Rufus Ngugi

I am a deaf yoga instructor based at the Africa Yoga Project’s Shine Center in Nairobi, Kenya. When I attended my first Baptiste Power Vinyasa yoga class in 2010, I didn’t even know what yoga meant! I assumed it was the same thing as going to the gym. I now know that yoga is an important key to educate and empower, to elevate and expand. I believe that yoga is what reduces my stress and creates good health within my body. I credit yoga for aiding my recovery from a hernia and drug addictions, without the need to go to a hospital.

In 2012, after completing a 200hr teacher training certification in Ashtanga yoga, I began teaching people who are deaf, blind, autistic, and mentally ill, street children and orphans, and also able-bodied students. I empower my deaf students by leading them through their practice through sign language. I inspire and guide hearing students by clapping my hands, stomping the floor, and through yoga blocks. With all students, I create connection through my use of eye contact. This allows my students to gain self-awareness and grow through the fun and love brought into every one of my classes.

I completed the Baptiste Institute’s Level One, Level Two, and Art of Assisting certifications. In 2013, I went to the United States to teach yoga. I returned to Kenya inspired to teach more students and share my love of yoga and its benefits. As a participant in the Africa Yoga Project Academy, I gained professional skills and even more inspiration to shine. I continue to inspire and empower students with and without disabilities. I am passionate about creating tools and practices to use sign language in yoga, and to empower deaf people worldwide to practice and teach yoga.

Africa Yoga Project Educates, Empowers, Elevates and Expands Employability with youth in Africa using the transformational practice of yoga. Our vision is to create opportunities for youth to step into their greatness and become self-sustaining leaders in their communities.

There are so many ways to get involved with Africa Yoga Project through fundraising, mentorship, or service trips and more! Click the email icon above for more information!

For general information: info@africayogaproject.org

You can take class at the Shine Center when you’re in Kenya or hire a private instructor in any of the countries we have teachers in. Click the email icon above for more information!

For general information: info@africayogaproject.org

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