A chat with legendary guru Sri Dharma Mittra
One of my more memorable show guests was Sri Dharma Mittra, who has been practicing and teaching the traditional yoga he received from his guru, that he refined and modernized over more than half a century at his signature school in New York City, around the world at yoga festivals, at retreat centers, and large-scale workshops. We talked about getting older—and wiser. And now, on the eve of his 80th birthday and still going strong, who better to impart advice on longevity and wisdom than The Guru himself.
Jane Wilkens Michael: You were on the show a while back. Three years ago, I believe. How have you been doing since then?
Sri Dharma Mittra: Very well! Physically speaking, I usually don’t practice some of the more athletic, “fancier” yoga poses as I have some inflammation in my hands. However, I still do the important ones, the basic ones like the Cobra Poses, for example, that keep my body in good shape. I also stretch. To calm my mind, I sit quietly and do Alternate-Nostril Breathing.
JWM: How about spiritually? Has your focus changed over these years?
SDM: Yes! Spiritually speaking, I am more cautious about never wanting to hurt anyone, therefore my meditations/concentrations are more about being compassionate and helping others. It’s a natural evolution that I want to share. I am also always trying to figure out ways that will make it easier for my students to cope with their problems. Mentally and spiritually, I feel very comfortable where I am. The only difference at this point is the physical.
JWM: Well, for 80, you are in amazing shape. Rumor has it you still do hands-free headstands. Are you still able to do handstands?
SDM: (Laughs) Yes! It’s the headstands that I don’t do anymore!
JWM: Is your diet the same as when we last spoke?
SDM: As the body gets older, the immune system becomes weaker. Therefore, I am even more careful about what I eat so I don’t get sick. Occasionally, I take vitamin B12 to improve my immune power. But that’s all. I don’t take any other medications. I try to eat mostly raw and vegan, but sometimes I do like cooked food. And I love guacamole. Occasionally, I might even eat even a bagel. The downside is that the body has to work harder to digest this type of food. If I don’t drink enough water, I automatically feel depressed. If I do, I’m at peace with lots of energy. You just have to take better care of yourself as you get older.
JWM: How about your energy level?
SDM: Truly, my energy inside is amazing: I can work forever. Unfortunately, the instrument—my body—is a little weaker. Up to now, though, I have had very few obstacles to contend with.
JWM: A lot of people say when they get older have less patience. (Who me?) But you don’t seem to ever change in this regard, especially as a teacher. Do you agree?
SDM: Absolutely! Sometimes, I think it’s due to body chemistry and often what we eat or drink. For example, if I have a black coffee, the caffeine makes me tense. If I teach like that, I can easily lose my patience and take it out on my students. But everyone’s body chemistry is thrown off from time to time. That’s normal. It is as though our sense of perception that allows us to feel spiritual is blocked. Of course, you don’t lose it, but it feels as if like there is something getting in the way. As soon as I relax a little bit and wait a while, it normalizes.
JWM: What are your thoughts on turning this milestone age? Does it frighten you?
SDM: Not at all. From the day we are born, we are already in the process of dying. After 80, the process is already coming to the last stage. Eighty to ninety and ninety to a hundred is to complete the journey. As I said, I still have lots of energy. Sometimes, though, I have to stop and rest, to take it a little easier, that’s all.
JWM: Any final thoughts?
SDM: Remember, steady practice and you will succeed. Do your yoga even once a week and don’t break it. That will give you will power. If you have a teacher, be obedient to him or her. If you are truly reverent, and you follow instructions, you will succeed in yoga—and in life—no matter what your age. And try and be nice to everyone — your friends, your family, your guests, your pets, and even those you just happen to meet along the way. The action of compassion is to place yourself in others. Sometimes we are faced with little interruptions, little issues. But I see them as a natural part of life.
JWM: Good advice for all us who want to live longer, happier, healthier, more beautiful lives. Thank you, Sri Dharma Mittra. Happy Birthday! Wishing you a year that is as inspirational and empowering as you!
To find out more about Dharma Yoga, please visit: www.dharmayogacenter.com.
