Yoga means connection.

Yoga is translated from Sanskrit as 'connection' and is an ancient practice from India. Originally, the poses (Asanas) were designed to prepare the mind for deep meditation. The movements helped the body stay flexible during long periods of sitting meditation. Today, yoga is often viewed as purely physical exercise.

At Studio Tree Of Life, I honor the roots and traditions of yoga. It is a valuable way to create balance across the different layers (Koshas) of our existence; physical, energetic, mental, intellectual, and spiritual.

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The Eightfold Path of Patanjali

In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali describes yoga as a complete life path with eight limbs (Ashtanga), of which the physical postures (asanas) form just one aspect. These eight aspects offer a holistic approach to wellbeing and spiritual growth:

1. Yama (ethical principles): How we interact with others and the world around us, including non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), right use of energy (brahmacharya), and non-greed (aparigraha).

2. Niyama (personal observances): How we relate to ourselves, such as purity (saucha), contentment (santosha), self-discipline (tapas), self-study (svadhyaya), and surrender (ishvara pranidhana).

3. Asana (physical posture): The physical exercises we often associate with yoga, meant to keep the body healthy and strong.

4. Pranayama (breathing techniques): Conscious control of the breath to regulate life energy (prana).

5. Pratyahara (sensory control): Withdrawing attention from external stimuli to cultivate inner peace.

6. Dharana (concentration): Focusing attention on a single point, as preparation for meditation.

7. Dhyana (meditation): A state of uninterrupted concentration and awareness.

8. Samadhi (enlightenment): A state of oneness and deep peace.

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Yoga as a Life Practice

I believe that yoga goes far beyond exercises on the mat. It is a state of being that you first practice on the mat and gradually take into the rest of your activities. You recognize patterns within yourself, you expand your awareness.

Yoga changes the way we perceive and it changes the person who perceives. But what is very important is that it can all be gentle, without forcing. We don't need to change ourselves, but rather embrace ourselves by shining light on the darker parts within us.

By approaching yoga as a life practice, we can integrate small elements of this tradition into our daily lives. Perhaps you begin with conscious breathing during stressful moments, or bring more attention to everyday actions. Perhaps you notice that you respond differently to challenges, with more patience and compassion.

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The Koshas: The Five Layers of Our Existence

In the yogic tradition, there are five Koshas or sheaths that form our being:

1. Annamaya Kosha (physical body): Our physical body that is nourished by food.

2. Pranamaya Kosha (energetic body): Our life energy that flows through the body.

3. Manomaya Kosha (mental-emotional layer): Our thoughts and emotions.

4. Vijnanamaya Kosha (intellectual layer): Our wisdom and intuition.

5. Anandamaya Kosha (bliss layer): Where we experience deep joy.

At Studio Tree Of Life, I offer space to connect with all these aspects, in a way that feels comfortable for you.

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An Invitation to Connection

Ultimately, yoga means connection - connection with yourself, with others, and with the world around you. At Studio Tree Of Life, I invite you to discover and experience this connection in your own way.

Whether you come for the physical benefits, to deepen your breathing, or to find more peace in your mind - there is space for your unique journey. Yoga is not a destination but a path, a path we can walk together, one step at a time, with gentleness and respect for where you are now.

I look forward to guiding you during the yoga classes. I hope you may discover how yoga can enrich your life, not only on the mat but in all aspects of your life.