31/08/2026
As we transition into Autumn, we naturally begin to reflect upon the year, embracing coziness and slowing down. 🍂 This shift makes it the perfect time to use yoga philosophy to enquire deeper into our practice - both on and off the mat.
Yoga philosophy has many branches. There is no single “correct” or “right” path, just whichever resonates with you on your personal journey.
For our upcoming 4-week block, we are going to explore the Niyamas (the 2nd Limb of Patanjali’s 8 Limbs of Yoga). Patanjali believed that to discipline the mind, cultivate inner peace, and step closer to self-realisation, we must apply these principles to our daily lives.
The 8 Limbs of Yoga (Ashtanga) include:
* Yama - Our behaviours and external interactions.
* Niyama - Self-observances encouraging us to look inwards.
* Asana - Postures to prepare the body for meditation.
* Pranayama - Regulating the breath to smooth energy flow.
* Pratyhara - Withdrawal of the senses for inner focus.
* Dharana - Concentration of the mind.
* Dhyana - A deep state of meditation.
* Samadhi - Self-realisation and total contentment.
Philosophy can feel big and overwhelming! That’s why it is best to break it down into digestible segments. You can resonate with more than one lens, and your focus can change depending on what you need at this moment in time.
Over the next 4 weeks, our asana, pranayama, and meditation will fully reflect the Niyamas:
✨ Week 1: Shaucha (Cleanliness)
Cleansing our physical body, environment, and actions with pure intention. Cultivating positive thoughts, compassion, and gratitude to clear the mind and emotions.
✨ Week 2: Santosha (Contentment)
Recognising that wanting “more” never brings true satisfaction. Finding calm in the here and now to cultivate an stress-free life.
✨ Week 3: Tapas (Discipline)
Overcoming hesitation, resistance, and procrastination. Igniting your inner fire to burn away the limiting thoughts holding you back.
✨ Week 4: Svadhyaya (Self-Study) & Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender)
Becoming aware of who you are without judgment through self-reflection, while letting go of the need to control outcomes. Trusting the flow to find serenity.
If this journey inw
