My yoga journey began in the mid 90s, when I explored various yoga traditions and found Satayananda practices most suitable for me. But, like many others, when the Covid pandemic hit, I started to question everything about the world, myself and my yoga practice.
The turning point was the launch of Yoni Shakti: The Movement, an education and awareness campaign that aims to end the abuse of women in yoga and reclaim yoga as a tool for planetary healing and justice. I was deeply moved by one of the speakers, Yoli Maya Yeh, who spoke with such wisdom and clarity that I felt a profound connection. Since then, I have been attending her workshops and classes, which have been more healing and transformative than any other yoga practices I have ever done before. Decolonising and freeing the teachings from the grip of oppressive, power-hungry, greedy and exploitative systems that dive us has helped me reconnect with my inner guidance and The Path of Yoginis.
Now, I am inspired and guided by the matriarchal lineages of Yoginis who have walked before us, and I aspire to hold space and offer practices that honour them. I am in service to Ma Nidra Shakti.
Jai Ma!
FAVOURITE TEACHERS & FRIENDS:
Beauty Way Healing Arts - Harmonizing inner and outer nature with Yoli Maya Yeh. Also check out her online community circle.
Yoga Nidra Network - library of creative Nidra and a wealth of information, courses and workshops.
Moondance Vedic Astrology - Whether you're seeking guidance on a particular issue or simply curious about the ancient art of Vedic astrology, Pamela McDonough is a dedicated Jyotish Acharya.
Seed SistAs - Live and breathe herbs with the Seed SistAs, see nature through new eyes. Nourished, wild and free.
PRACTICAL AND INSPIRING READ/ AUDIO BOOKS:
Yoga Nidra Made Easy Deep relaxation practices to improve sleep, relieve stress and boost energy and creativity. I recommend the audio book for easy access to the recording. By Uma Dinsmore-Tuli and Nirlipta Tuli.
Nidra Shakti: The Power of Rest - An Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Yoga Nidra. Compiled and written by Uma Dinsmore-Tuli, with contributions by Nirlipta Tuli.
Rest is Resistance Free yourself from grind culture and reclaim your live by Tricia Hersey. A call to action for anyone suffering from the toxic urgency of modern life, offering liberation through rest.
Deep medicine and the anatomy of injustice. If you are curious about the intersection of medicine, health, wellbeing and social justice Inflamed is a great read by Rupa Marya and Raj Patel
Racialized trauma and the pathway to mending our hearts and bodies by Resmaa Menakem. A call to action, insightful and though-provoking book which also offers practical advice, compassion and hope for a better world.
The power of Radical Self-Love by Sonya Renee Taylor is an awakening to our own indoctrinated body shame and an invitation to reconnect with the radical origins of our minds and bodies and celebrate our collective, enduring strength.
Radicalising your yoga practice to create a just world by Michelle Cassandra Johnson, is small but powerful book full of wisdom and useful practices and tools.
A woman's guide to power and freedom through Yoga and Tantra by Uma Dinsmore-Tuli. It's a big read, and you will keep this book as a 'bible' to go back to over and over again.