What is Sakshin Ghatastha? Sakshin (suk-shin) refers to the witness, the state of pure awareness or meditation. Dhyan (meditation) is dis-identification and witnessing, the essence of all yoga. Ghatastha (ga-tush-ta) literally means within the pot, and implies looking at the body as a sealed container (Historically Ghatastha Yoga has been used as a synonymous term for Hatha Yoga). All the techniques employed are used to balance and harmonise the vital energy inside the body. Like a clay pot that has been well baked in a fire the body is purified and made firm so that it ceases to leak energy, this energy then increases inside the body stimulating higher levels of awareness. Regularity of practice is essential to reach the potential of the yoga process. Establishing a strong foundation in the technique of breath and movement develops the inner intelligence of the body and a deeper understanding of the energetic principal. It is these aspects that lead to mastery of the foundation and open the path to advanced yoga disciplines. What do I need to bring to classes? Comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement - the less fabric the better as you can expect to get warm. No props (i.e. Blocks) are necessary - rather than fitting the individual to the yoga through the use of excess equipment, the Sakshin Ghatastha Yoga style aims to fit the yoga to the individual by providing suitable variations. Mats are optional. If you have your own mat you can bring it to class or if you would like to purchase a mat through us they are $35. Can I come to class during Menstruation? Yes. Please let the teacher know at the beginning of the class and they will guide you in suitable alternatives during the class that will be more supportive to the body during this time. Can I eat before class? We recommend practicing on an empty stomach therefore when possible do not eat 2-3 hours before practice. This prevents the digestive system from being under pressure during the asana allowing more freedom of movement and a calmer state of mind. Have a small drink of water before class if necessary, however avoid drinking during class. Having difficulty with a particular movement/ past sporting injuries? If you have any queries you would like further instruction with, contact us prior to attending class or arrive to class 5-10 minutes early to speak with a teacher. This will allow the teacher time to assess the problem areas with you and access a more beneficial way of working during the class. In specialized or acute situations, we encourage personal tuition as the best option to tailor and monitor your practice. Can I attend classes if I am pregnant? Yoga is beneficial for the mother and child if began in the early stages of pregnancy, however it is important the teacher is aware you are pregnant to guide you closely with suitable breathing and asana variations during the class. The Sakshin Ghatastha Yoga style applied during pregnancy prepares the body for childbirth, alleviates postural discomfort and counteracts weight-bearing strains associated with the pregnancy. Practicing according to the changing needs of the body prior, during and post pregnancy aids in a fast recovery of the bodies muscle tone, strength and energy levels. Home l Contact Us l Chandra Yoga Shala