Memories of Sharath Jois (episode 1) | Stillpoints Podcast

Join Scott Johnson on a journey through the life and legacy of Sharath Jois, one of the most influential figures in the Ashtanga Yoga community. In this special series of the Stillpoints Podcast, Scott brings together the voices of those who knew Sharath personally—his family, long-time students, and close friends—to share stories, memories, and reflections on his extraordinary life and teachings.

From his early years in Mysore to his global impact as a yoga teacher and paramguru, Sharath’s influence transcended the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. His humility, dedication, and deep connection to the lineage of his grandfather, Pattabhi Jois, left an indelible mark on yoga practitioners worldwide.

In Memories of Sharath Jois, you’ll hear firsthand accounts from those who were closest to him, offering a rich, multi-dimensional perspective on the man who shaped the Ashtanga tradition as we know it today. In this first episode you'll hear the voices of:

• Joanne and Mark Darby Having learned directly from both Sharath and his grandfather, Pattabhi Jois, Joanne and Mark have been part of the Ashtanga community for decades. Their long-standing relationship with Sharath gives them a unique insight into his evolution as a teacher and the deep connections he fostered within the community.

• Angela Jamison Angela has been a dedicated student of Sharath for many years. Her memories are rooted in his teachings and their connection that spans decades of learning, evolving, and personal growth in the Ashtanga system.

• Petri Räisänen One of the leading Ashtanga teachers in the West, Petri studied with Sharath for many years. His reflections on Sharath’s teachings and the role Sharath played in bridging the gap between Eastern and Western Ashtanga communities provide a deep and thoughtful perspective on his impact.

• Hamish Hendry Hamish has known Sharath since the mid-1990s and brings a wealth of experience from that time. His memories reflect the warmth and wisdom Sharath shared with his students and the unique relationship they built over decades of practice.

• Greg Nardi A long-time student of Sharath and a close friend, Greg’s memories span years of growth and transition in the Ashtanga community. His reflections shed light on how Sharath impacted his teaching and practice.

• Kino MacGregor & Tim Feldman Kino and Tim, two of the most well-known Ashtanga teachers globally, reflect on the direct influence Sharath had on their practice and teaching. Their stories offer a glimpse into how Sharath’s presence shaped their understanding of yoga as a path of life and transformation.

• Sushmita A devoted student of Sharath, Sushmita shares her experiences of his guidance, humility, and his unique ability to connect deeply with his students. Her memories highlight how Sharath touched lives far beyond the yoga mat.

• Olivier David Olivier speaks to Sharath’s role in shaping his own journey with yoga. His reflections focus on how Sharath’s teachings resonated with him personally and how they shaped his understanding of Ashtanga Yoga.

• Shelley Washington Shelley shares her intimate experiences of working with Sharath and how his influence guided her through personal growth and development as a yoga teacher. Her reflections offer a personal glimpse into Sharath’s deep understanding of both practice and life.

• David Kessel David had the profound experience of being with Sharath at the time of his passing. His reflections are full of respect and gratitude for the teachings Sharath left behind.

Whether you’re an Ashtanga practitioner, a yoga teacher, or someone who simply appreciates the impact of great spiritual teachers, this series invites you to reflect on Sharath’s teachings, his legacy, and how his influence continues to ripple through the global yoga community.

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