Today we’d like to introduce you to Keely Totten.
Hi Keely, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Who I am today is a direct result of nearly 20 years of inner work, dedication, courage, and taking daily right actions. Let’s include also – making mistakes and always, seeking wise consult from friends and mentors. I believe each one of us has our dynamic life story of triumph, inspiration, struggle, pain, and all that lies in between. I am continually astounded by our ability to heal, overcome, transform, and discover our gifts.
The word miracle comes up a lot in my story.
In my early 20s, I emerged from a broken, self-destructive state of being. My spirit was intact, and I proceeded to get honest about what needed to change, so I could go on living – and even have the potential to thrive in life. Up to until that point, I had avoided and prevented feeling the impact of my childhood, near fatal car crash, and the death of my mother at age 20. That said, going forward, there was much to experience and undo in my mind, psyche, and somatically in my body. I did practical things like repair and form good relationships in the world and went back to school to get my degree in Business and Finance. Even though life was seemingly coming together, I experienced anxiety and panic on a daily or weekly basis. This is how I landed in yoga. I knew I had to move, and I knew I had to get meditating. As I began my practice and journey into the deeper experience of Yoga as a philosophy, and Ayurveda as a system for healing, my anxiety and panic lessened. I felt moved after classes; empowered, in touch of my emotions, and calm. This led to more good choices for me including studying yoga and ayurveda. I’m grateful I studied at a venue that respected the ancient tradition of Yoga as it comes from India. Although I’m an able-bodied person and an athlete, I always related to Yoga as larger experience beyond the body.
I went on to have my beautiful children with my partner. I’ve been married now for over 16 years and in the relationship for over 21 years. I always say the longevity and health of my marriage is one of my greatest accomplishments. I know it may be egotistic to say, but my beautiful kids are too. They are connected human beings. I’m glad my dharma includes motherhood to these kids in particular. Our house is a down-to-earth, not perfect, household. We aim to live by spiritual principles and try to correct mistakes along the way.
I believe life is made of a series of daily actions, events, and states of body and mind. The things I do today shape my life tomorrow and beyond. They foster personal and communal well-being, or they don’t. They uncover truth or keep my head buried in ignorance. Further, all I have is TODAY, and now is the best time to pay attention and take good care.
Today, my life story continues through my work in Yoga & Ayurveda as practitioner with Ayurvedic patients, meditation groups, one-on-one sessions, and through the yogic studies program I created, the KULE Yoga & Ayurveda, Embodied Shakti Studies 200- & 300-hour courses.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Haha! What road is smooth? How would we generate the stamina, intelligence, and motivation without struggle?
I believe one of the chief challenges as an entrepreneur is assigning value and structure to what I do. For me, I had to discover my gifts: my ability to lead, keep a cool head, make concise decisions, and bring a subject to life in an articulate, yet light way. The level of thought, preparation, and completeness of the services I offer is valuable. Matching my unique offerings to the client’s needs requires inquiry and communication.
Another valuable lesson I’ve learned is to stay on my own path, my dharma is my own, and wisdom is everywhere.
We’ve been impressed with KULE Yoga & Ayurveda, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
KULE Yoga & Ayurveda is a boutique yoga studio, school for learning, and clinic for Ayurveda. We are known for a personalized experience which offers teachings and practices of Yoga which stem back to its ancient tradition. Further, we have a sense of community. We want to know how you’re doing, what the kids or dogs are up to, and how we can best help you. We want you to find balance. improved health, and discover more about yoga and ayurveda. We explain practical application to boost daily living.
We offer group classes and workshops all with advanced signup, host local and weekend retreats (Topanga in March 2023), and offer the Embodied Shakti School of Yoga. This is a unique blend of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Tantra. Please join us for our next session starting in January 2023, in person in Pasadena, CA.
Alright, so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
You are cordially invited to share your energy with us. Please come attend classes, reach out, and share our services with people who would benefit. Find us on social media @kuleyoga.ayurveda
To receive an Ayurvedic Consultation, mentorship, or private services with Keely, please email keely@kuleyoga.com. To enroll or inquire about the Embodied Shakti Studies course, please request an application info@kuleyoga.com.
Pricing:
- Single Class $22
- Private Session (single) $125
- Ayurvedic Consultation $265 (incl. 2 appointments)
- Embodied Shakti Studies Deposit $750
- Memberships -range $120-135/mo.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kuleyoga.com
- Instagram: @kuleyoga.ayurveda
- Facebook: @kuleyoga.ayurveda
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kule-yoga-and-ayurveda-pasadena
- Other: www.sukhamoon.com
Image Credits
@katm.photo
