What is Trauma Sensitive Yoga? An Interview with Esther van der Sande
Yoga by Sophia Hengelbrok
Esther van der Sande is the director of Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Nederland, somatic psychotherapist, EMDR clinician and a qualified yoga (500+ hrs), mindfulness teacher and practitioner. She guides her clients through their challenges, enabling them to emerge from the other side feeling renewed, strong, and ready to face the world on their own terms once again. In other words, she helps people help themselves.
7 Ways to Create Space for New Life
Ayurveda by Irene Draisma
As learned in the previous 7 weeks during the spring season, as the temperature increases, the ice starts to melt and Kapha starts to affect our system by making it heavier and more liquid. To prevent Kapha from going out of whack, we want to create balance by using opposing qualities of growth, stability, and stickiness. We do this by using the air and space elements and, among others, the gunas light, dry, and mobile.
The Benefits of Laughter Yoga and How to Do It
Yoga by Delight Yoga
As we get older, laughter comes less and less easy to us as we experience the trials and tribulations that come along with being an adult, taking on responsibilities we could never have imagined having as children. This alone is all the more reason to tap into our inner child and laugh without a care in the world, and regain that light happiness we were once so familiar with.
Inner Peace Network: Events this Month
News by Delight Yoga
Our sister organization, the Inner Peace Network, connects you with live teachers from the great wisdom traditions of the world. Below you'll find an overview of their events and courses this month:
Theme of the Month: Playfulness
Monthly theme by Kevin Sahaj
“Life is far too important a thing ever to talk seriously about it.” Oscar Wilde Have you ever noticed something very interesting: when we are full of humour and not taking things seriously, life seems to flow with ease and problems are no longer problems? Have you also noticed when everything seems serious and we take ourselves seriously, then life feels claustrophobic and small and we feel contracted and miserable?
Studio News: April 2021
News by Delight Yoga
1-4-2021 How wonderful is April? This month catapults us into spring and the promise of more sunshine, green surroundings, and new flowers rising from the earth. The beautiful weather also offers us the opportunity to practice together again.
How to work with April's New and Full Moon
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
With the Spring Equinox on the 21st of March, we have moved into Aries season and started a new astrological year. As the first of the 12 signs of the zodiac, Aries carries the energy of new beginnings. Here in the Northern Hemisphere, it coincides with nature’s awakening for spring. The days are now getting longer and we have more energy to move forwards and initiate.
Why We Dry Brush during Kapha
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
Just as is taking place in nature, we are working towards removing the heavy and sluggish qualities from our system and cultivating lighter and warmer ones. As they melt away, the first signs of a new dawn peek over the horizon, slowly warming everything in its path. Staying in connection with nature, so too shall we increase warmth in our lives. From the many ways to accomplish, dry brushing is an effective and therapeutic way to do so.
How to do Abhyanga in Kapha Season
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
For several weeks you have learned about the qualities of Kapha and what changes you can make in your life to fully transition into being aligned with the springtime season, in body and mind. Gradually moving away from the unctuous, cool, heavy, slow qualities to light, active, and warm qualities. This is further supported by Abhyanga, the tender and loving act of self-massaging.
Outdoor Yoga Manual
News by Delight Yoga
As of April 9th, we will provide outdoor classes for a maximum of 16 students - divided into 4 groups of 4 people and maintaining the 1.5m distance - at our beautiful outdoor locations in Amsterdam and The Hague. You can find the classes on our schedule as of the 2nd of April.
New Online Journey: Design Your Life with Erica Jago
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Let’s be honest, life can take the most unexpected turns. Despite our carefully planned visions of the future, a lot of us have had to adapt to whatever was thrown in our paths. More than ever, we need to step out of survival mode and take a moment to pause, reflect, integrate these changes, and find the fresh energy to move forward.
New Online Journey: Exploring Alignment with Chantal Soeters
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Whether you're looking to establish a home practice or delve deeper into the nuances of foundational yoga poses, these short sessions by Chantal Soeters will lay the groundwork for a practice in any style by teaching the basics of alignment, movement, and breathing. At an accessible pace, you'll have the opportunity to become comfortable with a variety of yoga poses and breathing techniques. You’ll learn how to cultivate steadiness, calm and greater body awareness as you breathe and move. Each session has a specific focus, allowing you to fully integrate what you learn, while simultaneously helping you to explore the power of yoga to shift your inner experience in a variety of ways. Journey Overview Episode 1 - Feel Present Wednesday 31/03/21 - 09:00 - 09:30 Cultivate curiosity and awareness. Episode 2 - Feel Supported Wednesday 7/04/21 - 09:00 - 09:30 Find your ground. Episode 3 - Find your Center Wednesday 14/04/21 - 09:00 - 09:30 Return to balance and wholeness. Episode 4 - Experience Spaciousness Wednesday 21/04/21 - 09:00 - 09:30 Find freedom and expansion. Episode 5 - Feel Joy Wednesday 28/04/21 - 09:00 - 09:30 Explore and play with your asana practice. Episode 6 - Experience Flow and Ease Wednesday 04/05/21 - 09:00 - 09:30 Balance effort and surrender. Experience the journey here
Studio News: Corona updates
News by Delight Yoga
Update: 24-3-2021 As indicated at the press conference yesterday, the corona measures in the Netherlands will be extended. This means that, unfortunately, our studios will be closed for a little longer. However, practising yoga means seeing these obstacles as new opportunities, and we are happy to share some exciting news with you! The current Corona measures and the upcoming beautiful weather have given us the chance to put outdoor classes back on our schedule.
Keep Your Head Clear of Cold and Moisture
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
Bathing is one of the important steps in Dinarcharya of our daily routine. According to the Ayurvedic texts, it’s a therapeutic ritual that purifies, kindles Agni, and is strengthening and life-promoting. But knowing that Kapha Dosha already has this beautiful abundance of the water element, it’s helpful to shower “in the right way”.
Kapha-Proof Exercises to Stay Energized
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
The Importance of Moving Upwards In our hyperactive Western society, the Vata and Pitta qualities seem to be celebrated more than ever; the speed, fun, creativity, goals, successes, and always-wanting-more mindset. Being a Kapha may sound like you’re a soft, lazy, and cuddling bear who just wants to eat cupcakes all day. However, with the right counterbalancing activities, you can enjoy - and not get stuck - the beautiful stabilizing qualities of this Dosha.
How to Nourish Your Body: The Kapha Way
Ayurveda by Coen Van der Kroon
Kapha-Balancing Lifestyle Kapha possesses the most stability and humidity of all the Doshas. Kapha is associated with the seasons when water and, often, cold are dominant, especially during winter and spring - the seasons of cold and dampness.
Detoxing during Springtime
Ayurveda by Coen Van der Kroon
Detox is in Fashion Everyone is talking about 'detox' these days. Especially in spring. And that it is also 'according to Ayurveda'. What is detoxing actually, why in spring, and what does Ayurveda mean by a detox?
Kapha-Balancing Kitchari Recipe
Ayurveda by Patricia Veltri
Kitchari with Mung beans (or Mung dahl), Basmati Rice, and Veggies. On Thursday 18 March at 18.00, I will share a Kapha-balancing Kitchari Cooking Tutorial Video on our IGTV @delight.yoga. Get the ingredients below, and let's cook together!
Delight Online: New and Improved!
News by Delight Yoga
We are excited to share with you that the Delight Online platform has a brand new look! Many improvements have been made and as this is the 1st version, be sure to expect new additions over time.
Looking for Volunteer Studio Hosts
News by Delight Yoga
The world has been upside down for a while now. The Coronacrisis has brought many challenges on different levels for all of us, and it has unfortunately affected Delight as well. An additional three months in lockdown has taken a serious toll on our financial situation. Even though we are very grateful to have been able to keep all our staff over the past year, we now find ourselves in a position we would have liked to have avoided. Last week, we came to the conclusion that we need to cut costs, and made the difficult decision not to extend the contract of two of our much-valued studio hosts.
Yoga Playlist: Delight Yoga Lounge
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Music is the language of the universe. Meant to uplift and inspire, this playlist is a beautiful and balanced collection of our host’s favorite songs that they often play in our studios. Bringing you back in the space we lovingly hold for our students and teachers.
10 Daily Routine Tips for Kapha
Ayurveda by Coen Van der Kroon
Morning is the spring of your day Kapha is not only a ‘Dosha’ – it also refers to the energy of a time of the day, the season of a year, or a period of life. In all cases, we are talking about time periods that exhibit more of the properties of Kapha (heavy, stable, slow, downward, oily, and so on), and which represent the start or growth of something. Kapha morning time is the spring of the day, it heralds new life, and old stable Kapha from the night melts and gives way to new liquid fuels for the new day.
Avoid Oversleeping and Feel Awake in Kapha Season
Ayurveda by Coen Van der Kroon
Ayurveda and Sleep According to Ayurveda, sleep is one of the supporting pillars of life, along with nutrition and sex. Sleep is very important for both physical recovery and mental-emotional recovery. The night is a time for the body to rest and for the mind and emotions to process or 'digest' a number of things.
Theme of the Month: Living Fearlessly
Monthly theme by Kevin Sahaj
Having the courage to live an awakened life. "Life is not a problem to be solved, but a mystery to be lived." Nietzsche Have you ever wondered what would it be like if we were to live our lives without fear? Fear is lurking continuously in the background of our mind. We often make decisions around love, work and money with the shadow of fear lurking to make the decision for us.
Studio News: March 2021
News by Delight Yoga
1-3-2021 The only thing that is permanent in life is impermanence. March of last year marked the beginning of a massive shift in life as we knew it on a collective level. Take a moment to write down three things you are proud of yourself for this past year. You have made it this far, and you will make it through whatever comes next.
How to work with March's New and Full Moon
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
After the intensity of February with the Aquarius Stellium and many powerful alignments, the skies are carrying much smoother energy in March. We also begin the Astrological New Year with the Spring Equinox on the 21st of March.
How to Shake Off Your Winter-Kapha
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
While still in winter mode There is nothing wrong with some extra Kapha in winter, provided it is good Kapha. In fact, it is preferable to have some extra dose of Kapha in colder climate zones. This is for two reasons, firstly, it insulates, and secondly, it is good fuel, which we need in winter as so much extra warmth is needed to be generated.
Begin your Yoga Journey
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Many of us are finding it difficult to practice at home after months of lockdown. We have created online yoga journeys with short, dynamic practices centred around a single theme to help refresh your practice. With topics ranging from Yin Yoga, Astanga, Morning Routines, and Experienced Vinyasa, we hope to find the journey that inspires you.
You are what you digest
Ayurveda by Roos Neeter & Julia Blohberger
Julia and Roos, teachers at Delight Yoga and Ayurveda students at Delight Academy, have created a calendar about healthy digestion and happy pooping. They dare you to look back by becoming aware of your digestion. The calendar has a weekly tracker where they encourage you to become aware of your stools on a daily basis. In addition, it is filled with tips & tricks to improve your digestive fire. Why is this important? Read their story below.
5 Basic Principles of Trauma-Sensitive Yoga
Yoga by Esther van der Sande
Trauma-Sensitive Yoga is a practice created by David Emerson as a treatment for Complex Trauma and PTSD by using trauma-sensitive movements that resemble some yoga postures. “Trauma-Informed Yoga is an intervention that empowers survivors and fosters recovery.” Some of the benefits of practising Trauma-Sensitive Yoga are as follows:
What is Ojas?
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
Living From Your Heart Just think of a good batch of fresh cow’s milk - for our non-vegans - and what comes from it when you curdle it: the best part of the milk in the form of cream will be one of the end products. That is exactly what Ojas is in our bodies, the best part of our Kapha materials in our bodies. Mix that best part with the intelligence of Prana (our life force) and Tjeas (our radiation, our light), and then you create a better picture.
Combining Kapha with Your Pitta/Vata/Kapha Type
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
Ayurveda and the Three Biological Managers Ayurveda is known for the three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha - but rarely is it clearly stated what these three Doshas are all about. Ayurveda sees the three Doshas as important and intelligent pillars of support for our biological system: they help regulate our physiology.
7 Yoga Podcasts to Inspire You at Home
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
With this prolonged period of staying indoors, it is natural for us all to seek out various outlets to remain uplifted and motivated during these uncertain times. One way to find new inspiration in your yoga practice during lockdown is through podcasts - an easy way to learn more about yoga, mindfulness, and spirituality.
New! Free Class: Community Mindfulness Meditation
News by Delight Yoga
We are excited to add a new class to our schedule: a free Community Mindfulness Meditation guided by Hedi de Vree.
Delight Yoga Lifestyle program: Balance Your Kapha
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
8-Week Program to Balance your Kapha Starting 21 February 2021 Only for Delight Members How can we stay optimistic, motivated, and inspired in these challenging times? Our latest Delight Membership Program will give you the opportunity to find new energy and lightness as we enter Kapha season. We've have created an 8-week experience full of Ayurvedic & Yogic wisdom to support our members in balancing your health and living a yogic lifestyle during Kapha season (late winter/early spring).
How to work with February's New and Full Moon
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
How will this month's New and Full Moon impact you? February is one of the most intense months of 2021 with powerful cosmic alignments, but soon things will start to settle.
My Sadhana Journey: Diving into the Deep
Yoga by Leonie Dijkstra
After my first Mysore class almost three years ago, I realized I was hooked. I fell in love with the energy in the space, the breathing sounds, and people concentrating on entwining themselves in all kinds of complicated positions. It felt like coming home after a long journey. From that moment on, I stepped on my mat every day, and slowly, my world turned upside down.
Theme of the Month: Being Home
Monthly theme by Kevin Sahaj
"Now I have arrived, Now I am home.." “To see a World in a Grain of Sand And a Heaven in a Wild Flower, Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand And Eternity in an hour.” - William Blake Do I feel at home in myself? In this time of Covid, we are all spending a lot more time at home. We are working from home, the kids are at home, and many are also practising online yoga at home. Maybe this is the first time in our lives some of us have been at home for so much time. How does this feel to you? Do we feel at home in our home? Do we feel at home in ourselves?
Studio News: February 2021
News by Delight Yoga
1-2-2021 After months of difficult news stories, lockdowns, and a new “normal”, many of us are finding it difficult to stay optimistic and motivated. If you are struggling, we are here with you. Our daily practice can reconnect us to inner peace, love, and joy. But how to stay motivated when everything feels heavy and restless? We are doing our utmost best to keep supporting you in your practice to help you find balance, motivation and connection.
Free Kids Yoga Videos
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Dear Delight Family, In the last few weeks we (re)introduced kids yoga on our schedule to support the mothers and fathers within our community and to allow kids to move, play and have fun at home. Marije Roede teaches wonderful classes with simplicity and an open heart.
Full Moon in Leo
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
The first full moon of 2021 falls on January 28th in the sign of Leo. This will be a strong full moon with some tense energies in the skies.
Free Special Class: Pranayama & Mantra with Live Harmonium
Yoga by Delight Yoga
In these challenging times, the call for connection is so strong… What brings us closer together than energy?
Join our Online Academy Masterclass & Open Day
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
In order to give you more insight into our 4-year Ayurveda Practitioner Studies (APS), we’re offering an online Academy Masterclass & Open Day, including three short Ayurveda classes to give you a taste of what it would be like to study with us.
Introducing Delight Online Yoga Journeys
Yoga by Delight Yoga
We have something new for you coming up: to keep supporting you in your practice during lockdown, we have created online yoga journeys. These journeys are a series of shorter classes centred around a theme or intention. Our first journey starts next week:
Join the Inner Peace Network's Special Premiere: DOWN to EARTH Screening and Q&A
News by Delight Yoga
Special Premiere; the award-winning film DOWN to EARTH. Grab your popcorn and tune in on Inner Peace Network on Friday, the 22nd of January to enjoy this heart-opening journey and ask the filmmaker Rolf Winters anything you want in the live Q&A session after the movie.
Studio News: January 2021
News by Delight Yoga
1-1-2021 2020 was filled with unexpected changes and extended amounts of time to observe and reflect upon what no longer works for us: ways of thinking, ways of living, negative behaviours, habits and patterns. 2021 gives the opportunity to lean into these lessons, embrace changes, and build on everything we've learned. What path do you want to take in 2021? What would you like to cultivate in your life?
Theme of the Month: Embracing Change
Monthly theme by Kevin Sahaj
Everything is changing, life is continually transforming, moving, being born, dying. There is nothing in this universe that is not subject to change. This is one thing we can all agree on, life IS change. The constant remembering of change is also the most important meditative contemplation in the Yogic and Buddhist traditions.
Studio News: Happy Holidays from Delight Yoga!
News by Delight Yoga
21-12-2020 Happy Holidays from Delight Yoga! During the Christmas days and on New Years the regular schedule will be replaced by different special classes. Make sure to check the schedule before you go to your favourite yoga classes.
10 Tips to Stay Connected During Lockdown
Wisdom by Irene Draisma
As we have entered a third Lockdown in the Netherlands and with the holidays approaching, many of us start to long for connection. How can we find creative ways to deal with these limitations and still feel connected? Here is a list to stay connected and support eachother during Lockdown.
Join 30 Days of Meditation during Lockdown
Yoga by Delight Yoga
From our heart, we warmly welcome you to join 30 days of Meditation during this Third Lockdown from Monday 21 December to 19 January. This time - perhaps more than ever - requires us to stay Home within ourselves. We are experiencing challenging times for sure, that may trigger emotional turmoil and confusion in our minds. Let’s see this time as an invitation to reconnect to that Peace and Inner Stability that never really leaves us, no matter the circumstances.
Total Solar Eclipse in Sagittarius
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
December is a very powerful month astrologically, bringing a major shift. With the Total Solar Eclipse on 14th December, we are starting fresh. After the last Lunar Eclipse, which gave us a point of completion and release, this Solar Eclipse in Sagittarius is like a super-charged new moon. The moon will fully cover the sun in a Total Solar Eclipse, creating not only a new beginning – but opening a completely fresh chapter!
How to do a Digital Cleanse
Yoga by Delight Yoga
We practice yoga to find a connection to the present moment and bring our attention inwards. But how can we stay in the here and now when we are constantly distracted by what’s happening on Instagram? The technology that connects us to our loved ones is designed to pull us in, stealing our attention and keeping it away from the here and now. So how can we use technology intentionally, instead of constantly living outside of the present moment? The answer might lie in digital minimalism.
Prana & Pranayama from an Ayurvedic perspective
Ayurveda by Victoria (Tory) Raven Hyndman
The Sanskrit word ‘Pranayama’ comes from two words: ‘Prana’, meaning ‘the energy of life that permeates all of life’, and ‘aya’, meaning to ‘control, to lengthen, to own or to call in’. Therefore pranayama can be translated as, “to expand the awareness”.
Holding Space
Wisdom by Jenny Schoenmann
This year has demanded a lot of us. We have been through a lot of changes and uncertainties. No wonder this past year has been challenging! It brought up all kinds of intense feelings and emotions, leaving many of us feeling overwhelmed. To reclaim our ground and inner sanctuary, we can take advantage of the pull of the Solstice in our Northern Hemisphere. To draw our attention inward as well as taking the time to reflect. By Holding Space For Yourself, the process of inner healing, acceptance, and peace begins.
Demystifying HypnoBirthing
Wisdom by Kasia Pokrop
A Common Misconception When we think of HypnoBirthing, perhaps the sentiments “hypnosis”, “losing control”, and “not being conscious of what is happening around us” may come to mind. This is not entirely surprising as it is not a typical topic that arises in everyday life. Fortunately, this transformative practice is nothing of the sort.
Set your intentions for 2021
Monthly theme by Delight Yoga
Dear Delight Family, As you might know, each year we organise a Theme of The Month to give the heart of Delight spiritual guidance. For 2021, we would love to create the Theme of The Month together with the Delight Community by setting our intentions for the next year.
Dream Yoga: What, why, and how?
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
One-third of our lives is spent sleeping and dreaming. Therefore, if we live to be 90, 30 years of our lives are spent in bed sleeping and dreaming! But is our sleep restful? Do we remember our dreams and honour the guidance they give for our waking lives? For most of us, our dreams are not remembered and our sleep is restless or heavy. Good sleep is the key to health and our dream life is rich with meaning, so it would be good to honour our sleep and not just take it for granted.
Ayurvedic Secrets to a Good Night's Rest
Ayurveda by Irene Draisma
Have you noticed how many people around you suffer from sleeping disorders? These are caused by a variety of reasons, but mainly by stress and not being able to relax. According to Ayurveda, sleep is considered to be one of the three physiological pillars to sustain life, along with food and sex. Sleep is needed for physical and mental homeostasis.
Buddha's Teachings - The Eightfold Path: 8. Right Absorption (Samma samadhi)
Monthly theme by Royce Benda
Welcome to December. 2020 is coming to an end, and I feel very grateful and honoured to conclude the journey we made this year. In this month’s theme, we will be exploring ‘Right Samadhi’. Right samadhi is the fruition of the Eightfold Path that the Buddha offered us. It is the end of a pathless path.
Studio News: December 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-December-2020 Welcome to December and the holiday season! Across wisdom traditions and religious celebrations, there is a universal appreciation for light: christmas lights adorning a tree, a menorah's nine candles, or the candles that adorn an altar. There is so much beauty to found, not only in the flames that burn with their warm glow, but also in the darkness surrounding them that causes each light to be appreciated.
Start the New Year with an At-Home Silent Retreat
Yoga by Delight Yoga
2020 was filled with unexpected moments and unique challenges for us all. We are offering the chance to reflect and check-in with ourselves at the start of 2021 through a unique ten-day retreat, led by our expert teachers, Satya and Sahaj.
Lunar Eclipse in Gemini
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
We are entering the final eclipse season of 2020 with the Lunar Eclipse on November 30th. The full moon will be partially covered by the Earth’s shadow. Eclipses are said to bring great transformation; they are portals for accelerated growth taking us to where we are meant to be.
Ashwagandha: The Chill-Out Herb
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
‘This is my absolute favourite’, ‘I love this herb’ and ‘A powerful gift of nature’. When it comes to Ashwagandha the verdict is not to be taken lightly. This chill-out herb seems to be in everyone’s supplement stash. Why? It helps us thrive in the modern world. And yes, that’s already challenging enough.
Abhyanga: The Art of Self Oil
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
Abhyanga: A Blessing for Body and Mind Abhyanga is an oil massage where mainly the palms of the hand are used to massage the entire body. For Abhyanga mild, nurturing, or more medicinal oils can be used.
5 Types of Ayurvedic Massages
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
Every kind of touch influences Vata Dosha. Vata is composed of the elements Ether and Air, and the latter element plays an especially important role in the body. Treatment of Vata Dosha focuses on balancing the Air element in the body. As the Air element has an important connection with the skin, the organ of touch and feeling, it follows that massage - and touch in general - is an important therapeutic modality for the treatment of Vata Dosha.
Join the Inner Peace Network's First-Ever Courses with Scilla Elworthy
News by Delight Yoga
Scilla Elworthy is back with a series of heart-warming courses Living well and serving your community and colleagues through the pandemic requires one capacity above all, a Mighty Heart. All of our greatest heroes and heroines have gone through the process of painfully opening their hearts, stretching that massive organ until it can hold not only their own pain but the pain of others, as well as joy.
Dive into Traditional Hatha Yoga with Sri Sudhir Tiwari
Yoga by Delight Yoga
We are honoured to announce that Sri Sudhir Tiwari will once again offer his teachings at Delight Yoga in an online setting. Sri Sudhir Tiwari is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise on traditional Pranayama and Asana in the Kaivalyadhama lineage (located in Lonavla in India) within our community.
10 Ayurvedic Tips to Release Stress
Ayurveda by Anne-Sophie Eckert
According to Ayurveda, the body has three managers - one of which is Vata Dosha, responsible for the principle of movement. Made of the elements of Ether and Air, Vata Dosha allows changes to happen. The Air element in particular creates creativity in the mind and dryness in the body. In changing or insecure times, like the ones we are facing now, Vata Dosha increases - and when this dosha is in excess, stress and anxiety can occur.
Super New Moon in Scorpio
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
Before we move into Eclipse season, we will have the last in a series of three Super New Moons on November 15th. As it will be close to the Earth, we will feel the influence of this New Moon more strongly, marking a powerful new beginning.
Continue your practice with us
News by Delight Yoga
Dear yogi, We hope this message finds you healthy and well. Even though we currently can’t offer any led classes in the studios, we would like to support you in keeping up your practice. In this blog post, we will share some alternatives we would like to offer in order to continue our journey together.
Delight Scholarship Program: Two free spots available for our Pre-Teacher Training
News by Delight Yoga
We are excited to announce our very first Delight Yoga Scholarships! We will be giving away two free spots for the online Essentials of Yoga training with our senior teachers Katiza Satya & Kevin Sahaj.
Create your Vata morning routine in Autumn/Early Winter
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
Having a rhythm to centre your day around brings much-needed support for the mind and body. Especially in this Vata time of year, when our nervous system and immunity tend to be more vulnerable. It all starts with a steady morning routine to help you feel calm and grounded throughout the day.
Buddha's Teachings - The Eightfold Path: 7. Right Mindfulness (Samma sati)
Monthly theme by Sandra (Sunny) Hipeli
When I started practising yoga, meditation was the most difficult element of yoga classes for me. I found my mind buzzing with comments, memories, conversations, music, and other kinds of activity. This felt very different from the calm and peace that meditation was supposed to bring. Only when I started exploring the concept of Mindfulness and meditation, was I able to learn more about the basic ‘machinations of my mind’, like distinguishing between thoughts, emotions and feelings.
Studio News: November 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-November-2020 This November asks us to slow down. Just as nature begins to retreat in preparation for the winter ahead, we have the chance to settle in and reflect on all that has happened this year. 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges and changes to all of our lives, and we can take the time now to evaluate which lessons we want to take with us and what pieces of our old lives we want to leave behind.
Studio News: Delight Online just got even better
News by Delight Yoga
1-Nov-2020 We are launching our Delight Online Library, where we have curated a selection of the best classes that took place in the past, for you to enjoy when it suits you. Over time, we will create a library of classes with a wide variety of styles, teachers, and lineages. We will update the library on a daily basis so you can enjoy new content any time you are ready to practice. You can explore all new features on our website by going to the new ‘Daily live classes’ page and the new ‘Online Library’ page on our website. We believe these are some changes for the better and that they will enrich your online practice with us. Love, The Delight Yoga Team
How to find Ease in Unease
Wisdom by Kristin Vikjord
This life holds many truths, one of which is that we move through periods of unease. As referred to in the Yoga Sutras and in Buddhist philosophy, we know that there is suffering and chaos of the mind, that is of thoughts and emotions, as we move through life. Luckily both ancient yogis and modern psychology hold experiential and science-based knowledge of how to empower ourselves, and how to increase resilience from within. And ultimately, how to find ease within ourselves despite times of unease.
Super Blue Moon in Taurus
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
On Halloween, October 31st, we’ll have a Blue Moon in Taurus. A blue moon is an unusual event as it’s a second full moon in the same month (we had a full moon in Aries on October 1st) – so this is going to be a very powerful time.
New! Delight Yoga Lifestyle Program (Free for Delight Yoga Students)
News by Delight Yoga
8-Week program to Balance your Vata Starting 1 November We are happy to introduce the first Delight Yoga Lifestyle Program: Balance Your Vata. It is important to take care of ourselves, especially in these challenging times. We created an 8-week program full of Ayurveda & Yoga tips to balance your health and live a yogic lifestyle during this Vata season (autumn/early winter).
Celebrate World Ayurveda Day on 13 November
Ayurveda by Delight Academy
The Indian Government has announced that they will celebrate World Ayurveda Day on the 13th of November, and the Delight Academy is honoured to be part of this very special occasion. The theme of this year’s event is ‘Ayurveda in 2030’, and we will be shining a light on this ancient “Science of Life”, calling attention to its multitude of benefits for mind, body, and spirit.
Celebrating Navrātri
Wisdom by Yemanja Gottges
I would like to share my invitation to all of you reading these words, to pre-enter the temple of the heart or to hold space, by celebrating Navrātri together.
Yoga & Ayurveda: Learn which yoga practices benefit your dosha
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
Do you ever wonder why some yoga poses make you feel super calm and centred, while others leave you agitated, shattered, and exhausted? And why your neighbour is always so flawless in Astanga classes, while you seem to have two wobbly legs and lack any balance? Because we’re not the same. According to Ayurveda, different people require very different yoga practices (yes, I had to change my whole yoga schedule *pitta sigh*)
5 Ayurvedic Tips for your Autumnal Daily Routine
Ayurveda by Irene Draisma
As the sun's rays touch the northern hemisphere from a smaller angle, the season starts to shift from summer to autumn. The weather is getting colder and windier. As a result, Vata dosha starts to increase outside in nature, as well as inside of us. It is the end of a cycle and it's important to experience this transition in a conscious and smooth way. This article will offer you more insight into Vata season and give you tips to stay connected and nourished.
Super New Moon in Libra
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
As we move into the last weeks of 2020, mid-October brings us a Super New Moon in the sign of Libra. It is the second in a series of Super New Moons and will be the closest to the Earth, so its influence will be felt deeply. Remember to set your intentions to harness the powerful energies of this new moon and plant the seeds for the months ahead. Astrologically, we are going through a period of great intensity, lasting until December. There is a lot of tension in the skies and you might be feeling it in one way or another. The planets in Capricorn – symbolising responsibility, power, governments, rules and regulations – are being challenged by angry Mars in Aries, demanding individual rights and freedom. These aspects represent conflicting needs and a time that shakes everything up. We are moving into a crescendo, one that is bringing the themes of 2020 to a head. With Mars, the planet of energy and drive, going retrograde you might also be feeling exhausted, tired or sluggish at the moment. Just before the New Moon, Mercury is joining in retrograde on October 13th – adding to this sense of feeling held back and being forced to pause. The second half of October will be a time to slow down and reflect instead of moving forward. This is where the Libra energy is bringing us much needed balance. Libra is all about partnership, fairness, justice, and collaboration. It asks: "How can we find a solution, how can we come together and make this work?" Connected to the heart, the sign of Libra invites us to reach out to one another and send each other love and compassion. It asks us to use the challenges of this time to open our hearts and come together as a human family. Delight Yoga is offering an online New Moon Circle guided by Simona Schimanovich, where we will come together to share, support each other and set our intentions in a powerful New Moon meditation.
How to practice: Marīcyāsana A (Marichi pose A)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Marīcyāsana A or 'Marichi pose A, is the eleventh posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system.
Tulsi, The Sacred Basil
Ayurveda by Anne-Sophie Eckert
“Wherever Tulsi grows there is no misery. She is the holiest of the holy. Wherever the breeze blows her fragrance there is purity” - Padma Purana 24.2.
Buddha's Teachings: The Eightfold Path - 6. Right Effort (Samma vayama)
Monthly theme by Manda Oleary
From the moment I was asked to write the theme of the month for October, the journey began. I took this theme with me throughout my days, carried it with me as if it were my closest friend. At first, it was only the two words "Right Effort" that I held close. I did not read too much into the philosophy; I just felt what these words meant for me personally. How I experience them and how I could directly relate them to my path, my life. For me, it became more interesting to discover what happens off of my mat. It became a search not only for what I put effort into, but how I move through the world, how I talk to others, and what I choose to put in my body. What thoughts I choose to keep and how I treat myself. During this process, I discovered that I was pregnant. The new discovery brought me face to face with Right Effort. How beautiful to connect to the little one growing inside of me as I move through this theme of the month. After this time of contemplation, I read more about this noble truth. "Right Effort", also called "Right Diligence", is the sixth component of the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path. In Buddhism, the most traditional definition of Right Effort is to exert oneself to develop wholesome qualities and release unwholesome qualities. The Buddha taught there are four aspects to the Right Effort: - The effort to prevent unwholesome qualities, especially greed, anger, and ignorance from arising. - The effort to extinguish unwholesome qualities that already have arisen. - The effort to cultivate skilful or wholesome qualities, especially generosity, loving-kindness, and wisdom. - The effort to strengthen the wholesome qualities that have already arisen. The notion of Right Effort does not just apply to our practice, but how we conduct our lives. It calls us to develop and encourage good qualities. There are many good qualities to be cultivated, but the ones that the Buddha particularly targeted were mindfulness, energy, joy, tranquillity, and equanimity. Along with this, the Buddha taught that our practice should be like a well-tuned string instrument. If the strings are too loose, they will not play the sound. If they are too tight, they will break. A spiritual practice should be nourishing, not draining. So cultivating Right Effort must begin with finding the "Middle Way". The Middle Way My life has always been about finding balance, both on and off the mat. Finding balance in relationships, how I communicate, give, receive, and share. I have learned that what is especially important is finding the balance in our relationship with ourselves, what thoughts we keep, and how we are kind to ourselves. I love this Middle Way that the Buddha expresses, as it rings so true for me. Everything depends on this: not going into extremes and pushing ourselves over our limits, but also not laying back and not giving any effort at all. The middle way is where the magic can unfold. We allow ourselves to find what works best for us and renew that practice each day, every time we step onto our yoga mats. One of the first things that deeply inspired me at the start of my yoga practice was a teacher sharing this in class: "Every day you will feel different, your practice will be different, you will be more flexible some days, and some days you may not be able to do what you just did the day before. It is about just showing up and doing your best, and allowing your best on that day to be good enough." I loved how practising yoga every day showed me this. How my mat was a direct mirror into my inner world. How finding the balance helped me find myself. So the Middle Way. The Buddha shared that the path can be difficult and progress sometimes can feel so far away. One day you improve and then you take a few steps back the next. It can sometimes be difficult to feel that progress is actually being made. This can of course then lead to doubt, but when doubt is arising, don't fear. Instead, use this doubt to dive deeper. Use this time to connect back to the truth that our only constant is change. Doubt can also be a gentle reminder to study; not only self-study but also to study yogic teachings and spend time reading and in contemplation to strengthen and provide new direction. This is truly " Right effort " Set your heart on doing good. Do it over and over again and you will be filled with joy. - Buddha A Joyful Practice Another important aspect of this theme is to cultivate a joyful practice. But how can we find joy in our practice, and more importantly, how can we find joy in the difficult moments and the struggles that we may encounter along the way? This was always something fun for me to experiment with. Fun? I can hear you question how difficult moments could be fun for me. I guess I find so much beauty in the breakdown and I find that most gifts and insights come through these experiences. When something goes wrong, I use it as a new way to go right. If I am struggling, I see it as a friend showing up to teach me. And if things are feeling difficult, I use it as an opportunity to get closer and closer to what is underneath it all and to see clearly again. It is how we see things, our perspective, that changes or crashes our worlds, both inner and outer. "When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." -Wayne Dyer Do you know this quote? It is printed on our Delight Yoga bags that we sell in our studios. Have you ever really sat down with a difficult experience and tried to see it with new eyes, rephrase the story, and transform the moment. This is what brings the most joy. It is not about being happy or even finding happiness, it is about how we allow all emotions in to be fully experienced, it's finding the beauty in the breakdown, and it's all about seeing things with new eyes and an open heart again and again, even when it is hard. Go there, fall, pick yourself back up, keep going, and smile. This is what I believe brings Joy. “The Fourfold Right Diligence is nourished by joy and interest. If your practice does not bring you joy, you are not practicing correctly.” – Thich Nhat Hahn Mind Fullness Lastly, I would like to give attention to mindfulness. For me, this is still a word that can easily be misunderstood, causing many of us to hide from it or not want to practice it at all. But what a gift it is to keep searching. After all, how are we going to progress on a spiritual path if our minds are lost in thought, memories of the past, or projections of the future? Mindfulness is about giving attention to what is happening right now, and by doing this, we have the hope of seeing things as they truly are. Something a teacher once shared with me comes to mind, "Take care of this moment and the rest will work itself out." This small sentence inspired me so much, and as I practised this taking care of the moment, it felt the truth of her words. Each time, the next moment would just flow from the previous one and everything felt taken care of. It is this flow where true mindfulness can be felt. The Buddha shares that our energy is fundamental to the entire process. It is impossible to be constantly in the present moment in our everyday lives, but we must have the energy to return back to it again and again and again. All of this energy can be built and cultivated by making our efforts joyful. Joy will replenish and charge our batteries for use when we need them. So by practising joy, we allow ourselves to experience the beauty and awe available in every moment and refrain from pushing too hard and losing the joy of the practice. If we are careful and follow this joy, it will build and build to a castle of bliss. This can help fuel our progress on the path. A Heart Full of Delight How beautiful that we are in a time where more and more people are turning to yoga and mediation. Stillness is becoming a tool for transformation. These teachings from long ago are still very much alive and are shaping how we can experience life. How lucky we are to have a community like Delight Yoga to remind us of these words and honour such a way of living. I believe at one moment these practices will become effortless. Working with Delight Yoga has not only given me the space to go deeper into these qualities, but it has also shown me what effortless effort can feel like. I am forever grateful for this space to grow in. Not only for the teachers and our team, but for the students that practice here. The eager eyes and open hearts that come in for a class are so inspiring to see. Everyone walking their path, taking a moment for discovery and daring to truly show up on the mat. We all have our part in forming this community, but for me, it is the students who make it go round and round. What would Delight Yoga be without all of you? Thank you for showing up, which is what Right Effort is also about. Just that simple act of showing up is half the effort. Obviously there is much much more I could share about Right Effort, but I will stop here - the Middle Way ;) I hope this theme of the month can inspire you to take your practice into the world and really take the time to find joy in all moments, all emotions, in all phases of life. Be kind to yourself and take care of the space you inhabit on this earth. With this new month we are also stepping into a new season, autumn, the perfect time to slow down and redirect our energy. Watching the leaves change and fall, as we learn to let go again and again of what does not serve us any longer. Transformation. As I write these last words I am touched by my own transformation coming soon, giving birth to new life. What a joy to experience the unknown. Carrying around this theme of the month and this little one inside has been beyond inspiring, as is the connection I have found between the two. Every thought I chose, every move, even what I ate ~ it was all for the true intention and right effort of the little one growing inside of me. I leave you with a question: "How much time do you give yourself to experience the unknown each day?" This practice of the Eightfold Path has many tools ~ collect them, discover them. Take them with you. On and off the mat. With a heart full of love, Manda "Your self realization is the greatest gift you can render the world" - Ramana Maharshi
Studio News: October 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-October-2020 October begins with a powerful Full Moon in Aries setting the tone for this month. Aries is the sign of independence and strength, and its full moon today inspires inner courage. This month, ask how you can assert yourself and your needs while still showing respect for the people around you. For those concerned about how the new government measures will impact their practice: our studios are still open, and our hosts and teachers look forward to warmly (and safely) welcoming you to your next yoga or meditation practice. See our latest Corona update for more details. We sincerely believe that we will get through these challenges together with love, kindness and compassion towards ourselves and others. With love, the Delight Team Theme of the Month: Buddha's Teachings: The Eightfold Path - 6. Right Effort (Samma vayama) "From the moment I was asked to write the theme of the month for October, the journey began. I took this theme with me throughout my days, carried it with me as if it were my closest friend. It became a search not only for what I put effort into, but how I move through the world, how I talk to others, and what I choose to put in my body. What thoughts I choose to keep and how I treat myself. " Read the full blog New Class: Hormone Yoga Your hormones dictate almost every part of your life: your state of mind, behaviour, body shape, eating habits and how you react to stress. In order to be more happy and healthy, it is important that you balance your hormones. Hormone Yoga Therapy (HYT) restores the hormonal production and has a positive effect on the whole hormonal system. It is a natural treatment through specific exercises reactivating hormone production. Read more Workshops this Month This month, you'll be able to choose from workshops in Amsterdam, Den Haag, and online. AMSTERDAM Breathe to Heal with Max Strom Starting on 02 October 2020 Women's Circle** with Alixe van Ogtrop 2 October 2020 Restorative Yoga & Aromatherapy: Nourish and Ground for Autumn with Francesca Gobeille 3 October 2020 Yin Yoga Masterclass with Daphne Luttger Starting on 3 October 2020 Astanga Yoga: Practice Foundation Course with Lidewij Severins & Marilou van Hoek Starting on 4 October 2020 Ayurvedic Nutrition Course 2020 with Liese van Dam Starting on 9 October 2020 Motherheart Circle: Our mothers, our births, our babies with Lidewij Severins 9 October 2020 Energy Awareness with Juno Burger 16 October 2020 Astanga Yoga Workshop With Petri Räisänen 22 October 2020 Preparation for Birth: Partner Workshop with Kamini Stam 25 October 2020 Lu Jong Tibetan Healing Yoga** with Mariette de Kroon 25 October 2020 HypnoBirthing, The Mongan Method: 5-Week Holistic Birth Preparation Course with Kasia Pokrop Starting on 27 October 2020 Sound Bath Meditation: The Power of Sound Healing with Stacey Griffin 30 October 2020 DEN HAAG Opening Your Heart with Judith van der Klink 3 October 2020 Savasana Healing Concert with Ira Hardjosusono, Elke Brouwers, Emily van Orsouw & Ola Renska 10 October 2020 Introduction to Yoga Program with Ira Hardjosusono 10 October 2020 Preparing for Birth: Partner Workshop with Regina Németh 11 October 2020 Astanga Yoga Workshop with Petri Räisänen 16 October 2020 Bliss Meditation with Ira Hardjosusono & Ingeborg Timmerman 23 October 2020 Introduction to the Doshas with Patricia Veltri 24 October 2020 The Chakra Journey - Breath & Sound with Arno Nistal Ten Veen 31 October 2020 ONLINE Full Moon Circle: Follow the Moon with Simona Schimanovich 1 October 2020 Magical Morning Routine Workshop with Jenny Schoenmann 3 October 2020 Magical Morning Routine: 4 Week Course with Jenny Schoenmann Starting on 4 October 2020 Meditation Course: The Fundamentals** with Davide Piai Starting on 7 October 2020 Circular Breathwork Course** with Rolandjan van Mulligen Starting on 8 October 2020 Restorative Yoga Practice** with Adelene Cheong 9 October 2020 Yin Yoga Special: Deep Tissue Release with Jasmijn Koelink 10 October 2020 Special Sunday Satsang** with Satya Katiza Starting on 11 October 2020 Sva Dharma Family Gathering - Online & Live with Satya Katiza & Kevin Sahaj 16 October 2020 New Moon Circle: Set Your Intentions with Simona Schimanovich 16 October 2020 Introduction to The Mind Training** with Satya Katiza & Kevin Sahaj 17 October 2020 Special Sunday Satsang** with Satya Katiza Starting on 18 October 2020 Sacred Menopause** with Satya Katiza 25 October 2020 **For all online workshops, a Delight membership discount of 30% applies as part of the membership benefits. Note that the membership benefits are not available for Online Members. Upcoming Events Practical Updates ALL - Due to the new measures put in place by the government on the 28th of September, we strongly advise our community (students, teachers and hosts) in both Amsterdam and The Hague to wear a mask in the reception area and dressing rooms. While in the yoga class, students/teachers are free to take off their masks. - The new measures do not affect our measures any further, as we already keep the maximum capacity in our spaces beneath 30 people. Luckily, all our workshops and classes can therefore continue as planned. - We have added three new Studio Coordinators to our team: Marlot van Laren, Royce Benda, and Myrna Captijn will contribute their gifts and beautiful energies to making sure our studios run as smoothly as ever. - We have new additions to our marketing team: Robin van der Valk and Sophia Hengelbrok are working to spread the yoga-love online. Support them in their new roles with an Instagram follow ;) OUTDOOR CLASSES - We have decided to stop offering outdoor classes now that the weather outside has transitioned to autumn. We would love to invite you to make use of our studio and online classes instead. ONLINE CLASSES - As of 1 October, the Friday Online Prenatal class with Kasia Pokrop will be cancelled. - As of 1 October, the Wednesday Online Kids Yoga class with Marije Roede will be cancelled. We’ll be offering Kids Yoga Special Classes at Weteringschans instead. - As of 1 October, the Saturday Online Kundalini & Mantra Meditation class with Erica Jago will be cancelled. We’ll be offering monthly online workshops with her instead. WETERINGSCHANS - We are delighted to welcome two new teachers to our schedule at the Weteringschans: Jane Margie Saman and Lovely Uhlenbeek. - As of 1 October, Marije Roede will be teaching three new classes: Thursday | 10.00 -11.15 Astanga Led (all levels) Saturday | 10.30 - 11.30 Vinyasa (all levels) Saturday | 12:00 - 13:30 Astanga Led (all levels) - As of 1 October, Sjoerd Dragtsma will be teaching a Healing Yoga class: Wednesday | 16:00 - 17:30 Saturday | 8:30 - 10:00 DE CLERCQSTRAAT - Mysore afternoon shifts have changed from Tuesdays and Thursdays to Mondays and Wednesdays from 17.00 - 18.30 and 18.30 - 20.00. Monday classes will be taught by Josta van der Kolk, Wednesday classes will be taught by Martine Wieten. - Lidewij Severins will go on maternity leave in mid-October. Her Tuesday night Astanga Led class will be covered by Josta van der Kolk. NIEUWE ACHTERGRACHT - Sasha Van Aalst will stop teaching at Delight Yoga this month, her last class will be on 15 October. We are very grateful for Sasha’s stunning contribution to creating this beautiful Astanga Mysore community at the NA over these last years and wish her well in her next ventures - she will follow her long-time dream to foster a small, simple space for practice somewhere else in the city. - The Mysore Program at the NA will continue to run with the same schedule - Claudia Pradella and Eva Ugolini will alternate mornings for the first few months (next to continuing teaching at DC) until the Program is ready for a new teacher, probably in the spring of 2021. PRINSENEILAND - As of 1 October, the Wednesday Astanga Led Beginners Class at 16:30 will be taken over by Agnes Vissering. Need some guidance? We are delighted to guide you along your yoga path. If you have any questions or feedback, please see the frequently asked questions or feel free to contact us at any moment. We hope you will enjoy our online classes. To stay connected with our Delight community we would love to encourage you to share your home practice with us and tag @delight.yoga in your posts and stories. Take Delight in the here and now - where and whenever you please.
Full Moon in Aries
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
Right in the middle of Libra season, the full moon on the 1st of October falls into the fiery sign of Aries. While the sun is in Libra which is all about connection, relationships and harmony, the full moon highlights the opposite sign.
5 Tips For Your Magical Morning
Wisdom by Jenny Schoenmann
Every morning, we can choose how we want to feel. How we start our day greatly influences how it unfolds. We can either start in a rush, or we can pause, breathe, and take a moment to set the tone and pace for our day.
An Introduction to Kapha Dosha
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
Is your temperament mainly expressed in love and compassion? Are you a team player who gets along with everyone? It’s very possible you are of the Kapha type, one of the three primary constitutions (or body types) in the Ayurvedic system. (We all want you as our best friend. But seriously).
Yoga Playlist: Grounding Vata
Ayurveda by Victoria (Tory) Raven Hyndman
It’s the beautiful auspicious season of Autumn, it’s time for us to turn inward, to take in all that the summer has given us, the outward flow of energy turning around to go in. This is a magical time of the year, I love it so very much. I was born in this season, on the autumn equinox, so therefore perhaps it feels extra important for me to take time to reflect on what this year around the sun has taught me. But even if you are not born in this season, it is a time to become quieter again.
Donations for Moria on International Peace Day 21 September 2020
News by Delight Yoga
Earlier this month a refugee camp in Lesbos, Greece, burned down, leaving 13.000 migrants without shelter. On 21 September International Peace Day Delight Yoga will raise donations for ‘Because we Carry’.
Inner Peace Network Hosts Book Event & Masterclass with Deepak Chopra
News by Delight Yoga
Our sister organization, the Inner Peace Network, is honoured to be hosting the very first book event and masterclass with Dr. Deepak Chopra and Eddie Stern on Saturday, October 3rd.
Super New Moon in Virgo
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
On September 17th, we will have a New Moon in the sign of Virgo. It is the first in a series of three Super New Moons, meaning that it comes close to the Earth. During this New Moon, we will feel the lunar energies more strongly, emphasizing the fresh beginning that it will bring.
Science of Chakras: Sahasrara
Yoga by Erica Jago
We started our journey through the chakras with Muladhara, the Root Chakra, and now we have arrived at the top of the chakra ladder to Sahasrara, the Crown Chakra. Sahasrara means "thousand-petaled lotus flower"; the one flower in Hindu tradition that symbolizes growth through mud and muck to blossom at the crown of your head, like a halo.
Outdoor Yoga in Amsterdam and Den Haag
News by Delight Yoga
14-September-2020 The return of sunny weather calls for an updated outdoor schedule! Try something new and experience your yoga practice in unique environments. We have selected beautiful locations in Amsterdam and Den Haag - ranging from outdoor parks to the beach. All you will need is a mat and some comfy clothes.
How to practice: Jānu Śīrṣāsana C (Head to knee pose C)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Jānu Śīrṣāsana C, or 'Head to knee pose C', is the tenth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. A forward bend for all levels of students, Janu Sirsasana is also a spinal twist.
Studio News: September 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-September-2020 After a hectic summer, we're returning to reality; schools are back open, work has resumed, and we settle into normal life again. Except that this year has been anything but normal, and we're still living in uncertain times. In the midst of all this change, it's important to feel grounded and equanimous, and we are here to support you.
Buddha's Teachings: The Eightfold Path - 5. Right Livelihood (Samma ajiva)
Monthly theme by Delight Yoga
"To practice Right Livelihood (samma ajiva), you have to find a way to earn your living without transgressing your ideals of love and compassion. The way you support yourself can be an expression of your deepest self, or it can be a source of suffering for you and others." - Thich Nhat Hanh Welcome to September, and to our fifth monthly theme.
A thank you from Delight Yoga
News by Delight Yoga
Like many, other yoga and sports schools, we faced a challenge during Covid-19: how to keep our school running when no classes were allowed to take place. While most of our community stopped their Delight Memberships, there was a group of members who showed incredible support during these three months, keeping their memberships while our doors were closed.
An Introduction to Vata Dosha
Ayurveda by Anne-Sophie Eckert
Are you a creative person who struggles to find stability? Or a restless type who loves to talk? If so, then you might have Vata Dosha dominating your Ayurvedic constitution. Vata Dosha is the king of the Doshas; it brings movement, rhythm, and impulse, or in other words, it brings life.
Full Moon in Pisces
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
We have moved into earthy Virgo season. This very practical sign supports us as we return from our summer holidays, helping us get organised and find our new routines. As the sun is in Virgo, the Full Moon on the 2nd of September will fall in the dreamy, sensitive sign of Pisces. A full moon always falls in the opposite sign – reminding us to find the right balance.
How to practice: Jānu Śīrṣāsana B (Head to knee pose B)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Jānu Śīrṣāsana B, or 'Head to knee pose B', is the tenth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. A forward bend for all levels of students, Janu Sirsasana is also a spinal twist.
5 In-Depth Yoga & Ayurveda Trainings in Amsterdam 2020
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Are you a yoga or Ayurveda lover thinking about deepening your practice? Delight Academy offers authentic and profound trainings in the sister sciences of Yoga and Ayurveda, to help support your practice and find your way through living and teaching in this modern time.
Studio News: New Memberships & Membership Benefits
News by Delight Yoga
August 2020 With all the changes this year, we want to make sure you're up to date with all the benefits your membership provides. Here are the latest membership benefits - we hope you enjoy our latest offerings from the heart.
Ayurveda in the Western world: An interview with Pukka co-founder Sebastian Pole
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
We feel very lucky we got the chance to sit down and have a chat with Sebastian Pole, Pukka Herb’s co-founder and Master Herbsmith - a man who knows from experience what it means to bring Ayurveda into the Western world.
Yoga & Motherhood: Explore Prenatal Yoga
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Are you expecting a baby or just curious about the benefits yoga offers pregnant women? Prenatal Yoga gives you the opportunity to embrace your changing body and support this process by practising meditation and yoga postures, in combination with breathing- and relaxation exercises and specific poses that can be used during delivery.
New Moon in Leo
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
After the last two new moons in the waters of cancer, we have now shifted into very fiery energy. We are in Leo season! Falling into the middle of summer, this sign is ruled by the sun. August brings us the New Moon in majestic Leo.
Ganesha: Remover of Obstacles
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
Have you seen the elephant-headed statue in our studios? Ever wondered why we have those at our entrances? To celebrate Ganesha Chaturthi this week, we would like to shine our light on the elephant-headed Hindu god.
Studio News: Introducing Free Community Yoga Classes in Amsterdam
News by Delight Yoga
Yoga is for everyone Yoga is for everyone. Yes, we truly believe that. We feel it is important to make yoga more accessible and inclusive. To support the path to a more inclusive yoga world, we are happy to announce that we will offer Community Yoga classes in Amsterdam twice a week as of September.
Science of Chakras: Ajna
Wisdom by Erica Jago
If you read my previous blog posts on the chakras and Vishuddha then you’re ready for this one! The sixth chakra: Ajna, in English it’s called the Third Eye Chakra. Ajna, reveals the insight of your future, while your two physical eyes see the present and the past. An invisible yet truly powerful third eye, this is your energy centre of intuition. Ajna leads you to an inner knowledge beyond wisdom that guides you, only if you let it.
An Introduction to Pitta Dosha
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
Are you an overachiever with a penchant for success? Or a perfectionist who likes to be in control always? Chances are high you are of the Pitta type, one of the three primary constitutions (or body types) in the Ayurvedic system. Pitta types have a fire burning within that brings passion and a strong appetite - not just for food but for life.
Buddha’s Teachings - The Eightfold Path: 4. Right Action (Samma kammanta)
Monthly theme by Quinten de Haas
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my contribution to our theme of the month series. My name is Quinten de Haas and I am the General Manager at Delight Yoga. I have been with Delight for over 5 years now, and I still consider myself to be an absolute beginner to the practice of yoga, awareness, and consciousness.
Studio News: August 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-August-2020 "There are always flowers for those who want to see them." - Henri Matisse If there is one thing this year has taught us, it is to remain grateful. Finding the good in each day may be challenging, but it is possible. We can find beauty and relief all around us. Just look at nature - flowers are in full bloom, the trees above us give us shade, the water interwoven throughout the Netherlands provides play and refreshment.
Studio News: Weteringschans Back Open in August
News by Delight Yoga
Good news! As of August, our Weteringschans location will be back open. We're starting with a small schedule for the time being, but you'll be able to take your favourite early morning and evening classes at our original location once again. We’re also using this moment to try the things we always wanted to explore but never had the time for.
Astanga Yoga Workshops with Petri Räisänen this Autumn
News by Delight Yoga
We are very happy to welcome Petri back in Amsterdam and The Hague, to directly experience the therapeutic effects of Astanga Yoga - from the hands of a great healer - and to learn more about Pranayama, Asana, Tension & Trauma releasing exercises and the Mantra Om. Next to this, there will be a discussion on current topics in society and Yoga, and learning about adjustments for all bodies!
Introduction to Ayurveda: The Three Doshas
Ayurveda by Anne-Sophie Eckert
Have you ever come across the terms ‘Vata’, ‘Pitta’, and ‘Kapha’ and been confused by what they mean? These are the three Doshas, concepts unique to Ayurveda but easy to relate to. This blog post is a short introduction to the Doshas; it explores their relationship to the body, to health and well-being, and to the cycles of life.
New Moon in Cancer
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
Moving into the second half of 2020 and emerging from Eclipse Season, we will experience the second New Moon in Cancer on July 20th. After the powerful Solar Eclipse last month at the very beginning of 0 degrees of Cancer, the July New Moon falls into the sign of Cancer again. This is unusual and highlights the importance of cultivating this energy.
5 European Yoga Retreats in 2020
News by Delight Yoga
Delight Yoga hosts a variety of retreats throughout the year, all designed to create inner peace, expand your practice, and take you away from the stresses of everyday life. Here's an overview of the upcoming retreats we have planned, both in the Netherlands and abroad:
How to Practice: Jānu Śīrṣāsana A
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Jānu Śīrṣāsana A, or 'Head to knee pose A', is the tenth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. A forward bend for all levels of students, Janu Sirsasana is also a spinal twist.
What is an Ayurveda Practitioner? A conversation with Liese van Dam
Ayurveda by Francesca Ferraroni
At Delight Academy, Liese van Dam teaches advanced principles in the second year of the Ayurveda Practitioner Training as well as the upcoming 10-day nutrition course in October 2020. Next to teaching, Liese also works as an Ayurveda Practitioner and currently gives online consultations.
New Healing: Rebozo Closing Ritual
News by Delight Yoga
with Lidewij Severins During conception, pregnancy, and birth, a woman's body opens physically and energetically, to receive a new being into this world. This opening process is necessary and beautiful, to welcome our newborn with an open heart and open mind and to connect to each other on the deepest level (as the baby is naturally just as open as the mother).
The Power of Ginger
Ayurveda by Anne-Sophie Eckert
Before my Ayurvedic Practitioner Training at Delight, I had little knowledge of how powerful herbs can be. During our herbology module, I was given an assignment on ginger that led me to beautiful discoveries.
Buddha's Teachings: The Eightfold Path - 3. Right Speech (Samma vaca)
Monthly theme by Patty Louise Smit
For this month’s theme, I was asked to write about Right Speech, the third step in the Noble Eightfold Path of Buddhism. As I'm writing about the Right Speech, I have to start by being honest. The first version of this article was originally focused on ‘singing mantras for compassion’, but the events of the past few weeks have changed the way I see things, and this no longer felt like the right focus.
Studio News: July 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-July-2020 Summer is here again - and so is Delight Yoga! Today is the day we've been waiting for; the day we finally reopen our studios for the first time since we had to shut our doors in March. We were able to get through all of the ups and downs over these past few months because of the kindness and strength shown by our community - and we are so grateful for your support.
Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse in Capricorn
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
The Full Moon Eclipse on 4/5th July will be the last in the current series of eclipses. We are in intense times, having just experienced three eclipses in only 5 weeks. Altogether 2020 brings us 6 eclipses, which is rare and points to the transformative power of this year.
Delight Yoga's Safety & Social Distancing Measures
News by Delight Yoga
1-7-2020 Delight Yoga will take the following measures in accordance with the RIVM to ensure our members feel safe, healthy, and at peace in our studios. To keep our spaces and community safe, we kindly ask you all to follow these guidelines:
6 Ways Kids Yoga Benefits Your Child
Yoga by Marije Roede
“It is, in fact, nothing short of a miracle that the modern methods of instruction have not yet entirely strangled the holy curiosity of inquiry; for this delicate little plant, aside from stimulation, stands mainly in need of freedom. Without that it is surely destroyed.” –Albert Einstein
Science of Chakras: Vishuddha
Yoga by Erica Jago
If you read my previous blog posts on the lower four chakras then get ready to make some noise! The fifth chakra: Vishuddha, in English it is called the Throat Chakra. Vishuddha bridges your feeling with your thinking through creative expression and speech. The element of this energy centre is sound, providing you with the ability to listen and verbally express your needs, your desires, and your opinions, truthfully and authentically.
Delight Community Post: Our Anti-Racism Resources
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
We have been working hard on how we can best take action as a yoga school to create diversity and inclusion in the wellness space. The first step is to educate ourselves and then share our knowledge with others - we asked our beautiful community for help with this. This is a list of articles, books, documentaries, and lectures that have helped Delight learn about racism, white supremacy, and diversity in both the yoga industry and our world.
Introducing new membership benefits
News by Delight Yoga
21-June-2020 Today it's International Yoga Day! A day to celebrate yoga and that it embodies the unity of mind, body and spirit. To celebrate this special day we have a little gift for students with a Delight Membership. We are thankful for you being a part of the Delight community. Your dedication and commitment to the practice and Delight make sure that we can all grow together.
Yoga Playlist: Cooling Down Pitta
Ayurveda by Victoria (Tory) Raven Hyndman
This is the season where we all come out to play. Everyone is in a space of wanting to be outside, playing, in the park - especially after the lockdown we've had. It's a time to enjoy the warm weather, the lovely play of the fire element. This fire element gives us passion and a strong appetite - not just for food but for life. In Pitta Season you want to taste all the flavours of life, which is why we all like to travel during this time.
Studio News: Delight Yoga Reopens on July 1st!
News by Delight Yoga
The moment we have all been waiting for is finally here - after three long months, we are reopening our doors on July 1st! We cannot wait to welcome you back to our safe, fresh and beautiful spaces.
Mysore Program Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary
News by Delight Yoga
On 20 June 2010, the Astanga Yoga School Amsterdam opened its doors as the very first dedicated Astanga Yoga shala in the Netherlands dedicated to spreading the Astanga teaching in its traditional format - Mysore self-practice. 10 years later, we want to remember and celebrate that day in the same way – with a 108 Sun Salutation practice together!
What is Kids Yoga?
Yoga by Marije Roede
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old, we grow we grow old because we stop playing” –George Bernard Shaw A Kids Yoga class is very different from a yoga class for adults. In Kids yoga, children have a non-competitive and fun way to practice yoga and mindfulness through the use of songs, games and stories.
Black Lives Matter Solidarity Statement
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
Delight Yoga stands in solidarity with Black communities and the Black Lives Matter movement.
New Moon/Solar Eclipse in Cancer
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
Eclipse season is always a time of profound transformation – and we are moving through extremely intense and powerful times. Having experienced the Full Moon Eclipse at the beginning of June, which asked us to release what isn’t serving us and shed our old skins like a snake being reborn, we will now witness a New Moon Eclipse on June 21st.
How to practice: Tiryang-Mukha-Eka-Pāda Paścimattānāsana (Three limbs and face in one foot western/back intense stretch pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Tiryang-Mukha-Eka-Pāda Paścimattānāsana, or 'Three limbs and face in one foot western/back intense stretch pose', is the ninth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system.
Pitta Season: How to stay cool and balanced this summer
Ayurveda by Anne-Sophie Eckert
‘In summer time one should enjoy forests, gardens, flowers, and cool water. During the night one should sleep on the open airy roof of the house, which is cooled by the rays of the moon’. – Charaka Samhita As spring slowly turns into summer, we are beginning the transition into what Ayurveda refers to as “Pitta season”.
International Yoga Day 2020: Walk for Peace
News by Delight Yoga
On June 21st, 2020, the world will celebrate International Yoga Day. A day to come together to celebrate connection and honour all that is. Every year this special day comes along, reminding us to take a moment to feel what Yoga means to us. This year we feel the need to take our practice off the mat and into the world - join us Sunday the 21st of June for a Silent Meditation Walk for Peace.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
Ayurveda may be the oldest health system in the world, but in 2020 it’s more popular than ever. However, drinking one ‘Golden Milk’ a day doesn’t make an Ayurvedic lifestyle, unfortunately. So then, what does? And how can you integrate it into a Western lifestyle?
How to practice: Ardha Baddha Padma Paścimattānāsana (Half bound lotus western/back intense stretch Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Ardha Baddha Padma Paścimattānāsana, or half bound lotus western/back intense stretch pose, is the eighth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system.
Healing in Action: A dialogue with Kevin Sahaj
Wisdom by Anne-Sophie Eckert
Kevin Sahaj is a dedicated yoga practitioner who has been studying and practising yoga for 30 years. His approach to teaching is eclectic and draws from many different methods and teachings to help students align their lives towards awakening. He is the life partner of Katiza Satya; together they lead the Delight Yoga Teacher training programmes and offer guidance for the spiritual direction of the school.
Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
With the Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius taking place on the 5th of June, we are entering into eclipse season! Eclipses are said to bring profound transformation, opening a portal for accelerated evolution. While we usually experience four eclipses a year, 2020 will feature six eclipses – highlighting the deep transformation we are going through this year. So fasten your seatbelts, the rollercoaster ride isn’t over... And when we come out on the other side of these first eclipses in July, we will feel completely renewed.
Buddha's Teachings: The Eightfold Path - 2. Right Intention (Samma Sankappa)
Monthly theme by Joost Leeflang
For this month, I was asked to write about Samma Sankappa, the second element of the Noble Eightfold Path. It is sometimes called Right Thinking, or Right Thought. Bhikkhu Bodhi translates it as ‘Right Intention’. In my role as CEO of the Delight Group, the current situation is an interesting time to look at the right intention. Let’s first start with an explanation.
Studio News: June 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-June-2020 Do you also feel a sense of magic in the air, as if something new is ready to emerge? We are slowly crawling out of our cave, mindful and with awareness, to discover the new now. While we are preparing our studios for the re-opening on the 1st of July, we hope you will keep enjoying our online and outdoor classes this month. As we have received so many positive reactions about them, we are happy to share that we decided that they are here to stay, even when our doors are open again.
How to practice: Pūrvattānāsana (Eastern/front intense stretch Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Pūrvattānāsana, or Western/back intense stretch pose, is the seventh posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system.
Happy World Meditation Day from Delight Yoga
Yoga by Delight Yoga
On May 21st, the world celebrates meditation - the fragrance of yoga. All yoga practices are a meditative act, transformation from an unfocused to focused mind, until the thought, action and the actor are one. There are many formal and informal techniques that lead to the meditative state of being; all of them being different means that they can suit individual cultures, stages in life or psychological inclinations.
Delight Yoga's Favourite Sanskrit Words
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
Sanskrit, the most ancient of human languages, is also known as ‘Devanagari’, which literally translated means ‘language of the gods’. Since the Sanskrit words are the actual sound manifestations, we use them when chanting.
7 Ayurvedic Eating Habits to Stay Healthy during Covid-19
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
With no colleagues or stressed managers peeking over your shoulder during this lockdown, many of us are (secretly) turning to the snack cupboard. Perhaps, a few times too often. Here's how to make your COVID-19 diet Kapha proof.
How to practice: Paścimattānāsana A, B, C, D (Western/back intense stretch Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Paścimattānāsana, or Western/back intense stretch Pose, is the sixth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. Literally translated as “intense stretch of the west,” Paschimottanasana can help a distracted mind unwind.
New Moon in Gemini
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
As the sun moves from the grounded Earth sign Taurus into the light Air sign Gemini on May 20th, we might feel a real energetic shift. A mutable sign, Gemini is said to be very flexible and adaptable – and moves fast. The New Moon in Gemini on May 22nd brings the beginning of a fresh lunar cycle. The symbol for Gemini is the twins, and this duality represents exchange and interaction. Communication, exchange of ideas, trade, and technology are highlighted during this time – and the Gemini New Moon brings the opportunity to set intentions in these areas.
Delight Yoga offering Treatments & Consultations during COVID-19
News by Delight Yoga
These times of change ask for extra self-care and nurturing of our minds and bodies. We are happy to announce that we are able to welcome you again for a relaxing, rejuvenating or therapeutic treatment by one of our specialists in our serene treatment spaces.
Meditation & Mantra: Let Go of Fear and Find Peace
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
A meditation and mantra to let go of fear in oneself and to help others who have died to find peace.
How to use Ayurveda to protect your eyes from endless screen time
Ayurveda by Eva Dusch
Ayurveda is big on protecting the eyes - we can all learn how to counterbalance our heavy screen time from this multidimensional healing system. Avoiding our virtual worlds might not be an option, but good eye care is.
How to practice: Daṇḍāsana (Stick Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Daṇḍāsana, or Stick Pose, is the fifth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. The Primary Series is said to be the most demanding because it is the first series you learn as a beginner - and every beginning is hard. It is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning Yoga Therapy. It is a series for cleansing and healing the body.
Science of Chakras: Anahata
Yoga by Erica Jago
If you read my previous blog posts on Muladhara, Svadhistana, and Manipura then get ready to love this one! The fourth chakra: Anahata, in English it’s called the Heart Chakra. Anahata, the middle of all chakras, is the place where your opposites of yin and yang unify. Here you harmonize your rational and directional masculine energy with your soft and gentle feminine energy. This equilibrium helps honour the right timing of your doing with your being.
How to practice: Vīrabhadrāsana II (Warrior II Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Vīrabhadrāsana II, or Warrior II Pose, is the fourth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. The Primary Series is said to be the most demanding because it is the first series you learn as a beginner - and every beginning is hard. It is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning Yoga Therapy. It is a series for cleansing and healing the body.
Super Full Moon in Scorpio
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
In the middle of Taurus season, the Full Moon on May 7th falls in the deep, dark waters of Scorpio. It is the third and last in a series of Super Full Moons, where the moon’s orbit is at its closest proximity to the Earth. A full moon always amplifies our emotions and draws whatever we are feeling to the surface.
Buddha's Teachings: The Eightfold Path - 1. Right View (Samma ditthi)
Monthly theme by Kristin Vikjord
Buddha discoursed upon the Middle Way throughout his entire life. The Middle Way is the wisdom of living by the Noble Eightfold Path, which he, through his own studies and experience, found to be the plausible path to a good and wholesome life. And not only that; the Middle Way is also the path to happiness (by his own definition, of course). The very first step to embrace, and perhaps most importantly, to experience his eightfold path, is 'Right view', or 'pali Samma Ditthi'.
Studio News: May 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-May-2020 Can you also feel that the way you perceive, think and understand things is changing? Instead of living life in the quick, straightforward ‘Yang’ manner we are used to, the intention now is to adopt to a slower, ‘Yin’ way of living.
How to practice: Vīrabhadrāsana I (Warrior I Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Vīrabhadrāsana I, or Warrior I Pose, is the fourth posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. The Primary Series is said to be the most demanding because it is the first series you learn as a beginner - and every beginning is hard. It is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning Yoga Therapy. It is a series for cleansing and healing the body.
Delight Online: 5 Tips for Building a Home Yoga Practice
Yoga by Delight Yoga
"Nobody but you can experience the mystery of your sacred Body, Heart and Mind, and the only way to find out is to turn your eyes towards yourself and explore the sacred mystery of 'who am I'." - Kevin Sahaj Practising yoga at home is a very different experience from taking a class in a studio. Many yogis struggle to keep up their practice without the encouragement of a teacher or the presence of fellow students, however, an online yoga practice offers the opportunity to connect with yourself in a beautiful way.
New Moon in Taurus
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
Taurus season has started, bringing us the New Moon in Taurus on the 23rd of April. After the beautiful Super Full Moon in Libra two weeks ago, this New Moon falls in Taurus – the other zodiac sign ruled by Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and the divine feminine – gifting us even more heart-centred energy. An Earth sign, Taurus season coincides with a time centred around blossoming as nature fully reawakens in spring.
How to practice: Utkaṭāsana (Chair Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Utkaṭāsana, or Chair Pose, is the third posture in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. The Primary Series is said to be the most demanding because it is the first series you learn as a beginner - and every beginning is hard. It is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning Yoga Therapy. It is a series for cleansing and healing the body.
Getting to Know Yourself through 'Silent Sit'
Yoga by Royce Benda
Every morning, from 09:00-09:45, we come together to sit. Part of the gathering is guided meditation and during the other part, we sit in silence. We call it a 'Silent Sit'. We sit in silence to dis-cover silence. We sit to get to know ourselves.
How to practice: Ardha Baddha Padmottānāsana (Half-Bound Lotus Forward Bend Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Ardha Baddha Padmottānāsana, or Half-Bound Lotus Forward Bend Pose, is one of the postures in the Primary Series of the Astanga Vinyasa yoga system. The Primary Series is said to be the most demanding because it is the first series you learn as a beginner - and every beginning is hard. It is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning Yoga Therapy. It is a series for cleansing and healing the body.
5 tips for finding the right yoga class for you
Yoga by Delight Yoga
At the beginning of your yogic path, it can be difficult to decide where to start. The world of yoga is vast, with a wide variety of classes available based on an ancient background of philosophy and tradition. Here are five tips to help you take that first step:
What is authentic yoga?
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Delight Yoga offers authentic yoga. But what does this mean? The origin of yoga is rooted in the soil of the Indus Valley beneath the Himalayan Mountains. Its tradition is so ancient, that it goes back 5000 years. In Sanskrit, Yoga literally means 'union'. According to the ancient text of yoga, the intention of the yoga practice is the 'union' of body and mind to connect to your true self and find inner peace. This can be done by many traditional forms of yoga, like chanting, breathing, physical movement and meditating.
How to practice: Utthita Hasta Pādānguṣṭhāsana A,B, C (Extended Big Toe Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
The Primary Series is said to be the most demanding part of Astanga Vinyasa Yoga, because it is the first series you learn as a beginner... and every beginning is hard. It is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning Yoga Therapy. It is a series for cleansing and healing the body.
Super Full Moon in Libra
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
In the midst of Aries season and the turbulent times we are moving through, the Full Moon in Libra on April 8th brings our relationships into focus. A Super Full Moon, it is very close to the Earth and it will be the brightest full moon of the year. It shines its message clearly – that we are all in this together.
Science of Chakras: Manipura
Yoga by Erica Jago
If you read my previous blog posts on Muladhara and Svadhistana, you know what’s coming next! The third chakra: Manipura, known as the Solar Chakra in English. Located at your core, it is the seat of your power in which you find self-esteem, sense of purpose, personal identity, and individual will. Manipura represents a place where you access your PURPOSE.
Studio News: April 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-April-2020 This is a moment where transformation occurs, a tipping point. Although it might feel that your life has turned upside down, this time can also be a chance to reflect, let go of what no longer serves you, and create space for something new. Where in your life - and in the world - can you let go of attachment to old ways and routines of living that are no longer sustainable and open up to the transformation that is possible now?
Buddha's Teachings: the Four Noble Truths - The path that leads to the end of suffering
Monthly theme by Maarten van Huijstee
It’s a strange time, isn’t it? Looking around our world, there seems to be so much unrest and suffering. The Coronavirus is only adding to this, bringing huge waves of fear and uncertainty. The quest for answers to the ‘whys’, ‘hows’ and especially ‘how will it end’ is growing stronger. We anxiously follow the news, let the stream of numbers and facts rush in, and wait for others to answer our pressing questions (read: soothe our fears).
Delight's Top 10 Movies to Watch While Staying Home
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
The current challenges the world is facing are difficult for us all - but the measures asking us to stay home also offer a beautiful opportunity to expand our minds and learn about the world. Delight Yoga asked its community which movies, documentaries, and short films have inspired them along their yogic journeys.
How to practice: Pārśvottanāsana (Intense Side Stretch Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas (postures) build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called “standing positions” because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Pārśvottanāsana is the sixth of these fundamental postures.
Delight Yoga x Studio Martin Sweers
News by Delight Yoga
In these times we want to share beauty, something positive to give back to the brave and the kind. Walking past our studio on De Clercqstraat, you may have noticed posters hanging in its windows. These are part of an open-air art exhibition created by Martin Sweers. Read more about the inspiration behind this project in his own words:
How to practice: Prasārita Pādottānāsana A, B, C, D (Wide-Legged Forward Bend)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas (postures) build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called “standing positions” because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Prasārita Pādottānāsana A, B, C, D is the fifth of these fundamental postures.
Delight's Top 10 Books to Read While Staying Home
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
In the midst of the preventative measures placed by governments around the world, many of us are finding ourselves at home with the time and space to rediscover activities we were previously too busy for - reading being one perfect example. Delight Yoga asked its teachers, hosts, and team members which books have inspired them along their yogic journeys.
New Moon in Aries
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
Just a few days after the Spring Equinox, the New Moon in Aries occurs on the 24th of March. We are now beginning a new astrological year - Aries being the first sign of the zodiac as we enter into spring. Aries is the child of the zodiac and as a fire sign, it is all about initiating, moving forward, and fresh beginnings.
10 Ayurveda tips to boost your immunity for Coronavirus Prevention
Ayurveda by Martine van Beusekom
For our students and all interested, we would like to share some ayurvedic insights with you on how to support yourself in the best way in the situation that we are facing now regarding the coronavirus. These ayurvedic tips are meant to be preventive measures you can take to keep yourself healthy and support your immune system. However, if you have complaints that resemble the coronavirus, contact your doctor immediately
Studio News: Alternatives for continuing your yoga practice
News by Delight Yoga
16-3-2020 Yesterday, The Dutch government announced that all sports clubs in The Netherlands will be closed until April 6th 2020. Due to this situation, Delight Yoga will be closed until that date. We are currently working on alternatives for you to continue your yoga practice, as we believe that yoga and meditation are especially necessary in these times of fear and anxiety.
How to respond to the current climate of fear
Wisdom by Satya Katiza & Kevin Sahaj
How to respond to the current climate of fear We are living in a very interesting time in the world right now - with so many possibilities for positive growth and collective conscious evolution. There is an increasing awareness of our world as one unified planet, where borders and ideological differences are becoming less and less important and people are waking up and realizing that we are all together in this beautiful blue paradise spinning through space.
How to practice: Parivṛtta Parśvakoṇāsana (Revolved Side Angle Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas (postures) build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called “standing positions” because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Parśvakoṇāsana is the fourth of these fundamental postures.
Kapha Season: How to feel light and bright this spring
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
There is a magic about spring. After months of winter, nature’s long period of reflection, we are reminded of the beauty of change. Flowers begin to bloom, the sun peeks out from behind the clouds, and people themselves begin to brighten and reenergize.
How to practice: Utthita Parśvakoṇāsana (Extended Side Angle Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas (postures) build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called “standing positions” because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Parśvakoṇāsana is the fourth of these fundamental postures.
Full Moon in Virgo
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
In the midst of the dreamy waters of Pisces season, the Full Moon in Virgo on March 9th will help us to find solid ground again. As the Full Moon always falls into the opposite sign of the one the Sun is in, we are invited to come back into balance. While Pisces energy is mystical, dreamy, and out-there, Virgo is known for being very grounded, practical, and organised.
How to practice: Parivṛtta Trikoṇāsana (Revolved Triangle Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas (postures) build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called “standing positions” because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Trikoṇāsana is the third of these fundamental postures.
New 'Yin Experienced' Class at the Nieuwe Achtergracht
News by Delight Yoga
As of March, we will offer a new "Yin - Experienced" class at the Nieuwe Achtergracht. This class will be guided by Katrin Kögel and held on Saturdays from 20:00 - 21:30. In this class, we aim to create an oasis of stillness.
Science of Chakras: Svadhisthana
Yoga by Erica Jago
Have you read my previous post on Muladhara - the root chakra? Today, I’ll continue with Svadhisthana, the Sacral Chakra—which will be covered in-depth as part of my Kundalini Chakra Course. During this course, in our second Sunday together, we dive into the right to FEEL. As Svadisthana’s element is water, it helps the blood circulate through your hips, awakening a free flow of sensations, emotions, desires, and pleasures.
Buddha's Teachings: The Four Noble Truths - There is an End to Suffering
Monthly theme by Wessel Paternotte
“If you let go a little, you’ll have a little happiness. If you let go a lot, you’ll have a lot of happiness. If you let go completely . . . you’ll be completely happy.” - Achaan Chah In the first month of the year, we looked at The First Noble Truth: There is suffering. I am sure it sounded great when Siddhartha Gautama the Buddha explained this to his students under the fig tree, but we all know that there is suffering.
Studio News: March 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-3-2020 As we move into March and the beginnings of spring, we can feel the days begin to brighten. Flowers start blooming and the world slowly wakes up. During this transition from winter to spring, we are still in Kapha season, and can carry the heavy wet qualities in our bodies and minds. Find your flow this month - focus on what makes you feel alive, awake, and inspired.
New 'Silent Sit' Meditation Sessions at the Weteringschans
News by Delight Yoga
As of March, we will gather together for a Silent Morning Meditation every weekday from 8:00 to 8:45 at the Weteringschans. These Meditation sessions will consist of two parts - the first 15 minutes will be guided and the remaining 30 minutes we will be together in Silence.
Eddie Stern Workshop Series March 2020
Yoga by Delight Yoga
We are extremely honoured to welcome Eddie Stern back to Amsterdam for five days of workshops, lectures, and practices. Eddie is a yoga teacher, author, and lecturer based in New York City. He is known for his multi-disciplinary approach to furthering education and access to yoga, as well as his teaching expertise in Astanga Yoga.
How to practice: Utthita Trikoṇāsana (Extended Triangle Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas (postures) build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called “standing positions” because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Trikoṇāsana is the third of these fundamental postures.
Yoga Playlist: Waking up Kapha
Ayurveda by Victoria (Tory) Raven Hyndman
This playlist is intended to bring some inspiration to move the body, which can become more stagnant in the late winter and early spring. During Kapha season, we can feel physically and mentally heavy, so getting the body moving can take extra effort. Music can be used as a wonderful medicine to get things flowing.
My 5 Favourite Benefits of Prenatal Yoga
Yoga by Kasia Pokrop
The pregnancy journey is a special one, as is becoming a mother. What I discovered through my two pregnancies, teaching prenatal yoga, and working with couples during HypnoBirthing classes was that the benefits of your prenatal yoga practice will stay with you long after you give birth.
How to practice: Pāda-Hastāsana (Foot on Hand Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called 'standing positions' because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Pāda-Hastāsana, or 'foot on hand pose', is the second of these six foundational postures.
New Moon in Pisces
Wisdom by Simona Schimanovich
This month's New Moon falls in the sign of Pisces on Sunday, February 23rd. Ruled by the planet Neptune, which guides our spiritual evolution, Pisces is a water sign that is fluid, emotional, and intuitive.
How to practice: Pādānguṣṭhāsana (Foot Big Toe Pose)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Six simple Fundamental Asanas build the foundation of an Astanga Vinyasa Yoga practice. They are often called 'standing positions' because they are composed of six relatively easy standing asanas. Pādānguṣṭhāsana, or 'foot big toe pose', is the first of these six foundational postures.
Science of Chakras: Muladhara
Yoga by Erica Jago
Ever heard of your subtle body? According to yoga tradition, your subtle body is invisible and untouchable, yet it is the place where most of your energy flows. Unexplainable feelings are a good place to start when understanding your subtle body and chakras. A lump in your throat, or a butterfly sensation in your belly. Those are the energy wheels spinning in your body, either opening up or closing down.
How to practice: Surya Namaskara B (Sun Salutation B)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
For thousands of years, Hindus have revered the sun, which they call Surya (the god of health), as both the physical and spiritual heart of our world and the creator of all life itself. The sun has immense power and by becoming aware of the effects of the sun on our lives, we will begin to awaken our inherent solar forces.
Full Moon in Leo
Wisdom by Delight Yoga
Learn how to start following the cycle of the moon and tune into the natural rise and fall of energy each month. Our yoga practice allows us to return to a natural, relaxed, and inspired state so that we can take fresh energy in and release what no longer serves us. When we tune in to natural cycles, we can support this process further, which is why being aware of eclipses, full moons, and times of the day can help our practice.
Nieuwe Achtergracht Reopens its Doors on 16 February
News by Delight Yoga
We are delighted to announce the reopening of our beautiful studio Delight Yoga Nieuwe Achtergracht! After months of renovations, we will be reopening our doors with a special celebration on Sunday, February 16th. Delight Yoga Weesperstraat will close its doors on Friday, February 14th, and the regular schedule will be taking place at Delight Yoga Nieuwe Achtergracht as of Monday, February 17th.
Buddha's Teachings: The Four Noble Truths - There is a Cause of Suffering
Monthly theme by Kevin Sahaj
There is a Cause of Suffering This month's theme is the Second Noble Truth in the Buddhist view of our condition as human beings. Last month, Satya wrote about the First Noble Truth: the truth of suffering. This awareness of suffering is like the spiritual foundation that we can stand on to truly understand our condition without avoiding the reality of life.
Studio News: February 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-2-2020 February is here, a new month filled with new opportunities to grow and transform. This month is a beautiful time to celebrate love - both the romantic love we have in our lives as well as the relationships we have with ourselves. Each day is a new chance to do something for our own well-being; whether that’s attending a yoga class, meditating in the morning, or getting an Ayurvedic massage. This February, try to cultivate those loving spaces in your everyday life.
How to practice: Surya Namaskara A (Sun Salutation A)
Yoga by Delight Yoga
For thousands of years, Hindus have revered the sun, which they call Surya (the god of health), as both the physical and spiritual heart of our world and the creator of all life itself. The sun has immense power and becoming aware of the effects of the sun on our lives we will begin to awaken our inherent solar forces.
Satya's Schedule 2020
News by Delight Yoga
Katiza Satya is Delight Yoga's partner, senior teacher, and spiritual leader. She leads retreats, workshops, immersions, teacher trainings, and various courses throughout Europe, Asia, and South America. Interested in learning from Satya? Find her 2020 schedule here.
Kapha Season: How to stay warm and vibrant this winter
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
As we enter January, the winter deepens. We prefer staying in and naturally turn inward like bears going into hibernation. If there is snow outside, it creates a layer of insulation that quietens the outside world. The cold and quiet winter season is characterized by Kapha, one of the three doshas (energies) in Ayurveda.
Studio News: January 2020
News by Delight Yoga
1-1-2020 Happy New Year from Delight Yoga! This month gives us the space to reflect on the lessons we learned this past year and to set intentions for the year to come. Let January be a time to restore and recenter yourself - letting go of what no longer serves you, so you can reconnect to that space of being conscious, being happy, being you.
Buddha's Teachings: The Four Noble Truths - There is Suffering
Monthly theme by Satya Katiza
Reality as it is: There is Suffering Welcoming this new cycle of life, the ending of the old year and the beginning of the New Year, we would like to bring the light of the profound teachings of the Buddha to our Delight community. May we all feel inspired in our hearts to receive this new decade 2020! May we aspire to live and share our buddha nature in all moments of life for the benefit of all beings.
Studio News: Happy Holidays from Delight Yoga!
News by Delight Yoga
20-12-2019 Happy Holidays from Delight Yoga! During the Christmas days and on New Years the regular schedule will be replaced by different special classes. Make sure to check the schedule before you go to your favourite yoga classes.
Diving into The Bhagavad Gita: The Yoga of The Supreme Being (Chapter 15)
Wisdom by Sjoerd Dragtsma
When I received this chapter of the Gita I felt joy and an excitement to get involved with this chapter again. It describes the very ultimate realization of Creation, the Source of all manifestation, the Absolute as a direct experience while having a human body.
Studio News: December 2019
News by Delight Yoga
1-12-2019 Can you feel that winter is coming? The days slowly become darker and the air is getting colder. It is the time of year when everything slows down and gets quiet. However, if we turn too much inward, the cold and darkness can weigh us down. To keep that inner fire (Agni) burning and stay healthy we need to keep our bodies moving. What better way to do that than by practising yoga?
Diving into The Bhagavad Gita: The three modes of material Nature (Chapter 14)
Wisdom by Jonas Nathan
The Bhagavad Gita for me is all about finding the connection with God. For many of us, God is still connected with religion and some of us can have some resistance towards God. But once we start to separate God from any religion, we can start to work with a God that works in our spiritual practice. A God of your understanding or you can call it your higher power. This can be anything as long as it’s bigger than you.
Studio News: November 2019
News by Delight Yoga
1-11-2019 November has fully arrived in autumn. The leaves on the trees start to dry out, turn brown and fall to the ground. The temperature starts to drop, becomes colder and windier. And it is easy for us to get out of balance. Have you been feeling a little ungrounded and tired? Yoga can help you ground and strengthen yourself.
Vata Season: How to stay grounded and balanced in Autumn?
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
Summer is over and the heat of summer has now started to dry things out as we enter the next season, autumn. The leaves on the trees start to dry out, turn brown (Vata’s colour) and fall to the ground. The temperature starts to drop, becoming colder and windier. All these are Vata qualities and these same Vata qualities can show up in our body and mind, regardless of our constitution. So even if you are mostly pitta Prakruti (constitution),
Yoga Anatomy: Skeletal System
Yoga by Delight Yoga
The skeletal system includes all the bones and the joints in our body. This system serves four main functions: Support: It provides a support and gives firmness to the body. Protection: It protects the various delicate organs like i.e. brain or lungs. Movement: It provides surface for the attachment of muscles and itself acts as a lever. Thus along with the muscular system, it helps in the movement of various parts of the body or of the body as a whole.
Physical Anatomy Applied to Yoga
Yoga by Delight Yoga
INTRODUCTION As the practice of yoga techniques deeply influences the functions and structures of the human body, it is important to understand its constitution and the way our body works. Compared with the ancient yogic anatomical knowledge, modern anatomy is more an objective science-based on experiential and direct observations than an empirically subjective matter based on personal experiences, as the old Ayurvedic medicine was.
Studio News: October 2019
News by Delight Yoga
1-10-2019 October is the start of fall time. We, as well as nature, slowly turn inwards. The days will be shorter, the nights will be longer. The shifting of the season means that we as humans will shift too, energetically, mentally or physically. You may find yourself feeling different, more tired or it may cause some turbulence in the mind. Get ready for fall times by learning through the science of Yoga & Ayurveda: Get ready for Autumn with Patricia Veltri on 18 October.
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: Nature, the Enjoyer and Consciousness (Chapter 13)
Wisdom by Eric Weber
We can imagine poor Arjuna! Who founds himself back admit a battlefield struggling with his destiny. Maybe he can not do what is been asked from him to do, namely to kill his family, friends, and mentors in battle. The family fight escalated and the fight for power has come to its climax. Poor Arjuna must fight and still, he resists. Can he duck the responsibility of karma? Choose another outcome? Is he, Arjuna, not a hero?
The Importance of Yoga Alignment
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Alignment is the term we use in yoga to describe the precise way to do any given pose in order to maximize its benefits and minimize the risk of injury. It offers options for practitioners of all levels, shapes and sizes and encourages the use of props, modifications to find the safest and most beneficial way for each body to fully experience each pose.
Shad Darshan: The Six Philosophies of Ayurveda
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
Ayurvedic Philosophy As every healing system has a basic foundation of philosophy, Āyurvedic philosophy is based on Shad Darshan, the six philosophies of life, which developed from the ancient sages and scriptures of India.
Yoga Poses in Sanskrit
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Can’t quite tell “Urdhva Mukha Paschimottanasana” apart from “Prasarita Padottanasana”? Not sure what to do when the teacher calls for “Karnapidasana”? Not clearly visualising “Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana”? Fear not, help is on the way...
The Sanskrit Alphabet
Yoga by Delight Yoga
The pronunciation of Sanskrit is very simple: you open your mouth wide and move the tongue and lips as necessary (they are almost pure muscles and have little inertia or resistance to movement). By contrast, the pronunciation of English requires much effort, for we barely open the mouth, and instead of simply moving the tongue we move the whole jaw.
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: Devotional Service, Bhakti Yoga and the way of Love (Chapter 12)
Wisdom by Daniel Maciejewski
How to come closest to Krishna consciousness and what to do to obtain that, is the key message of this month’s theme, the 12th chapter of the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna says: “Still your mind in me, still your intellect in me, and without doubt, you will be united with me forever. If you cannot still your mind in me, learn to do so through a regular practice of meditation.
Studio News: September 2019
News by Delight Yoga
1-9-2019 September is upon us and it is all about slowing down and getting grounded. When you feel a little lost keep in mind the impermanence of life: always shifting and evolving, dying and being born again. Just as change is the only constant, there are unbroken patterns that exist within the ebb and flow of reality. When we slow down and ground ourselves, we can begin to witness the patterns, becoming aware enough to actually break free from it.
The Yamas & Niyamas
Yoga by Delight Yoga
The Yamas & Niyamas are the first two limbs of the eight limbs of yoga according to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Yama is the attitude towards our environment and Niyama is the attitude towards ourselves. They create a container for yoga to happen.
The Eight Limbs of Yoga
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Within the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali is the section called Astanga yoga (the eight limbs of Yoga). On the one hand, they are considered to be in a linear order, but on the other hand, they keep recurring at different levels in a kind of spiralling effect that supports and enhances practice. There are eight limbs of Yoga. These are:
An Introduction to Ayurveda
Ayurveda by Delight Yoga
What is Ayurveda? Ayurveda is the sacred and fantastic ancient system of medicine and healing from India, yet throughout regions of the East, there are variations of it such as Tibetan Ayurveda. It is the first-ever recorded system of healing of the physical, mental and energetic body.
An Introduction to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Yoga is considered by some to be the oldest unbroken line of philosophical/spiritual thought. It has its origins in India at the time of the Rig Veda, perhaps the oldest book in the world. It spread to the north, to the east (where it is known as Chan and Zen) and eventually to the west.
10 Fundamental Principles of Yoga
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Yoga is a complex tradition, which has a history of 5000 or more years. Beginners are easily overwhelmed by the vastness and richness of Yoga’s practice, philosophy, and literature. But there are a few underlying principles that, once grasped, provide easier access to all the numerous aspects of Yoga. Here are ten such fundamental principles:
The Origin of Yoga
Yoga by Delight Yoga
Despite more than a century of research, we still don’t know much about the earliest beginnings of Yoga. We do know, though, that it originated in India 5,000 or more years ago. Until recently, many Western scholars thought that Yoga originated much later, maybe around 500 B.C., which is the time of Gautama the Buddha, the illustrious founder of Buddhism.
10 Definitions of Yoga
Yoga by Delight Yoga
10 Definitions of Yoga There are lots of references to Yoga in Hindu scriptures, especially in the Gita, the Upanishads and other Puranas. Here’s a selection of 10 quotations from Sanskrit literature, which are trying to define or qualify Yoga:
Studio News: August 2019
News by Delight Yoga
1-08-2019 New things are blooming during the heatwave of this summer as the month of August brings us not one, but two New Moons! It is a time where a lot of exciting and new things are happening at Delight Yoga. As the Nieuwe Achtergracht will temporarily close on the 19th of August and the new location at Weesperstraat 63 will open its doors, we will surrender to and trust the magic of new beginnings.
Temporarily Closing Nieuwe Achtergracht on the 19th of August
News by Delight Yoga
31-Jul-2019 Closing Nieuwe Achtergracht on 19th of August We have important news about our studio at the Nieuwe Achtergracht that we want to share with you. We recently received word from our landlord that the foundation of our studio's building needs to be renovated.
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: To see the all within the one (Chapter 11)
Wisdom by Coen Van der Kroon
To see the all within the one How to be(come) an Ayurveda-Arjuna… Arjuna speaks to Krishna: "Pasyami devams tava deva dehe sarvams tatha bhuta-visesa-sanghan brahmanam isam kamalasana-stham rsims ca sarvan uragams ca divyan" "Now I see all the divine forms in you. The Rishis are in you. All the Sages of the Universe, I see them all. And I see no beginning, no end, or no middle. Every form in the Universe is your form." - The Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 11, verse 15
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: Yoga of Hidden Treasure (Chapter 9)
Wisdom by Reinier Dorrepaal
While knowledge of the self (selfless action or karma yoga) is revealed in the first six chapters of the Bhagavad Gita, knowledge of the union of the self through devotion in love (devotional yoga or bhakti yoga) is revealed in chapters seven to twelve. Krishna begins Chapter 9 with three verses to draw Arjuna’s undivided attention because the knowledge he is going to reveal is very important; it is the ‘Hidden Treasure’.
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: Separating the Real from the Unreal (Chapter 8)
Wisdom by Rolandjan Van Mulligen
Chapter 8, Verse 315 Krishna talking to Arjuna: "At the time of leaving the body if anyone thinks of Me, definitely, he attains Me." (Chapter 8, Verse 315) The story of the Bhagavad Gita takes place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where two sides of a family are preparing for battle. The conversation involves two characters: Krishna and Arjuna. Krishna represents our True Self and Arjuna represents the human identification with body and mind (ego).
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: Knowledge of the Absolute (Chapter 7)
Wisdom by Peter Roussel
The practitioner in yoga strives to understand the right action, this is the theme in Hatha Yoga and Bakhti Yoga as it is in the epic story of Arjuna, the Bhagavad Gita. Bhagavad Gita is compiled from stories dating from before Christ and up to about 600 years after His death. Many edits by those in power have incorporated developing ideas of society and of how to understand life.
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: The True Yoga (Chapter 6)
Wisdom by Jurre Twijnstra
Chapter 6, Verse 34-53 Arjuna asks Krishna: “O Krishna the mind is flickering unstable, strong and stubborn. I think it is as difficult as to control the wind.” Krishna explains to Arjuna: “Without doubt Arjuna, the mind is difficult to curb and is restless but it can be controlled by constant practice and non-attachment.” Reading in the Bhagavad Gita brings me back into moments and places in India every time.
Satya's Schedule 2019
News by Delight Yoga
12-Mar-2019 2019: Dive into Satsang, get to know your Self Are you ready to free yourself from your limitations, fears and confusions we are all individually and socially trapped in? As of 2019 we will continue with more Satsang at Delight Yoga, as an invitation for the ones who feel the call in their hearts to awake to the nature of being human, our right to live from true Peace, true Joy and true Love.
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: Action in Pure Awareness (Chapter 5)
Wisdom by Sido Wijga
Chapter 5, Verse 8-9 Krishna explains to Arjuna: “The knower of the truth thinks “I do not do anything at all” - though seeing, hearing, touching, smelling, moving about, sleeping, breathing, speaking, emptying, accepting, opening and closing of eyes. He is convinced that only the sense organs of the body are engaged in sense objects and the soul is actionless.”
Diving into the Bhagavad Gita: The Battlefield (Chapter 2)
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Chapter 2, verse 7 Arjuna speaks to Krishna: "Now I am confused about my duty and have lost all composure because of weakness. In this condition, I am asking You to tell me clearly what is best for me. Now I am Your disciple, and a soul surrendered unto You. Please instruct me." This is the beginning of a new year's dive into the deep Yogic and spiritual treasure of the Bhagavad Gita.
The 13 lunar cycles: The 13th Moon in January (Part 13 of 13)
Wisdom by Satya Katiza
'You are — the moment you decide to Be' by Satya After a wonderful journey of 12 moons, here we are at this invisible gate entering the last moon cycle of the year “the 13th moon in January”. With a heart full of gratitude and wisdom gathered from all the different aspects we have learned and shared in our walk on earth moment by moment, deep in ourselves we feel the Yes! We are ready to Be!
The 13 lunar cycles: Give Praise (Part 12 of 13)
Wisdom by Daphne Luttger
Life is inevitably a process of learning and maybe at some point in life’s journey, you come to the realization of the necessity of unlearning or changing the habitual patterns that we call conditioning. The importance of change for growth and transformation. We all build our personalities on the experiences we have.
Heads up: we have changed our pricing
News by Delight Yoga
02-Nov-2018 Link to FAQ We want to inform you that we have adjusted our pricing on January 1st. Please read the following to learn why and to find out what this might mean for you.
The 13 lunar cycles: Walk Tall, Woman (Part 11 of 13)
Wisdom by Patricia Veltri
The first time I heard the expression ‘She walks what she talks’ I was impressed by a powerful woman. She had so much integrity and coherence, she was so honest in the way she presented herself. With her, I understood the difference between being honest and carrying the truth. The truth has different aspects, can be seen from different perspectives. Be honest is to choose not to fake.
The 13 lunar cycles: Weaving the Web (Part 10 of 13)
Wisdom by Tianjin Lawless-Jennings
The Woman of the Tenth Moon Cycle weaves the creative web of life. She shows us that 'Mothers' come in many different forms: Aunt, Godmother, Guru, Friend. She is the special woman that you turn to for guidance, to steer you from the path of destruction, showing you the way back onto the path of creating and manifesting your dreams... of birthing your true potential through your creativity.
Why take rest on Moondays?
Yoga by Delight Yoga
On moon days we can recognize and through this recognizing, honor the natural rhythms of nature. Because if anything, nature teaches us that only change is constant. Both the new moon and the full moon create energetic experiences within us. Because of this, we see these days as yoga holidays in Astanga Yoga tradition. Lunar phases are determined by the relative position to the sun.
The 13 lunar cycles: shaping tomorrow's dream (Part 9 of 13)
Wisdom by Dolores Mae Höppener
The moon of September is the ninth moon cycle, the ninth month, that we share about the wisdom of the moon according to the native traditions. This moon is asking us to be aware that we are influencing tomorrow’s dreams; to be proactive to ensure the abundance of the future. The abundance of our children's children.
The 13 lunar cycles: She who heals (Part 8 of 13)
Wisdom by Victoria (Tory) Raven Hyndman
Theme of the Month August: She who heals by Victoria (Tory) Hyndman This month’s theme is about “She who heals”. When we look at “she who heals`’, is this an individual like a mother, a grand-mother, an energy of the Divine Mother or perhaps our true mirror? There is a girl, a woman really. She is standing on a bridge, one we all come to at some point in life.
The 13 lunar cycles: Intimacy with all that is (Part 7 of 13)
Wisdom by Katka Jacz
Theme of the Month July: Intimacy with all that is by Katka Jacz To be at home with yourself and the world around you, happy and intimate with whatever is. Those of you who have had this experience know this is a possibility. But to live like this more constantly, is this possible?
The 13 lunar cycles: Storyteller (Part 6 of 13)
Wisdom by Lidewij Severins
Theme of the Month June: Storyteller She who speaks the Truth by Lidewij Severins The Moon of June represents the woman who speaks the Truth. She who shares from her heart; truthfully, concise and clear. Through stories, we learn to have faith, to be humble and to keep our innocence.
Breathing in Ecstasy
Yoga by Arno Nistal Ten Veen
Breathing in Ecstasy In this article, Arno gives you some insights into how the way you breathe is directly related to how you feel, and how you exchange energy with life itself with all of your life.
The 13 lunar cycles: Listen to your inner voice (Part 5 of 13)
Wisdom by Martine van Beusekom
Listen to your Inner Voice Every month the theme of the month is inspired by the book 'The 13 Clan Mothers', in which the writer, Jamie Sams, shares her Native American wisdom on what the moon teaches us, all 13 moons have their own teaching, helping us to Truth. Martine wrote about what the 5th moon brings us.
The 13 lunar cycles: 'Looks far Woman' (Part 4 of 13)
Wisdom by Ira Hardjosusono
Living the Mandala of Life. First of all, I’m grateful and happy to have been asked to write about the theme of the 4th April moon. Inspired by the many stories of women on the path, I started writing directly from the heart, inviting you to join me to go back in time.
The 13 lunar cycles: Weighs the truth (Part 3 of 13)
Wisdom by Ingeborg Timmerman
She who sees the truth The third moon of the year teaches us that truth has many different faces. We need to look at all sides of a situation to find out what is real and accept this truth although we may not like it. It teaches us that we can find our own personal truth by seeing and accepting the consequences of our actions and life experience. We need to look at what we can learn from our deeds.
The 13 lunar cycles: Wisdom Keeper (Part 2 of 13)
Wisdom by Alixe van Ogtrop
As honoring nature's rhythms and cycles connect us more easily with our own True Nature, we will write about the 13 lunar cycles. This year 13 women have been asked to write about the 13 lunar cycles. I have been asked to write about the second moon of the year with the theme 'Wisdom Keeper'.
The 13 lunar cycles: Talks with Relations (Part 1 of 13)
Wisdom by Kristin Vikjord
NATURE “Weaving the rhythms of the seasons, She rides the Winds of Change” I was born under the Aurora Borealis. Under the dancing Lights of winter. I grew up in moonlit darkness. In the land of the midnight sun, a land where the sun never sets. Where the silence is more still than the first stillness. And time is present, like moments that never pass. Blue hours of vastness. Raw. Pure. Where heaven meets earth in winds as wild as your wildest dreams.
What is Satsang? Getting to know your Self
Yoga by Satya Katiza
Dive into Satsang, get to know your Self. Are you ready to free yourself from your limitations, fears and confusions we are all individually and socially trapped in? Satsang is an invitation for the ones who feel the call in their hearts to awake to the nature of being human, our right to live from true Peace, true Joy and true Love.
The Light within
Yoga by Satya Katiza
The Light Within We are the very source of all what we are searching for; healing, happiness, peacefulness, freedom or perfection, but it is so easy to be missed. Even when we try to point towards it is already too far, because you can't point to that which is already here, and what you really are.
What is a Women's Circle? Living real sisterhood
Yoga by Satya Katiza
What is a Women's Circle? A sacred space and sharing time to the fact that we are so many women practicing Yoga and finding a way to live consciously and making a difference in our realities and the world we are in. With good intentions, we enter the path of yoga, inner growth, inner reflection, etc. We find answers, however, it seems that there is always something missing... We are somehow in need of refuge and a healthy ground to re-construct and reevaluate our lives. Women's time has come now To heal and reconnect with our true wisdom, we need to awake and take responsibility for our deep disappointments, hurts, pains and denials and allow the healing to take place. This inner healing is the healing of Humanity, we as women need to take the leap NOW, for the benefit of our self, our loved ones, our children and finally heal all of our relations, (and) to give back to humanity what has been lost. Women give birth to Life All that is materialized in the world created by humans, is the creation of women because we allow it consciously and unconsciously. In that way, women are responsible for how planet earth is affected by our human kingdom. And by that, we have a role. Just like men have their own role. Only we (yes we do this ourselves:)) have been neglecting or true role, our true nature. That's why it's women time now, to heal what is preventing us from being who we truly are. When we step into that femininity, we automatically give space for men to do the same. We can start weaving this new reality cause we, women, are so near to true nature: our physical conditions, our moon cycle, remind us constantly that we are open and vulnerable, so we can love infinitely and with no conditions. Embracing this fact gives us freedom, strength and wisdom! Let's weave a new reality. Together. In sisterhood. Respecting all, loving all, including all men. We are opening the door for that. Women Circle at Delight Yoga Every month the classes are connected to the theme of the month, in line with the moon. Most probably most of you will be connected with this time naturally. The wisdom of the moon themes come through Jamie Sams. She shares this in the book 'The 13 Orginal Clan Mothers'. Our intention is to create real sisterhood. A save community to share, be vulnerable, liberate pain and awaken the True woman that you are. We will come together in circle’s monthly, planned around the full moon. There are 13th moon cycles in a year and therefore 13 circles. There will be practices and time for sharing and connecting with other sisters. It's a special class, bookable a week before through the regular schedule. We are looking forward to sharing and growing together!
The Opening & Closing Mantra of Astanga Yoga
Yoga by Sasha Van Aalst
The Opening Mantra vande gurūṇāṁ caraṇāravinde sandarśita svātma sukhāvabodhe | niḥśreyase jāṅgalikāyamāne saṁsāra hālāhala mohaśāntyai || ābāhu puruṣākāraṁ śaṅkhacakrāsi dhāriṇam | sahasra śirasaṁ śvetaṁ praṇamāmi patañjalim || I bow to the lotus feet of Gurus The awakening happiness of one’s own Self-revealed, Beyond better, acting like the Jungle physician, Pacifying delusion, the poison of Samsara.
Astanga Mysore Program at the Nieuwe Achtergracht
News by Delight Yoga
29-Sep-2017 We are happy to announce that we will be offering daily Mysore classes with Sasha van Aalst at the Nieuwe Achtergracht starting from November. The transmission of this practice has always been from one person to another, in an intuitive, receptive and guiding relationship. The practice will be taught one-on-one in the supportive context of community.
The Niyamas: Ishvara Pranidhana - Surrender to the divine
Wisdom by Wessel Paternotte
The Niyamas: Ishvara Pranidhana - Surrender to the divine The theme of this month is Ishvara Pranidhana, the last one in the series of niyamas. Ishvara refers to God, and Pranidhana generally means self-surrender. Ishvara Pranidhana is the practice of self-surrender in deep contemplation on the eternal source of all. In the practice of Ishvara Pranidhana, we let go of our thoughts, beliefs and ideas.
The Niyamas: Svadhyaya - Studying the Self
Wisdom by Wessel Paternotte
The Niyamas: Svadhyaya - Studying the Self The theme of the month is Svadhyaya, the fourth of the niyamas from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. The term Svadhyaya stems from the words Sva (Self or Soul) and Shyaya, which comes from dhyia (to meditate, study or contemplate) and so Svadhyaya means Studying the Self. DJ Khaled would call this a Holy Key, as knowing your Self, and being your Self, is what yoga is all about.
My teacher training experience with Delight Yoga
Yoga by Dolores Mae Höppener
Now, I feel what it is to be a spiritual being having a human experience. Now, I - and every particle in my body - know why I practice yoga on the mat. Now, I really dare to choose to be the Light. Now, I have the tools to stay Here. Now, I operate with faith.
The Niyamas: Tapas - Inner Fire and Selfless Love
Wisdom by Wessel Paternotte
TĀPAS Inner Fire & Selfless Love Tāpas, the third of the niyamas from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, has been translated into English as heat, spiritual austerities, self-discipline and inner fire. Through Tāpas, mastery of the body, mind and senses can be achieved. Think of Tāpas as a flame inside of you, which motivates you and keeps you on track with what is really important in life.
The Niyamas: Santosha - Contentment
Wisdom by Wessel Paternotte
The Niyamas: SANTOSHA - Contentment This month we focus on the practice of Santosha, developing contentment and equanimity of mind. I believe the first time I heard the word equanimity was during my first vipassana retreat. The teacher, S.N. Goenka, was speaking about it a lot. He told me that I should keep a calm, content and equanimous mind, no matter what the circumstances may be.
The essence of Immortality
Yoga by Satya Katiza
Ohm ॐ, We are honored to have received the teachings and blessings of Maratika Rinpoche at Delight Yoga on May 15th and 18th. We are very grateful to share one of his teachings transmitted in Amsterdam on May 18th, 2017 through this blog. Besides the texts, we hereby share the pictures for visualization of HRIH and Buddha Amitayus with you also.
The Niyamas: Saucha - purity, cleanliness and clearness
Wisdom by Wessel Paternotte
The Niyamas: Saucha - purity, cleanliness and clearness When I first heard about the niyamas as being the rules of yoga, I was not a fan. I never liked rules and I had a slight tendency of breaking them. Luckily, over the years my perception changed, and I began to understand that the niyamas are not meant as rules that you simply must follow to be a good person. I began to appreciate them as spiritual, mystical and yet very practical guidelines for a happy life. And I love being happy.
The Yamas: Aparigraha - Non-attachment
Wisdom by Maarten van Huijstee
The Yamas: Aparigraha - Non-attachment I will reflect on the fifth and last Yama: Aparigraha. The Yamas, “the don’ts”, are considered the natural laws of Yoga and thus Aparigraha is one of the five essential restraints. The word Aparigraha stems from the word parigrah which means ‘to crave’, ‘to seek’ and 'to seize’ possessions. It not only means the action but also includes the intent; the attitude of craving and possessiveness.
The Yamas: Brahmacharya - Follow the Universal self inside
Wisdom by Maarten van Huijstee
The Yamas: Brahmacharya - follow the universal self ride I will reflect on the fourth Yama “Brahmacharya”. The Yamas are an integral part of the path of Yoga and are seen as the natural laws of life which are guiding our action, words and thoughts.
The Yamas: Asteya - Non-stealing
Wisdom by Maarten van Huijstee
The Yamas: Asteya - Non stealing I'll be continuing my exploration of the Yamas, which are seen as the natural laws of Yoga and apply to all aspects of life, including restraints in one's actions, words and thoughts. This time we will reflect on the third Yamas, "Asteya", which translates to "non-stealing".
The Yamas: Satya - Truthfulness
Wisdom by Maarten van Huijstee
The Yamas: Satya - Truthfulness I’ll be writing about the five Yamas, an integral part of the eightfold path of Yoga. The Yamas are seen as the natural laws of Yoga which apply broadly in life and include self-restraints in one's action, words and thoughts. We’ll be having a closer look at the second Yama “Satya” which translates to “Truthfulness”
The Yamas: Ahimsa - non violence, non harming
Wisdom by Maarten van Huijstee
The Yamas: Ahimsa - non violence, non harming Several weeks ago, my teacher, Katiza Satya asked me to write the Theme of the Month for the first months of 2017. I was asked to write about the five "Yamas", one of the limbs of the eightfold path of Yoga. The Yamas are seen as the natural laws of Yoga which apply broadly in life and include self-restraints in one's action, words and thoughts. In January we start with "Ahimsa" which literally means "do not harm".
The Delight of Being: Let it be as a life strategy
Yoga by Juno Burger
The Delight of Being A senior monk and a junior monk were traveling together. At one point, they came to a river with a strong current. As the monks were preparing to cross the river, they saw a very young and beautiful woman also attempting to cross. The young woman asked if they could help her cross to the other side.
Just being is enough
Yoga by Kevin Sahaj
Maybe you have this experience that you are thinking to much. We are always planning, worrying, solving some problem, judging what we see as good or bad, liking or disliking. Is there ever a time when we are just being? Simply experiencing life as it is in whatever colour, sound, taste and touch is unfolding NOW by NOW, is a rare event.
The Importance of Your Yoga Practice
Yoga by Kevin Sahaj
Do you have a practice of yoga that you do regularly at home by yourself? If the answer is yes then you may have understood what is the real meaning of yoga practice: to dive deeply into yourself and find what is truth.
Bhagavad Gita: Hatha Yoga (Part 4 of 4)
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Bhagavad Gita: Hatha Yoga (Part 4 of 4) Mudra, Bandha and Kundalini Energy udghāṭayetkapāṭaṃ tu yathā kuṃchikayā haṭhāt | kuṇḍalinyā tathā yoghī mokṣhadvāraṃ vibhedayet || 105 || As a door is opened with a key, so the Yogî opens the door of mukti by opening Kuṇḍalinî by means of Haṭha Yoga.
'Why do you want to meditate?' asked master Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche
Yoga by Dana Marshall
Why do you want to meditate? At ten years old, sitting in front of meditation master Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, I was asked “ Why do you want to meditate?”
Bhagavad Gita: Hatha Yoga (Part 3 of 4)
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Bhagavad Gita: Hatha Yoga (Part 3 of 4) Part 3. Pranayama practice according to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika: athāsane dṝdhe yoghī vaśī hita-mitāśanaḥ | ghurūpadiṣhṭa-mārgheṇa prāṇāyāmānsamabhyaset || 1 ||
Bhagavad Gita: Hatha Yoga (Part 2 of 4)
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Bhagavad Gita: Hatha Yoga (Part 2 of 4) Asana practice according to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. The second chapter of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika explains asana as the foundation of the Hatha Yoga training.
Why Meditate? Finding Sanity in an Insane World
Yoga by Kimberly Poppe
Why Meditate? Finding Sanity in an Insane World Each morning when I wake up and look at the news, it feels like the world has gone insane and that we are in some apocalyptic horror movie with a script so badly written that no one would believe it is actually real.
Bhagavad Gita: Hatha Yoga (Part 1 of 4)
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
The purpose of Yoga according to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika Hatha Yoga is the system of yoga we follow when we practice yoga asanas, pranayamas, bandhas etc. Any practice that involves these aspects is Hatha Yoga, every "style" of yoga you are practicing it is directly related to Hatha Yoga.
Bhagavad Gita: Bhakti Yoga (Part 2 of 2)
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Bhagavad Gita: Bhakti Yoga (Part 2 of 2) The way of the heart, devotion and sacred space. This month's theme from the Bhagavad Gita is a continuation of last months theme: the path of "Bhakti " yoga, the yoga of opening the heart in devotion.
Opening Weekend Prinseneiland
News by Delight Yoga
11-May-2016 Yes! As you might know, we're opening up our fourth yoga school in Amsterdam on Prinseneiland. We're really excited that we're heading towards the Opening weekend! In the weekend of 14/15 May everybody is welcome to join us for some free(!) yoga classes, meditation, pranayama, massages, healings, clearings, music and satsang.
Bhagavad Gita: Jñana Yoga, the Yoga of Knowledge
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Jñāna Yoga, the yoga of knowledge This month's theme from the Bhagavad Gita is the path of jñāna yoga, or the yoga of knowledge. jñāna is not knowledge in the same way we normally understand the word. jñāna is like a fire that burns away that which is not true.
Bhagavad Gita: Bhakti Yoga (Part 1 of 2)
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Bhakti Yoga The path of Bhakti Yoga is described in the Gita as the quickest and most powerful of the paths of Yoga. The whole of the Bhagavad-gītā is a dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna.
The Path of Krishnamacharya
Yoga by Adela Serrano
Tirumali Krishnamacharya (1888-1989) is also known as “The Father of Modern Yoga”. He was born in the south of India, in a Brahmin family and was trained in the study of the Vedas by his father, the Vedas are the basis of what is known as Hinduism.
Bhagavad Gita: Karma Yoga
Wisdom by Kevin Sahaj
Karma Yoga The first of the Yogas from the Bhagavad Gītā: Karma Yoga. Karma Yoga is the path to realization by acting selflessly in the world with the knowledge of our inherent interdependence with all things.
Find your sacred space: an interview with Tijn Touber
Yoga by Michel Fijn
Once upon a time there was a man; a virtuoso of the guitar and member of one of Hollands most beloved and famous bands in the eighties, Lois Lane. He seemed to have it all – the most desired woman in Holland and a band who caught even the curious eye of superstar Prince, who would later take the whole ensemble on a world tour – all of them except for this man.
Find your sacred space: an interview with Katiza Satya & Kevin Sahaj
Yoga by Michel Fijn
To set foot inside the sacred space of Katiza Satya and Kevin Sahaj is to feel submerged in the very essence of their being. The smell of sandalwood incense, the simple tones of dark wood, earthly colours and matted white walls, the many statues and tokens of those who represent the divine, holding the space that is their home now;