Richard E.
THE AMERICAN YOGI
Richard (The American Yogi) practicing yoga on Mount Everest — the highest mountain in the world.
Richard E. is a lifelong devotee of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi movement and a seasoned teacher of Japa and Likhita Yoga, with more than 15,000 hours of formal instruction and over 200,000 students worldwide. He holds a degree in Education and has dedicated nearly 5,000 hours to the traditional Vedic practice of one-on-one teaching.
His journey includes nearly six years of residential study at Maharishi International University and Forest Academics, where he immersed himself in the Siddhis, advanced techniques, Ayurvedic practices, ancient scriptures, Yagyas, and Yatras.
The American Yogi is a published author who first gained public recognition after publishing Michael & Me (1993).
In this book, Richard recounts his substantial acquaintanceship with American basketball player, Michael Jordan, including their high stakes golf games and gambling. This experience — and the personal reckoning that followed — became a turning point that deepened his commitment to the yogic path and transformed the direction of his life.
Speaking with his Indian brother from the Vedic Life Foundation.
Richard engaging with local children, while on his Yatra to India.
He is a Yogi committed to American Life
He is The American Yogi
A master in Likhita & Japa Yoga
The American Yogi leading instruction while in China.
Pictured meditating in India.
The American Yogi at The Louvre in Paris, France.
Richard later used his publishing abilities to create documentary films. His documentary, Yatra in India, was featured at the 2012 International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh, India. His writings on Japa and Likhita have helped bridge the ancient with the modern.
He has shared his teachings across the United States, India, Canada, China, Europe, and Nepal – which have been featured in over 1,200 media outlets, including the San Diego Union, Los Angeles Times, and the New York Post.
Guided by a principle of higher cause — integrating work, relationships, family, spirituality, and transcendental meditation — Richard funded and served as the first Executive Director of the NCAA Academic-Athletic Advisor program and later led The Athletic Guidance Center for eight years. He went on to become Co-Owner and President of the San Diego Sports Arena, heading NBA and IHL franchise acquisition efforts, always aligning leadership with purpose.
The son of a coal miner and one of eight children, Richard brings humility, depth, and authenticity to his teachings. His work honors the deep spiritual roots of Vedic tradition while remaining grounded in real-world experience.