Adelfa Samson was born at daybreak in Asia during monsoon season, entering life alongside asthma – a condition that made childhood difficult and outdoor play nearly impossible. Without access to modern treatments, she endured primitive therapies just to breathe.

It was not until adulthood in the United States that Adelfa embraced the outdoors through hiking, backpacking, jogging, and tennis. But years of intense activity led to chronic injuries and multiple foot surgeries. When pain made daily life unbearable and surgery offered little relief, an unexpected encounter changed everything – she wandered into a yoga studio during a lunch break and decided to give it a try.

That single decision would alter the course of her life. What began as a physical pursuit quickly evolved into a deeper inner journey. Yoga became not only a practice but a lifeline – helping her navigate personal loss, chronic pain, and the collapse of her marriage. One powerful breakthrough came on the morning of 9/11, when she mastered a challenging pose sequence. By afternoon, the world had changed.

Adelfa completed her first yoga teacher training in San Francisco, California, then traveled to India in Mysore, Bangalore, Rishikesh, and Kerala – exploring yoga’s many dimensions along the way. She transformed perceived limitations into strength and resilience. She has taught and led workshops from India to Iceland, served as a speaker and delegate at International Yoga Festivals, judged yoga asana competitions, and authored a yoga book. Yoga for Golden Warriors is her second publication.

With a background in business management and a successful corporate career, Adelfa traded suits for yoga pants to follow a calling. Today, she teaches yoga, volunteers in her community, and continues to explore the world – having visited over a hundred countries. Still, she believes her most profound journey is the one within.