yogic practices

vedic knowledge

metaphysical philosophy

the journey of the soul

illustrates the interplay of duality

Origins: Crafted by ancient yogis over 2,000 years ago, Leela stands as a testament to the timeless pursuit of understanding human consciousness. There is many variations of this ancient game, most of the ancient boards are located in museums of India and Nepal and Tibet.

Rediscovery by Harish Johari: In the 1970s, the Indian author and teacher Harish Johari rediscovered Leela, bringing its transformative power to a new generation.

Modernizing tradition. The English customized version of Leela, adopted by Yuliya Kananovich.

The choice to present Leela in English followed extensive research and consultation with Sanskrit scholars, addressing the complexity and obscurity of certain original terms tied to deep yogic states and Hindu mythology.

The Sanskrit version features terms that encapsulate complex yogic states and mythological concepts, some of which are so esoteric they are absent from conventional Sanskrit dictionaries. Recognizing the evolution of life and the need for modern understanding, this adaptation facilitates an easier grasp of yogic states and the Vedic worldview for the Western audience, ensuring the timeless wisdom of Leela remains relevant and impactful.

I often get asked: What is the average playtime for Leela?
First of all, I find all games incredibly beautiful. Each one is a unique experience that provides its own moments of insight and discovery. With that said, the playtime for Leela can vary greatly from person to person, and there’s no standard or “right” time frame. Some players may move through the game quickly, while others may find themselves deeply immersed for longer periods. This variance is what makes it so fascinating and personal.
From my experience, if the game stretches beyond two hours, we usually pause at a square — the one that the player would like to explore further — and then pick up the game again next week. This approach allows for a natural break where the player can absorb and process the information they’ve encountered, reflect on any insights, or simply take the time to think about the messages the game has provided.

Leela is not about competition. It’s not a race to the finish line. Sometimes, a shorter game can provide just as much insight as a long one. There’s a common misconception that "more is better," but this isn’t always the case. Our minds sometimes fall into the trap of thinking that the longer we play, the more we will gain — when in reality, a quick and thoughtful session can be just as profound. The solution or insight might be simple and right in front of us, but we often overlook it in the rush to keep going.
That said, longer games can also offer depth — if the person is ready to receive it. Sometimes, however, players get caught in repetitive loops, going round and round in the game without truly grasping the message. It can be exhausting, and that’s why pausing is often helpful. It gives players time to digest everything before diving back in.
In conclusion, Leela is a game for reflection and introspection, not for rushing through. The right pace for each player is different, and it’s important to honor that. Whether you play for 30 minutes or several hours, the experience is valuable in its own right, and it’s the insights, not the time spent, that truly matter.

How Often Can You Play Leela?
A question I often get asked is, "How often can you play Leela?" It’s a great question, and from my experience playing Leela and practicing other mindfulness and reflection practices, I believe the answer is very personal and depends on where you are in your journey.
One key practice I’ve found helpful is to rethink your goals every 6 months. It doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out process. It can simply be a quick check-in to reflect on where you are now, how far you’ve come, and where you’d like to go next. This moment of reflection allows you to assess whether you’re still aligned with your original goals or if it's time to shift your focus.
Over the past few years, we’ve all felt how time seems to be speeding up. Whether it’s the global transitions we’ve experienced since the COVID pandemic or just the rapid pace of life, many people have noticed that time doesn’t feel the same as it did before. Some people feel this shift more acutely than others, but there’s no denying that something has changed, and time seems to be moving in a way that’s different from how it used to.

How Often Can You Play Leela?

Leela, like many reflective practices, can serve as a helpful tool for revisiting your goals and understanding where you are in the moment. It’s not about setting rigid, long-term plans; rather, it’s about staying in tune with where you are right now and adjusting accordingly.
Ultimately, how often you play Leela is up to you, but I find that regular check-ins — every 6 months — can provide invaluable insights. It’s a simple, yet powerful way to stay connected to your inner self and ensure that the path you're on still resonates with your true desires.

How to Find the Perfect Facilitator for Leela
When it comes to Leela, it’s not just about the game itself – it’s about the connection you feel with the facilitator guiding you through it. Leela is a deeply personal and intimate practice, one that taps into your inner world and invites reflection, growth, and change. As you embark on your journey, finding the right facilitator is crucial to ensuring that you receive the support and guidance you need.
So, how do you find the perfect facilitator for the game?
Trust Your Highest Self
First and foremost, I would suggest you turn inward and ask your Highest Self — your inner guide — a simple but profound question: “Would this specific person help me grow?” Your Highest Self is always available and ready to help guide you in making decisions that align with your true path. By asking this question, you create an open channel to receive the wisdom that your inner being holds.
Trust the answer that arises. Your Highest Self is always present, and the more you connect with it, the more attuned you become to its guidance. You may receive a clear, quiet knowing or a subtle sense of resonance when you think about potential facilitators. Listen carefully to that inner voice.

Ask Yourself: Do I Feel a Connection?
Leela is about personal transformation, so it's important that you feel a connection with the person guiding you. Ask yourself: “Do I feel a connection with this person?” The bond you share with the facilitator plays a key role in how effectively you’ll be able to explore and integrate the insights from the game.
When you work with someone you feel aligned with, you’re more likely to be open, receptive, and engaged. This connection fosters trust, allowing you to feel comfortable and safe during the game. If you don’t feel that resonance or trust with someone, it might be worth considering another facilitator who better matches your energy.
Does the Facilitator Speak Your Language?
Everyone has their own unique way of communicating. It’s vital that the facilitator speaks the “language” you understand. Ask yourself: “Do I feel like this person speaks in a way that resonates with me?” A facilitator who uses language that feels familiar and understandable can make the experience more enriching and approachable.
When you’re synchronized with someone, you “hear” them. You absorb the guidance they offer more deeply and feel a greater sense of alignment in the process. If the facilitator’s approach, tone, or language doesn’t resonate with you, it can create unnecessary barriers to the flow of the session.

Are You Ready for Change?
Before diving into the game, it's important to ask yourself another question: “Am I ready for change?” Leela offers insights and transformative messages, but to truly benefit from the game, you need to be open to the possibility of growth. If you’re not ready to embrace change, it may not be the right time for the game, or perhaps you need to revisit your intentions before proceeding.
Leela is a tool for self-exploration, and the more you are ready to accept and act upon its messages, the more profound your experience will be. Being mentally and emotionally prepared to engage with the game’s teachings is key to unlocking its full potential.

Finding the perfect facilitator for Leela goes beyond simply choosing someone who knows the game; it’s about finding someone you resonate with on a deeper level. By connecting with your Highest Self and listening to your intuition, you can ensure that the facilitator you choose will support your growth and guide you toward meaningful insights.

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Why is Setting an Intention So Important?
Setting the intention is crucial because it serves as a roadmap for your brain, helping it to focus on unlocking the solutions to the question you are posing. Our minds are powerful tools, but they need direction. When you set a clear intention, you're essentially telling your brain, “This is important to me, and I want to find the answers or take action towards it.”
By defining the area of focus, you give your brain a clear goal to work toward. Your subconscious mind begins to seek out opportunities, insights, and information that align with your intention. It works like a filter, guiding your thoughts and actions in ways that will help manifest the solution.
The Power of Positive Intentions
It’s important to note that the intention should always be framed positively. Instead of focusing on what you don’t want, your intention should focus on what you do want. For example, instead of setting an intention like “I don’t want to feel stressed at work,” reframe it to a positive one: “I want to feel calm and focused at work.”
When intentions are set in a positive form, they shift your mindset from scarcity or limitation to abundance and possibility. A positive intention opens your mind to potential solutions rather than focusing on problems. This is not just about words; it’s about creating a mindset shift that allows you to unlock the solutions you’ve been seeking.

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Group Play vs. Individual Play: What's the Difference?
When it comes to playing Leela, one of the first questions people often ask is whether they should play in a group or individually. Both formats have their unique benefits and challenges, and the choice really depends on personal preference and what you hope to achieve from the experience.
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each format and explore which one might work best for you.

Time Considerations
One of the key differences between group play and individual play is the amount of time it takes. Group play tends to be a lengthier process, especially if the group size is large. It can take the whole day to complete the game, and sometimes, even then, players might not finish. When you’re in a group, there are often more perspectives and insights being shared, which can make the experience richer but also slower.
On the other hand, individual play is usually quicker. You don’t have to wait for others to share their insights or reflect on the questions. The game moves at your own pace, and you have full control over the time you spend on each part. This makes individual play a great option for those who want to dive deep without the time constraints of group dynamics.

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Social Interaction and Shared Insights in Group Play
Another significant advantage of group play is the opportunity to meet new people and learn from their experiences. When you play in a group, you hear insights from others that might resonate with your own life. It's always interesting to see how other players interpret their cards or react to certain questions.
As a facilitator, I often notice common themes or questions arising in the group. Many players find themselves facing similar challenges or having similar questions in their lives, which can create a sense of connection and shared understanding. It’s a reminder that there are no coincidences. The game often brings together people who are meant to cross paths, even if it's just for that moment. Group play also offers a sense of community, allowing players to bond and support one another during their journeys.
Focused Introspection in Individual Play
Individual play allows for more focused attention on your own questions and concerns. Without the distractions of other people’s insights or opinions, you can dive deep into your own thoughts and reflections.
Some people find that they work better on their own, where they can control the pace, focus solely on their own challenges, and process the information in a way that feels more aligned with their personal needs.

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Which Format Works Best for You?
At the end of the day, whether you choose group play or individual play depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to achieve from the experience.

• Group play is ideal for those who enjoy hearing others' perspectives, meeting new people, and exploring common themes or questions that arise in a group setting. It’s great for those who thrive in social environments and find value in the collective energy of a group.
• Individual play, on the other hand, is perfect for those who prefer solitude, want to focus solely on their own journey, or need a quiet space for reflection and deep introspection. If you feel more comfortable exploring your personal questions alone, individual play may provide the clarity and space you need.

The beauty of Leela lies in its flexibility — it’s a game that can adapt to your needs, whether you choose to explore it in a group setting or on your own. What matters most is that you’re open to the experience, ready to explore, and willing to embrace whatever insights come your way.

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In-Person vs. Online: Which Leela Format Works Best for You?
One question that often comes up when discussing the game of Leela is whether it makes a significant difference when playing in person versus online. Both formats have their own unique set of advantages, and after playing both, I can confidently say that they both work beautifully and efficiently.

In-Person: The Immersive Experience
Playing Leela in person is an experience that fully engages all of your senses. You’re physically present, interacting directly with your environment and the people around you. There's something incredibly immersive about physically sitting around a table, rolling dice, and feeling the energy of the room. For some players, the in-person format is simply the best way to play because it adds a layer of connection that online formats can’t quite replicate.
However, there are a few trade-offs to consider. For one, there’s the commute—you’ll need to travel to the location, which can take time and effort. But if you're someone who enjoys socializing in person and thrives in an environment that stimulates all your senses, the in-person experience may feel more engaging and rewarding.

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Online: Convenience and Global Reach
While the in-person format offers an immersive experience, playing Leela online brings an entirely different set of benefits. One of the biggest advantages is convenience—you can play from virtually anywhere in the world. There’s no need to worry about travel or coordinating schedules with friends; simply log on, and you're ready to go.
Through my experience, I've found that people benefit just as much from the online version of the game as they do from playing in person. The ability to connect with others globally opens up new possibilities for expanding your circle and playing with a diverse group of individuals. Whether you're sitting at home in your living room or relaxing at a cafe, you can enjoy the game without leaving your location.
Dice: Physical vs. Electronic
One interesting observation I've made is that many people prefer to throw physical dice during the game. The tactile sensation of shaking and rolling the dice can make the experience feel more "real" and interactive. However, it’s worth noting that electronic dice work just as well for gameplay. While the physical dice may enhance the tactile experience, the virtual dice do their job just fine in the online setting. The gameplay remains unchanged, and in many cases, people quickly adjust to the ease and convenience of digital dice.

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Group Leela Games: Tailored for Your Needs
While I typically spend most of my time playing one-on-one Leela games, I understand that sometimes, playing in a group setting can be an enriching experience. If you already have a group and are interested in organizing a group Leela session, let's talk about how we can make it work!
The price per person for group play will be adjusted based on the size of the group, ensuring that everyone enjoys a fair and enjoyable experience. Additionally, I offer discounts for those whose personal stories or situations make the game a particularly meaningful experience for them. If playing Leela is something you feel you need, I want to ensure that cost isn't a barrier. Please email me at spirituallaboratoryllc@gmail.com and we will make it work.
If you're interested in playing Leela as part of a birthday, milestone celebration, or retreat experience, I can be reached and booked as a facilitator. Please note that playing Leela is a profound and transformational experience, so if you're planning to gift the game to someone, it’s best to discuss it beforehand to ensure it's the right fit for them.
Much love, Yuliya

ABOUT ME
Yuliya Kananovich

As an author deeply attuned to the subtleties of human consciousness from a young age, I've always felt a profound connection with my highest self.

This intrinsic sensitivity fueled my quest for methods and tools that could bridge the gap between individuals and their innermost beings.

My journey led me to the discovery of Leela, a transformational game that, upon personal experimentation, left me both astonished and exhilarated.

Each day, my research into transformational games deepens my conviction in their profound capacity for personal change. Through my work, I aspire to share this powerful tool with others, guiding them toward the invaluable connection with themselves that I have been fortunate to experience and explore.