Komal Bhonagiri, Yoga Teacher Long Grove, Illinois

Komal Bhonagiri

Yoga Teacher
Yogic Lifestyle Transformation Coach
Homeopathic Physician
Reiki Master

Finding Yoga

My journey into yoga began in 1996 while I was working as a Homeopathic Physician in India. I was looking to provide my patients with more tools for supporting their wellbeing and decided to take up Iyengar yoga. I was fortunate to receive ongoing private instruction with world-renowned Iyengar yoga teacher Ali Dashti. I felt amazing after our sessions and looked forward to the next yoga session where I could feel light and happy again! What began as a mere curiosity turned into a revelation of just how profound yoga can be to restore balance and well-being in the mind and body.

Finding Myself!

A few years later, my life took a pivotal turn when I fell ill shortly after relocating to the United States. Despite consulting numerous doctors, my condition worsened with little assurance. I had a near-death experience just before undergoing a critical surgery. It changed my entire perspective of life as it resulted in an “ego death” with an expanded awareness of an energy field where I found unconditional love, immense peace and a feeling of ONENESS with the universe.  In this space, what came to me can only be described as the sacred source energy, which became the guiding force of my life and career.

Miracles Through Yoga

My encounter with the sacred source sparked a powerful shift in me, and I knew I had to return to India to heal. I immersed myself in a specialized yoga program and experienced a true miracle: a full recovery. Doctors had told me that I would never be able to give birth to a child, but soon after, I witnessed  my second miracle : my first born son. By this time, I was fully embracing yoga not only as a practice but as a way of life. My calling as a yoga practitioner became louder than my career in public health, as I pursued certification as a Hatha Yoga Teacher and began teaching yoga. Since then life has been filled with beautiful miracles - both big and small - reminding me of the magic in every moment.

Guiding Others to True Wellbeing

Over the past 20 years, I have supported hundreds of people to find true mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing through yoga classes and highly personalized coaching. The people who have completed my Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program are living testaments to the body and mind’s ability to heal itself when given the right conditions. Through personalized practices to create balance, they are experiencing their own miracles. For this, I am continually in awe of the  divine source energy within each individual that  helps them heal to live a meaningful and fulfilled life.  With each passing day I am even more dedicated to my role as a  loving yoga instructor.

Beyond the Mat

When I’m not guiding yoga sessions, I find joy in painting, dancing, singing, and exploring the outdoors through hiking and biking. Whether it’s feeling the rhythm of music, the brush strokes of creativity, or the fresh air of a forest trail, each of these passions fuels my connection to movement, mindfulness, and self-expression.

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Education & Trainings

  • Bachelors in Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery | Pune, India 

  • Masters in Public Health | UIC, Chicago

  • 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training | Temple of Kriya Yoga, Chicago (2003)

  • 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training | Rishikesh Yoga Peeth, Rishikesh, India (2016)

  • Vipassana Meditation: 10 Day Silent Retreat | Alandi, Pune, India

  • Sidha Samadhi Yoga: 21 Day Retreat | Pune, India

  • Buddhist Zen Meditation | Zen Center, Sunnyvale, California (2018-2020)

  • Art of Living Course | Pune, India

  • Kids Yoga Certification with Instructor Mary Scudella | Total Body Yoga, Mundelein, IL (2007)

  • Iyenger Yoga with Ali Dasti | Iyengar Institute, Pune, India (1996-1997)

  • Several yoga workshops to date

Ali Dashti (left), my first yoga teacher, pictured with his teacher, BKS Iyengar (right), the founder of Iyengar Yoga. Endless gratitude and honor for their contributions to my path and many others’ paths.

“I came to know Komal though a friend in Pune. Since I had just started to teach yoga I did not have a place to teach her so I taught her private Iyengar yoga lessons in her apartment. I am glad that Komal has been teaching yoga since that time in 1996-97. This is how the tradition is passed on to the next generation. She was a very sincere student and has continued learning from me via zoom after many years. With best wishes and regards all the way.”

Ali Dashti

Heartfelt Reflections From Students

  • “Komal's live online yoga classes on zoom are a breath of fresh air after a long day at work. They are the right mix of challenging and relaxing. They do wonders for both body and mind. I would highly recommend Komal's classes to beginners and experts alike."

    Archana Kumar
    Yoga Classes

  • “After practicing Iyengar yoga back in Europe for 5 years, I’ve been struggling for a long time to find authentic restorative yoga classes in the U.S. Finally finding a devoted and experienced Teacher like Komal just outside of Chicago felt like a miracle."

    Eva Polosina
    Yoga Classes

  • “I thank Komal for introducing yoga to my 66-year-old mom, who had never worked out in her life. Komal's patience, compassion, and attentiveness made my mom feel supported, helping her feel more rested and positive after each class—truly a success!"

    Michelle and Linh Tran
    Yoga Classes

  • “Within a month, I could already see the results of this program! I felt so much lighter and healthier than before. I became mindful of not only what I was eating but also when and how I was eating and that helped me establish a healthy relationship with food."

    Archana Petwe
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “Komal AKA Fa Mu (her Buddhist name) is a truly spiritual soul whose warm presence and radiant energy bring immense joy. During a challenging time for my child and me, I turned to her for guidance, and it was one of the best decisions I made. She recommended Yoga Nidra sessions, and the experience was nothing short of transformative."

    Binu Pillai
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “Komal is hands down the best! Her in person classes are amazing, and her zoom classes have been equally good. I can’t stop myself from convincing people to join her class."

    Madhavi Shah
    Yoga Classes

  • “Last year 2024, I turned to Komal for restorative yoga to help with my frozen shoulder. Her thoughtful approach, with a strong focus on stress reduction and deep relaxation, has not only eased my shoulder pain, but has also brought me a profound sense of peace and well-being. It has been a truly transformative experience."

    Dilip Sapra
    Yoga Classes

  • “I lost 18 pounds in 2 months; I became more energetic. My pains decreased and the biggest miracle is that my inflammation levels came back to almost normal."

    Vijaya Bhattaram
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “What makes Komal truly special is how deeply she understands each student’s needs. She does not just teach movements—she  feels what every person requires, offering individual attention, care, and support."

    Svetlana Yegorov 
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “I was looking for ways to be fit and even though I was a complete beginner, I thought I'd give Komal's classes a try. It’s been almost 3+ years since, I am hooked. I have never joined a in person class with Komal because we are in 2 different states but that has never been a deterrent or barrier in my learning."

    Geeta Asnani
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal is an incredible yoga teacher with a warm, supportive approach. Her restorative yoga classes are well-structured, calming, and inspiring. I always leave feeling refreshed, both physically and mentally. Highly recommend!"

    Krisha Vaswani
    Yoga Classes

  • “My migraines have reduced considerably – from 3-5 bad headaches per month to just 1 in the last 3 months. It’s the best gift I’ve given myself in the last 50 years."

    Ritika Kharbanda
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “I have observed tremendous health benefits including better sleep, mental clarity and continuous self-reflection in stressful situations. Komal is an authentic Hatha yoga teacher who continues to strive for her student’s continuous wellbeing."

    Mukta Purohit
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “I was very skeptical to join online classes especially for yoga. But when I met Komal online, I instantly loved her enthusiasm, her extreme positive attitude and her energy. Her instructions are so clear and precise that I don’t miss doing yoga in person."

    Surekha Rao
    Yoga Classes

  • “Since joining Komal's restorative yoga classes, I've experienced transformation beyond just the physical. What sets her apart is her extraordinary ability to see the whole person - she's just as invested in our mental wellbeing as our physical progress."

    Disha Shah
    Yoga Classes

  • “I learned so much about the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit and the power of abundance in the universe. Just a few months after the program, I manifested an incredible new opportunity that I previously couldn’t dream of."

    Heena Singh
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “Komal uses various techniques that offers rewarding experience to everyone irrespective of their age and yoga experience. We have lived through this experience during our private family yoga sessions with her."

    Kartini and Rajesh Chelladurai
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “Komal's teachings over the zoom class and in person class are very effective. Attending Komal’s Yoga class will give you range of benefits like increased flexibility, muscle strength etc., essentially promoting overall physical and mental well-being."

    Veena Dashaputra
    Yoga Classes

  • “One of the standout aspects is Komal’s personal attention to each participant. Whether in the remote sessions we started with or now in-person classes, the she takes the time to adjust poses, offer modifications, and ensure everyone is comfortable. Her hands-on approach makes a huge difference in deepening the practice and enhancing relaxation."

    Neetu Singh
    Yoga Classes

  • “Thanks to her valuable content, videos, mindset coaching, I was able to lose close to 10 lbs in 3 months despite indulging in my fav food items once in a while. I am better able to deal with my anxiety. I am able to positive talk myself out of scary/negative thoughts and situations."

    Priya Vukkuturi
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • "My son was diagnosed with a progressive muscle-wasting disorder. The impact of Komal's guidance extends far beyond yoga poses—it has brought light into our lives, offering my son a sense of calm amidst the challenges."

    Alpa Khushalani
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “I have been practicing yoga with Komal for over 10 years. I am equally enjoying the Zoom classes for the past two years and truly grateful for all that Komal teaches."

    Suparna Namburi
    Yoga Classes

  • “For the past few months, I struggled with unbearable sciatica pain that made even the simplest tasks difficult. After multiple physical therapy sessions with little relief, I decided to give restorative yoga a try. Komal’s approach to restorative yoga not only alleviated my sciatica discomfort but also introduced a discipline that I can incorporate into my daily routine to stay fit."

    Pooja Sapra
    Yoga Classes

  • “I came to Komalji yoga program with autoimmune health concerns and sleep problems. Words cannot describe how grateful I am to have Komal. Komalji has helped me improve my sleep and my overall health. She has helped me grow physically, emotionally and spiritually. Komalji is a blessing!"

    Amita Bijawat
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “Weeks into the program, I not only shedded a few pounds but it also helped me visualize my physical and mental wellbeing. It improved my focus and clarity, and I also learned what not to do to reach my goal. Komal is an amazing person inside and out."

    Archana Sakhare
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “I’ve been attending Komal’s online yoga classes for more than 4 years, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. Komal takes great care in making her yoga class a full body practice."

    Prashast
    Yoga Classes

  • “I’m extremely grateful to be practicing yoga with Komal. She gets her student’s needs very aptly and guides them accordingly. Her knowledge of Yoga (and not just yogasanas) is very profound and I’ve spent countless hours learning and understanding the yoga philosophy from her."

    Kuldeep Ghate
    Yoga Classes

  • “Through Komal, I have been able to see the true beauty in things and be more grateful for them. I have even started exercising and eating healthier because of all our classes we’ve had together."

    Emma Sironit
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “I came out of the program feeling healthier and lighter and more in tune with my body. The tools I gained will help me stay healthy for the rest of my life. Komal auntie is one of the most dedicated and patient teachers I’ve ever had."

    Aditi Mehra
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “I have been able to ward off the usual middle age problems of stiff back, knee pain and such thanks to practicing Yoga with Komal. Highly recommend her to anyone."

    Jaydeep Kulkarni
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal aunty has helped me tremendously with my mental and emotional health. I’ve grown and learned so much - I refer to her teachings everyday! My 8 year old daughter is also doing classes with her virtually. I am very happy she gets to learn about how to take care of her body and mind."

    Priya Sood
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “I knew I was in safe hands from the first call I made to her. Komal made this whole experience a journey for a sustainable healthy life rather than ‘if you don’t do this, you will not be ok.’ I walked out with life tools that will help me stay on a path of healthy life."

    Nitin Krishna
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “As a hairdresser, I often deal with physical tension, and finding the right yoga instructor was so important for me. I truly appreciate my private sessions with Komal. They are exactly what I need. Her ability to understand each student’s unique needs is what makes her an incredible yoga teacher."

    Olga Makagon
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “This program has helped me tremendously with my shallow breathing, asthma and gut issues. I'm so much better. Even though I started yoga to overcome my physical issues, meditation and pranayama helped me immensely to become a peaceful and content person."

    Michelle Lobo
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “How does one find words to explain the incredible impact she has had on my life. She heals me. There is no way to articulate and bring justice to the incredible person she is Just meet her once and you’ll understand why."

    Sanika Bijawat
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “Komal Aunty’s unwavering support... every day, she would check in with me to make sure that I stuck to the program. It has completely transformed the way I see food and exercise."

    Ria Subramanium
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “I have had the privilege of having Komal as my Instructor and Guide for the last 9 years. Her sessions are a dynamic combination of compassion, grit and humor. Komal has definitely enhanced my physical and mental wellbeing."

    Mita Dhar
    Yoga Classes

  • “I can wholeheartedly say that Komal is one of the most dedicated, compassionate, and inspiring individuals I’ve ever met. She brings her personal depth, wisdom, and knowledge to the teachings and shares them in a relatable way that gives students actionable skills in their daily lives."

    Julia Jonson, E-RYT 500
    Colleague

  • “This is your chance to make an awesome trustworthy friend for a lifetime with great knowledge on multiple subjects. The way Komal taught helped add value by making these more sustainable, which can be easily inculcated in my day to day life."

    Sandeep Shetty
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “Since 2010, Komal has guided us in yoga with a unique blend of physical practice, spiritual depth, and medical expertise. Her teaching emphasizes the profound significance of each pose with intentional breath, inspiring us to engage in consistent practice for a healthier, more mindful life."

    Raj and Sonali Sonarikar
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal helped me identify attitudes and habits that are areas of concern, defined a self-care program that uniquely met my needs, and coached me through the program. This was the best present I got myself, and I am so proud of myself."

    Lakshmy Vasudevan
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “Komalji is an amazing teacher, humble, grounded and down to earth person. I have learnt so much from attending her class that I’m able to enhance both my personal and professional life."

    Renuka Nathan
    Yoga Classes

  • “I lost 30 pounds, normalized cholesterol & blood sugar levels, lowered blood pressure, and feel more energetic than ever! This program has been customized to fit all of my needs, and has exceeded all of my expectations."

    Lana Fliman
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “I have been practicing yoga with Komalji for more than 7-8 yrs now. Komalji 's yoga sessions have survived me numerous times with my chronic shoulder and back pain. She has guided me spiritually through her yoga."

    Tanvi Mahadik
    Yoga Classes

  • “It had been years since I started my yoga journey with Komal as my teacher and even now I am short of words to describe my experience!! The only one ever important thing is health and Komal has given each of us in her class this gift of health."

    Veena Rao
    Yoga Classes

  • “Within 3 weeks, my self-esteem improved, my ADHD decreased, my anxiety decreased, and my weekly pain had decreased almost 70%. My right ovarian cyst had shrunk by 2.5 cm, and my left cyst was gone."

    Shweta Naik
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “Practicing yoga with Komal has been a transformative experience. She embodies kindness, passion, and a deep care for her students, guiding even beginners like me with patience while maintaining high standards."

    Yuliya Peck
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “Komal’s lessons were engaging, useful, and full of compassion and clarity. Yoga has eased tension in my body and mind and helped me have a more positive outlook on life."

    Ganapati Parmeshwaran
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “What truly sets Komal apart is the depth of her knowledge, woven from her study of Buddhism, her expertise as a homeopathic doctor, and her training in the direct lineage of BKS Iyengar. Combined with her genuine benevolence, Komal is a rare and extraordinary guide."

    Pratibha Murli
    Yoga Classes & Colleague

  • “I have known Komalji for over 7 years and she has been a great influence on our family's lives as a wonderful yoga teacher. As a person with such empathy, forgiveness and unconditional love, Komalji inspires me to be a better person and gives a different perspective of my purpose in life."

    Kavitha Sridas
    Yoga Classes

  • “Self-love is the foundation of confidence and self-esteem. Komal helped me understand that not everything has to be perfect and that it’s okay to let go when needed.”

    Sridevi Mylavarappu
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “If you are looking for a way to truly transform your life, look no further than yoga with Komal. The work with intentions, writing, reflecting, and focus has paid tremendous dividends in his positivity and self-belief."

    Sarang Sanrkiti
    (and his father Siva Santriti)
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “Komal is without doubt one of the kindest souls and is one of my favorite human beings. I took away so much from this program. I 100% recommend it to everyone and assure that you will not be disappointed and it is worth all the money."

    Kathir Veerasekar
    Yogic Lifestyle & Transformation Program

  • “I am grateful to Komal for bringing my body back into balance and for showing me the healing power of self-care. Her passion for yoga is infectious and her immense knowledge about yoga as a science and philosophy is truly admirable."

    Vasavi Duvvur
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal puts a lot of emphasis on meditation and the spiritual aspect of life. That is what I love most about her type of teaching. She also greatly cares about the physical and medical conditions of each of her students."

    Mira Rutkowski
    Yoga Classes

  • “I was looking around for a yoga class to join but didn’t find the one that felt exactly right until Komal was referred to me. It took couple of weeks to realize how stiff my body has become over the years but Komal’s way of practicing is to respect your body and its limitations which made it easy to continue."

    Poonam Worlikar
    Yoga Classes

  • “Being a complete beginner, I had my reservations in starting in a class of experienced members but despite the class size or level Komal pays a lot of attention to everyone's need which was super helpful whether it is going over details or giving easier variations."

    Tushar Mutatkar
    Yoga Classes

  • “I have been doing yoga practice with Komal for 4 years now. Awesome loving teacher and beautiful human being inside out! Yoga along with Asanas have healed my knee pain."

    Sonali Sonarikar
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal has been my yoga guru and inspiration since 2008. She has always made yoga classes interesting (including prenatal yoga classes) by introducing different yoga concepts in each class. Her finishing touch with Savasana coupled with the calming sound of her gong has always left me refreshed after a stressful week."

    Krish and Priya Kartik
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal is a gentle professional. Her attention to detail during our yoga session is unmatched. I felt a strong sense of calm and every moment throughout my session was met with peace and tranquility."

    Aburva Manivanan
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komalji is a very patient & accomplished teacher. She guides you throughout the practice gently and pushes you to peak. If you are new to Yoga or a practitioner, Komalji’s class will be very benefitting either way."

    Krishna Verma
    Yoga Classes

  • “We always get relief and feel happy after doing deep breathing and stretching with you. Komal, you are the best yoga teacher and we are so blessed to have you as a beautiful friend and we love you!"

    Dani and Roumen
    Yoga Classes

  • “Ms. Komal s amazing with children - our daughter loves her lessons! She has a comprehensive approach to yoga, which includes lifestyle counseling and guidance, mindfulness and meditation. She is passionate about her work and genuinely cares about her students."

    Simona Cheskis & daughter
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “Komal's profound understanding of yoga goes beyond theory; she masterfully applies it to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Having trained with her in Rishikesh, I witnessed firsthand her unwavering commitment to guiding others on their wellness journey through yoga. What truly sets her apart is her dedication to each student."

    Vidya Nahar
    Colleague

  • “I met Komal 13 years ago shortly after I began teaching yoga. From the first time we met, it was obvious that Komal is a very special person. She may be the most modest person I know. The depth of Komal’s knowledge and commitment to yoga is extremely impressive! I highly recommend Komal as one of the best teachers anywhere."

    Doug Slack
    Colleague

  • “No matter what your Yoga experience- beginner or expert, she will make you feel right at home. Her expertise reflects throughout her classes with her explaining every asana in detail & giving various options for all levels of students."

    Aparna Virkar
    Yoga Classes

  • “It was almost 12 years ago when I joined Komal’s yoga class, wanting to learn yoga the right way. It took me only a few classes to realize that I had found a gem, and I have been a student since."

    Mrunalini Dhamdhare
    Yoga Classes

  • “Since I started yoga with Komal I have not had a single chiropractor visit. My stiffness has disappeared and flexibility and mobility returned."

    Saroj Gandhi
    Yoga Classes

  • “I love Komal’s online virtual zoom yoga class! At 90 minutes long, there is time for pranayama, warm up, asanas, inversions and shavasana. A comprehensive routine for the body and mind. Komal’s deep knowledge along with her kind and cheerful personality are the icing on the cake!"

    Sharbari
    Yoga Classes

  • “Best Yoga teacher we ever met. She helped my daughter so much and thanks to the yoga practice her type 1 diabetes in more under control."

    Agnes Korybowski
    Yoga Classes

  • “I've been student of Komal for almost 8 years now. She has truly been our guide philosophically and spiritually."

    Babita
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal integrates the fullness of yoga practice – asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra, mudra and yoga philosophy into her classes. Her classes are a profound offering."

    Amit Magikar
    Yoga Classes

  • “I have been taking yoga classes from Komal for over 10 years. What is unique to her classes is her medical background and her commitment to yoga philosophy. Recently, I have been taking her online classes, and I have enjoyed them every bit as much."

    Linda DiGati
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal is very professional and extremely knowledgeable in the art and science of yoga. I attended her prenatal yoga classes and she was not only very cognizant of our safety and that of our baby, but also ensured the poses were challenging enough for us to get the maximum benefit.

    Roshini Jasuja
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komalji's yoga sessions are always outstanding and a great combination of deep breathing, body stretching, relaxation and yoga philosophies. I really appreciate her nonstop enthusiasm for teaching and preparedness for her classes."

    Kalyanam Gajendran
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal is extremely knowledgeable, encouraging, and provides helpful feedback during the class, even in a virtual setting. The convenience of being able to practice yoga from home has made it so much easier to maintain consistency building my strength."

    Mithu Dasgupta
    Yoga Classes

  • “Komal Aunty has an excellent way of understanding exactly what your concerns are from your perspective and finding actionable solutions whether they are changes to your routine, new methods of thinking, breathing exercises, and/or yoga."

    Robert
    Private Yoga Instruction

  • “Yoga Nidra with Komal Aunty really helped with my mental state. A few years ago when I had first started, I had serious clinical depression and anxiety, and was on medications. Around 2 years later, I was able to stop my medications entirely, and 3 years later, I no longer experience symptoms."

    Sai
    Private Yoga Instruction

“Your own self-realization is the greatest service you can render the world.”

Ramana Maharshi