we made the decision to include yoga in our pre-season workouts and are extremely pleased that we did. The yoga classes were a tremendous help to my team. Neel Kulkarni did an outstanding job of explaining, teaching, and demonstrating what yoga is all about. We saw excellent improvement with all our players in the areas of flexibility, relaxation, breathing, focus, and strength during the ten-week ten session program. Neel’s simple explanations and demonstrations were very impressive. Flexibility is so important and our players learned so much about how to relax, visualize, and stay focused. I was so impressed I also shared this information with my wife and the two of us have now begun yoga exercises at home daily. I would recommend Neel to anyone interested in learning about yoga. His enthusiasm and obvious yoga talent makes it very enjoyable to work with him.
Sincerely,
Jim Larranaga,
Head Basketball Coach
01/29/2003
Jim Larranaga
George Mason University
Kelly McFarland, Nurse, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
My goal at the onset of the class was to increase concentration of mind. Build more mind control over body. I have achieved more flexibility and concentration. Though I do not practice very regularly, after grauduation, I hope to incorporate the practice into my daily routine. Great Instruction!!!! Thank you.
04/23/2003
Kelly McFarland
George Mason University, Summer 2003, Virginia
Neel is a very good instructor. He knows your limits before you do. His experience and insights are well worth the drive. Goal was to loose weight, which was achieved by the loss of 10 pounds, with the practice only once a week in the class.
ACOX
My goal was knowing Yoga and weight loss. I practiced only once a week in the class. The class was very interesting and helpful.
Nikki
My goal was to become more flexible and to tone my whole body, and to use these yoga exercises as a daily routine. I practiced at least 40 minutes on a daily basis. My goal was achieved. I would like to review all the exercises learned in class, so far, only to make sure i am doing them all correctly and to remember them so they can be useful for me in the future.
Nalini Khosla
Honestly, I basically took this class for supporting my mother, who was interested in it. But, I was hoping to increase my flexibility and breathing techniques. I started regular
practice only later in the course, about twice a week, only with selected yoga exercises. I would say that my gola was achieved, and, yes I am very happy with my yoga ability. I feel the instruction overall was satisfactory, but would have liked more instructions on a person to person basis. I feel the tapes for the relaxation practice were a bit redundant.
George Mason University
Verna Samson, International Monitory Fund, Washington D.C.
I really appreciate the instructions I received from you and the opportunity to experience Authentic Yoga. Glad to know you had a good trip home and found a new project out of your travel. Best of luck to you. Regarding yoga classes, I've decided to stop. I realize the practice would have given me long-term benefits, but I decided it isn't for me after all. I honestly just can't find enough time to put in every day, which is practically needed to do it right. At least I can say I tried it. Thanks for the experience, though.
Regads, Verna
Verna Samson IMF
Dr. SG, Mathematics Scientist, Fairfax, Virginia
Neel, Yesterday's class was great! Even though I have been doing these simple poses for the last 2 years with you, now I am appreciating the finer points that I didn't get before. (Stretch coming from navel, lower back going down, ....)
Goals for this semester: (continue from before) flexibility of neck and
shoulders (new) flexibility of legs: quads and hamstrings I'll be in India next month. So, unfortunately, I'll sign up for the punch-card at GMU this semester.
02/06/2004
As usual, the class has been good. This semester I practiced only 20 min a day regularly. My goal is neck flexibility which is not fully achieved yet.
07/24/2003
When I started yoga one year back, I wasn't able to even put my head on the ground for too long. One year later I can do headstand in the middle of the room without needing the support of the wall. This speaks volumes about Neel's methodical teaching approach. I also used to have lot of problems with allergies .... sneezing, wheezing, and colds that used to last a long time. Neel suggested that I stop taking any milk and milk products for 2 months. I am on a almost vegan diet for 4 months now. All my allergies and colds are completely cured.
05/08/2003
Years of intense running, including 8 marathons, had left me very inflexible, creating stiff neck and back problems. Within a few weeks of doing Yoga, my problems started going away. Now that I have been taking Neel's class for a few months, I feel like a new person. I also tried other Yoga styles such as Anusara, Phonex Rising, Fit Yoga, and Kundalini Yoga. However, the personalized attention given to students in Neel's class is unmatched.
10/15/2002
Dr. SG
Nilesh Jade, Yoga Teacher & Computer Engineer, Falls Church, Virginia - Teacher Trainee
Authentic Yoga Teacher Training Feedback - The teacher training was conducted in a true spirit of Yoga.The structure of the training course was good, with a emphasis on a student maintaining the Log for the Home practice.There was also peer to peer review of the yoga classes as well as students conducting the same. The only requirement for teacher training is a strict discipline.
02/27/2004
Authentic Yoga sessions are not only good for Asanas(poses), but also have deep rooted philosophy in it. Anybody who wants to learn Yoga from Philosophical Indian perspective should definitely try Authentic Yoga. Since practising for a year, it helped me a lot, in knowing limitations and setting up expectations, thus helping to reduce mental stress. It definitely improved the health, reducing weight and keeing it under control without any major effort.
- Nilesh Jade. 04/25/2003
Nilesh Jade
Whitney
Girl Scout Club, Oakton, Virginia
Thank you so much for the class. The girls really enjoyed it. They were all talking after you left about how much they loved it. Thank you again. See you on Friday.
Whitney, The Girl Scout Leader, Oakton, VA
03/22/2003
Drs. Menetta Myers, Clinical Psychologist, Virginia
Feedback: I have thoroughly enjoyed being a student of yoga under the direction of Neel Kulkarni. His dedication to a yoga lifestyle comes across in his knowledge of philosophy, meditation, Hatha yoga, and a variety of other subjects. Yoga has helped me to feel more centered and better able to manage stress. I also feel physically stronger and healthier. I would recommend Authentic Yoga to anybody interested in learning yoga from a true Yogi. Neel can adjust his teachings to any experience level and any special need-even in a classroom with several students.
Menetta Myers 03/22/2004
I have been practicing yoga (including meditation and philosophy) under the guidance of Neel for almost 3 years now. Initially, I forced myself to go because I needed an outlet for work related stress and a friend suggested that yoga might be beneficial. Currently, I am much more motivated to attend class, partly because of the benefits I have noticed and partly because of Neel's enthusiasm and dedication to the teaching of yoga. Neel has taken me under his wing and provided me with encouragement and support while gently nudging me to push my limits and work toward my goal. He is extremely attentive
to the needs of each of his students and he develops the overall goal of the class based on the personal goals of each student. He caters his lectures and practice to the class goal and he is flexible when new topics are suggested by his students. He is knowledgeable on a variety of subjects and he is able communicate complex philosophical concepts in an easily understandable manner. From my observations, he is willing and able to answer any questions from his students and address any concerns that are presented to him. In between classes or for private concerns, he is accessible by email and will respond promptly. Neel is genuinely invested in yoga as a lifestyle and it shows in his style of teaching and his interactions with his students. I feel fortunate that my introduction to yoga was with Neel and I plan to continue this journey with him as my guide.
05/05/2003
I have been practicing Yoga under Neel's supervision for approximately two years. I appreciate the individual attention I receive from Neel, even in group classes. He helps each student to identify and attain their goals. My personal goal is stress reduction and I have been able to reach and maintain that goal by practicing with Neel regularly and listening to the information he offers on Nutrition, Yoga Practice, Meditation, and Philosophy. He has a vast knowledge base and he has a way of pushing me to stay motivated without making me feel overwhelmed. I am very pleased with the progress I have made and surprised by what I have been able to get my body to do!
10/15/2002
Drs. Menetta Myers
Elsie Neely, Yoga Teacher and Educationist, Washington D.C
I am Elsie T. Neely, a yoga student and teacher trained by Neel Koulkarni, the following is my testimonial about Neel Kulkarni as a yoga instructor:
Classes with Neel were an honor because of his superior knowledge of yoga. He possesses the skill of knowing where to start a student when they first enter his
class. This is an important step, because many new yoga students are freightened or turned-off when they initially start a class because the teacher doesn't
differentiate instruction for each student. When I was a new student, my goal was to learn the yoga headstand, which I had never attempted, and thought was impossible for me. Neel began to train me giving me suggestions to concentrate on as I was attempting the pose. He would add another major suggestion, at each class. I was a diligent student with my home practice, so I eventually learned to do the yoga
headstand. Teaching the headstand is difficult, because their is a potential for serious injury. However, Neel was able to teach me in such a way that I never experienced any difficulty in my efforts to conquer the pose.
Neel uses props with precision. Students are able to assume a variation of a particular pose with the use of props: this allows the student to develop confidence and strength before removing the props. His instructions are sequential, and direct. His students know they are to constantly seek perfection of the pose with his gentle and patient prodding.
Yoga philosophy is basic to the student who aspires to make yoga a part of their
life. Neel is the consumate yoga philosophy instructor. He uses Pantanjali, Ayangar, and many other ancient and current thinkers interpretation of yoga philosophy. However, his knowledge is so very astute, that he creates yoga aphorisms, and philosophy. As a philosophy teacher, he methodically introduces concepts and ideas in such a way that understanding is facilitated. After each of his presentations of yoga theory, students are
encouraged to seek clarification, or futher interpretation. During my classes with him, he has been able to answer all of my questions to my satisfaction.
I am a yoga teacher trained by Neel, and I can say that I feel that he trained me to be a good teacher, because he informed me that I will never know all their is to know about yoga in my lifetime. Consequently, I constantly read material by the ancients and current yoga philosophers. As I read, I learn many new techniques and ideas that help my students and strengthen my teaching skills. If ever I need help with an issue related to yoga, Neel willingly provides the help for as long as it takes for me to grasp the concept (at no charge of course).
The most valuable trait that I observed in Neel is that yoga should not have money as basis. He always has students in his class who will never pay him. As anyone who studies yoga knows, the ancient yogis were never paid, they were provided with food, clothing and other basic needs by their students. My students pay what they can afford, and if they can't pay, they are still allowed to take my classes.
I am very thankful that I have had the opportunity to work with Neel, and I look forward to working with him in the future.
Elsie Neely 04/11/2004
Reflections on your teaching of the advanced teacher training and yoga classes for 2002- 2003:
1. I liked the idea of designing a program to meet each student's needs. It allowed me to clarify issues that were confusing.
2. The size of the class was ideal. I received one on one attention, which allowed me to refine some of my asanas. Your manner of teaching allows a student to know what they need to work on to approach perfection of a pose. Additionally, following your advice about doing the asana first, as close to perfection as possible, the teachers are capable of before teaching it. When you concentrate on the poses you can better tell your students points to work on so that they can do the poses with ease.
3. I liked the detailed explanations you gave about yoga theory, the asanas and what they mean and how they benefit parts of the body. You also supplied valuable books that provided in depth knowledge about many aspects of yoga.
4. I disliked the idea that you formed the written exams while we were in the midst of class. I felt it implied that you did not plan well, the exam should have been prepared and handed to us. I feel that professionally such behavior appears that it was a last minute process. If a college professor did such behavior his job would be in jeopardy.
Overall I feel that I am better prepared than most yoga teachers in the USA because of your superior knowledge and understanding of yoga. You trained me to notice and listen to my body, to practice to get perfection, and that you usually never reach perfection yet you still try. I must say that in your class I have done things that I thought were impossible for me, as a result my confidence increased. Physically I am much stronger because of your training, more willing to try what seems to be the most difficult of poses, and more aware of my posture at all times. Additionally, I feel that there is much more I need to learn from you.
05/17/2003
Critique of advance yoga training: The major goals I sought as I entered the advanced yoga training class were, to learn how to use yoga for specific therapy, and to improve my ability to perfect certain asanas. I did improve my backbends tremendously, and learned about some theraputic applications, but I would like to learn more. I find Neel Kulkarni to be one of the most highly qualified yoga instructors in the area. He is trained in the classical style of yoga, to which he has made personal adaptations to form his
personal style of yoga, known as Authentic Yoga. He skillfully uses props, encouragement, and gently applied discipline with his students to make them do things they never thought they could do. My first class with Neel was marked with incredulity at the idea that I could ever succeed in doing certain Asanas. In due course, and with expert guidance, I was able to perform the asanas that I once thought were impossible. The advanced teacher training involved in depth lectures on health, yoga theory and philosophy. The health and nutritrion classes were very informative and enabled me to improve on my vegan diet. I feel that the health and nutritrion information is as vital as completing the asanas. The healthier the body the more prepared it is to do hard work. Yoga theory and philosophy helped to make sense of the entire concept of yoga. Many people take yoga for the physical aspects only; they miss the essence of yoga. Knowing the theory and philosophy has enabled me to concentrate more, to focus on my breathing, and to begin to explore meditation. I am about to take additional yoga teacher training and I expect to compound my knowledge as an instructor. I look forward to my next class and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn from a master.
10/28/02
This is my feedback of the teacher training class: The class was quite comprehensive. I am certain after listening to some of the tapes you could have used more time. That will probably be for advanced or further teacher training. I enjoyed the class and learned so much. It stimulated my brain and activated my body and mind. The lectures were most valuable for me as a teacher and for my personal life. They affirmed much of what I do for well being, and I learned more that I can do. The spiritual goal and mind and body training concepts helped me to improve my poses and meditation. I am reading the book you gave me to gain more insight, since I want to teach yoga. I will seek more training in different forms of yoga so that I will be more informed. On a rating of 1-10 I give the class a 10. You have great command of the material you presented, and you explain concepts in practical terms. I feel that I have had my initial training from a true master. I am very thankful. The only Improvement I have is that it would have good if we stuck to time schedules. Sincerely, Elsie T. Neely
01/15/02
I will be taking the class on Wednesday. By the way, it is my observation that you are a good teacher. As a trained educator I see you using practices that I teach to school staffs. You are following some practices that are considered vital to the success of students. For each class the students know what material is to be covered. You allow questioning which provides for clarity. You are very patient. The main thing is there is no applied stress. I look forward to the next class. Elsie T. Neely
11/15/01
Elsie Neely
George Mason University, Fall 2004, Fairfax, Virginia
Pruneh (prafat1@yahoo.com) - My objective was to be able to relax and this class helped me in relaxing. Also, the Relaxation for Meditation CD was very helpful and helped me in practing at home.
Hardeep Grover (hgrover@gmu.edu) - Have loved everything so far.
SG - Some improvement in flexibility. Need longer class with more exercise. Can not live without Yoga.
Joan Pollaci (JoanPollaci@netzero.com) - Your Yoga class has helped