In the midst of the pandemic’s chaos, Yangchen Lhamo, a passionate yoga teacher and entrepreneur, found her dreams taking root and flourishing in unexpected ways. Her story is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the resilience of the human spirit.
“People always feel that practicing yoga means mastering headstands, handstands, or various complex poses,” Yangchen begins, her voice filled with warmth and wisdom. “But as I continued my yoga practice, I realized that it’s not just about physical postures; it’s about transforming from being reactive to becoming more reflective.”
Yangchen’s journey towards becoming the founder of ‘Yoga Yangchen’ began with a deep-seated commitment to enhancing the well-being of both people and animals. She is a firm believer that positive change in the world starts with personal transformation.
In September 2020, Yangchen took a bold step and opened her own yoga studio in Thimphu, aptly named ‘Yoga Yangchen.’ The pandemic had accelerated her dream, driven by the inspiring calls from Bhutan’s leaders, who urged young people to create their own opportunities.
The pandemic had exposed the vulnerabilities of physical and mental health in today’s fast-paced world, intensifying the need for holistic well-being. Yangchen’s conviction was unwavering: yoga could be the bridge to balance in turbulent times. Yoga Yangchen became a sanctuary of yoga and meditation, nurturing the body, mind, and spirit.
Her journey into the world of yoga began with a 200-hour teacher training course at the revered Rishikul Yogshala in Rishikesh, India—the birthplace of yoga. Yangchen’s commitment to improving the community through yoga became evident as she shared her knowledge and practice, helping others discover their path to well-being.
Yoga Yangchen offers classes to individuals, organizations, and even the hospitality industry, with a focus on inclusivity. Her three-pronged teaching approach resonates with everyone, from beginners to intermediates, from the young to the elderly. Yoga is not just an exercise; it is a way of life, accessible to anyone, anytime, anywhere.
The benefits of yoga extend far beyond flexibility and physical fitness, as Yangchen passionately explains. “Practicing yoga is about developing inner strength and resilience,” she says. “It lowers stress, promotes a healthier lifestyle, and empowers individuals to lead more balanced lives.”
Yangchen’s personal transformation through yoga echoes in her words. “Yoga has significantly improved my life,” she reflects. “I’ve gained self-awareness, composure, and equilibrium. It has helped me become a better person, teaching me when to react and when to remain calm.”
For Yangchen, yoga is more than a practice; it’s a way of life. “Yoga encompasses every aspect of our existence,” she emphasizes. “It’s not just about what you do on the mat; it’s how you walk, talk, and the actions you take. Every small thing can be a part of yoga.”
Meanwhile, Yangchen Lhamo’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of dreams, self-discovery, and the unyielding spirit that can emerge from even the darkest of times. In her studio, Yoga Yangchen, the path to realizing one’s potential is illuminated, one breath, one pose, and one mindful moment at a time.
By Rinzin Dema
