Guest Teachers & Events
Mauricio Victoria at YOGA SOUK
About Mauricio Victoria
Born in 1972, Mauricio began his yoga studies in the Siddha Yoga tradition in 1997. For eight years, he dedicated himself to meditation, yoga philosophy from the perspective of Kashmiri Shaivism, and the practice of Namasankeerthanam (repetition of sacred chants). During this period, he also explored—in the context of a musical ensemble—the traditional meaning of Bhajan and Kirtan in Mexico, India, and the United States.
From 2005 to 2017, Mauricio studied for twelve continuous years at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute (AYRI), and later at the Krishna Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI). In 2010, he received the official Level 2 Authorization (blessing) to teach the practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.
Since then, Mauricio has shared this practice in more than fifteen countries, including permanent Mysore programs in Vienna, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Mexico. He has also taught programs and workshops throughout Austria, Germany, Slovakia, France, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Costa Rica, Chile, Peru, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Nepal, and the Philippines.
Throughout his career, Mauricio has collaborated with physical therapists around the world. These experiences have deeply shaped his approach, allowing him to guide practitioners of the Ashtanga Yoga method in the most attentive, cautious, and supportive way possible.
⸻
Authorization
The traditional ritual or protocol to receive the blessing or authorization to teach Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga—and other traditional lineage systems—used to be understood on a deeper level. Receiving this blessing from a traditional guide carries profound spiritual significance.
It is perceived as a long-term relationship between Acharya and Shisha (teacher and student), embodying a sacred transmission of wisdom, responsibility, and energy. It signifies sacred trust, humility, discretion, the transfer of divine energy to protect the teachings, and a lifelong commitment to a higher purpose. This relationship is rooted in the principle of parampara.
When Mauricio received the blessing, the protocol required waiting four years before being eligible for authorization. After five years of dedicated study, he received it in 2010. He continued returning to study in Mysore for almost twelve consecutive years.
Today, the landscape has changed. Social media and easy access to information have dissolved much of the intimacy that once surrounded these teachings. This shift has sparked considerable debate. Nevertheless, with deep respect and love, this remains his traditional authorization received in 2010.
Mauricio will be teaching at Yoga Souk from December 10th to January 21st.
Susanna Finocchi at YOGA SOUK
Susanna Finocchi is a certified Teacher from SHARATH YOGA CENTRE, INDIA .
Susanna started to practice Ashtanga Yoga in 1993 and teaching it in 1997.
In the beginning of 2000 together with Jens Bache she founded Astanga Yoga Copenhagen and was the main teacher of the shala in Vesterbrogade for almost 18 years, teaching hundreds of students.
In 2006 she had the honour to host in Copenhagen Guruji, Sri K.Pattabhi Jois; his daughter, Saraswathi, and his grandson R.Sharath Jois then from 2009 til 2019 her teacher Sharathji, R.Sharath Jois in his European Tours.
She made her first journeys to Mysore in 1995 and 1996 and, since 2003, has returned yearly to KPJAYI , now Sharath Yoga Centre. In 2009 and 2014, she was invited as Senjor Teacher to Sharathji’s special courses for teachers. In 2019, she also had the honor of assisting Sharathji in the shala.
Susanna studied Sanskrit at the University of Copenhagen and continues studying it, together with Chanting and Indian Philosophy Studies, when in Mysore.
Since Summer 2018 Susanna moved back to Rome, her place of birth, where she lives now.
Since then she has started to travel all over Italy and Europe teaching the Ashtanga Yoga method.
In the meanwhile in 2021 Susanna received Honorary International Yoga Day Award given for oustanding work to promote yoga in Denmark .
Susanna has translated and published into Italian language her Master’s book Anusthana in 2023.
She organized and hosted her Master Sri.R.Sharath Jois ‘visit and workshop in Rome in July 2024.