In the tranquil hills of Dharamkot, a sanctuary of peace and self-discovery beckons to those touched by the chaos of life. Neta Lihi Smagin, a former soldier turned yogi, has created more than just a yoga studio; she has established a haven where individuals from all walks of life, particularly those bearing the scars of conflict from her home country, Israel, come to find solace, balance, and a deeper connection to their true selves.
Through the disciplines of Asana, Pranayama, Meditation, and the profound insights of Yoga philosophy, Neta imparts tools that go beyond the physical. Her teachings are a testament to the transformative power of yoga, not just on the mat but as a lifestyle that nurtures the connection between the self and the universe.
Neta’s journey into yoga began during a tumultuous period in her life. The stress and anxiety, remnants of her time in the military, were constant companions until yoga taught her the art of going back to her center. It was this personal transformation that inspired her to pass on the wisdom of yoga, especially to her fellow Israelis seeking refuge from the ongoing conflict back home. In her words, yoga has made her “much more self-balanced,” allowing her to offer a sanctuary for self-connection amidst turmoil.
Her approach to teaching is as much about practice as it is about the philosophical underpinnings of yoga. It’s not about how deep you can go into a pose but about reaching your limit, observing it, and letting go. This, she believes, is the essence of connecting with oneself and, by extension, the universe.
Neta Lihi Smagin’s yoga studio is not just a place for physical wellness but a zone of psychological healing and personal growth. For Israelis and international visitors alike, the studio stands as a beacon of peace, offering the tools to face life’s adversities with a grounded sense of self and a calm mind.
Her story and dedication are a beacon of hope and healing, illustrating how the ancient practice of yoga can be a modern-day sanctuary for people grappling with the aftereffects of conflict and stress. It’s a vivid reminder that amidst life’s upheavals, finding one’s center can illuminate the path to inner peace and resilience.
