Yoga Philosophy and Breathwork Workshops
Yoga is a path from the gross to the subtle. Through breathwork and philosophy, we quiet the mind to reconnect with our natural state of ease.
Breath, or prana, is the anchor of our practice. It is the doorway to the present moment. Here, I am practicing Nadi Shodhana, a pranayama technique to calm the mind and nervous system.
Meditation doesn't have to be complicated. In this video, I share simple ways to approach meditation, like body scanning or watching the breath, to help quiet the mind.
A clip from a philosophy class on Dharana, or one-pointed focus. Learning to still the eyes is a powerful practice to quiet the thought waves of the mind.
How does yoga help the nervous system? This is a question I explore deeply in my workshops, teaching practices that help find balance between activation and relaxation.
If you feel stuck in your yoga journey, it might be time to revisit your "why." This video is a gentle reminder to reconnect with your intention and let it guide your practice.
A reflection on the subtle ways attachment can show up in our practice. Yoga is a path of self-enquiry, and noticing our attachments is the first step toward freedom.
A close-up of Vishnu Mudra, the hand gesture used for Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing). This practice is a cornerstone for balancing our energy channels.
Announcing my annual online Guidance Program for yoga teachers. This is not a certification, but a space for us to discuss the real challenges and joys of teaching.
An introduction to the nervous system. Understanding the difference between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) systems is key to using yoga for balance.
Explaining the Sympathetic Nervous System, our "fight or flight" response. Chronic stress can keep us in this state, and yoga can help us learn to down-regulate.
About Beyond the Mat: Philosophy & Breathwork
Most workshops focus only on poses, but here we prioritize what happens underneath. In my sessions, I guide you through specific pranayama techniques—like Nadi Shodhana—designed to actively regulate your nervous system. Come prepared to sit, breathe, and unlearn some of the chaos of the day, rather than just moving through a sequence.
Moving from Movement to Stillness
We often treat yoga as a gym workout, but the real work begins when the physical movement stops. My sessions are designed to bridge the gap between your busy daily life and a state of internal stillness. We explore the philosophy of Dharana (one-pointed focus) and the mechanics of breath to help you manage the Vrittis, or thought waves, that keep your mind spinning.
Why Breathwork Matters
Breath is the most accessible tool we have to influence the nervous system. By learning to consciously control your breathing, you can shift from a sympathetic 'fight or flight' state to a parasympathetic 'rest and digest' state. This isn't just about feeling calm for an hour; it is about building the resilience to navigate stress outside the studio.
What to Expect in My Sessions
Whether you are joining me online or at a studio in Mumbai, the approach remains the same:
- Technical Guidance: We break down complex concepts like Prana and nervous system agility into simple, daily practices.
- No Performance Pressure: I do not believe in 'perfect' poses. My goal is to make these practices accessible to everyone, regardless of your flexibility or experience level.
- Interactive Learning: In virtual workshops, I use gallery view to provide real-time verbal corrections, ensuring you practice safely at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a seasoned practitioner? Not at all. My philosophy workshops are designed for anyone curious about deepening their understanding of yoga. I explain everything from the basics of pranayama to the science of the nervous system.
Are these sessions just theory? No. While we explore philosophy, every class involves a practical component. You will leave with tangible tools—breathing techniques or meditation practices—that you can use immediately.
Nishtha Bijlani
I started this journey a decade ago, transitioning from a media career to finding stillness in the mountains. My classes are not about achieving the perfect pose. I invite you to join me in exploring breath and philosophy as tools to navigate modern stress.
Looking for something else?
Search through my other yoga offerings and retreat options.
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