A journey through Katonah Yoga and personal growth

In today's episode of the "Road to Calm Podcast," we speak with Aylin Karadayi, an inspiring Katonah Yoga teacher, former nutritionist, and experienced entrepreneur. She recently opened her latest project, the Yoga & Wellbeing Studio VVOO, in Zurich. Aylin shares her profound insights into her yoga practice and how it has sustainably transformed her life.

The interview was conducted by our Podcast host Sandro Meyer .

Sandro Meyer (Host): Aylin, welcome to the podcast. Tell us about your journey to yoga.

Aylin Karadayi: Thank you so much, Sandro. My journey to yoga began after a serious health challenge. I was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 27, and that was a pivotal turning point. I was looking for a holistic method to regain my health and found in yoga not only physical but also mental support.

Sandro Meyer: You mentioned Katonah Yoga. What exactly is it and how does it differ from other forms of yoga?

Aylin Karadayi: Katonah Yoga is a synthesis of traditional Hatha Yoga and Taoist philosophy, enriched with knowledge from geometry and psychoanalysis. It's not just about physical postures, but also about the alignment of the body in a spatial and metaphorical sense. We use geometric principles to perceive and position the body more consciously, which has a profound impact on our inner and outer lives.

Sandro Meyer: You speak of a transformation. How has yoga influenced your philosophy of life?

Aylin Karadayi: Yoga has shown me that through awareness of our body and breath, we can access deeper layers of our being. This practice has not only helped me cope with my illness but also reshape my self-image and my priorities in life. It is an ongoing journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Sandro Meyer: You've also gone through some difficult times, for example the end of your food business. How did you cope with that?

Aylin Karadayi: The end of my food business was a difficult time, but it also opened doors. Yoga gave me the resilience to see the situation as an opportunity for a new beginning, not as an end. It taught me to accept cycles in my life and to know when it's time to let go and move on.

Sandro Meyer: What tips do you have for our listeners who are facing stress or challenges?

Aylin Karadayi: It's important not to let stress overwhelm you. I recommend using stress management techniques such as distraction through physical activity or creative pursuits. In the long run, however, it's crucial to develop a regular practice that stabilizes and harmonizes body and mind.

Sandro Meyer: Aylin, thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Where can our listeners learn more about you and your studio?

Aylin Karadayi: Please visit my website VVOO for more information about my studio and classes. You can also follow me on Instagram at @aylin_karadayi for the latest news and inspiration.

For those who want to learn more about Aylin Karadayi and her work, listen to the full episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts . Aylin is a shining example of how to overcome personal challenges and transform them into powerful life lessons.