Most students talk about joining clubs or maybe even starting them, but freshman Ritika Pasayat is trying to create one of her own. She is a certified Yoga instructor and recently won a bronze medal at the USA Nationals Yoga Championship. Her yoga club would focus on positivity, calmness, and welcoming anyone who needs breaks.
Outside of school, Pasayat’s passion for yoga had already taken her far. At the USA Nationals, she competed in multiple categories that tested flexibility and arm strength. She chose some of the highest difficulty poses, and her routines were among the best executed. She placed third in the nation and earned a medal, an achievement that motivates her even more to bring yoga into the school community.
“I’m trying to start the club, but it hasn’t been approved yet…” Pasayat explained in her interview, even though nothing official, her vision is already clear.
Pasayat’s inspiration comes from wanting to help people feel better physically and mentally. “I think I just want people to be better overall, physically and mentally,” Pasayat said. For her, yoga isn’t just stretching; it could be a way to reset and recharge, something she hopes other students can experience too.
If the club is approved, Pasayat plans to hold meetings every other week, giving students a calm, consistent space to relax. Her main goal is pretty simple. “I think for people to join and feel happy and welcome,” she said.
She doesn’t seem to have anything planned for long-term activities yet, but she knows exactly what kind of atmosphere she wants to create. There’d be no requirements, no experience, and no pressure! Just a space where anyone can show up and enjoy being there.
As the potential founder, her biggest hope is that students will connect with yoga the way she does. “I just hope everyone enjoys being there,” she said with a smile.
Even though the club is still waiting for approval, she’s excited for the possibility. Whether it becomes an official club or stays an idea, her message and hopes stay the same. She wants students to feel welcomed, supported, and cared for, one yoga session at a time.
