The Evolution of Yoga Alliance International: A Legacy of Authentic Yoga
Founded by Swami Vidyanand, a revered Indian yoga master, Yoga Alliance Asia-Pacific was established in 2004. Inspired by Sri Aurobindo’s vision, Swami Vidyanand sought to create an organizational body dedicated to fostering the principles of yoga, personal transformation, and global unity.
2006: Yoga Alliance India—Returning to Yoga’s Birthplace
Recognizing India as the spiritual birthplace of yoga, Swami Vidyanand launched Yoga Alliance India in 2006. This initiative aimed to reaffirm the roots of authentic yoga, ensuring that practitioners maintain the integrity and tradition of yogic wisdom while adapting to modern lifestyles.
2007: Establishment of Yoga Alliance International®
By 2007, Yoga Alliance International® (YAI) was officially founded with the assistance of Sri K.M. Chandrashekaran, a lifelong advocate for yoga and its allied practices. This marked a significant milestone in uniting yoga practitioners, schools, and teachers globally under a common framework of authenticity and ethical practice.
Global Presence & Leadership
Yoga Alliance International continues to grow, establishing divisions across multiple countries, each led by dedicated Directors who champion YAI’s mission. These leaders, spanning different regions, bring diverse perspectives while upholding the foundational values of yoga. Additionally, YAI Ambassadors serve as flag-bearers, spreading the message of authentic yoga traditions worldwide and fostering connections between teachers, schools, and practitioners across cultures. Yoga Alliance International remains committed to preserving yoga’s integrity, ensuring practitioners and institutions worldwide adhere to ethical and professional standards, making yoga accessible to all while honoring its origins.