Yoga
Danka is a practitioner of Ashtanga Yoga and Vinyasa Krama Mandiram, two disciplines that may seem in opposition at first glance. She combines both in her teaching to tailor optimally to the needs of her individual students. Danka teaches introductory and advanced classes, guided classes and self-practice.
Self-realisation and self-knowledge are at the heart of what Danka wants to pass on to her students, so her yoga classes are focused on what each student needs on their particular journey – yoga is not about achieving a goal, but about cultivating a sustainable practice for yourself.
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga is a highly traditional, dynamic and challenging variety of yoga, based on a fixed sequence of advanced postures performed to the rhythm of the breath. This sequence is traditionally meant to be performed six days per week in the morning, on an empty stomach. As such, true Ashtanga yoga is difficult to combine with regular Western lifestyles for most people and requires a high degree of commitment.
Danka aims to bring the benefits of Ashtanga, which include improved strength and balance, the cultivation of personal discipline and a strong breath practice, to students of every level and in every situation, by adjusting the intensity of Ashtanga sequences to the individual needs. Ashtanga yoga is best suited for practitioners who want to cultivate their own (almost-)daily home practice, rather than simply visiting a yoga class once a week.
Vinyasa Krama Mandiram
In contrast to Ashtanga, Vinyasa Krama Mandiram (VKM) is a form of yoga that is much more focused on the individual’s needs. Poses and sequences are adjusted to suit any body type, including those with physical conditions or disabilities. VKM sequences contain more variation and are aimed at cultivating balance between yin & yang, between action and stillness.
In order to find a style of yoga practice that suits each practitioner best, Danka will talk extensively with every student to provide something that suits their needs and lifestyle. The focus is not on one rigid system of yoga, but on the general wellbeing and progression of every individual. Physical, mental and emotional needs are all taken into account to create a therapeutic way of teaching and learning.
Private classes or group classes?
There are benefits to both private and group classes, and what works best for you will depend on your needs and preferences. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Danka to discuss the best options.
Private classes
A private class is completely tailored with your needs in mind. Yoga is a process of self-discovery, and a private class will help you go deeper and faster in this process. Danka will design a pose sequence that benefits you optimally and that you can practice at home. Her detailed guidance will mean that you can safely try more advanced yoga poses with no risk of injury. And of course, private classes will be scheduled when it suits you best.
Group classes
Many of us may struggle to create time and space at home in our busy lives for a regular yoga practice, and may benefit instead from the structure and schedule of regular group classes. These classes can take you out of your comfort zone and encourage you to try poses outside of your usual vocabulary. Additionally, you will meet like-minded people, and sharing the energy of a yoga class is truly a wonderful feeling.
