Rising Stars: Meet Yashoda Devi Ma of Boulder

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yashoda Devi Ma.

Hi Yashoda, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Reflecting on my journey fills me with profound inspiration and joy. It all began in my earlier years, where athletics was not just a passion but a way of life that shaped my understanding of resilience and determination. I broke weightlifting records, proudly ran on the state-qualifying Track and Field relay team, and often found myself stepping into leadership roles. My mentor, a remarkable West Coast weights and conditioning coach, became a pivotal influence, instilling in me a strong work ethic and unwavering discipline, all the while teaching me to keep a positive mindset. Those lessons resonate deeply in everything I do today.

As my athletic pursuits unfolded, my fascination with the mind grew intensely. I envisioned myself as a sports psychologist, dedicated to helping athletes overcome mental blocks. By the time I graduated high school, I had already completed two semesters of college, fueling my love for psychology and Western literature—a beautiful mythos that spoke to my soul.

I enrolled at Western Oregon University to run track and began teaching weights for their athletic program. But, an unquenchable yearning beckoned me to embark on a deeply personal quest: to find my birth parents after being adopted as a baby. This search became a defining chapter in my life, peeling back layers of identity and connection.

When I eventually reunited with my birth family, it opened a profound path of healing for me. I embraced the practice of Yoga, which was influenced by my birth mother. In Los Angeles, I spent over a decade as a Fitness Expert, collaborating with chiropractors, rehabilitating injuries, and preparing clients in the entertainment industry. I saw great success and was even featured in magazines and TV shows. Yet, despite transforming people’s bodies, I felt a stirring in my spirit—a longing to delve more deeply into my true calling.

In my mid-20s, I faced a critical decision that would shape my future. Should I finish my degree or venture to India? I had been accepted into Antioch University for psychology and the California Art Institute for film directing—two incredible paths—but I chose to listen to the call of my heart. I knew I needed to explore the mind through the ancient wisdom of yogic teachings.

My transformative studies in India opened my eyes to the beauty of life through the lens of Yoga—the highest union of Self. I’ve poured over 10,000 hours into meditation, Kriya, pranayama, and profound learning experiences that taught me how to expand consciousness and open the heart. Undertaking pilgrimages in the Himalayas and participating in various sacred practices unraveled a deeper understanding of the world around me.

Through these ancient yogic and plant technologies, I found healing from lifelong grief stemming from my adoption, as well as struggles with depression, self-sabotage, and even health challenges like endometriosis. I awakened my inner child and began to embrace the wholeness that resides in all of us.

With nearly two decades of experience, I’ve had the honor of guiding thousands of souls on their healing journeys. I’ve initiated many into Divine Feminine practices and facilitated workshops that blend the power of meditation and ancient wisdom. I founded multiple meditation studios in Boulder, Colorado, where I’ve witnessed the transformative power of healing in real-time. Each transformation fills my heart with gratitude and joy.

I hold a deep belief that we are inherently whole and that there is a holistic approach to healing that allows us to unlock our true potential. Nature, the universe, and our inner selves are intricately connected, and fostering that relationship can catalyze profound healing. This realization inspired me to create Haus of Sri, a sanctuary dedicated to living authentically and allowing our true essence to flourish in the world.

My life is a beautiful embodiment of ancient wisdom, a sacred ceremony that interweaves spirituality into the fabric of daily living. I view my work as both timeless and transformational, guiding individuals toward a future filled with love, unity, and shared respect. This era is a beacon of Enlightenment, where we are called to uplift humanity together as a collective of bodhisattvas, rising in harmony to a higher frequency.

I am blessed to embody the Divine Feminine spirit, awakening remembrance and reverence in others. Simply being present during this journey fuels my passion, igniting the light within those who seek their own truth. I am inspired daily by the stories of transformation and healing, and I feel fortunate to walk this sacred path with so many beautiful souls.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Ah, life is a tapestry of experiences, and one thing I’ve learned is that smooth roads are quite rare. It’s the obstacles and challenges that breathe life into our journey, catalyzing profound transformation and growth. Reflecting on mine, I can see a vivid landscape of struggles that have shaped my path.

In the early days of my meditation journey—22 years ago now—I faced a storm of deep-seated battles with depression, grief, insomnia, and ADD. Each of those struggles felt like a heavy weight, yet they also offered me the gift of awakening. It was through this tumult that I learned the value of inner stillness and the incredible power of self-awareness. I emerged from that darkness not only stronger but imbued with a passionate desire to help others navigate their own shadows.

As I began to rise, another significant challenge emerged—the painful separation from my ex-husband and the dissolution of a beloved spiritual community. Losing that sense of belonging was incredibly hard, and building my own community felt overwhelming at times. Yet, within that struggle, I found a deeper strength. I learned to honor my authentic self and cultivate connections that resonated with who I truly am. Every heartache became a lesson in resilience and self-discovery.

Entering my 40s brought yet another wave of challenge. My body began to change, and I was faced with endometriosis—a condition that left me grappling with physical pain and the mental burden of navigating women’s health in America. The lack of compassion and understanding in the healthcare system was disheartening, and there were days I doubted how I would accomplish anything in this new phase of my life. It felt as if I was standing at a crossroads, unsure of the journey ahead.

Yet, it was through my unwavering commitment to meditation, along with the wisdom of Ayurvedic practices and plant medicines, that I found my way to healing. I embarked on a transformative journey of self-care and self-love, discovering an entirely new perspective on life and what it means to thrive. Each challenge became an opportunity to unravel the layers of my being, expanding my consciousness and deepening my understanding of holistic health.

I firmly believe that our struggles are not mere obstacles; they are the very catalysts for our liberation. Each hurdle teaches us something vital and steers us toward our evolution. Embracing the trials has revealed to me that true strength lies not in avoiding hardship but in navigating it with grace and courage. This journey has provided me with invaluable insights that I am passionately dedicated to sharing with others, guiding them toward their own paths of healing and empowerment.

So, while the road may not always be smooth, it is paved with rich experiences and lessons that fuel my passion and fuel my work. I rejoice in the knowledge that every challenge has served to illuminate my path, guiding me closer to living my truth and helping others do the same.

We’d love to learn more about your work. What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc.? What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share about my work, which feels like a divine calling woven intricately into the fabric of my life. For over 22 years, I have immersed myself in the sacred practices of meditation and holistic healing, allowing these teachings to blossom into a vibrant, embodied way of living. My journey has taken me to the heart of India, where I devotedly studied under two remarkable Gurus—each a beacon of wisdom and light, guiding me through the depths of consciousness and beyond.

Through the lens of the *stillness path* and *Tantra*—the exploration of energy—I have forged a deep understanding of both the serene and dynamic aspects of existence. One Guru is a master of energy, a radiant channel of Shiva/Shakti, whose fearless vision challenges the ignorance that often binds us. The other is an elegant weaver of wisdom whose spoken word illuminates paths of transcendence and joy, reminding us of the light that resides within.

Together, their teachings have shaped me into a Karuna Rishika—a compassionate seer and teacher of the future—dedicated to guiding individuals through sincere self-inquiry and towards a harmonious existence. In this time of awakening, I believe my role is to serve as an “altar of light,” facilitating progressive change and nurturing love, unity, and integrity within our shared reality.

What sets me apart is not just the knowledge I impart, but the living embodiment of these teachings. I consider each day a sacred ceremony, and I aim to normalize enlightenment in everyday life. This isn’t about transcending our human experience; it’s about embracing it wholeheartedly—bringing wisdom, compassion, and enlightened behavior into our homes, communities, and relationships. I take great pride in being a conduit for ancient wisdom, allowing it to unfold in contemporary, relatable ways.

I specialize in various transformative practices that include meditation, mantra work, and the profound wisdom of Vedic astrology, which offers guidance tailored to each individual’s unique path. It is through this diverse tapestry of knowledge and experience that I am able to foster healing, clarity, and expansion in the lives of those I work with. My passion lies in the synergy between sound, frequency, and the healing properties of nature—utilizing mantra and plant medicine to unlock deeper understandings of ourselves and our connection to the universe.

What brings me the most joy and pride is witnessing the transformation in others. When individuals come into my presence, many leave feeling renewed, inspired, and uplifted. They often report experiencing profound shifts in perspective—moving from confusion to clarity, from fear to possibility. It’s exhilarating to facilitate these moments of epiphany, as they cultivate a sense of safety and openness that allows for true vulnerability.

In my work, I strive to create an atmosphere where people can explore and unlock the ancient wisdom and creative intelligence residing within them. Together, we navigate the terrain of healing and awakening, guiding each other toward deeper truths and an authentic expression of self. The magic of this journey is that transformation often unfolds in subtle ways, revolutionizing lives without individuals even realizing the profound shifts happening within them.

Ultimately, I see my work as a tapestry woven with intention, passion, and love, illuminating not only my path but also the paths of those around me. I believe we are all here to unlock and share this love, fostering a future aligned with harmony, joy, and an unbreakable connection to each other and the earth. It is this vision that inspires me every day and drives the core of my devotion to this sacred work.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Happiness for me is a symphony of experiences, a dance between the sacred and the ordinary, where every moment is imbued with the essence of life’s profound beauty. It is the delicate balance I create between being and doing, between silence and expression. I find joy in the stillness, where I can listen to the whispers of my soul and the pulse of the universe, while also relishing the vibrant expressions of music, art, dance, and culture that ignite my spirit.

Traveling through the diverse tapestry of our world fills my heart with exhilaration. Each journey is an adventure into the unknown, a chance to connect with new cultures, ancient wisdom, and the powerful narratives that weave through human existence. These transformative experiences push the boundaries of my understanding and challenge me to explore the edges of what I know to be true, inviting me to embrace the extraordinary in everyday life.

My happiness thrives in spontaneity—the delight of unexpected moments that take my breath away. It is in the playful spontaneity of life that I discover the richness of being fully alive. I crave a life that transcends the average, one that is filled with adventure and authenticity, where every experience is a celebration of existence. I do not seek to be rich and famous in a conventional sense; instead, I yearn for a life that feels sacred, ceremonial, and divine, where every moment is treated with reverence and awe.

I find immense joy in the shared experiences of connection and community. When we gather to celebrate life—whether it be through rituals, shared meals, or artistic expressions—there exists a palpable energy that nourishes my spirit. The divine energy that flows through these connections reminds me of our shared humanity and the beauty of our individual journeys.

Accessing the magic of the unknown drives my spirit forward. It is the thrill of stepping into the mysteries of existence, diving headfirst into the depths of consciousness, and unraveling the layers of my own being. I cherish the moments that challenge me to expand beyond my comfort zone, where I can embrace growth and transformation. Each push into the unfamiliar is a sacred initiation, a powerful opportunity for evolution and enlightenment.

Ultimately, my happiness is rooted in a profound appreciation for the present moment—a deep knowing that life is a precious gift. I strive to live each day with intention and presence, honoring the sacred dance of life as it unfolds. In doing so, I cultivate a spirit that seeks wonder and joy in even the smallest of details, inviting me to see beyond the mundane and into the miraculous nature of existence. It is in this dance of being a spiritual being living a human experience that I find the true essence of happiness, and I carry this joy into every interaction, every breath, and every heartbeat.

Pricing:

• Meditation Course $1008
• Intro Vedic Astrology Reading $350
• Sri Sacred Tea Ceremony $35
• Free Intro Talk to Sri Meditation FREE

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hausofsri.co
• Instagram: @hausofsri @yashodadevima

Image Credits
photography: Haus of Sri – Yashoda Devi Ma & Yelena Reese