As the first certified yoga instructor from Nagaland, Orentsani Kikon’s contributions to health and wellness in her community have made her a significant figure in the region. Let’s dive into her journey and explore how she became a source of healthy living, love, and peace.
Early Life
Orentsani Kikon was born and raised in Yikhum village, Nagaland, a place rich in cultural heritage and traditions. From a young age, she was deeply connected to her cultural roots and developed a passion for health and wellness. Growing up, she was an active child who loved sports and dance, activities that nurtured her love for physical fitness. Her parents, particularly her late father K. Arhomo Kikon, instilled in her values of independence and faith, which would later guide her through her professional journey.
A Shift in Career Plans
After completing her higher secondary education in Mumbai, Orentsani initially planned to pursue a career in the airline industry. However, life had other plans for her. A pivotal moment came when her elder sister suggested she explore the Yoga Teacher Training Course (TTC). Although Orentsani had always been active in sports, yoga was still new to her. But the idea intrigued her, especially when her mother highlighted the potential of becoming the first trained yoga instructor in Nagaland. This encouragement sparked a passion for yoga, leading her to embrace it as a profession.
The Journey into Yoga
In 2009, Orentsani completed her first TTC at The International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre. This marked the beginning of her journey as a professional yoga instructor. What started as a simple interest quickly evolved into a deep commitment to the practice. She trained in various styles of yoga, including Hatha and Artistic Yoga, across renowned institutes in India, such as those in Kerala and Bangalore.
Yoga, for Orentsani, was more than just physical exercise. It was a holistic approach to health that included mental and emotional well-being. This understanding became the driving force behind her mission to promote yoga as a lifestyle choice, especially in Nagaland, where misconceptions about yoga were common.
Overcoming Cultural Barriers
Promoting yoga in Nagaland was no easy task. In a predominantly Christian state, yoga was often viewed through a religious lens, leading to skepticism and resistance. Many locals associated yoga with Hindu spirituality, which conflicted with their religious beliefs. This cultural barrier made it challenging for Orentsani to gain acceptance for yoga in her community.
But Orentsani was determined. She focused on educating her community about the health benefits of yoga, emphasizing its role in physical fitness, mental peace, and stress relief. She made it clear that yoga could be practiced purely as a form of exercise and wellness, free from religious connotations. Her efforts gradually started to change perceptions, and more people began to embrace yoga as a means to improve their overall well-being.
Establishing Orentsani Aesthetic Fitness
In 2017, Orentsani took a significant step forward in her mission by opening her own fitness studio, “Orentsani Aesthetic Fitness,” in Dimapur. The studio offers a variety of fitness classes, including yoga, Zumba, and Pilates, catering to individuals of all backgrounds and fitness levels. Her studio quickly became a local hub for health and wellness, attracting people who were eager to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Orentsani’s approach to teaching is inclusive and accessible, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their fitness level, feels welcome and supported. She also conducts free workshops and collaborates with nutrition experts to promote holistic wellness. Through her studio, Orentsani has created a positive environment that encourages individuals to embrace a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Achievements and Recognition
Orentsani’s dedication to yoga and wellness has not gone unnoticed. She has participated in national yoga competitions, where she earned a bronze medal, competing against over 130 participants from various states. Her achievements have positioned her as a role model for aspiring yoga instructors in Nagaland.
In addition to running her studio, Orentsani holds leadership roles in various organizations. She serves as the president of the Nagaland Yogasana Sports Association and was appointed as the state coach for yoga by the YOG Sports Association, supported by the AYUSH Ministry of the Government of India. Her work extends beyond Nagaland, as she collaborates with the Indian Army and the U.S. Embassy to promote yoga and wellness across different platforms.
Impact on the Community
Through her work, Orentsani has inspired many individuals in Nagaland and beyond to pursue yoga and embrace healthier living. Her efforts to integrate traditional practices with modern health philosophies have made yoga more accessible and relevant to a broader audience. By focusing on the health benefits of yoga and promoting it as a secular practice, Orentsani has helped to change perceptions and encourage participation in wellness activities, regardless of cultural or religious background.
A Philosophy Rooted in Wellness
Orentsani’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: health cannot be bought; it must be earned through healthy living. She believes that yoga is not just about physical postures but is a holistic approach to health that encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to promoting a lifestyle centered around wellness, peace, and love.
