Ana Paula Ruiz Gatica has dedicated her life to the transformative power of yoga and music, embarking on a journey that began in her childhood at an exclusive school in Mexico City. Through yoga, she aims to foster deeper connections among people, bridging ancient traditions with modern practices. At 14, she discovered yoga, propelling her to India in 2016 where she delved into its holistic aspects, moving beyond mere postures to embrace a life of ethics, breathwork, meditation, and spirituality. This shift led her to develop teacher training programs deeply rooted in original teachings, as she believes in transmitting knowledge authentically, reflecting the practices passed down from teacher to student. Her collaboration with Yogendra Sharma and Deepak Bhardwaj has built an online community of over 20,000 followers on social media, united by a desire for genuine spiritual exploration.
In contrast to many centers that blend traditions, Ruiz Gatica focuses on the devotional aspect of yoga, integrating elements like Indian mantra chanting to create a heartfelt experience. This fusion is felt strongly in her recent meditation cycle inspired by Gupta Navaratri, which draws from Brahmanic traditions emphasizing secretive, personal worship as opposed to public celebrations seen in India. During the nine nights of meditation, participants engaged through online sessions, where they explored divine energies associated with various goddesses, deepening their spiritual journey. These gatherings are a safe haven for many women, who find themselves seeking connection and understanding through yoga.
Ruiz Gatica perceives a strong link between the reverence for female deities in her practice and the spiritual devotion Mexicans feel towards the Virgin of Guadalupe. This connection reflects a shared cultural relationship with the sacred feminine, often recognized as a familiar bond with the divine. The practices taught during Gupta Navaratri may resonate particularly well with Mexican women familiar with these archetypes of motherhood. As she continues to guide women through their spiritual growth, Ruiz Gatica’s approach seeks to offer them a space to honor their journeys authentically, embracing the divine feminine across diverse traditions. Her work embodies a compassionate response to the complexities of spiritual devotion, encouraging seekers to explore their paths with open hearts.