The Art of Asana: Ashtanga Practice
Ashtanga is more than just hitting shapes. It is a steady rhythm that helps quiet the mind. Here is a look at the form and focus behind my practice.
A quote from Anais Nin that perfectly describes personal growth. We grow unevenly, in layers, and this practice helps us embrace all parts of ourselves.
A smiling portrait in Padmasana (Lotus Pose). We are all made up of constellations, a mix of past, present, and future.
This pose, Eka Pada Sirsasana, reminds me that our path is always evolving. Something inside knows where we're going, and the practice helps us listen to that intuition.
Sunday chilling, Mysore style. A happy moment in Eka Pada Sirsasana, finding joy even when a rest day (moon day) falls on a weekend.
Another view of this leg-behind-head posture. The practice is a constant source of grounding and joy.
The thought of the weekend bringing a smile during Kukkutasana. This arm balance requires strength, but also a sense of lightness and fun.
About The Art of Asana
You will notice in these photos that I am often smiling or relaxed, not grimacing. That is because my practice is not about forcing your body into a perfect shape; it is about repetition until you find a flow that calms your nervous system. Whether you are working on a complex posture like Eka Pada Sirsasana or just learning how to breathe through a sun salutation, the goal is always to find what feels sustainable for your specific body.
Ashtanga is often misunderstood as being rigid or elitist, but in my experience, it is the most grounding practice you can find for a chaotic life in Delhi. I teach the traditional Mysore style, which means you are not forced to follow a generic class rhythm. Instead, you learn the sequence—the postures, the locks, the breath—at your own pace, and I assist you individually with adjustments.
It is a space where you can work through physical limitations or simply get out of your head for an hour. We practice in a dedicated space in Greater Kailash, designed for focus and consistency. You do not need to be flexible to start. In fact, if you feel stiff, Ashtanga is often even better because you feel the changes and the opening of your body more clearly over time.
My sessions focus on three core pillars:
- Mysore Style: A self-paced practice with hands-on adjustments tailored to your needs.
- Led Primary: Where we move as a group to build collective energy.
- Breathwork: Integrating Ujjayi breath to link movement and settle the mind.
It is not about hitting an Instagram-worthy pose. It is about the 'so-what' factor—how you handle your day after you roll up your mat. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique, my aim is to help you build a practice that acts as an anchor, not a chore.
Sonakshi Dhamija
I am Sonakshi, and I run The Shala. I am the teacher who believes that if you are feeling burnt out or just need to slow down, yoga should not add more pressure to your day. I am here to guide you through a practice that feels like a quiet corner in a loud city.
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