Monika J.

I teach Yoga as well as Public Health and Preventive Medicine, and over the past few years, both fields have become equally important parts of my professional and personal journey. I have been teaching Public Health and Preventive Medicine to medical students for the last four years, and this experience has allowed me to develop a strong understanding of how health systems, community programs, and preventive strategies shape real-world medical practice. Helping students grasp these concepts and apply them meaningfully has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.

My journey with Yoga began five years ago, not as a formal academic pursuit but as a personal exploration of wellness, balance, and self-awareness. Under the guidance of experienced practitioners, I developed a deep respect for Yogic principles and their impact on physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Around 1.5 years ago, I transitioned into teaching Yoga, and since then, it has become a natural extension of my medical and wellness philosophy.

Teaching Yoga without a formal certification might seem unconventional, but the knowledge I have gained through steady practice, observation, and learning from seasoned teachers has shaped my approach in a very grounded way. My focus is on helping students connect with their breath, understand their body’s signals, and cultivate a mindful practice that supports long-term health. This practical, experience-based method resonates well with learners who want authenticity more than formality.

In Public Health and Preventive Medicine, my goal is to give students clarity and confidence in understanding how health interventions work at the population level. I emphasize applied learning, real-world case studies, and the importance of prevention as the foundation of sustainable healthcare. Seeing students grow into responsible, informed medical professionals brings me immense satisfaction.

When it comes to Yoga, I strive to create sessions that are approachable, safe, and suited to each learner’s pace. I believe Yoga should not feel intimidating or rigid; instead, it should empower individuals to discover their own rhythm and inner strength. Whether someone joins with the aim of relaxation, flexibility, or overall wellbeing, I make sure the experience feels personal and meaningful.

Balancing both fields—medical education and Yoga—has given me a unique perspective on health. While my M.D. provides the academic and scientific understanding, Yoga adds a holistic, experiential dimension. Together, they help me guide my students toward a more complete, integrated understanding of wellbeing.

My teaching philosophy is simple: health is not just the absence of disease—it is awareness, balance, and daily choices that support the body and mind. Whether I am teaching a medical student or a Yoga learner, I hope to inspire them to build a healthier, more conscious lifestyle aligned with both scientific knowledge and inner wisdom.