Self-Experience letter for Prime Minister’s Award for Yoga 2026
By Mrs. Shubhada Lele

TO WHOMSOEVER IT MAY CONCERN

Shri. Patanjali Mahamunyenmha!

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my journey in the field of yoga, with the vision of spreading its healing benefits to society. With a strong spiritual foundation, I have always believed that we are merely instruments, and that meaningful work unfolds through us for a greater purpose.

My journey into yoga therapy began with a desire to serve and to share knowledge. Over the years, I have witnessed transformative healing in countless individuals suffering from chronic conditions such as back pain, knee pain, frozen shoulder, and post-surgical complications. Many patients who were once unable to perform basic movements regained mobility, confidence, and independence through consistent yoga therapy practice.

These experiences were not only professional milestones but also deeply personal inspirations. Seeing close family members benefit from yoga therapy strengthened my commitment to this path and inspired me to establish a dedicated centre to serve others.

Since beginning my formal training in 1995, I have worked continuously to understand the human body as a divine and intelligent system. Through yoga therapy, I have focused on restoring balance by combining traditional postures with therapeutic techniques, carefully tailored to each individual’s condition. My approach focuses not just on physical healing, but also on cultivating mental peace and emotional stability. Yoga nurtures every dimension of life; physical, mental, vital, and spiritual—creating a sense of balance and overall well-being.

I strongly believe that Faith and Regularity are the two essential pillars of healing. With these, patients experience not only relief from pain but also inner calmness and improved quality of life. Yoga therapy, in my experience, enables nearly 95% of individuals to lead a comfortable and healthier life when practiced sincerely.

As the number of beneficiaries increased, I took the initiative to train teachers, many of whom were once patients themselves. I developed simplified teaching methods, structured training programs, and educational resources to ensure the correct and safe practice of yoga therapy.

The children’s batch, initiated in 1998, has had a meaningful impact on the holistic development of young participants. Through regular practice of traditional yoga postures and Surya Namaskar, children developed physical strength, flexibility, and discipline from an early age. The inclusion of Sanskrit stotra chanting added a deeper cognitive and emotional dimension to their growth. These practices helped enhance concentration, improve memory, promote mental calmness, and refine pronunciation.

At my centre, every participant is regarded as a Sadhak, fostering a sense of discipline, belonging, and shared growth. End of the year Sadhak Development event is celebrated by all the batches with full spirit.

My work has always been guided by the principle of accessibility. I have ensured that yoga therapy remains affordable and available to all, offering support even to those who cannot afford it.

Through writing, teaching, and practice, I continue to contribute to the field of yoga therapy. One of my books “Yoga – A Woman’s Companion” reflects my experiential knowledge and serves as a guide for women, especially during pregnancy.

 

Conclusion

My journey in yoga therapy has been one of service, learning, and continuous growth. The true reward lies in witnessing the transformation of individuals—from pain to comfort, from fear to confidence, and from imbalance to harmony.

I remain committed to spreading the awareness and practice of yoga therapy so that more individuals can experience its profound healing potential. It would be an honour to be recognized for this work, which I consider not just a profession, but a lifelong dedication to the well-being of society.

With gratitude and humility,
Mrs. Shubhada Lele

Field: Yoga Therapy & Therapeutic Yoga Education

Website url: https://shubhyogakendra.com/

YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/@shubhyogakendra3989

 Email: shubh.lele@gmail.com

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