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Meet the Team

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Vijayalakshmy

Founder and Director

Certified Yoga Teacher, Meditation Coach & Pranic Healer Viji, born into a family of rituals and customs, carries a rich heritage of traditional knowledge and practices. Her grandfather, an esteemed Ayurvedic doctor, has undoubtedly influenced her understanding of holistic health and ancient wisdom. From a young age, Viji has been immersed in the spiritual and cultural practices of her lineage, diligently learning mantras since her school days. This early introduction to sacred chants has deepened her connection to her roots and enriched her spiritual journey. She believes yoga is not confined to the mat; its benefits and principles extend throughout our entire lives. She has completed 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training from Santhi Yoga ,Kerala, India under the guidance of Mohanji and Nidhish Nidhiri. And the 300-Hour Arogya Yoga Teacher Training from Sampoorna Yoga, Goa, India. She had the opportunity to study energy healing methods such as Prana Yoga Chikilsa aka Pranic Healing, past life regression, Reiki etc with senior Masters such as Dr Acharya Joy Joseph (direct disciple of Maha Atma Choa Kok Sui), Miss Sree Kumari, Anil Kumar, Alex te Paske and Anita Kamp. She has learned Vedic chanting from Sri Akshay ji. She has successfully conducted numerous yoga sessions, workshops, and private classes. Adept at creating personalized yoga plans that cater to the unique needs and goals of each individual. Experienced in integrating a healing technique named Pranic Healing along with yoga practice to enhance overall well-being. She believes in the transformative power of yoga and holistic healing. Emphasizing the importance of a balanced and mindful approach to life, she encourages students to connect deeply with their inner selves, fostering a sense of peace, clarity, and well-being. Through a combination of Yoga and Energy Healing, she aims to guide individuals on a journey of self-realization Outside of yoga , she is a Bharatanatyam dancer and plays Veena. She holds a degree in bachelor of technology. She lives in Basel. Namaste ! Viji

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Jeo Varghese

 Associate Pranic Healer

He lived for three years in an Ashram in the forest of Kerala, his homeland, to practice with his teacher, Nidish Nidhiri and study Advaita Vedānta, Tantra śāstra and Hatha Yoga, embodying the yogic lifestyle. His teacher initiated him into spreading this ancient wisdom and continuing to learn other paths to self-realization. In Mysore he practiced the teaching of Krishnamacharya Hatha Yoga with Vinay Kumar, Vijay Kumar and Kushal Ram. He had the opportunity to study Tantra and energy healing methods such as Reiki, Prana Yoga and past life regression, with senior Masters such as Miss Sree Kumari, Santosh Paul, Dr Joy Joseph (direct disciple of Maha Atma Choa Kok Sui), Anil Kumar. He currently practices Kalarippayattu, the mother of all martial arts with BajuGurukkal. He co-created Terra Mantra, a place dedicated to Sadhana, personal research, sharing and teaching this wisdom.

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Priyanka

Managing Director

Integrated Digital and IT Strategist, Branding and Communication Specialist, Event Management and Logistics Coordinator My journey began in the bustling city of Mumbai, India, and was nurtured in the lush, green landscapes of Chiplun, in the heart of the Konkan region. Born into a traditional Pandit family, my early years were steeped in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India. Each day, I woke up to the melodious chanting of shlokas, a testament to the discipline and devotion my parents instilled in me from a young age. My parents emphasized the importance of correct Sanskrit pronunciation, reinforcing the discipline that has been a cornerstone of my life. Living next to a temple, I was actively involved in its upkeep, participating in cleaning, pooja, and maintenance activities. This fostered a deep sense of community and spirituality, which continues to influence my life and work. Yoga and Surya Namaskar were introduced to me in my early childhood, laying the foundation for a healthy lifestyle and a lifelong passion for holistic well-being. Married into a family of Rajyogis, I was fortunate enough to discover and practice Heartfulness since 2011.This practice has brought moderation to my lifestyle and kept me on a path of spirituality, enriching my personal and professional life. Despite my spiritual upbringing, my academic path led me to the field of Information Technology. This journey saw me transitioning into the corporate world, where I spent over 16 years as an Integration Consultant and Project Manager. My passion for art, which began with creating rangolis, paintings, handicrafts, decor, and lighting, inspired me to learn graphic design. Growing up in a joint family in Chiplun, near the temples, festival celebrations gave me the opportunity to learn how to attend, support, and eventually manage events with hundreds of people. Event management comes naturally to me, and I have organized numerous events both here in Basel and back in India. Now, I bring this blend of technical expertise, artistic flair, project management skills, event management experience, and a deeply rooted spiritual practice to Urban Yogi. Here, we aim to create a sanctuary where individuals can reconnect with their inner selves, embrace holistic wellness, and foster a sense of community. Whether you are stepping onto the mat for the first time or deepening your existing practice, Urban Yogi is here to support and guide you on your journey to a healthier, more balanced life. ​ Namaste, Priyanka ​

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