Two years ago I moved from North Miami to a northern city which although I’m beginning to enjoy more every day, I must admit was not my favorite city in South Florida when I first moved. I moved in to be closer to by boyfriend who lovingly reminds me to be grateful for everything I have. So, everyday, I practiced gratitude and gently shifted my focus from “eh, it’s soooo boring here” to “huh, there’s a really cool vibe here”. I must confess, one of the reasons I’ve grown to like it more is that the Shala is within walking distance. I’ve been to several yoga studio’s and schools in the area, and somehow Anuttara Yoga Shala has given me something different. Something delicate, and gentle that was new for me.
When I first received the information for this scholarship, it arrived in the form of newsletter from the shala where I recently began attending and practicing my yoga again. It was only about 8-9 months ago that I found the Shala and that was by “accident”. My sister who was staying with us for a short while- found the school and although I had seen it a few times driving home, she inspired me to visit and I am abundantly grateful I did. I have always had an interest in studying the practice of yoga but found it challenging to do on my own. The meditation, the quietness, the softness of just stillness- was TOO much for Me. Not ME, I can’t be STILL, I can’t be Quiet!!! I have TOOO Much TO DO. And then I did Raja, WoW!!! 1 hour of stillness and breathwork. WoW!!! I couldn’t believe how I enjoyed it, and how much I needed that class.
It was Amazing, energizing and cleansing. Everytime I do yoga now, I feel like someone takes a Brush and cleans my insides. Literally scrubs me from the inside out. Whether it’s fast movement or slow movement- it’s transformed me and reminded me to bring that same peace and flow into my daily life. I don’t do it as often as I’d love to, but hence that’s where this hopeful scholarship comes in:)
From the 1st time I did yoga, at the gym in Maryland over 15 years ago, I’ve known there is something special about it, and something special happens to me when I practice yoga. That teacher at the gym I must say was my favorite, 1) because she introduced me to it, 2) because she taught me it’s not about where I do it, it’s about just doing it. Over the years I’ve chosen to stay connected with Yoga focused institutions for my practice since it keeps me more fluid, patient, and deliberate with my environment; but really it can be done anywhere. That teacher inspired me to get better with each session and taught me that as busy as we are, we can always make time for ourselves- in fact, we need to in order to give more to others. When I feel whole and complete with source- I can be that for others and help them be that too. It’s like the ocean, the waves work together, not separately. I might not know all the poses- in fact I only know a few, but that doesn’t matter. Everything, well almost everything can be taught. What matters is that Yoga helps me be cleaner, wholer, peaceful and pure in this sometimes seemingly unclean world. Really the world is clean- it’s we who are not. If we can each continue to find and be those things that make us feel good as individuals- then we can live good together for each other. My goal is that thru the teaching and care I receive thru Anuttara Yoga Shala, I can learn more about the basics and traditions, as well as the principles of yoga and share that with others. I’m excited to study with Anuttara Shala because not only did they introduce me to this program, they introduced me to my city and a whole new side of my world- physical, and spiritual.
Just like it’s name, the Annuttara Yoga Shala that means “Supreme Yoga” and in life that’s the real lesson I believe, to be in Supreme Alignment with ourselves. The practice I experience is Self-Transformational, and as I continue to nurture myself and grow, I know I will continue to share light with others and help them transform as well. I might not have all the tools today to be a world-renowned teacher, but luckily I don’t need to be just yet. When the time is right- the universe will make that happen. In the meantime, I can better my practice and teach locally as a member of the city I live in, and the community I am part of. I look forward to sharing light with those around me not just as a teacher, but as a student too! Thank you for this gracious opportunity and I appreciate the consideration. May the votes begin 
2012 Yoga Scholarship Essay
By: Regena Ozeryansky
If you liked this article and want them to win a free yoga teacher training, then make sure to vote for her by leaving a comment (scroll all the way to the bottom), and sharing this article on Facebook or Twitter. Each comment, Facebook, and Twitter share counts as one vote and you can do all three!
Are you interested in becoming a yoga teacher? Then visit our Yoga School Directory to find the right teacher training. Or, visit our Yoga Retreats page to explore beautiful yoga vacations from around the world.
© Siiimple Themes 2013
Regina, you will be an amazing yoga teacher. Good luck!
I believe you are wonderful and I think you should win!
Regena, I really enjoyed reading your essay and perspective on how yoga makes you feel. I have done yoga on and off for years and whenever I go back to it, I always feel so much better mentally and physically! I hope my comment gets you closer to your goal.
Samantha
You get my vote! my mom was a Yoga instructor and I was born at home with a mid-wife and a yoga teacher! You will be an amazing instructor and good luck!
You’ve got my vote!
great story, best wishes, you deserve it
Great video very inspiring..hope you win.!
Wish you the best Regena. You deserve it.
Bob
Good luck Regena! I hope you win!
Regina, You will make an awesome yoga teacher. I would take your class in a heartbeat. I hope you win the scholarship! -Sandy
Good luck, Regina dear! You are an amazing woman and deserve your heart’s desire in this endeavor; you’ve so much goodness to share with others!
Good Luck, Regena! I enjoyed reading your article and I think you will make a great teacher! I also would like to do yoga as well.
Wow!!! You go girl- make it happen. I know you will be a wonderful yoga instructor.
great video good luck
You look so good on that video…OMG..I can’t stop watching it..
Regena great video…we are all here praying to your victory.!!
I would love to be one of your students..you look so peaceful..good luck.!
Regena you are the chose one..don’t worry you will get it easy..the video rocks.!! you have what it takes..
Good Luck my friend keep going.!!
You can do it!!! So proud of you…
I can’t wait to take 1 of your classes….ooossssaaaa
Reg i have done yoga with so many different teaches..and looking forward to have you as a mentor..and teach me all those especial Russian movements..!!
I can’t wait to hear the good news- I see you teaching all over the country
great video Reg, you sound great
Great essay- sincere
Wow!!! Good stuff
very nice girl! keep it going- you can do it
May the beauty of your deserved soul and authentic desire to inspire, lead, and shine blessed yogi light onto others, carry you through to the winning spotlight! You’re awesome! Best of luck sweets!
Regena, I know you will be an amazing yoga teacher. I see it not only in your demeanor, in the way that you speak and explain things, but also in your desire to help others become the best that they can be.
I am do proud of you! Follow your dreams!
I can’t wait to hear the good news
All the best, Regina! You’re a true inspiration!!
I met Regina on a women’s retreat and was impressed with her energy, her presence, her ability and willingness to connect. I am a certified yoga teacher (Amrit Yoga and beginners and advanced levels of Kripalu with almost 35 years teaching experience.) I am confident Regina would make a superb teacher and look forward to taking classes from her!
Follow your dreams!
Beautiful:)
WOW REG!!! YOU ROCK
Nice video.!
I think you will be a great teacher..hope you win.!
Beautiful I wish luck in your true dream. You will will be a great teacher.!
GOOD LUCK.!
Regena, you will be amazing teacher!!! You are great leaders
Best of luck!!! You will do great:)
Glad to see you doing what you love.
You go girl!
Soo proud of you!
Can’t wait!!! you will be a terrific teacher
The blessing of Yoga is a true gift. Enjoy every moment Reg
You are a beautiful spirit and will be a wonderful teacher!
Generous programs like these help the world- looking forward to hearing of your success:)
Passion of development brought you here- keep going:) You are on the right track.
WOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHOOOOOOO!!!!
Regena, this is cool- go for it! Hope you win
Love it!!!! go get it sister
I like that you are doing what brings you joy! That’s great
Regena, I remember we met in class a few years back- and thought she looks really calm, i like that…now i get it:)
I’m soooo excited for you!
I know how it feels to want something so much & have it so close you can taste it…really proud of you!
regena, you will be great! happy to hear what your up to
You deserve to win!
YoU WILL BE GREAT:) Happy to see you doing what you love
Regena, you are awesome!
reg, you will be terrific! i’m proud of you
Reg- you know everything you need to! You will be great:)
I think you will be a great teacher!:)
I believe that Regina will be a great yogi she is an extraordinary person with a very positive look at life !!!!
Regena,I know you will be an extraordinary teacher, you are already a great healer.
Great to see you soar:) You are growing sooo much as a person is beautiful to watch
Beautiful way to begin your journey. I found yoga many years ago…love it! changed my life
i know you will be awesome!!! already are.
YEAH!!! FOllow your heart Reg- it’s the right path!
Regena is terrific! I’m sure she will be a beautiful teacher & help many people
Wow! Reg, you are inspiring- who knew you had so much love:) You can’t bottle that up inside- must be shared with the world
Reg, you will be great!!! (1st message didn’t go thru- i think) hope you win
Yoga is awesome…keep it up
Reggie, you will do great as a teacher…hope you win the scholarship
i think this is a great fit for you:) way to go…
Wow, regena!!! This is really exciting:)
Go Reggie Go!!!
I know you will be an Amazing yoga teacher. You inspire and help everyone around you.
Reggie!!! How awesome are you?
This is cool
Hey Reg! Good Luck:)
Good Luck Regena!
I’m excited for you Regena, you will do great!
Great video Regina..good luck..!!!
When did you get so spiritual? I’m happy for you:) Yogi on the mountain!
Reggie!!!! wow, this rocks. I remember the day you shared with me your 1st day at the gym yoga- didn’t know it would go this far:)
Regena, you will be terrific. follow your heart!
I like your video- you sincere and real.
I know you will do great! You deserve this scholarship!!!
Yowzer! This is neat opportunity Reg- go for it!
Good luck . . . . .I will be your student ! ! !
Fantastic! I already see you as a gifted yoga teacher!
Hey You!!! So great:)
Congrats !!! I see you as winner already
YEAH!!!! YEAH!!! YEAH!!!
So neat Regena:) I hope you win
Regena, this is really great for you! You’ll do well.
Yes, yes, yes!!!
I’m excited for you!!! Hope you win
you will win, i feel it:)
i hope my feeling is right
Yikes, this is real scholarship eh?
Good Luck Reg!
Good Luck little girl!
I know you will shine light on those you teach, you already do for us…thanks for being you!
I always wanted to be a yoga teacher- do it for me…
aim for the sky!
Reggie! You are great already. good luck
Halaluah!!! Let the girl teach already.
Good Luck regena- you deserve this program- cool it is offered!
Living in the present a true YOU!!!
Wow!!! Good luck Reg
Wow!!! Good luck Regina
Regena, this is yours. Own it baby!
200class is how it all starts!
Dedication to your dreams
Finding your voice in yoga- how cool:)
Ready, set, go!!!
Life is the adventure- have fun reg
Reggie, this is totally 4 you- tree hugger
family of life- yoga
Congrats honey- you won already in book
Regena, this is beautiful, I wish you great success in all you do.
Passion is everything- teach with passion, you’ll do well
Passion is everything- teach with passion good luck
Regena, you will do well. Good luck with your scholarship- great essay
OMG- your video is awesome! love it
Yes, you rock Reg- show them who’s boss
greetings beauty- good luck
go girl- you can win you have it in you
I say wrote 5 essays-
good stuff
regena, I saw you the day @ park- was beautiful…happy to see you still practicing
i like your video- it’s really sweet
I know you will do well, you are a kind, gentle person
i love yoga too
Well, you won’t be rich but you’ll be happy. Yoga is great!
Regena, your great. good luck
Regena, this will be great for you…natural leader & healer. Proud to see you living your dream
Would love to take a class from you!
I believe Regena, you will win
Genise way to get more teachers….maybe they should do this with school system
Hey Reg, this is so perfect for you- I always saw you doing some kind of teaching & when I saw you growing in spirit- i thought …hmmmm maybe yoga:) here goes your chance
Reggie! You rock…good luck
You will be the best yoga teacher!!!
I love you Regena…good luck
Yeah Reg…winner winner winner
Genuine beauty- love your essay
May the Long time Sun of Yoga shine on you and enhance your already-beautiful way of radiating love and joy!
good luck girlie!
Hey Girl!!! I love yoga- so happy for you
regena, we don’t know each other well…but good luck
I wish you great journey Regena, enjoy the experience.
Let’s start celebrate…how about now?:)
I’ll bring the cake!!!
How about the couscous, I got that
I have fab recipe
WOW!!! party time!!! celebrate, love life, smiles, fun, balloons
comment
How about some vegan burgers:) hmmmmmm yummmy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
great thing about yoga is that no final destination- you just practice…always gets better
Good Luck Regena. All the best to you: )
Did i hear party? ;0
Yoga is great source of exercise
Any exercise size is great but yes, yoga is best!!!
REGENA- GOOD LUCK! HOPE YOU WIN…
I didn’t know you were into yoga- my mom did yoga 4 long time…loves it
Regena, you will be a great teacher! Good luck
REGENA- GOOD LUCK…HOPE YOU GET THE SCHOLARSHIP
good luck Reg!!! all the best to you with your adventure
comment…
good luck Regena
All the best girl! Hope you win…
I remember doing yoga, and was too much for me…you are better woman than I;) ha!
Hey girl!!! Good Luck:) Hope you win
Regena, I wish you great success in all you do. May you find beauty, love, health, wealth & light in all things:)
Regena, You have what it takes! You are pure, you are light, you are inspirational, you are real. I wholly support you in all endeavors you wish to pursue. I believe your desire to study yoga is source-inspired, and I see you winning this scholarship so that you may continue on your path. Namaste.
I believe in miracles- and you are #1- you get that scholarship girl:)
I am proud of you for entering….i bet many people interested but didn’t do all the steps to get in, sometimes that is the hardest part- making the decision
=p here’s my comment/ vote whatever you call it!
Dear Yoga Gods,
Regena Rocks- please let her get this scholarship!!!
I know Regena will be a great teacher & healer- she’s a beautiful person and really cares for others
I would love to take classes from you Regena=) I hope you win
Yoga time!!!
W-I-N-N-E-R!!!
Hey Reggie~!!! wishing you great luck-
good luck reg! hope you win
i wish you a beautiful journey thru yoga- may you find all the beauty in life and the joy of movement through the practice.
Congrats Reg! Hope you win the scholarship & enjoy teaching. you’ll be awesome
Regena, I love you! Wish you winnings for the scholarship & the real prize of even greater peace in your heart- glad yoga did it for you:)
as painter, i find yoga very helpful…never found exercise that helped soo much
Angels are everywhere, including in your heart! you are an angel Reg, your wings are here=)
just like music is for me…yoga is for you
yoga is to regena, as oxygen is to trees.
Good luck Reg!
Great piece Reggie!
YIPPIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SHE’S A WINNER!!!!!!!!!! AFIRM AFIRM AFIRM GIRL
Ju can do it!!!
Si se puede!
Hooray!!
Giagantic GOOD LUCK!!! hope you win Reg. xo
Good luck Regena. You’ll be great teach!
I like it!!! Go Reggie!
I didnt know you were into yoga?! What else don’t we know about this girl:)
so what other awesome talents do you have girl???
hehe!
Yes, girl!!! Follow your dreams!
Why Not!
I hope regena wins! She’s nice
reggie! I know you have many talents & will continue to show the world how wonderful you are !!!
Yoga works, when i stopped i felt it! ;9
That’s my cuz:)
still my cuz;) hahaha!!!
lol- yoga…ok whatever works Reg. I can’t see you that still:)
Yoga! Yoga! Yoga!!!!
Yoga,huh? Nice:)
AHHAA! What to write? I like positive comments;) Good Luck Regena
Good Luck Reg! Wishing you great advneture.
=)
Choosing the right school is like choosing the right college- it’s all about your teachers. all the best
For me, yoga is cleansing, joyous & healing…
I love yoga- helps me stretch
YOGA IS INSIRING & PURE-
Regena, you will do great!
Congrats Reg- to me you are already a winner.
Wish you well reggie! All the best with your Yoga
Yoga is a beautiful form of art & exercise. Glad to see you doing what feels good reg!
I believe you will win regena:) Keep focused
Manifesting your reality is about dreaming in action! go for it!
Go 4 the gold Regena!
You breathe life into everything that you do, and have extended to me a sweet and gentle friendship that in itself provides me with a calm peaceful feeling whenever we are together. There are students out there waiting to experience that very feeling, and ready to learn and grow with your guidance. You are the right choice… you are the BEST choice.
I am so honored to know you and be in your life!!! I couldn’t think of anyone better to win. You are such a light for sharing resources and tools…you will be perfect. Hey…we could probably have you teach one morning at the women’s retreat
LOVE YOU
Regena, you are amazing and know one deserves this as much as you do
Regena, I’m glad to see you are doing what you love to do. You deserve all the best!
Good Luck!
Like Mr. sheen “Winerrr..” Defeat it’s not an option.!!! Go baby…
Good Luck Sweetheart. Make it happen!
Win girl win!!
Make it happen!
Rewards are plenty- what you willing to sacrifice?
way to go reg.!!
Nice article and video Regina…..You have my vote!
YA!
The universe conspires to fulfill your greatest good
Good luck Regina! You can do it
Very nice article. Good luck, Regina!
Good Luck, Regena!
Good luck! I hope you get it!
Regina, I wish you much luck and you’ve chosen a very loving and inspiring place to do your teacher training. Namaste
Wonderful opportunity!
YES!
Way to go!!! keep the comments going- she’s almost there:)
Hello….more votes! This girl rocks…
Like, Comment, Tweet- what’s the world coming to?
Like, Comment, Tweet- all good!
Good Luck!
Yoga is best exercise in my opinion
Regena, I wish you love, joy, abundance & more yoga!!! I know how much you love to practice
I’ve seen how yoga transforms you…
I see how poweful you are …and always were…now just better:)
it’s all about the journey!
You will make an AMAZING yoga teacher!!
Good luck!
The solice I’ve found in yoga helped me be more present with others..amazing!
Reggie- you’ll be wonderful…
Hey Girl!!! this is great- glad you told me what you up to
Happy to support you Reg…
Regina,
you have what it takes to make a “supreme” teacher!
Good luck!
I remember my 1st yoga class- invigorating…and clumsy. Kept going back:)
Good Luck reg!
You have my vote Regena!
you have my vote
Best of luck
You have my vote! You can do, be anything you want, if you truly feel it in your soul. And so it is…
Reg has my vote.
Good luck, Regena
Amazing story about your yoga goals. Hope my vote for you helps you win the scholarship.
Stay positive. Good luck during your teacher training course.
Voting for you regena:) Go gettem!
Hope you win!!! Good luck!!
* SENDING GOOD VIBES TO YOU WITH LOVE
I vote for Regena!!
Go 4 it Regena!
Best of luck Regena!
Another vote for Regina
Hope you make it
Good luck!
Good Luck!!!!
You Have my vote…
********Good Luck *********
Good Luck to you !!!
1 MORE TO GO.!!! WINNER..!!! DEFEAT IT’S NOT AN OPTION..!!
Good Luck to you !!!
Go Regena!
Yea!!! Go Regena
hope you win Reg!
Good Luck Regena-
Go Regena!
goodluck
keep going
go get em
you can do it
don’t stop
Anuttara is the best place to learn to be a yoga teacher
Way to go, Regina. Good luck!
Go Regena – you have my vote and I can’t wait to do yoga together!
Let’s go Reggie!!!
Yeah!!!!