May newsletter
Svadhyaya means two things: self-study and study of sacred wisdom.
Both self-study and study of the sacred texts are necessary for a balanced understanding of yoga. Self-study offers insight into our own bodies and minds, while external inspiration broadens our perspective. However, yoga and meditation are fundamentally practices.
The self-study aspect of svadhyaya helps us apply the wisdom we absorb from elsewhere to our own lives.
This June, I have two offerings for you. One, which will facilitate your self-study, and the second, which will help deepen your understand of yoga. I need your help finalising the second offering, so please read on - I’d really appriciate it :)
The Artists Way Bookclub
(round two)
If you missed our last Bookclub or didn't stick with it, you're in luck! We're embarking on this phenomenal 12-week journey again, starting June 1, 2024.
Unlike many self-help books, "The Artist’s Way" by Julia Cameron is designed to run over 12 weeks, so there's not much reading each week.
You don’t need to be an artist to join. If you feel stuck, need inspiration, or want to tune into your inner Self, please join us.
Our book club is casual, with most discussions happening on our WhatsApp group. It's a pressure-free zone, and you don't have to share or comment if you don't want to.
I won’t babble too much on the topic here. If you feel called to join, please tap the link below.
P.S.: This is a free offering!
Beyond the Mat
This is where I need your help :)
I love a good vinyasa class, or ashtanga, or yin – really any form of asana. But asana is just one limb of the Eight Limbs of Yoga. There are other paths in yoga that don't focus on asana but are still integral practices.
"Beyond the Mat" is about taking yoga off the mat. Yoga shouldn't only mean exercise, and its philosophy shouldn't be confined to teacher training. The word "asana" appears only three times in the 196 aphorisms of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
The first sutra, "Atha Yoga-Anushasanam," translates to “Now, the teachings of yoga begin,” suggesting an auspicious beginning and a journey that starts before stepping onto the mat. Beyond asana, there's a vast world of yogic wisdom to explore.
Now, here is where I need your help.
Udaya Yoga is branching out into philosophy classes, along with our usual asana and meditation sessions.
We’ll start with the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, covering topics such as “What the Sutras Teach Us About the Purpose of Life” and “The Sutras on Consciousness.” We won't follow the sutras in numerical order but will study different themes within them.
Each class will explore the sutra itself and the etymology of the words, helping you learn both the philosophy and Sanskrit. Additionally, we’ll delve into the art, history, and culture surrounding the sutras.
I want these classes to be accessible. I've put together a form to gather your feedback on series like this, including questions about pricing and preferred times.
If you have five minutes, please spare some time to fill it out for me. Follow the link below (you’re wonderful, thank you!!)
The Science of Mindfulness and Meditation
Upcoming Workshop
Dates: May 27 & 29, 2024
Time: 17:30 - 19:30 SAST
Location: Online
Fee: R750.00 (includes both modules)
Delve into the science of meditation and mindfulness in this two-part workshop.
We will explore how these practices impact our nervous and endocrine systems, enhance neuroplasticity, and affect our overall mental and physical health. By integrating the wisdom of the ancient Yoga Sutras, we will connect the ancient teachings with contemporary scientific insights, illustrating how ancient practices are supported by modern science.
Both modules cover evidence-based insights on the benefits of mindfulness and meditation.
Meditations
Check out my meditations on Insight Timer (they’re free).
Insight Timer is an amazing resource with thousands of free meditations, yoga classes and courses (though the latter requires the paid version to access).
