Interview with Urmi Pandya - An International Yoga Maestro Inspiring Minds & Bodies Worldwide

Urmi Pandya is a renowned international yoga teacher dedicated to transforming lives through the profound practice of yoga. With expertise spanning Relaxation and Recreation Yoga, Prenatal and Health Correction Yoga, Weight Loss Yoga, Kids’ Yoga, and Intermediate to Advanced level Yoga, Urmi offers a holistic approach tailored to individual needs.

As the founder of Urmi Yoga Academy, she passionately conducts group and personal training sessions in Ashtanga & Ancient Hatha Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, and Reiki, guiding students on their journey to physical and mental well-being. Urmi’s dedication and skill have earned her remarkable accolades, including winning the Gold Medal in Traditional Yogasana Sports at the 2nd Asian Yogasana Sport Cup in Bangkok, Thailand (June 2023). She is also an active professional yoga athlete, having participated in competitions worldwide and securing a Silver Medal at four international events.

Her inspiring journey and expertise continue to motivate students and yoga  enthusiasts across the globe, making her a leading figure in the modern yoga movement. Read the full Interview with Urmi Pandya - An International Yoga Maestro Inspiring Minds & Bodies Worldwide.

INSIDE THE MIND OF A YOGA ENTREPRENEUR

Urmi is currently running Urmi Yoga Academy, conducting Group and Individual training on Ashtanga & Ancient Hatha yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, and Reiki. Let us explore some distinctive questions and answers regarding her remarkable journey of transforming the lives of countless thousands.

Q&A

What motivated you to embark upon the practice of yoga and subsequently attain the distinction of an international yoga instructor?

Yoga came into my life when I needed strength, clarity, and a new direction. What started as a simple practice to feel better slowly became my way of living. Yoga taught me discipline, balance, and self-love. As I grew with my practice, I felt a natural calling to share this energy with others. That’s what inspired me to study deeper and become an international yoga instructor — so that I could help people find the same peace, confidence, and transformation that yoga gave me.

Can you share the journey that led you to specialize in yoga for relaxation, pregnancy, and health correction?

My yoga journey started as a personal practice, not a plan to specialize. Over time, I realized yoga was helping me slow down, heal, and truly listen to my body. That’s when relaxation became important to me — because in today’s fast life, being calm is real medicine.

Later, pregnancy changed everything. Practicing yoga during this phase gave me strength, confidence, and deep trust in my body. I experienced how mindful movement and breath can support both mother and baby in such a powerful way.

Health correction came naturally from this journey. I saw how yoga can support digestion, hormones, back pain, stress, and overall balance when practiced correctly and consistently. My own experiences, along with years of teaching since becoming a yoga teacher in 2017, shaped my approach.

Winning the gold medal at the Asian Yogasana Sport Cup was truly unforgettable. Standing on that stage, hearing my name called, and realizing that years of discipline, early mornings, and overcoming self-doubt had culminated in that moment felt surreal. It was a testament to perseverance, passion, and the unwavering belief in oneself.

What are some of the most memorable moments from your competitions, including winning the gold medal at the Asian Yogasana Sport Cup? 

Competing at the Asian Yogasana Sport Cup and winning the gold medal was unforgettable. Standing on that stage, hearing my name, and realizing that years of discipline, early mornings, and self-doubt had led to that moment felt surreal. More than pride, I felt deep gratitude for my body and my breath.

There were also powerful moments just before performing—focusing inward, steadying my breath, and staying calm and centered during the performance. What I remember most is this: every competition helped me grow—not just as an athlete, but as a person. The medals shine, but the inner strength I gained shines even brighter.

How does your training at Urmi Yoga Academy cater to students of different levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners? 

At Urmi Yoga Academy, the training is thoughtfully designed so everyone feels supported, no matter where they are in their yoga journey.

For beginners

We focus on strong foundations — correct alignment, breath awareness, basic asanas, and understanding the body gently and safely. Classes move step by step, with clear guidance and personal attention, so beginners build confidence without fear or pressure.

For intermediate students

The practice deepens with improved strength, flexibility, flow sequences, pranayama, and a better understanding of transitions and body mechanics. Students start exploring balance, endurance, and mindful movement.

For advanced practitioners

Training becomes more refined and aware — advanced asanas, controlled transitions, deeper pranayama, meditation, and subtle alignment details. Emphasis is on inner connection, discipline, and teaching skills.

What makes us different

• Small batches for personal guidance

• Modifications & variations for every body

• Emphasis on safety, awareness, and consistency

• Equal focus on physical, mental, and emotional growth

At Urmi Yoga Academy, growth is not rushed. We believe yoga meets you where you are — and evolves with you.

What role do practices like Pranayama, Meditation, and Reiki play in your overall yoga teaching methodology?

In my yoga teaching methodology, Pranayama, Meditation, and Reiki play a very important role. Because of pranayama practice, my breath awareness has improved, which helps me focus better on my asanas and improve my holding with ease and stability. Breath control brings calmness, strength, and balance to the practice. Meditation helps turn the practice inward. It builds mindfulness, clarity, and emotional stability, allowing students to connect deeply with themselves beyond the physical practice.

Reiki supports deep inner healing by calming the mind and balancing energy. It helps release emotional and mental blocks, creating relaxation and inner peace. This balance supports a more mindful, connected, and holistic yoga practice.

How do you balance your roles as a mother, professional yoga trainer and competitor on the international stage? 

For me, balance is not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about doing everything with presence and honesty. As a mother, my baby comes first. She has taught me patience, strength, and a deeper kind of love. Motherhood has grounded me and made me mentally stronger. As a professional yoga teacher , yoga is my life. I have never skipped my yoga practice since 2017. My practice keeps me calm, disciplined, and connected to myself. I plan my days around my energy, not just time—early mornings and focused practice, and teaching with full heart.

As an international competitor, I stay consistent, not extreme. I listen to my body, respect rest, and train smart. I don’t compare phases of life; I honor them. Yoga reminds me every day that balance is not static—it flows. Some days I give more to my child, some days to my practice, and that is perfectly okay.

Begin where  you are

What message would you like to share with aspiring yoga practitioners and our readers worldwide?

To everyone who feels called toward yoga—begin where you are.

Yoga is not about perfect poses or flexibility; it’s about showing up with honesty, patience, and breath. Some days your body will feel strong, some days quiet, and both are part of the practice. Let yoga teach you kindness toward yourself, discipline without pressure, and balance beyond the mat. Carry that awareness into your daily life, your relationships, and your choices. Practice regularly, stay curious, and trust the journey—because yoga is not a destination, it’s a lifelong companion.

Thank You 

By Pankaj Jha Feature Writer & Media Relations

Vol 2, Issue 1, Jan 2026, Rishikesh Yogalaya

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Urmi Pandya Interview Read the full Yogalaya Jan 2026 edition

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