Tapas & Svadhyaya - A Gentle Yoga Class

Hannelore Moebius

December 23 2023 • Duration: 1 Hour

Tapas derives from the Sanskrit word meaning heat, fire, effort, and discipline, embodies a transformative process. When we embrace Tapas, we harness its power to burn away impurities through rigorous disciplines such as fasting, Ayurvedic cleanses, Yoga, meditation, pranayama, and periods of silence. This intentional effort cultivates willpower and fosters self-discovery.

Svadhyaya complements Tapas by urging us to delve into the study of scriptures, providing profound insights into every aspect of our existence. From the outer layers of the body to the innermost core, Svadhyaya facilitates a comprehensive exploration of the human experience. It nurtures the inner light, guiding us in the lifelong journey of cultivating our Higher Self.

In this Gentle class, our practice unfolds with centered breathing and reflection, followed by general stretches to open up energy flow and joints. Gentle but dynamic sequences like Harrer and Core Energizer activate the Agni, or digestive fire. As we move through poses like Knee-down-twist and Sphinx pose we release tension, Warrior, Triangle, and Tree pose, we attune to our body's needs. The end of the session encourages self-listening for winding down in a pose or additional stretch.

Concluding with relaxation, we journey into the sacred chamber of the heart. The practice leaves us with a gentle, warm energy, instilling a sense of focused power and confidence to confront challenges and resist temptations. Our hearts resonate with nurturing love and divine essence, radiating this light to those around us and into the world. As we close with the sacred sound of AUM, we unite with the universal vibrations, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all existence.