Features
Newsday reporter
Babina Sukdeo
Aaron Rampersadsinh (aka Ved Valmukhi) preaches what he practices and released a book called “Start Meditating Today” on June 8.
Rampersadsinh, 36, from Preysal, started yoga and meditation at an early age, heavily influenced by his mother.
“My mother was a huge contributor to my yoga studies and my spiritual journey. She introduced my sister and me to yoga when we were children. I’ve been immersed in the philosophy and spiritual practice of yoga since I was five years old.”
After attending Presal Government School and Presentation University in San Fernando, her interest in yoga developed further while attending Ramapo College in New Jersey, where she studied psychology and researched the effects of yoga on consciousness.
“I came back from the US because my mum had cancer and I wanted to be with her. During that time I really explored the spiritual side of yoga, especially meditation.
“When she passed away in 2013, I was devastated.
“I would say yoga saved me because of my stay in the ashram.”
Rampersadsinh spent nine months at an ashram (a place dedicated to yoga and spiritual life) where he further explored yoga under the guidance of his teacher and began teaching.
The turning point in his life came during a pilgrimage to India in 2015. While visiting the ancient temple of Kedarnath in the Himalayas, Rampersad Singh experienced a profound spiritual transformation.
Photo credit: Gareth Leigh Photography –
“Before I entered that temple, I always felt insecure about my life… When I was there, I felt a change. I definitely had a spiritual experience there.”
The experience solidified his dedication to the spiritual practice of yoga and his mission to share it with others.
“My whole life has been a spiritual quest,” he replied when asked about his original goal. “I never had a clear goal of what I wanted to do until my first trip to India. I studied psychology in college because I wanted to understand myself and people more, but I really found it with yoga.”
In 2017, he returned to India after winning a scholarship from the High Commission of India to SVYASA University, where he obtained his yoga qualification and learnt more about the science behind the practice of yoga.
he Yogacharya I have been working as a yoga instructor since 2015, and have been working at a studio in Preysal Village since 2017. Although it does not have an official name, it is commonly called “Yoga with Ved Studio.”
“The most rewarding thing for me about teaching yoga is seeing my students and clients begin to take control of their lives and witnessing the transformative power of this ancient spiritual practice.”
Inspired by his students, Rampersadsinh decided to write Start Meditating Today as a comprehensive guide to meditation.
“Meditation has great power. It transcends religion and helps us return to the spiritual core of our being, but it is a practice, a journey that requires wisdom and guidance.”
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Realizing that simply teaching meditation classes was not producing the results he hoped for, Rampersadsinh began writing this book to share meditation techniques and concepts.
“There’s a lot to explore in meditation, but we all have to start somewhere…hence the title, ‘Start Meditating Today.'”
It took about a year to write.
“At times it felt like the book was writing itself… other times I really had to be patient and wait for the inspiration to arise within me to continue.”
The process was both a learning experience and a testament to his discipline and dedication.
The book is divided into three parts: meditation fundamentals, deeper spiritual concepts, and incorporating meditation into everyday life. It is aimed at anyone interested in meditation, from beginners to those looking to deepen their practice.
Rampersadsinh hopes readers will find practical guidance and spiritual insight.
“This book is for anyone who is interested in meditation but doesn’t know how to get started. It’s for anyone of any religion who truly desires spiritual growth in their life.”
When asked why yoga is important to him, he explained that he believes it is extremely important not only for his own spiritual growth but also for the future of society.
“I believe that yoga has the power to bring health, prosperity and harmony back into people’s lives. I believe spiritual practices such as yoga and meditation can help create a brighter future for our society, and I am committed to making this a reality.”
Reflecting on how yoga has impacted his life beyond the physical practice, he said, “Yoga has given me everything. I am so grateful to my mother and teachers who set me on this path.”
“Yoga has taught me that inner peace is not just an ideal, but an achievable reality. Through yoga, I have found a place within myself where I can feel deep peace, connection and compassion, and I strive each day to be aware of this and share it as much as I can.”
Why is meditation important for modern people?
“In this modern life, we pay attention to everything outside… Every problem or challenge we face is difficult because we are disconnected from our inner source.”
Through meditation, Rampersad Singh has found a deep sense of peace and aims to help others achieve the same.”
He said the most immediate benefit of meditation for anyone, even if they’re just starting out, is stress reduction.
“It gives you a sense of relaxation and peace, helping you rest and recover. The deeper you go, the better it can help you become healthier, control your emotions and elevate your thinking.”
When practiced as a lifestyle, “yoga leads to spiritual connection and insight, helping you live in alignment with your life purpose and realize your full potential.”
In the future, he plans to continue writing and expanding his teachings through coaching, workshops and retreats, and hopes to see a growing appreciation for the spiritual aspects of yoga and meditation both locally and internationally in the coming years.
He offered advice to those new to yoga and meditation: “Practice and everything will come.”
For those who are hesitant, she encourages them to begin the journey with an open mind and find a teacher that resonates with them, emphasizing the importance of making daily choices to cultivate wellness and spiritual connection.
Start Meditating Today is available to purchase in bookstores and directly from the author.
