in an era draped in cloak-and-dagger mysteries where secrecy was prized above all, i've witnessed many a soul turn one's back on the convoluted intrigues of courtly life, seeking solace in the private embrace of yoga. earlier in my centuries of existence, i held the opinion that such practices were but fleeting attempts to escape reality, yet as the aeons passed, i've come to learn the value of starting over again, of embracing the calm and focus yoga bestows upon even the most troubled of spirits.