My practice of yoga stems from one foundational concept: what information can I extract from this living, breathing, dynamic system of systems that I inhabit for my entire earthly experience?

ROOTING YOUR DIGNITY as a rightful being on this earth, while exploring RELATIONSHIPS in the SOMA.

Through the beauty of integrated and mindful movement, there are opportunities to introspect, contemplate, and even meditate on the stories living in our tissues, the postural habits speaking before we open our mouths, and the vast intelligence of our biology that is yearning to be reunited with our spirit.

What is Somatic Alignment Yoga?

THE 7 PRINCIPLES:

  1. Learn to work anti-gravitationally by pressing into the earth

  2. Build strength and resilience through resourced movement initiated by even breath

  3. Spread your awareness by creating bi-directional movement from center outward, contacting both the core and edges of your being.

  4. Allow the contemplative, speculative mind to merge with the sensory, feeling body

  5. The depth of a posture is reflected in alignment of the limbs and equanimity in breath and being.

  6. Animate your life from the seat of your soul, keeping the chest and heart space aerated consistently, where your personal truths, values, and vision lives.

  7. Will all your systems into the present through mantra and intention setting

“Doing as we’re told is one of the ways we become dysregulated.”

In the seat of a teacher, I had to make a conscious choice to confront my pedagogical practices. The ‘how’ and ‘why’ of my teaching required reflection, contemplation, and revision. My personal practice led me to recognize that “doing as I was told” prevented me from developing my own intuition, wisdom, and trust in Self. The delicate balance of teaching invites me to create the conditions to allow others to experience themselves deeply and with sovereignty, whilst creating and holding a container for this intrapersonal dialogue to occur. One of the practices that deeply informs my relationship to the body is Organic Intelligence.

Organic Intelligence® is a “clinical practice of human empowerment, resiliency, and compassion to resolve the devastating effects of stress, trauma, and PTSD.” (organicintelligence.org)Organic Intelligence invite us to develop a new relationship with our nervous system.

In Somatic Alignment Yoga, a conscious interweaving of Hatha & Vinyasa yoga styles, the nervous system becomes the barometer for our current, present experience. Learning to slow down and listen to the body results in heightened awareness of sensations. Sensations are the language of the body and when we can attune ourselves to hear them clearly, we gain embodied and integrated insights. The gift of alignment is to reveal the texture of our living canvas, and provide us the opportunity to cultivate and experience equanimity in all of our parts.

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Physical Alignment - Breathwork

Energy Centering - Unification of All Parts

Stilling the Mind - Becoming the Witness

Who is this Practice for?

Anyone and everyone. You. If you are yearning for some integration between what you think and what you feel, more awareness of your sensations, the language of the body, the capacity to notice how you react and respond under pressure, how to move as a unit, resourcing each part of the body proportionately, self-inquiry and discovery via the tactile, gross, and tangible instrument that is the body, feeling dignity, ancestry, and wisdom in your bones, intimate time to slow down and self-nourish, identifying energy blockages, densities, and restrictions in the flesh that result in restrictions in breath, access, and life.

And most impactfully (yes, I’ve invented a new word for this): a lightness of being that translates as liberation on both the material and spiritual level. So yes, YOU.

Benefits of the Practice:

The benefits of such a practice are innumerable and multifarious. Each individual will have a unique magnetism and entry point for this experience. Some attractions include:

  • increased intero-, extero-, and proprioception resulting in heightened sensitivity to life’s unfolding and journey

  • improved balance and coordination across all levels of being

  • greater clarity and concentration under pressure

  • reduced stress and tension supporting more ease and relaxation

How does this translate to Life?

Yoga-asana practice is but one limb of the 8-limb Yogic Path. The practice asana is meant to be applied and accessed ‘off the mat.’ Some of the countless ways this practice translates to Life include:

  • easing of stress and relief of muscle tension

  • reclaiming postural integrity in stillness and in movement

  • increased strength, flexibility, balance, coordination

  • greater capacity to concentrate, harness attention, and improve quality of interpersonal relationships

  • reduction of urgency and scarcity to convert reactivity into responsiveness

  • greater access to joy, presence, and love sourced both internally and externally

Class Schedule

LIVE Classes:

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COMPONENTS OF MY TEACHING:

PRECISION OF IYENGAR

Rhythm of Vinyasa

STAMINA OF ASHTANGA

Biology of Organic Intelligence

MYSTICISM OF SPIRIT

Integration of the Soma

Sensitivity in the body improves sensitivity in one’s being.

 

Yogic philosophy discusses the concept of koshas: a system of sheaths that layer over our true essence. The word ‘yoga’ means “to yolk” or “union.” When we become sensitive to the instrument that is our body, we begin to learn, tune, appreciate, and find union across the sheaths of our being. This union allows for our truest, clearest version of Self, our Atman or Soul, to beam through. The physical practice of alignment yoga lands us in the body, with eventual aligning of the deeper sheaths of our being, reflecting in our values, thoughts, words, and actions.

“It is through your body that you realize you are a spark of divinity.”

- B.K.S. Iyengar

“I Wanna Get to Know Ya:” Introduction Series

  • Intro to Surya Namaskar

    This class introduces foundational yoga postures found in Surya Namaskar A (Sun Salutation A).

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  • Arm Variations

    This class explores different arm positions encountered in the practice.

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  • Lateral/Sagittal Postures

    This class focuses on the sagittal plane of movement, also referred to as lateral postures. The primary sensations of these postures are inner thigh and groin lengthening outward and outer thigh retracting inward.

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  • Frontal/Coronal Postures

    This class focuses on the coronal plane of movement, also referred to as frontal postures. The primary sensations of these postures are the front leg hip pulling back and the back leg hip coming forward via the back leg rolling forward and in.

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  • Twisting/Transverse Postures

    This class focuses on the transverse plane of movement, also referred to as twisting postures. The primary sensations of these postures are the back leg hip coming forward via the back leg rolling forward and in and the rolling of the belly towards the twisted side.

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Access the Series

Practice and all is coming.

- Sri K. Pattabhi Jois

Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga**
Principle 1 - Anti-Gravity
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 1 - Anti-Gravity
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

This principle looks at our body’s relationship to gravity and what it means to go against this downward pull.

The principle of Anti-Gravity explores our relationship to the earth and space, and how we can replicate these elements in the body via a rising up and against gravity in certain parts of the body. Being anti-gravity means encouraging a relationship with the ground where the dynamism of pressing down creates a rebound in the body, improving the space in-between the tissues, muscles, bones, and vertebrae of your spine.

7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 2 - Even Breath
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 2 - Even Breath
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

This principle looks at the significance of equal breathing and how this physiological skill can shed light on our mental and physical states.

The principle of Even Breath emphasizes the importance of leveling the inhale and exhale. Not only does our breath cycle indicate whether we’ve gone too far in a posture or if we’re not appropriately utilizing the abdominal musculature to support a full inhalation/exhalation, but it also reveals our state of mind. Running out of breath to keep up with a class, or even life, suggests a dysregulation with one’s self and capacities. Even breath offers a route back to the present and your dignity.

7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 3 - Bi-Directional Movement
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 3 - Bi-Directional Movement
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

This principle looks at how to create an equal and opposite stretch in the body in both horizontal and vertical planes of movement.

The principle of Bi-Directional Movement specifically highlights the importance of splitting the stretch in equal and opposite directions. If you take the imagery of a rubber band, when stretching there are 2 options: one point stays fixed and the other point moves away from the fixed point or, both points move in equal and opposite directions. Bi-directional movement focuses on the latter to spread awareness and energy from the center of the body outward to the periphery.

7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 4 - Merge the Mind & Body
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 4 - Merge the Mind & Body
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

This principle looks at how merging the mind with the body supports an embodied, multilingual practice of understanding and feeling.

The principle of Merging the Mind and the Body is a somatic practice of being an embodied unit rather than a piece-meal overly-intellectualized organism. Merging the mind and body means using the mind to gather instruction and data and then dropping down into the sensory body to determine if that data holds truth and is relevant to your experience. The language of the body is sensations, and being able to feel the stretch, opening, or relaxation in a shape allows for more congruity in the overall practice and experience.

7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 5 - Equanimity Reveals Depth
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 5 - Equanimity Reveals Depth
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

This principle looks at what true depth and access in a posture looks and feels like.

The principle of Equanimity Reveals Depth attempts to reorient the idea of ‘going deeper’ in a posture as not necessarily stretching and gaining more range of motion. With time and consistent practice, the body will open. True depth is revealed by a radio silence, quiet, equanimity that is felt as a contemplative and tranquil state. All postures have the capacity to be meditative keyholes.

7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 6 - Orient From the Seat of Your Soul
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 6 - Orient From the Seat of Your Soul
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

This principle explores the concept of the ‘seat of the soul’ found in the center of the chest and held at the highest regard in all practices of being.

The principle of Orienting from the Seat of Your Soul was offered to me by a teacher named Lara Warren. The ‘seat of your soul’ is the center of your chest and can be illustrated as a candle with a small flame lit. Whatever do we in the world and on the mat, keeping the flame lit is the utmost priority. This part of the body in asana practice allows for wider and fuller breath, and more awareness of the heart space. In the world, this area is a reminder of who we are, our essence, our deepest and purest longings, and our humanity for one another. Orienting from this area of the body serves as a constant reminder, a remembering.

7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 7 - Be in the Present NOW
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)
Principle 7 - Be in the Present NOW
7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

This principle looks at what it means to be in the embodied present, the power of the NOW.

The principle of Be in the Present NOW is one that is present ((:) in all practices: it is the intentional on-boarding of all your systems (e.g., mental, emotional, physical, imaginal, sensorial) into this exact moment that is truly the only thing that exists. It’s about letting the affairs of the past and future rest, so that the attention of the NOW can be inform and enlighten what is to come. It’s an active choice that requires repeated flexing to fully support an embodied presence in your life.

7 Principles of Somatic Alignment Yoga (S.A.Y.)

Exploring unknown places in the world allows you to uncover unknown parts of your self.

UPCOMING RETREATS

UPCOMING RETREATS

March 17 - 22, 2024 *SOLD OUT*

Peacock Pavilions
Marrakech, Morocco

SOLD OUT Come experience a retreat blending the practice of yoga with soma exploration, in the illustrious and electrifying city of Marrakech, with daily yoga classes, somatic workshops, and activities/excursions in collaboration with E A T P R A Y M O V E. More details on retreat prices and activities here. Click the RSVP button to sign-up.

April 20 - 25, 2024

September 8 - 13, 2024

Peacock Pavilions
Marrakech, Morocco

Peacock Pavilions
Marrakech, Morocco

Come experience a retreat blending the practice of yoga with photography education, in the illustrious and electrifying city of Marrakech, with daily yoga classes, photography workshops, cultural sites, spa days and more in collaboration with photographer and videographer Sam Katz, hosted by E A T P R A Y M O V E. More details on retreat prices and activities here. Click the RSVP button to sign-up.

Come experience a retreat blending the practice of yoga with soma exploration, in the illustrious and electrifying city of Marrakech, with daily yoga classes, somatic workshops, and activities/excursions in collaboration with E A T P R A Y M O V E. More details on retreat prices and activities here. Click the RSVP button to sign-up.

TESTIMONIALS

  • "I was a bit nervous when I initially reached out to Aasia to do a yoga and mindfulness session for a group of high school students during the pandemic because I knew it would be difficult to engage a group of youth on zoom who were a bit apprehensive about yoga/mindfulness. However, I was pleasantly surprised how engaging and enthusiastic Aasia was. She brought a vibrant energy to the session and engaged the youth in a manner that made them feel at ease. Aasia is not only a great Yoga instructor, but what makes her unique is her vibrant energy and her ability to encourage people to try new things even when they are unsure."

    - Khadija, Program Facilitator, Pathways to Education Regent Park

  • "Aasia is a powerhouse! She is one of the most articulate humans I have had the pleasure of knowing. Her understanding & teaching of yoga is truly transformational. When she is teaching it is apparent instantly that she has a well founded education in the movement of an informed asana practice & interwoven with her own philosophy of spirituality, you as the student are in for a psychedelic adventure. Her ability to integrate yoga postures with internal realms of being is uncanny, a kind of poetry and artistic practice all of its own. She is a fierce teacher and pushes her students to a place they will be surprised that their body can go, she assists in moving you to your edges and leaves you in the driver seat to keep discovering! I can’t recommend her class more. If you want a solid work out that is balanced and integrated with a deep stir of the spiritual realms in your own body/mind, then Aasia is the teacher for you! You will leave way different than you arrived and always for the better."

    -Soraya Arjan Odishoo, Certified Coach, The Naked Mind Institute

  • "Aasia is an astute practitioner who characteristically embodies a high level of sensitivity and personal integrity. As her teacher I have the pleasure to witness her skillful approach to gaining knowledge. She doesn’t choose the quick or painless path but instead seeks truth, hard won by consistent efforts and an unwavering commitment to liberatory practice and self-inquiry. Her work will continue to serve both the person and the collective in applying spiritual understanding to one’s daily experience."

    - Nikki Costello, Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher, nikkicostello.com