Namaste & Welcome
AYA - The Yogi Club
The Yogi Club is your haven and space for yoga practice. It's the path to mindfulness and authenticity on and off the mat. Here you can embrace your genuine self and nurture a lifestyle of inner peace as you engage in a safe supportive practice.
In-person or On-line, be yourself with all of us.
Om
What is yoga? who is a yogi?
Yoga from Sanskrit is union. Yoking mind and body.
A yogi is a practitioner of the eight yogic limbs.
What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient practice that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines to promote overall well-being. The word "yoga" comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning "to unite" or "to join." It refers to the union of individual consciousness with universal consciousness, or the alignment of body, mind, and spirit.
Yoga has many forms and practices, but at its core, it aims to bring balance, mindfulness, and inner peace. It involves:Physical postures (Asanas): These are specific movements and positions designed to increase strength, flexibility, and stability.Breathing techniques (Pranayama): Breath control exercises to calm the mind and regulate the flow of energy.Meditation (Dhyana): Techniques for mental focus, awareness, and the cultivation of inner stillness.Philosophy: A set of ethical principles and guidelines for living a harmonious life, as found in the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali, and other sacred texts.Yoga is often seen as a path to self-realization, healing, and enlightenment, allowing individuals to experience deeper connection with themselves and the universe.
Who is a Yogi?
A Yogi is someone who practices yoga and strives to live according to its principles. The term can be used to describe a person who is deeply dedicated to their spiritual, mental, and physical practice, though it doesn't necessarily imply an advanced level of skill in postures. The essence of being a yogi goes beyond physical postures to encompass:Spiritual commitment:
A yogi seeks to transcend the ego and connect with their higher self, often through meditation, introspection, and self-awareness.Discipline and self-control: Practicing non-attachment, mindfulness, and ethical living, including virtues like compassion, non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), and humility.Living in the present moment: A yogi cultivates awareness of the body, mind, and surroundings, living fully in each moment without distraction.Balance and harmony: A yogi maintains balance between their physical, emotional, and mental states, and aligns themselves with the flow of life.While some yogis may dedicate their lives to the practice, yoga is accessible to anyone. Whether a seasoned practitioner or a beginner, the term "yogi" simply refers to anyone who seeks personal growth, deeper understanding, and connection through yoga.In modern times, the term "yogi" may refer to anyone who practices yoga regularly, but traditionally, it could also imply someone who has achieved a higher state of consciousness or spiritual enlightenment through long-term dedication to the practice.
The path of the yogi is the eight limbs way.
The 8 Limbs of Yoga: Ancient Teachings & Modern Relevance
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Yama (Ethical Disciplines)
Ancient: Yamas are moral guidelines for living with kindness, honesty, and self-restraint.
Modern: Think of them as life rules—be kind, honest, and mindful of how your actions affect others. -
Niyama (Self-Disciplines)
Ancient: Niyamas are personal practices for cleanliness, contentment, and self-reflection.
Modern: They’re your self-care routines—stay disciplined, reflect on your actions, and practice gratitude. -
Asana (Physical Postures)
Ancient: Asanas are yoga poses that prepare the body for meditation and cultivate strength.
Modern: It’s your workout for both body and mind, helping you feel good and stay grounded. -
Pranayama (Breath Control)
Ancient: Pranayama involves controlling the breath to increase energy and calm the mind.
Modern: It’s like taking a deep breath to reset, reduce stress, and feel centered. -
Pratyahara (Withdrawal of Senses)
Ancient: Pratyahara means turning inward and disconnecting from external distractions.
Modern: It’s like hitting "pause" on the outside world and focusing on yourself. -
Dharana (Concentration)
Ancient: Dharana is the practice of focusing the mind on one point or object.
Modern: It’s about cutting out distractions and truly locking in on the task at hand. -
Dhyana (Meditation)
Ancient: Dhyana is deep meditation where the mind becomes still and connected to the universe.
Modern: Meditation is your mental reset, clearing your mind and finding peace in the moment. -
Samadhi (Bliss or Enlightenment)
Ancient: Samadhi is the ultimate state of oneness, inner peace, and blissful connection.
Modern: It’s that feeling of flow, when everything aligns and you feel completely at peace.
Yogis Say ...
From Liz N.
Abir,
I marvel at your fundamental yoga class. The sequence is seamless; No class is ever the same.
Also, I love your laugh.
From J-
Thank you always, Abir. For your energy, your wisdom and just you in general.
From Lily -
Abir is lovely, encouraging , knowledgable and continues to help take my yoga practice to the next level. I'm so grateful she returned to BB.
From Danielle J -
I am grateful for Abir. Her wonderful spirit and classes that leave me feeling good.
AYA 2025 Offerings
