Yoga Flourishes In Brazil

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Yoga Flourishes in Brazil" by Ignez Novaes Romeu, based on the provided pages:

The article, written by Ignez Novaes Romeu, President of the Institutos de Cultura Yoga Cientifica Integrados in São Paulo, Brazil, details the growing presence and development of Yoga in Brazil, with a particular emphasis on its scientific and integrated approach as taught by Kaivalyadham in Lonavla, India.

Author's Background and Connection to Kaivalyadham: Romeu began her journey into Yoga by attending a diploma course at Kaivalyadham in Lonavla, India. This experience was particularly impactful due to her prior background as a Physical Education teacher and her Master of Science degree in Corrective Physical Education from Smith College, USA. She found Kaivalyadham's emphasis on the scientific aspect of Yoga, without neglecting the spiritual dimension, resonated deeply with her. She highlights the invaluable guidance of Swami Digambarji at Kaivalyadham and her continued relationship with the institution through subsequent visits and study.

Representing Kaivalyadham in Brazil: Romeu obtained permission to represent Kaivalyadham in Brazil, considering it both an honor and a significant responsibility.

Yoga in São Paulo and Brazil's Multicultural Landscape: Her work is primarily based in São Paulo, a rapidly developing city characterized by its multiculturalism and "melting pot" nature. This environment, she observes, is fertile ground for various philosophies and practices, including Yoga, which is practiced in diverse forms and combinations.

Challenges and Opportunities for Yoga in Brazil: While there's a growing consciousness about Yoga in Brazil, Romeu notes the presence of misconceptions. She stresses the need to strip away superficial elements and present Yoga in its true, unadulterated form. The proliferation of different associations and views can confuse newcomers, highlighting the necessity for collaboration and unity among Yoga practitioners and institutions with common objectives. Romeu mentions a successful effort to bring three Yoga schools together to form a unified association.

Focus on Scientific Approach and Teacher Training: The core of Romeu's work and the movement in Brazil centers on projecting Yogic activities in a scientific manner, particularly within physical education. Their scientific and rational approach to modern living's problems, addressed through Yoga, is gaining appreciation. A crucial aspect of their efforts is the training of Yoga teachers along the lines and under the guidance of Kaivalyadham.

Expansion into Official and Private Institutions: Romeu's efforts are directed towards both Official Schools (specifically Physical Education Schools) and Private Yoga Institutes.

• Official Schools: For the past two years, she has been teaching Yoga at the School of Physical Education of the São Paulo University on an experimental basis, with significant student interest, aiming for a permanent presence. She has also established contact with the Physical Education School in Goiania, where Yoga has been taught for two years, and they have adopted Kaivalyadham's orientation. The translation of the book "Asanas" into Portuguese has been adopted as a textbook there.
• Private Yoga Institutes: Romeu has also connected with a private Yoga Institute in Goiania, which is geographically significant as it's near Brasilia, the new capital. Furthermore, an Association of Teachers of Scientific Yoga has been founded to unite institutes and teachers committed to scientific Yoga principles as guided by Kaivalyadham. This association has already organized a training course for teachers, with about 25 completing it and forming their own active group.

Landmark Achievements: Romeu identifies two key landmarks in their efforts:

1. Translation of "Asanas": The Portuguese translation of Kuvalayananda's "Asanas" is considered a significant achievement, serving as a tribute to Swami Kuvalayananda and enabling the widespread dissemination of Yoga on the "right lines."
2. Establishment of a Headquarters: The creation of a dedicated headquarters for their activities, serving as a place to practice and teach Yoga, has been a crucial step in solidifying their work.

Motivation for Practicing Yoga: Romeu notes that most people seek Yoga for mental and physical health reasons, often referred by physicians. The demand for unified efforts and guidance is high, especially as Yoga teachers often deal with therapeutic cases alongside diverse group needs. A smaller but significant group also seeks Yoga for its spiritual value, and these students become crucial helpers and supporters.

Conclusion: The article concludes with Romeu expressing gratitude for the support of her dedicated students and emphasizing the importance of their link with Kaivalyadham. She underscores the reliance on Swami Digambarji's guidance and the support of teachers in aiming for the higher aspects of Yoga. The text ends with a quote from Acharya Amitgati, a Jain scholar, on self-realization and liberation from suffering.