Swami Kripalu
Swami Kripalu (1913-1981) was a yoga master renowned not only for the depth and dedication of his practice , but also for his humor, compassion (Kripalu translates to “one who is compassionate”), and lighthearted approach to yoga. A pilgrim of love, a prolific writer and an articulate speaker, Swami Kripalu made the ancient teachings of yoga applicable to everyday life. It was his teachings, making yoga an inquiry of self compassion, that inspired me to become a Kripalu Yoga Teacher - a carrier of this light.
With a focus on non-judgemental compassionate awareness, the practice of ahimsa, we can transform our lives and make lasting changes.
Below is one of my favorite quotes from Swami Kripalu, one I read in many classes, one that seems to resonate with everyone.
My beloved child, break your heart no longer. Every time you judge yourself you break your own heart.
You stop feeding on the love which is the wellspring of your vitality.
The time has come. Your time. to live, to celebrate, and to see the goodness that you are.
You, my child, are divine. You are pure. You are sublimely free. You are God in disguise, and you are always perfectly safe.
Do not fight the dark, just turn on the light, and breathe into the goodness that you are.
-Swami Kripaluanandaji (Bapuji)