Testimonials
"James is a teacher of exceptional warmth, integrity and compassion who is passionate about yoga and its application and integration into our everyday lives. He has a way of sharing his extensive knowledge of practical yoga philosophy which is engaging, inclusive, practical and fun. He is a great storyteller, as I experienced in his Mythology Series, and his superb command of English makes the lessons extremely enjoyable, lively, and I have learned a lot by following up book and other resources that he frequently recommends. The notes that accompany the on-line sessions are written from the heart, are comprehensive, accessible to all levels of practice and often include suggestions for practice and enquiry. The online sessions have given many people the freedom to express themselves and share experiences which are sometimes harder to access in live classes. If you ever wondered how your yoga practice can become richer, come to life, and be your life I wholeheartedly recommend joining James' courses, James will support you and you will experience the support, friendship, intelligence and friendliness of the group, which is a great way to learn. I am grateful to James for challenging my perception of yoga and I in turn changed my yoga practice and my life as a result." Caroline S. Scotland
I feel blessed to have participated in the invigorating spring retreat at Casa Cuadrau with James Boag. Throughout, our band of yogic warriors was invited to enjoy a wild menu of yogic activities that were suffused with invaluable lessons on how to take better care of our bodies and spirits. Our daily practice was grounded in the exploration of common asanas (but from markedly less common perspectives), sometimes wandering off on happy diversions to explore the realm of spontaneous play. Cocooned in the nurturing, easy-going environment of Casa Cuadrau, it appeared that each person’s movement practice was jolted to new life by the rich layers of symbolism, story-telling and music-making charismatically ushered in by our teacher with a vital spring freshness, and an unfailing steady energy, sincerity, playfulness and humour. Alice E. Scotland
...
I have attended various weekend courses with James on the Bhagavad Gita, the Yoga Sutras and Indian mythology, as well as Kirtan and asana workshops. Learning with James is a gift. Spending time with one of the most generous teachers I know always re-sets me, balances me and helps me reconnect with my love of yoga, my curiosity for this method, my gratitude for life and my body. James is a knowledgeable teacher, an explorer in his own practice and a beautiful storyteller and singer. His knowledge of Sanskrit in particular, is grounding, eye-opening, discerning.
What he teaches, he teaches first hand. Working with him has changed my practice and, without being too dramatic, my life too, in small and very powerful ways. He has inspired me to delve deeper into true yoga, to sing, to explore the ancient texts on and off the mat, to pause, to listen more attentively, to be grateful. He has a lovely way of bringing groups together: whether people know each other or not, it is very easy to feel connected in his sessions. He speaks from experience and his stories, whether from his own life, films and songs (including Star Wars and Bob Marley), or from the Indian Gods, are applicable to everyone. I am still reaping the fruits of my last exploration and I already look forward to my next workshop with James. Time in his workshop goes fast, but the learning is deep and the echoes are lasting. Laura G. Glasgow
...
“This weekend workshop, as all the other workshops I have attended with James Boag in the last few years, has been tremendously enriching. James has helped me to deepen my understanding of what yoga is about, on and off the mat, in an extraordinary way. His insights are like waking up calls that stay with me and help me to be the best version of myself. I strongly recommend James Boag’s workshops to any yoga practitioner whatever tradition you follow”. Patricia Galavis, Glasgow
For me James' weekend workshops are like short holidays.
At the lastest workshop I arrived on the Friday night pretty much stressed out and I had hardly any energy left. When I left on Sunday I felt happy, relaxed and very well nourished.
James is very generous in sharing his knowledge and experience. With ease he transports ancient Eastern mythology and philosophy into the Western 21st century in a way that makes these topics easy to grasp, to understand and to apply them to ones own life.
I very much recommend these workshops and I am also looking forward to attending the next one. Dagmar M. Glasgow
What is yoga? Why do we practice?
By asking these seemingly simple questions, James sets the table for a profound dialogue which has deepened and shifted my relationship to my practice, to myself and to the world.
With his passion for the ancient wisdom texts, a joyfully syncretic approach to movement, and his unique gift for teaching, James fosters a learning environment that is in equal parts accessible, intellectually rigorous and uplifting.
Emily Louise Carr, USA
I have been to many asana workshops and kirtan sessions led by James Boag, and cannot say enough good about James as an inspiring teacher. He has a tremendous dedication to helping others grow through yoga. James is constantly expanding his knowledge of yoga asanas and provides classes which are inclusive to people at all levels, while challenging the participants in a safe and enjoyable way. His deep knowledge of Sanskrit informs all his teaching, and he communicates yogic philosophy in an accessible and interesting way. He is an entertaining storyteller, and uses ancient stories as a means to foster self-awareness. Kirtan with James is a life-changing experience. I frequently do 2-hour drives to get to his workshops and kirtans, as they are well worth any effort to attend.
Laura N. UK
Harmony and integration were the themes - and that is exactly what we got! I came away feeling nourished in mind, body and soul. Liz, UK
Having experienced James’ sessions on the Bhagavad Gita during my time in Mysore, I was more than delighted to meet him once again in England. James’ contagious enthusiasm for the Sanskrit language, beautifully expressed through kirtan, clearly underpins his deep understanding of Yoga philosophy. Exploring Yoga Philosophy with James brings understanding from the head to the heart, and Yoga practice off the mat into every aspect of daily life. I’m already looking forward to my next dose of Yogification!
Wherever James teaches feels like home.
Moira F. UK
I had the good fortune to study Yoga Sutras with James in Manila (Philippines) over three days in March 2012. His explanation of Patanjali's yoga sutras and how we could apply the wisdom of the sutras in our daily lives has left a deep impressionon me. I have since read several authors' commentary on yoga sutras but the way James explained and the insights he left me with have been the best for me. I will forever be grateful to him for sharing his knowledge. James's commentary brings together both the intellectual and practical aspects of the sutras. His knowledge of Sanskrit brings a fresh linguistic analysis of the sutras which was interesting and appealing. I found him very humble and very generous in the sharing of his knowledge.
I also attended James's lectures on "Yoga- What When Where How and Why?", "Way of the Yogic Warrior" and "Yoga - Light Sound Elements" in June 2012 which gave me a fresh perspective on how "Hanuman" was seen as the greatest yogi, the connection between prana vayu and the son of Wind God! His exploration of the epic Ramayan as a study of how yoga applies was enlightening. Despite having grown up with Ramayan and knowing the whole story since childhood, this perspective was new for me! James's analysis is rooted in deep study. With his breadth of knowledge and excellent intellectual grasp James explains difficult texts to understand with great skill and beauty, bringing fresh perspectives and new insights. He answers questions that truly clear away doubts and is very inspiring as a speaker. His command of language is especially appealing to the educated audience. Being part of James's kirtan is a joy. His voice and his bhakti (devotion) are heart warming!
I was especially impressed at how in one go and just one introduction he had memorized all the 20 people's name in the audience! Amazing focus! I would love a chance to study under his guidance again and wish him the very best. Swati Pandey – Delhi, India
....
I had the pleasure of attending James's Kirtan and Yoga Sutra class in Manila, March 2012.
I still remember the experience so vividly in my consciousness ... a feeling of immense shama ( Inner calm) and sukham (joy and happiness) !
The word that comes to my heart when I think of James’s energy is Spatikritam !
The combination of two sanskrit words - spatik and ritam
Spatik - crystal clear, luminous and sparkling … radiating bright light in all directions
Ritam - in the flow of universal music, cosmic dance and universal natural laws
James is in graceful flow with universal rhythms which is transferred to all those who share space with him in openness and surrender. His Kirtan sessions are like Nad Brahma ( Sound of GOD ) coming straight from his heart which is plugged into the cosmic heart.
James’ ability to articulately and eloquently communicate yoga philosophy and the distillation of Patanjali’s Sutras by drawing parallels with day to day living, has left an indelible mark on me ... his words and voice still echo in my consciousness !
James transformed my understanding of the Sanskrit language and ignited a rhythm , which till date aids my connection to the ‘Divine’ and my ongoing understanding of the essence of Vedic scriptures.
James in complete union with what he shares …….. his humble devotion … purity of intention and dedication to his own sadhana has magnetic energy which can leave anyone illuminated and transformed. Amena Bal – New Delhi, India
...
I was fortunate to attend James’s talk on “Yoga sutras” and “The way of the Yogic warrior” sessions in the
year 2012. James’s rendition of the Patanjali’s yoga sutras was beautiful, melliflous and divine. The meaning
and the interpretations of the sutras were simple, clear and his discussions were relevant to our everyday
experiences. His story-telling style and drawing parallels from the ancient scriptures such as the Ramayan
to the modern Starwars is what makes it interesting and enjoyable.
I liked his approach of connecting so well with all of his students and that he managed to remember our
names in such a short time! His friendly and easy-nature made me feel comfortable to frame some of the
intriguing and esoteric questions that I had in mind. My ten year old boy had attended one of the sessions
and was very impressed with James’s fluency and dedication in reciting the sanskrit verses.
James has been an inspiration for us to study and deepen our knowledge in this realm of yoga and
philosophy, which will be a continuous journey!
Wishing the very best,
Sushma.
Manila, Philippines
"James is a teacher of exceptional warmth, integrity and compassion who is passionate about yoga and its application and integration into our everyday lives. He has a way of sharing his extensive knowledge of practical yoga philosophy which is engaging, inclusive, practical and fun. He is a great storyteller, as I experienced in his Mythology Series, and his superb command of English makes the lessons extremely enjoyable, lively, and I have learned a lot by following up book and other resources that he frequently recommends. The notes that accompany the on-line sessions are written from the heart, are comprehensive, accessible to all levels of practice and often include suggestions for practice and enquiry. The online sessions have given many people the freedom to express themselves and share experiences which are sometimes harder to access in live classes. If you ever wondered how your yoga practice can become richer, come to life, and be your life I wholeheartedly recommend joining James' courses, James will support you and you will experience the support, friendship, intelligence and friendliness of the group, which is a great way to learn. I am grateful to James for challenging my perception of yoga and I in turn changed my yoga practice and my life as a result." Caroline S. Scotland
I feel blessed to have participated in the invigorating spring retreat at Casa Cuadrau with James Boag. Throughout, our band of yogic warriors was invited to enjoy a wild menu of yogic activities that were suffused with invaluable lessons on how to take better care of our bodies and spirits. Our daily practice was grounded in the exploration of common asanas (but from markedly less common perspectives), sometimes wandering off on happy diversions to explore the realm of spontaneous play. Cocooned in the nurturing, easy-going environment of Casa Cuadrau, it appeared that each person’s movement practice was jolted to new life by the rich layers of symbolism, story-telling and music-making charismatically ushered in by our teacher with a vital spring freshness, and an unfailing steady energy, sincerity, playfulness and humour. Alice E. Scotland
...
I have attended various weekend courses with James on the Bhagavad Gita, the Yoga Sutras and Indian mythology, as well as Kirtan and asana workshops. Learning with James is a gift. Spending time with one of the most generous teachers I know always re-sets me, balances me and helps me reconnect with my love of yoga, my curiosity for this method, my gratitude for life and my body. James is a knowledgeable teacher, an explorer in his own practice and a beautiful storyteller and singer. His knowledge of Sanskrit in particular, is grounding, eye-opening, discerning.
What he teaches, he teaches first hand. Working with him has changed my practice and, without being too dramatic, my life too, in small and very powerful ways. He has inspired me to delve deeper into true yoga, to sing, to explore the ancient texts on and off the mat, to pause, to listen more attentively, to be grateful. He has a lovely way of bringing groups together: whether people know each other or not, it is very easy to feel connected in his sessions. He speaks from experience and his stories, whether from his own life, films and songs (including Star Wars and Bob Marley), or from the Indian Gods, are applicable to everyone. I am still reaping the fruits of my last exploration and I already look forward to my next workshop with James. Time in his workshop goes fast, but the learning is deep and the echoes are lasting. Laura G. Glasgow
...
“This weekend workshop, as all the other workshops I have attended with James Boag in the last few years, has been tremendously enriching. James has helped me to deepen my understanding of what yoga is about, on and off the mat, in an extraordinary way. His insights are like waking up calls that stay with me and help me to be the best version of myself. I strongly recommend James Boag’s workshops to any yoga practitioner whatever tradition you follow”. Patricia Galavis, Glasgow
For me James' weekend workshops are like short holidays.
At the lastest workshop I arrived on the Friday night pretty much stressed out and I had hardly any energy left. When I left on Sunday I felt happy, relaxed and very well nourished.
James is very generous in sharing his knowledge and experience. With ease he transports ancient Eastern mythology and philosophy into the Western 21st century in a way that makes these topics easy to grasp, to understand and to apply them to ones own life.
I very much recommend these workshops and I am also looking forward to attending the next one. Dagmar M. Glasgow
What is yoga? Why do we practice?
By asking these seemingly simple questions, James sets the table for a profound dialogue which has deepened and shifted my relationship to my practice, to myself and to the world.
With his passion for the ancient wisdom texts, a joyfully syncretic approach to movement, and his unique gift for teaching, James fosters a learning environment that is in equal parts accessible, intellectually rigorous and uplifting.
Emily Louise Carr, USA
I have been to many asana workshops and kirtan sessions led by James Boag, and cannot say enough good about James as an inspiring teacher. He has a tremendous dedication to helping others grow through yoga. James is constantly expanding his knowledge of yoga asanas and provides classes which are inclusive to people at all levels, while challenging the participants in a safe and enjoyable way. His deep knowledge of Sanskrit informs all his teaching, and he communicates yogic philosophy in an accessible and interesting way. He is an entertaining storyteller, and uses ancient stories as a means to foster self-awareness. Kirtan with James is a life-changing experience. I frequently do 2-hour drives to get to his workshops and kirtans, as they are well worth any effort to attend.
Laura N. UK
Harmony and integration were the themes - and that is exactly what we got! I came away feeling nourished in mind, body and soul. Liz, UK
Having experienced James’ sessions on the Bhagavad Gita during my time in Mysore, I was more than delighted to meet him once again in England. James’ contagious enthusiasm for the Sanskrit language, beautifully expressed through kirtan, clearly underpins his deep understanding of Yoga philosophy. Exploring Yoga Philosophy with James brings understanding from the head to the heart, and Yoga practice off the mat into every aspect of daily life. I’m already looking forward to my next dose of Yogification!
Wherever James teaches feels like home.
Moira F. UK
I had the good fortune to study Yoga Sutras with James in Manila (Philippines) over three days in March 2012. His explanation of Patanjali's yoga sutras and how we could apply the wisdom of the sutras in our daily lives has left a deep impressionon me. I have since read several authors' commentary on yoga sutras but the way James explained and the insights he left me with have been the best for me. I will forever be grateful to him for sharing his knowledge. James's commentary brings together both the intellectual and practical aspects of the sutras. His knowledge of Sanskrit brings a fresh linguistic analysis of the sutras which was interesting and appealing. I found him very humble and very generous in the sharing of his knowledge.
I also attended James's lectures on "Yoga- What When Where How and Why?", "Way of the Yogic Warrior" and "Yoga - Light Sound Elements" in June 2012 which gave me a fresh perspective on how "Hanuman" was seen as the greatest yogi, the connection between prana vayu and the son of Wind God! His exploration of the epic Ramayan as a study of how yoga applies was enlightening. Despite having grown up with Ramayan and knowing the whole story since childhood, this perspective was new for me! James's analysis is rooted in deep study. With his breadth of knowledge and excellent intellectual grasp James explains difficult texts to understand with great skill and beauty, bringing fresh perspectives and new insights. He answers questions that truly clear away doubts and is very inspiring as a speaker. His command of language is especially appealing to the educated audience. Being part of James's kirtan is a joy. His voice and his bhakti (devotion) are heart warming!
I was especially impressed at how in one go and just one introduction he had memorized all the 20 people's name in the audience! Amazing focus! I would love a chance to study under his guidance again and wish him the very best. Swati Pandey – Delhi, India
....
I had the pleasure of attending James's Kirtan and Yoga Sutra class in Manila, March 2012.
I still remember the experience so vividly in my consciousness ... a feeling of immense shama ( Inner calm) and sukham (joy and happiness) !
The word that comes to my heart when I think of James’s energy is Spatikritam !
The combination of two sanskrit words - spatik and ritam
Spatik - crystal clear, luminous and sparkling … radiating bright light in all directions
Ritam - in the flow of universal music, cosmic dance and universal natural laws
James is in graceful flow with universal rhythms which is transferred to all those who share space with him in openness and surrender. His Kirtan sessions are like Nad Brahma ( Sound of GOD ) coming straight from his heart which is plugged into the cosmic heart.
James’ ability to articulately and eloquently communicate yoga philosophy and the distillation of Patanjali’s Sutras by drawing parallels with day to day living, has left an indelible mark on me ... his words and voice still echo in my consciousness !
James transformed my understanding of the Sanskrit language and ignited a rhythm , which till date aids my connection to the ‘Divine’ and my ongoing understanding of the essence of Vedic scriptures.
James in complete union with what he shares …….. his humble devotion … purity of intention and dedication to his own sadhana has magnetic energy which can leave anyone illuminated and transformed. Amena Bal – New Delhi, India
...
I was fortunate to attend James’s talk on “Yoga sutras” and “The way of the Yogic warrior” sessions in the
year 2012. James’s rendition of the Patanjali’s yoga sutras was beautiful, melliflous and divine. The meaning
and the interpretations of the sutras were simple, clear and his discussions were relevant to our everyday
experiences. His story-telling style and drawing parallels from the ancient scriptures such as the Ramayan
to the modern Starwars is what makes it interesting and enjoyable.
I liked his approach of connecting so well with all of his students and that he managed to remember our
names in such a short time! His friendly and easy-nature made me feel comfortable to frame some of the
intriguing and esoteric questions that I had in mind. My ten year old boy had attended one of the sessions
and was very impressed with James’s fluency and dedication in reciting the sanskrit verses.
James has been an inspiration for us to study and deepen our knowledge in this realm of yoga and
philosophy, which will be a continuous journey!
Wishing the very best,
Sushma.
Manila, Philippines
