I got a chance to speak to Tilottama, a Kosmos resident and a holistic wellness professional. “I’m from Calcutta; I completed my education from the Calcutta University.” She is a student of various Yoga practices such asHatha, Sivananda, Iyengar and the Mysore style.
Tilottama has 18 years’ experience in counselling, yoga and clinical nutrition.“I focus on helping individuals achieve balance across their emotional, mental and physical dimensions by addressing the root causes of their challenges.”
Tilottama works with corporate clients and educational institutions, creating comprehensive wellness programs tailored to their unique needs.“I also lead Saambhala Yoga, a platform dedicated to promoting wellness through yoga classes, workshops, and retreats.”
Tilottama’s approach to wellness is ingrained in her lifestyle. “I’m passionate about guiding others on their wellness journeys.”
I asked Tilottama what made her get into yoga practice and teaching. “My journey into yoga began as a quest for balance and inner peace.”Early in my life, I realized the importance of nurturing not just the body, but also the mind and spirit.
Yoga became a transformative practice for Tilottama, offering a pathway to holistic wellness.“The profound benefits I experienced compelled me to share this practice with others.”She wanted to help people navigate their own challenges and discover the same sense of harmony that yoga brought into her life.
Teaching yoga became an extension of Tilottama’s passion for wellness, allowing her to connect with and support others in a meaningful way.
I then enquired about Tilottama’s teaching objectives.“My teaching objectives are centred around fostering a connection between the body, mind, and spirit.”She aims to create a supportive environment where students can explore their own potential and develop a practice that is meaningful and sustainable.
Tilottama’s focus is not just on the physical aspects of yoga, but also on cultivating mindfulness, self-awareness, and resilience. “Through my classes, I hope to empower students to take ownership of their wellness journey and to integrate the principles of yoga into their lives.”
I asked Tilottama what she wantedher students to take away from her. “I want my students to leave my classes with a sense of empowerment, clarity, and peace.”Her goal is for them to understand that wellness is an endeavour that requires attention to both the physical and mental aspects of their lives.
Tilottama hopesher students take away tools that they can use to manage stress, improve their health, and maintain balance in their daily routines. “More importantly, I want them to feel supported in their journey, knowing that they have the ability to overcome challenges and achieve a harmonious state of being.”
I then enquired what was the best compliment/feedback Tilottama has received on her teaching. “One of themeaningful compliments I’ve received was from a student who said that my classes helped them reconnect with themselves on a deeper level.”
This student of Tilottama’s mentioned that through her teaching, they found not just physical strength, but also emotional resilience and mental clarity. “Hearing that my guidance has had such an impact on someone’s life is incredibly rewarding and reaffirms my commitment to this work.”
Tilottama admits that it is moments like these that remind her of the power of yoga and holistic wellness to transform lives.
Lastly, I asked Tilottama about her advice to a newbie teacher. “My advice to a new teacher would be to stay authentic to your own journey and practice.” It is important to teach from a place of sincerity and to share the practices that resonate most with you.
Tilottama further advises new teachers to remember that teaching is as much about listening and observing as it is about instructing. “Be patient with yourself and your students; focus on creating a supportive environment.”
Tilottama also advocates for continuous learning and self-practice. “Never stop being a student of yoga.” Lastly, she says, trust in the process and know that your passion and dedication will inspire others.
