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Introducing our first ever Anuttara YMTT (Yoga and Meditation Teacher Training) Featured Alumni! This is a platform to celebrate the unique talents, strengths and inner wisdom of our YMTT graduates. We are continuously inspired by our students and very excited to share what has come to fruition for them through their time in the Anuttara Teacher Trainings. This month we are thrilled to be featuring Lev Sonego, a student who graduated from our very first YMTT.
A note from Artemis Facilitator and Founder of Anuttara Yoga. "Lev first came to the ashram as a volunteer in 2016. He was an incredibly hard worker who brought a lot of light and enthusiasm to the ashram! He initiated a lot of his own projects and was always incredibly friendly to everyone who came. It was actually in that first year that Lev came out for the first time. My heart burst open in admiration for Lev, as he opened up and began to step into his own personal truths. I recalled my own journey in coming out about my gender weirdness and pansexuality and was so grateful to be able to bear witness to this monumental moment of his life.
It was actually in that first year that Lev came out for the first time.
When Lev decided to take the training we were overjoyed! He is such a kind-hearted and gentle-spirited being, we were excited to share the Anuttara teachings with him. Throughout the training we watched Lev journey deep into himself, he shook away his falsities in the "Dynamic Meditation" and danced his way towards his truth in our "Devotional Dance" sessions. It was clear that his spiritual practice was connected with the physical body. When he asked us how to improve his Svadhistana Chakra Burlesque dancing was the first thing we recommended!
Throughout the training we watched Lev journey deep into himself, he shook away his falsities in the "Dynamic Meditation" and danced his way towards his truth in our "Devotional Dance" sessions.
To see all the wonderful things that Lev is doing with his life today is way more than we could have possibly imagined. For us, he is a real example of what these trainings can bring to one's life. They're not just about becoming Yoga Teachers, they're about getting in touch with your own inner truths and aligning yourself with them in whatever form that may take. These trainings are, in a way, also about stepping into your own inner leader and emerging as a role model in your community. Lev has most certainly emerged as a role model within his community and it has been so beautiful to watch Lev's journey over the years from a shy young man to a shining star! We couldn't be more proud of him and are so excited to see where life continues to take him from here. "
..he is a real example of what these trainings can bring to one's life..
Name: Lev Sonego
Age: 25
Country: Canada
YMTT: Anuttara Ashram, BC, 2017
Where are you living?
Nelson, BC, Canada
What projects are you currently involved in?
Studying Digital Arts in Nelson, BC. Founded a Drag Troupe in Nelson called The Dancing Legs.
Have there been any significant moments or events since you graduated?
I've found the confidence in myself that allowed me to accept and celebrate my queer identity. I've met the man of my dreams and the perfect town for me. I contribute a huge part of where I'm at now to my time spent at Anuttara.
Is there anything you’ve done since graduating that you are particularly proud of?
I've produced 6 sold-out drag shows in the past 2 years as well as done many other shows. I'm proud of the confidence I've discovered and the connection with the divine mother that I've cultivated.
Is there something that happened or that you learned during the training that helped bring you to where you are today?
I was able to clear my mind of all the judgments that I let define me for so long. I was able to come to terms with my sexuality and now I've been proudly out for just over 3 years with a beautiful partner.
Was there a significant turning point in the training for you?
I think the important thing was realizing I didn't want to lie to myself any longer. The program allowed me to strip away my ego and see what I truly needed in my life.
What would you say to someone considering taking this training?
I would recommend this training to anyone who has any interest. It not only provides the tools to become a well-rounded teacher but also provides the tools to become your best self. This program stripped away my layers and allowed me to discover my truth.
Any final comments?
I have spent time at Anuttara twice in my life. Both times, have been very synchronistic and happened exactly when I needed it in my life. Both times I have left I have seen big positive changes in my life. Anuttara allowed me space and tools to connect to my best self. I will never forget my time there and am forever grateful!
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