Vytas Baskauskas
Ever since I can remember, I have been on the search for more, for something greater. Growing up in LA, I never truly felt comfortable in my own skin. Through many years of struggling with heroin addiction and living on the streets, I had finally landed myself in jail. After a year of serving time in one of LA’s finest institutions, I came out on the other side without a clue on how to live my life.
Luckily, a friend brought me to Bryan Kest’s class because I was complaining of back pain. At first, the practice just spoke to my physical nature; my back felt great, my body became strong and agile…. but after awhile, I found lessons that could permeate my entire life. I learned that I don’t have to beat the crap out of myself physically or mentally to do yoga properly. In fact, there is no one way to do yoga properly. I don’t have to compete, judge, react, or generate any sort of negativity. All that is required from me is that I breathe deep, remain calm and listen to the teacher within myself.
Yoga taught me simple yet utterly profound ways to lead my life on and, most importantly, off the mat. A little bit of self study and discipline with my yoga practice has catapulted me into a life that is beyond my wildest dreams.