Yoga Class with Rachel

Practice grounding and energising yoga postures, breathing and meditation to calm the nervous system and enliven the body. No matter what your level of experience you will feel nourished and supported in this class.

Each week we will explore a different part of the body, or designated theme. A class starts with a simple breathing and centring practice, leading  to a supportive asana practice and concludes with either a mudra sequence, mantra, meditation and relaxation. 

Upasana with John

A practical meditation method woven so seamlessly into our lives that not even we notice it being there.  

Adi Shankara described Upasana as that meditation where “whatever is meditated upon” is completely identified, absorbed with Self, and unified with as much as one identifies self-consciousness with one’s body. The two that become one, the “you are that”.

The “someone or something” in Upasana can be a symbolic deity or an abstract concept like space or formlessness, states Shankara. In the case of a deity, Upasana is being one with god, which manifests as “be a god”, and by “being a god, he attains the god.”

The Upasana technique is a practical daily meditation. Bringing in abstract concepts such as space and silence, John shows us how we can experience Self wherever we are. 

The beauty of Upasana is we don’t even have to get out of bed to do it!

Foundations in Self Knowledge with John

Since man first questioned and contemplated his existence, the author-less teaching of ATMA VIDYA  आत्मा विद्या  (Self-Knowledge) has given him the answer. Answering the one thing unquestionable: ourselves, after getting lost in taboo and secrecy, rescued from orthodoxy, the modern revival of Self-knowledge in English, has brought the core teaching of the veda/upanishads back to life.

In this dynamic series of 12 lectures, John Weddepohl (Siddhartan Dharmadeep) takes us on a journey of revelation to the ultimate understanding and explosion of the unquestionable pure Self. Drawing on the revelatory knowledge of each session, as we let go our false notions of self, an inexplicable joy erupts as the timeless beauty of what is unquestionably present is revealed. As we revel in the understanding and completeness of the vision, seeing the ocean of joy and brilliance of ones original life’s purpose shine forth, what mystifies and stupefies us most is; How did I not see it myself in the first place!

Culminating in a final interactive session dedicated to Q&A students can verify and clarify any doubts they may still have.

“Sitting with my Master, a PhD in English for 7 years in Tiruvanamalai (2004-2011) mandated to teach, encouraged by the response, I have been travelling and sharing ever since.”- John Weddepohl

Watch an Introduction to Self Knowledge video here

Members will have access to the recordings of the talks during the 12 weeks and beyond through our ashram virtual library.

Please note: Experience has shown, those who are present for all the ‘live’ classes and engage via the homework tasks and commit to participating until the end of the course, benefit the most from the lectures. Recordings are intended only as a way to review the class and not as a suitable substitute.

Advanced Self Knowledge with John

Following on from our foundations course John takes a specific text and deconstructs it to reveal the ultimate reveller, Your Self. This class is a weekly commitment over a period of 6 months. Sessions will be recorded. However to gain the most out of the course live attendance is preferred.

As each of us is different, so each course varies according to its participants, who are encouraged to communicate their process with the teacher privately through homework tasks. Culminating in a final interactive session of dedicated Q&A where students can clarify any questions they may still have.

Please note: Experience has shown, those who are present for all the ‘live’ classes and engage via the homework tasks and commit to participating until the end of the course, benefit the most from the lectures. Recordings are intended only as a way to review the class and not as a suitable substitute.

Meditation, Mudra and Mantra practice with Rachel

Learn traditional mudras and mantras accompanied by concentration practices to sooth the mind and emotions. Set an intention for the month and gain inspiration for your home practice.

There will be no physical postures in these classes. Anybody at any level of experience can join.

Please note these classes are for members only and replays will be available in our virtual ashram library.

Advanced Pranayama with John

Calling all experienced yogis who want to learn Siddha meditation and develop their breathing expertise.

Siddharthan John Weddepohl has been doing Siddha Kriya Yoga for the past 45 years. As the appointed representative of the Bhoganathar Pulipani Siddha Parampei, a tradition which traces itself directly back to SHIVA,  he is looking forward to enrolling students in a unique yoga program.

There are a few stipulations: firstly, applicants must be able to sit comfortably in SIDDHASANA and you need to have a routine yoga practice.

Here is a message from John on why these postures are important.

“We are going to explore the bodies ability to draw on Ojas and learn how to manage SWARA, the flow of SUN MOON – Prana/Shakti energy in the body.  If you want to have fun with your body and explore its limitless potential, come and learn what yoga is truly about and extend your capabilities and understanding.

This is not ‘studio yoga’.  Although we start in the studio, we will also be taking it outdoors with the intention of continuing as a group after this initial program.  Also, this is not an asana practice.  Instead you have been preparing your body to step into next-level pranayama and feel energetically ready to be guided by an experienced, embodied teacher. “

Please note: These are members only classes and for participants with a foundation in pranayama and serious interest in cultivating a regular practice.

Q and A with Rachel and John

Join us for a monthly discussion around Yoga, Self Knowledge and the practices we are exploring together. This can be anything thats coming up in your practice, through the Self Knowledge courses or even  questions and comments arising from participating in our on demand courses and classes.

These sessions are for members only.

One to One Mentoring with Rachel and John

Seeking personalized support to enhance your yoga practice and teaching? Join Rachel and John for exclusive one-to-one mentoring. Experience hour-long sessions and text support via the Sundaram Community Channel. Gain confidence in integrating teachings into your life. Embrace comprehensive and exciting guidance with Rachel and John today.

These sessions are at an additional cost to membership on the Ashram and welcome to all regardless of membership. Get in touch to find out more.

Ishta Mala Sequence

Ishta Mala is a practice for life! A set sequence of poses designed to balance the doshas and prepare the body to be able to sit comfortably for the pranayama practices.  These classes are available as replays in the Virtual Ashram Library for all levels of membership. Practice the sequence and reap the benefits.

Kirtan

Chanting and singing the names of the divine is a wonderful way to let go, feel and express our devotion and join in community. Join us in this beautiful Bhakti practice. No singing experience required and there is no charge for this offering. Just click the link and join us