HOLISTIC YOGA OF SELF (ALL LEVELS)

Holistic Yoga of Self is as the name suggests, a holistic presentation of yoga. Holistic means the whole, addressing each aspect of oneself through the main techniques of yoga while recognising everything is interconnected. 

Class begins with a Satsang, the guiding framework explaining the direction of yoga taking people back to the point of Self, or witness consciousness. We cover posture for the body – reinstating length and alignment – with particular emphasis on the breath, working a strong, deep, long, vital breath throughout the class which also creates one-pointed focus for the mind. Committed students undertake Karma Yoga, helping for the love of helping. We touch on meditation to allow the mind to become more tranquil and develop the ability to sit back. And the cream on the cake, Bhakti Yoga, where the main technique is chanting. We are blessed to have live music in every Holistic Yoga of Self class to give people the opportunity to open the heart and throat and express from this space. 

It’s very rare to have all these aspects existing in the one class. This can only come together in this way, with this quality, because of an unwavering love and commitment to yoga and the support through our yoga lineage. Sad Gurunath Maharaj Ki Jay, hail to the true potential that dwells in all equally.   

FOUNDATIONAL YOGA

A chance to start the day off on the right foot. A great class for anyone with available time in the morning.

Beginning with the basics of breathing whilst consciously lying on the floor, we slowly wake up the body with rhythmic and accessible postures that cultivate stamina and fire. Having moved the body in unison with a long balanced breath, relaxation practices will allow you to experience stillness at the end of class in both body and mind.

ŚRĪ GURU GITA (SCRIPTUAL CHANT)

This chant has everything! 182 verses with a beautiful melody, singing about all forms of energy and intelligence that can dispel the darkness of ignorance by igniting the light of knowledge within.

Shree is a term of respect and endearment towards something
Guru is comprised of “gu” darkness and “ru” light
Guru is not limited to a physical person, whether in the form of a teacher, something in life or from within
Gita means song

Among all chants this particular chant is held very dear in our hearts. During our time with our teacher we would chant the Guru Gita every Saturday morning.

Sitting with the spine lifting, you hold the book at eye-height in a steady posture. This works tremendously well to open the hips and focus the mind. Gently swaying, you are supported by the chants rhythm as the power of this chant opens and strengthens the heart, throat and tongue. Initially it is a bit like speaking goobley-gook but gee you feel good having done it. As the sections of it you can chant slowly grow, so does your affinity for the chant.

“The essence of the yoga taught at Yoga of Self has been passed down from Bhagwan Nityananda. The name Nityananda means Nitya – eternal, ananda – bliss.”