In a city often fixated on youth, Salomon Delgado, affectionately known as Raghavan Dad, stands as a testament to timeless dedication. At 93, this revered yoga instructor continues to pack classes at a Santa Monica 24 Hour Fitness, sharing not just poses, but profound wisdom on longevity, mindfulness, and the simple joys of living. His nearly three-decade tenure and unique teaching philosophy offer a refreshing counter-narrative to the fleeting trends of the wellness world.
In the vibrant, fitness-centric landscape of Santa Monica, where trends often come and go, one figure remains an unwavering beacon of wellness: Salomon Delgado. At the remarkable age of 93, Delgado, known to his devoted students by his yoga name, Raghavan Dad, is not merely an instructor; he is a local legend, a mentor, and an embodiment of the enduring power of yoga.
For nearly three decades, Delgado has graced the studio floors of a flagship 24 Hour Fitness location, teaching “Mind Body” yoga classes almost every morning, except Sundays. His consistency and profound approach have cultivated a loyal following, with many students attending his sessions for decades, often refusing to practice with anyone else.
A Legacy of Dedication: 28 Years on the Mat
In a city brimming with young, energetic instructors, Delgado’s gentle yet authoritative presence stands out. His classes are a cornerstone for many Westside exercise enthusiasts at the 24 Hour Fitness location, which boasts approximately 15,000 members. Bilal El-Amin, the club’s general manager, highlights Delgado’s unique appeal, stating that he “brings a yoga culture not anyone off the street can bring.”
Delgado’s classes are a blend of basic sun salutations, gentle stretches, balance and coordination exercises, breathwork, and elements of meditation. His core instruction remains simple: “keep it simple” and, most importantly, “pay attention.” This philosophy extends beyond the mat, reflecting his worldview that mindfulness is crucial for a less stressed and more relaxed life.
A Journey to the Mat: From Ecuador to Sivananda
Delgado’s path to becoming a yoga guru began far from the studios of Santa Monica. Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, the eldest of ten children, he immigrated to Los Angeles in 1959 at 27. His career trajectory was varied, including a decade as a chef at the Beverly Wilshire hotel and later as a graphic designer at MGM Studios. However, the consistent thread throughout his life, the one that gave him purpose, was yoga.
He discovered yoga in his mid-30s, initially drawn to it by a romantic interest. This led him to study at the Sivananda [Yoga Vedanta] Center, an experience that proved transformative. In 1972, he earned his yoga instructor certification after a training course outside Montreal. He later taught at a Sivananda Center in Hollywood before opening his own studio in Westwood, which he tellingly named “scientific yoga” to distance it from overtly religious connotations.
His intention was clear: “My intention was to help people. At the same time, I helped myself.” This dual benefit—personal growth intertwined with community service—has been a hallmark of his teaching ever since, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Wisdom Beyond Poses: Delgado’s Philosophy for Life
More than just guiding through physical poses, Delgado views his role as imparting wisdom. During class, he frequently shares insights on diet, behavior, and the importance of living mindfully. His student, Erika Fabian, 85, who has studied with him for over 25 years, describes him as “inspiring, warm and very helpful,” a true expert who genuinely cares.
One of his profound lessons, learned by a reporter who was caught scribbling notes during class, is the importance of “paying attention.” Delgado explained, “If you’re not paying attention to what you’re doing, you’re missing a great deal; it’s like you were never here.” This principle underscores his teaching and his approach to life, emphasizing that a focused, attentive person experiences less stress and better health.
The Longevity Blueprint: More Than Just Yoga
At 93, Delgado’s physical vitality is remarkable. Despite minor issues like “bad eyesight” and high blood pressure, he doesn’t suffer from chronic pain or stiffness. He attributes his impressive longevity and health to a combination of disciplined practices:
- Pescatarian Diet: For 45 years, he has followed a pescatarian diet, favoring salmon, avocados, quinoa, and garbanzo beans. This dietary choice, rich in omega-3s and plant-based nutrients, is often linked to improved cardiovascular health and reduced inflammation, as noted by Healthline.
- Hydration: He prioritizes proper hydration, a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of overall health.
- Daily Meditation: Consistent daily meditation is a key component of his routine. The practice of meditation has been shown to reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being, according to the Mayo Clinic.
- Constant Movement: He stresses the importance of daily physical activity, stating, “no matter how old you are, you need to move.” Beyond yoga, he has enjoyed swimming, biking, walking, and dancing at parties, embodying a holistic approach to physical health.
Purpose, Joy, and Connection: Why He Keeps Teaching
Delgado has no plans for retirement. His dedication is fueled by the immense joy and purpose he derives from teaching. He encourages all seniors to find activities that help others, as it gives life meaning. “Can you imagine if I lose touch with these people? What am I going to do? Look out there all day and wait for the hearse to come and pick me up?” he muses.
This sentiment resonates with the legacy of other remarkable yoga figures, such as Tao Porchon-Lynch, who was recognized as the world’s oldest yoga teacher and continued teaching until her passing at 101. Like Tao, Delgado exemplifies how an active life of purpose can extend vitality and fulfillment far into old age. He also emphasizes human connection, advising, “Hug someone every day. Hugging changes your energy. It invigorates you.”
Impact on the Community: A Beacon for All Ages
Delgado’s class, though largely composed of retirees, is noticeably ethnically diverse and fosters a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere reminiscent of a favorite phys ed teacher. His teaching goes beyond the physical, touching upon the mental and spiritual aspects of well-being, much like the holistic approach seen in other studios, from the “deep cleanse” of Hallowed Ground’s sound baths to Ra Ma Los Angeles’s Kundalini teachings, and Isla Jeanette Yoga’s focus on “deep self-love.” However, unlike celebrity yoga “superstars” like those critiqued by teacher Vinnie Marino, Delgado remains grounded in his home base, focused on his students rather than widespread fame.
His story is a powerful reminder that yoga is accessible at any age and that a life of purpose, mindfulness, and healthy habits can lead to incredible longevity and profound fulfillment. Delgado’s ability to still touch his toes at 93 is not just a physical feat, but a symbol of a life lived with unwavering commitment to well-being.
