Yoga practice outdoors

About

The philosophy of yoga and the teacher behind Yoga Vida

Philosophy

What is Yoga?

Yoga is a Sanskrit word meaning 'to join' or 'union'. I like to think the practice of yoga unites an individual's body, mind and soul, and prepares them to live life with awareness.

The practice of asanas (postures) is only one aspect of the Eight limbs of Yoga. The philosophy of Yoga Vida (Vida meaning 'life' in Spanish) is yoga is more than just an exercise or practice of postures. Our aim is to promote these eight steps that act as a guideline on how to live a purposeful and meaningful life.

The practice of yoga works on our physical body increasing strength, flexibility and balance. But yoga can work deeper to cleanse and detoxify our organs, and improve function of the main systems of the body for example respiratory, digestive, endocrine. On a mental level, yoga can be calming as we take control of the minds endless chatter through correct breathing and meditation. Our concentration and focus improves and we can efficiently go about our daily lives which can be so demanding in this world we live in.

My classes work on the energetic fields, the subtle part of us we cannot feel or touch. There are seven key points in the subtle body that are thought to be vortexes of energy, known as chakras. When energy becomes blocked in a chakra, it triggers physical, mental, or emotional imbalances that manifest in symptoms such as anxiety, lethargy, or poor digestion. I like to tap into these chakras freeing up the energy in the direction of where you want it to go.

Yoga Nidra is fast becoming popular as it is one of the deepest forms of meditation. You experience stillness in a dreamless sleep whilst staying awake (yes hard to get your head around it!). We can access deep impressions that have formed and create new positive ones with affirmations and regular practice.

So in the demanding fast-paced world we live in, these ancient teachings that have been handed down have proven to still hold value. More and more people are turning to holistic approaches such as yoga to help prevent and sometimes cure ailments, and to live a balanced and happy life. I hope yoga can help you in whatever way you need it.

Yama

Ethical standards and moral conduct

Niyama

Self-discipline and spiritual observances

Asana

Physical postures

Pranayama

Breath control and extension of life force

Pratyahara

Withdrawal of the senses, turning inward

Dharana

Focused concentration

Dhyana

Meditation, uninterrupted flow of concentration

Samadhi

Bliss, union with the divine

Shannel in Padma mudra

Your Teacher

Shannel Jani

A seasoned, multi-disciplined practitioner of Yoga and Wellness of over 18 years, my passion for the spiritual extends to Ayurveda as well as skills in both Chakra and Theta Healing.

Though from the UK, I grew up in East Africa and traveled extensively. Stints in South America, Southern Asia, Central Asia, Australia and Bali have taken me across the globe as part of my spiritual journey. I recently relocated to Dubai, UAE.

I deepened my practice of Yoga in India, where I studied and qualified across the key limbs of Hatha, Vinyasa Flow, Ashtanga, Yin and Restorative Yoga. Here, I also enhanced skills in Ayurvedic Dosha consultation, the ancient discipline of nutritional balance for mind and body.

I further qualified in the specialisms of Children's, Pre & Post Natal, Fertility and Women's Health Yoga as well as Guided Meditation. I have been fortunate enough to set up my own classes renting a studio in the UK as well as providing services in schools, leisure centres, corporations and shopping malls! (Harrods in Knightsbridge as part of the Sweaty Betty program)

My life journey has brought me a profound exploration of spirituality, enriching my practice and teaching. The sudden loss of my father at a young age, coupled with other significant personal challenges, has deeply influenced my spiritual growth and dedication to wellness. These life experiences have fueled my passion for understanding the unique needs and strengths of individuals, particularly women, at different life stages of life. This passion drives me to create supportive and empowering wellness practices that foster both physical well-being and spiritual growth.

Have a read here to learn more about my outlook on Yoga Philosophy.

I created Yoga Vida Wellness to provide quality, personal holistic therapies for anyone. Feel free to connect with me on Social Media via the buttons below, or my Contact Page.

I look forward to meeting you.

Love & Light,

Shannel