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Summary of Talk by Gonzalo Rico Peña, Centro Yoga Bire, at the Bharat Indo-American World Yoga Conference 2023
At a recent international yoga gathering, Gonzalo Rico Peña from Centro Yoga Bire, Argentina, shared a reflective talk on the essence of yoga—reminding the audience that yoga is far more than postures. It is a holistic way of living that must adapt to each individual’s life, stage, and Dharma.
Gonzalo began by addressing a paradox in modern yoga. While yoga is practiced globally, its essence is often misunderstood.
“Asana is important, but it is only the entrance door. Yoga is much more than physical postures.”
He explained that while the physical practice can draw people in, it is only the starting point. True yoga is about cultivating balance, awareness, and ethical living—a principle often overlooked in the rush to master poses.
Interactive prompt for readers:
Reflect for a moment: when you practice yoga, are you focused solely on physical postures, or do you also notice how it influences your thoughts, emotions, and actions throughout the day?
Gonzalo emphasized Viniyoga—the application of yoga according to the needs, stage of life, and circumstances of the practitioner.
“Yoga must adapt to the student—not the other way around.”
This adaptable approach ensures yoga prevents harm, fosters growth, and supports Dharma—the duties and responsibilities each person carries in life.
Interactive reflection:
Consider your current lifestyle and obligations. How could you adapt your yoga or mindfulness practices to better support your own life and responsibilities?
Gonzalo cautioned against rigid or misapplied practices that can cause strain or injury. Yoga should never be a source of pressure but rather a form of therapy (chikitsa), reflection (svadhyaya), and transformation.
“The true yoga is that which supports our life, our Dharma, and our well-being.”
Engagement question:
Have you ever felt tension or stress from your yoga practice? How might adjusting your approach help turn it into a supportive and healing experience?
Referencing Patanjali’s second sutra—yogaś citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ—Gonzalo reminded the audience that yoga, at its core, is the mastery of the mind, not just asana. Meditation is both the path and the goal.
For those not yet ready for deep meditation, Patanjali offers practical tools: asana, pranayama, and preparatory practices to calm the mind and make meditation accessible.
Interactive prompt:
Next time you practice yoga, try noticing the state of your mind before and after. Can you see moments of stillness emerging, even in small ways?
Gonzalo’s message highlighted yoga as a supportive companion to daily life—not a performance or trend. Whether caring for family, managing work, or serving the community, yoga provides clarity, balance, and wisdom for every moment.
“Yoga is not only on the mat. Yoga must serve life itself.”
Reflection for readers:
Think about a moment in your day when yoga could guide your choices or reactions. How might it help you respond with patience, clarity, or compassion?
In closing, Gonzalo emphasized that yoga’s true value lies in how its principles are applied off the mat. Yoga becomes real when it helps us care for parents, nurture children, serve communities, and navigate life with wisdom and compassion.
This is yoga as Dharma—a living, breathing practice of awareness, meditation, and ethical action.
Key Takeaways:
Final engagement prompt:
Identify one way today to bring yoga off the mat into your life—whether through a mindful action, a moment of reflection, or compassionate interaction with others. Notice the subtle transformation it brings.
