The word 'yoga' comes from the Sanskrit word 'yoke', which means 'to join' or 'to unite'. So what is it that yoga is aiming to unite? There are many answers to this question. The most common is usually linked with the union of body, mind and spirit.

Yoga is often misconcieved as a form of exercise or solely a physical practice of postures (asanas) but yoga encompasses much more. It is designed to assist us in all aspects of life, realign us with our higher selves and allow divine energy (prana) to flow unhindered through our system as we gradually refine both body & mind.

The central goal of yoga has always been to connect us back to the source of all life and allow us to evolve along our spiritual journey towards our highest potential. When we learn to unite the body, mind and spirit through the pratice of yoga, our natural, harmonious state of being becomes the foundation for our lives, which carries joy into all that we do. Through the practice of yoga our awareness is heightened, we learn to live more fully in the present moment and we begin to appreciate on a new level the true wonder of living. Yoga is 'the science of life'.

What Style of Yoga is Taught?

Sivana teaches yoga in the true sense of the word. All classes and workshops are designed with the aim of uniting body, mind and spirit for the purpose of aligning us with our natural state of being, which is one of joy and abundant health. Our classes focus on looking inward, moving at your own pace and awakening inner transformation that overflows into daily life.

Of course, there are many paths of yoga and we encourage you to find your own, creating a life practice that resonates with your inner truth. However, for those of us who like definition, Sivana blends several different styles of yoga:

Hatha yoga; which gives us our asanas and encourages us to unite the two opposing energies in the body; Ida & Pingala (Ying/Yang) to bring us into balance and remove any blockages between us and the Infinite.

Kundalini Yoga; which awakens us to our potential and allows us to channel prana and energy within the body and into creating our lives.

Raja Yoga; which encourages us to find the 'King' within us all and inspires us to our true potential by releasing us from the trappings of our often negative minds.

Mantra Yoga; which assists us in manifesting the lives that we want for our selves.

Jnana Yoga; which encourages us to seek real knowledge and truth.

Karma Yoga; which let's our lives to be of service to others & the betterment of humanity.

There are many other styles of yoga but ultimately they are all teaching the same thing. The goal of yoga is to allow us to find peace, happiness and awaken us to our higher selves.

What To Expect in Our Classes:

Classes are designed to make the practice to work for you, at whatever level you need on the day. We encourage students to listen and check in with their own bodies, cultivating a deep internal connection, with the aim of bringing awareness back into our bodies so that we may find peace and stillness within the here and now.

Most classes tend to incorporate aspects of pranayama (controlled breathing techniques) relaxation and meditation, which help with developing awareness and deep inner peace. Our classes will challenge your personal limits, yet encourage a meditative practice in a supportive environement with teachers who will guide and nurture your own personal journey. 

We believe that yoga should on focus on reducing the stress in our life, rather than adding to it. This is why we ask you to be gentle on yourself during classes. Try not to compare yourself with others. Yoga is an individual practice and we must learn to love and appreciate where we are at on our own journey. Most importantly, listen to your body! It is your connection to your own inner wisdom. Learn to trust in it and trust yourself.

 

What are the Benefits of Yoga?

As is commonly known, yoga has many physical benefits such as increased flexibility and inner core strength, muscle tone and an improvement in general fitness. It is also commonly used to help with weight loss, to reduce blood pressure, improve the function of the internal organs and promote a healthier lifestyle. 

Aside from these physical benefits, yoga also has many mental benefits. It relaxes us; reducing stress and anxiety, improves our concentration, can help boost our confidence and promote mental well-being. We tend to feel more connected, at peace within ourselves and aligned with our true path when we begin to incorporate yoga into our lives.

Yoga is also increasingly used for its therapeutic benefits in treating many ailments and common health problems. Asthma, Depression, Digestive problems, Arthritis, Insomnia, High Blood Pressure, Obesity, Back and Neck problems are just a few of the conditions which yoga can assist with.

Please inform us of any current/prior health problems, medications or pregnancy before you begin practing yoga. If you are unsure of anything, just ask.

 

What Do I Need to Bring?

Nothing! All mats and equipment is provided. We also have water available after class, however you may wish to bring your own.

Just wear comfy clothes that you can move in and try to arrive at least 5 mins prior to the class time. We also ask that mobile phones be switched off whilst in the studio.