Going beyond the mat, Kaye Aboitiz is revolutionizing the practice of yoga in the country by exploring its spiritual and emotional dimensions. Yoga can be approached in two ways: one involves practicing in a studio, where the energy can be chaotic and intense, with teachers pushing you to your limits. The other path is more gentle and mindful, respecting individual boundaries and connecting with nature’s elements. Kaye gravitates towards the latter, both in her teaching and personal practice.
Kaye shares that she was named after a Basque saint but later discovered that her name’s origin is “Gaia,” the embodiment of nature and earth. This connection to nature is evident as she expresses her love for plant species and insects in Siargao, her current island home. Originally from Cebu, Kaye has a deep connection with Siargao, where she spent time with her family and witnessed a rustic lifestyle intertwined with untouched nature.
Throughout her life, Kaye immersed herself in traditional and yogic education. She embraced the introspective realm of Bhakti Yoga and the melodic practice of Kirtan chanting, both of which are rare in the Philippines. She also encountered the powerful typhoon Odette and is now working on establishing an accessible yoga sanctuary on Siargao island. A recurring theme in her journey is the importance of cultivating a community, especially one that empowers women.
Kaye’s educational journey has taken her to various avenues of study, including online courses, in-person sessions in Bali and Manila, and one-on-one tutorials and workshops. Her passion for learning is evident as she constantly seeks new knowledge and experiences. She has a background in History of Art, focusing on Southeast Asia, and has studied Sanskrit and Counseling and Psychotherapy. She believes in teaching yoga with compassion and sensitivity.
Kaye recently completed her certification in Yin, Hatha-Vinyasa, and Yoga Nidra, as well as a Devotional Sound course. She follows the spiritual path of Bhakti Yoga, which is focused on devotion towards a personal deity. She incorporates Sanskrit mantras and chanting into her classes, creating a sense of community and personal introspection. Her classes are tailored to the energy and needs of her students, with a focus on healing and restoring physical posture.
While personal practice is important, Kaye emphasizes the value of community and connection in yoga. She believes that having support from others is crucial in times of struggle and that friendships and relationships refine and strengthen one’s practice. She actively collaborates with women in her projects, such as retreats and at the woman-owned resort Inara by Natalia Zobel. Her home spot is the iconic Siargao yoga shala Lotus Shores, where she started as a student and now co-teaches as an instructor.
Kaye’s journey in yoga is marked by a deep connection to nature, a thirst for knowledge, and a commitment to empowering communities, particularly women. She is redefining the practice of yoga in the country by embracing its spiritual and emotional dimensions, and creating a supportive and inclusive environment for her students.
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