What do MMA fighters have in common with our elementary students? Quite a lot according to after-school yoga teacher, Luiz Olimpio! The Brazilian yogi shares his fascinating path to Japan and yoga. With a compassionate and encouraging teaching style, students look forward to stretching themselves, in both mind and body, in his classes.
A Wandering Childhood
Where are you from?
I had a very irregular life—nothing was planned or organized; I learned as I grew. I am from Brazil, and during my childhood, my family used to move every two years.
We mainly lived within southern Brazil, between two states named Paraná, where I was born, and Santa Catarina. Paraná has the Iguaçu Falls, similar to Niagara Falls, and farms. Santa Catarina has a European influence, giving it a charming and cultural vibe. So, Paraná is known for agriculture, while Santa Catarina is admired for its unique charm.
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
I used to dream of becoming an actor or a pilot. It's funny to think about now as I write this. I've always enjoyed speaking in front of people, and I also love the feeling of takeoff when flying on a plane.
What were your favorite toys and games growing up?
I used to love playing with Playmobil toys because they were like small marionettes for me. I remember using them to hide that I talked to myself a lot. I started doing this when I realized that talking to oneself wasn't seen as a good thing. I still catch myself doing it sometimes.
We used to play hide and seek, and it was a lot of fun. Things were simpler and safer back then compared to now, and we didn't have as many options for games as we do today.
What brought you to Japan?
My father’s family is Japanese. My parents came to Japan, and I came to visit them in 1997. It was supposed to be a one month thing.
What’s your favorite place in Tokyo?
I love Tokyo for many reasons. I enjoy living in Nakano and exploring bustling areas like Omotesando and Aoyama. Being close to mountains like Takao and scenic spots like Okutama is also very special. The blend of city life and nature is something I appreciate. However, my favorite aspect is the people.
How do you spend your weekends?
I typically work on weekends, but I make sure to attend church as much as I can–it makes me happy. I also enjoy biking in the mountains, even though I sometimes regret it afterward. The scenery is breathtaking, and the thrill of speed keeps me coming back for more.
What’s your biggest passion these days?
Yoga has been a passion of mine for many years, and it has taken me to various places. I am constantly studying the subject because I strive to become a better teacher. My goal is to be the best I can be for all my students, whether they are kids in my classes, participants at Temple University, or members of a fighting club. I am passionate about learning and providing the best experience for everyone I teach.
Teaching
Where else do you teach?
I teach at several locations: Tokyo American Club, Temple University, Haga Farm & Glamping in Tochigi Ken (where I run retreats), UFC Gym, and private lessons.
How did you get into yoga?
When I was about twelve years old I learned how to recite the Lotus Sutra. I was told that doing so would help me "elevate myself to a higher place" where I could see things clearer. I used to visualize myself on top of a mountain, like the Great Wall, as my first contact with this idea.
Later, I got my first book about yoga, titled Ashtanga Yoga, the Practice Manual. Since we didn't have the internet back then, books were the main source of information. When I saw that book, I grasped the concept of concentration and realized that I could perform some of the asanas.
Teaching yoga came much later, in 2015. I wanted to change the direction of my life, and yoga seemed like a possibility since I was good at it. I even landed a teaching job before I got officially certified. I then went to India to get certified and started teaching officially at the Tokyo American Club.
How did you end up teaching MMA fighters and how is it compared to teaching kids?
At UFC GYM, which is mostly known for Ultimate Fighting Championship, I was introduced by a friend, and later I discovered that I knew the owner. Not all of my students are fighters; some of them are very competitive, which contrasts with yoga. Despite my efforts to adapt the practice to their needs, I maintain its integrity. They are also disciplined. I would say that they have the same impulsivity as kids and the sense of throwing themselves into the practice, but they also try to concentrate. This question made me realize how similar kids and fighters are.
What did you used to do before teaching yoga?
I worked in customer service for many years, using English, Portuguese, and Spanish. I also have experience in hospitality, including bars, and I even obtained an entry-level certification as a wine connoisseur.
What’s your favorite thing about teaching?
I enjoy sharing my knowledge and what I believe is beneficial about yoga and mindfulness. Seeing my students progress in their practice and understanding the concepts for their own benefit brings me joy. I can see it in their eyes, in the way they talk after the classes. I frequently receive messages and emails with positive feedback, which makes me feel accomplished.
Recommendations
What are you reading right now?
At this moment, I am reading yoga-related books such as Hatha Yoga Pradipika and studying the philosophy of the Bhagavad Gita. The first book I use to create my classes, and the second is a long-term study that requires a lot of time.
One book that I always recommend and enjoy reading from time to time is The Little Prince. I like the dynamic it portrays between kids and adults. For instance, while the Little Prince sees his drawing as a masterpiece, of a snake eating an elephant, adults simply see it as a hat. I can see this dynamic happening often in different scenarios, especially in our multicultural environment. The book also has beautiful messages, such as "What is essential is invisible to the eye."
What are you watching on TV these days?
I just watched "Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker," and it was interesting. I found it particularly intriguing that she admitted to copying the formula of her product.
What’s a movie you recommend?
Nobody Knows (誰も知らない) is a timeless movie from 2004, inspired by the Sugamo Kids case. These children were left alone in their apartment and had to take care of each other. Similar to The Little Prince, the movie highlights how facts are perceived differently by children and adults. And its soundtrack is incredible.
What message do you have for kids who struggle to do a pose?
Yoga is about regular practice, and progress comes with consistency and guidance. As we move with focus, learning how our bodies function with both strengths and limitations––we gain self-awareness.
I believe it's important to treat ourselves with patience and kindness. A sense of humor is also key. When we laugh, we relax, and that helps us approach the poses with more ease.
