Svaroopa® yoga takes a radically different approach from most other styles of modern hatha yoga. This is a powerfully transformative practice. Props such as blankets, blocks and chairs are used to meet the body where tension lies, and provide support that allows for deep release. The props help the body find it’s truest alignment, from the inside out, without force or strain. As poses are held longer, attention is drawn inward, creating a deeply meditative experience. Students are invited to simply surrender, allowing each pose to have an effect. In essence, instead of doing yoga, your yoga is offering you a sweet un-doing.
Svaroopa® yoga's distinction lies in the intention of the practice: To create core opening by releasing tension in the deepest layers of the body. This release deliberately begins at the tailbone - the pivot point of the body - and is carried up the spine, through the sacrum, waist, ribcage, and beyond. As this release is continually reinforced, the whole body begins to realign itself from the inside outward. This is the foundation of every Svaroopa® yoga class, upon which all other aspects of the asana (pose) practice are built.
In the words of Swami Nirmalananda, (formerly Rama Berch) founder and Master Teacher of Svaroopa® yoga, "Dissolving these [core] tensions allows you to live with ease, both in your body and in your deeper self. That ease is your birthright. This all happens without sweat or strain because Svaroopa® yoga is not exercise, but a scientific maximization of the body's natural capacities. When practicing Svaroopa® yoga, we delve into our body as if opening a precious gift carefully wrapped in many layers."
"You gradually learn to surrender into a grace that is ever present, though the tendency is to hold yourself tight and resist that flow. The outer practice of these asanas leads you to recognize that the source of grace is deep within your own being."
~ Swami Nirmalananda Saraswati
What you'll notice with every class...
With the first pose, breathing opens up and moves more freely and completely.
Musculature changes in the body travel downward from the tailbone, releasing tension and dis-ease
in the legs, hips, knees, ankles and feet, and upward, affecting the spine through the sacrum, lower
back, waist, rib cage, shoulders, neck, and skull.
As your body opens, your state of mind becomes more peaceful, centered, calm and uplifted.
The spinal release creates more space for the intervertebral discs and nerve roots, improving communication throughout the body's systems.
The core opening relieves compression of the internal organs, improving digestion, elimination
and reproductive function.
Reduced physical tension throughout the body enhances vitality and stamina.
Your emotional state shifts away from depression and anxiety towards compassion, contentment and joy.
