In the beginning of something new we never really know what we are getting ourselves into or how far it will take us, and this is very much the case for YogaJi.
What initially started as a necessity to help remember the new sequence of postures written on a scrawly note in Sanskrit by my master has turned into a creative outlet.
It was the beginning of a new Series after becoming accomplished in Sthira Bhagah Samapta B, or 4th Series in the Ashtanga Yoga Method, and the start of a new passion, often affectionately referred to as “My Men”. Upon completing the diagrams of the Series it seemed fitting to draw all the postures that lead into Fifth and now also Sixth Series.
Practicing as dedicated Ashtanga Yoga practitioners we all begin at the beginning, and Suryanamaskara was the first of the pieces of artwork to be brought to life. From Suryanamaskara B we enter Primary Series, Yoga Chikitsa, and our healing journey has begun, and revisited often, beginning anew each practice and within each practice with each breath. Practice takes time, a lot of time, piles of patience and gritty perseverance, the repetition of the practice reveals all our tendancies so we are then able to break them down, cleansing and purifying body and mind to ultimately come to a state of unification or Samadhi.
As the name YogaJi suggests we offer deep respect to the ancient tradition of Yoga, to all the masters and practitioners that paved the way, their dedication to ensure preservation of Yoga to present times, to continue to benefit us all to heal so we can live deep, beautiful and meaningful lives.
The Artwork…..
In a sense the artwork has been an extension of my practice, it too has taken years to develop to this point and continues to evolve, a passion project which now is ready to be shared.
Firstly hundreds of asanas were drawn, then templates made for each asansas, everything under handcrafted has been made from scratch, the recycled paper in the cards, the large scale stensils, all painted by hand, and sewn.
Our environment cared for by using paints that are eco friendly, 100% solvent Free, Soil Association Approved, meets Global Organic Textiles Standards (GOTS). The way in which the paint on the hand made artwork is applied, though time consuming makes for minimal waste. Use of cotton materials, often unbleached raw calico.
The handmade items are an original collection, they have differentiations which is what makes each piece unique in its own right, customised by being created individually using brush and time.
Just as we humans are perfect in our imperfections, so too are these lovely pieces of useful works of art, there are irregualrities which makes each piece original and special in its own way.
Please note the artwork is to enhance your Yogic life, help you in your asana journey, help remember your sequence, or as a reminder to practice even when you're not on your mat, maybe to simply just to enjoy having more Yoga in your life.
It is not intended to replace the guidance from an experienced Yoga teacher.
All artwork is locally designed and made in South East Queensland, Australia
YOGAJI wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, to pay respect to the Elders, past and present and emerging, and extend respect to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people from all Nations of this beautiful land.
