SvÄdhyÄya Sessions: Yoga Study Group
with Jesska Leroy Ā· The ideas behind the practice
SvÄdhyÄya is often translated as self-study, but it is also the study of wisdom, of the human condition and of ourselves through the lenses and ideas we encounter. SvÄdhyÄya Sessions is a place to explore yourself more deeply through the overlaps between yoga philosophy, modern psychology, neuroscience, mythology, Taoism and Western anatomy and physiology. It is also a way to take your study and practice further without committing to a full yoga teacher training.
Each season unfolds across three monthly Sunday gatherings at Flolo Helensvale, with one central theme per session. Expect curated readings so you never have to navigate dense texts alone, guided teaching that unpacks where the ideas come from, facilitated group discussion and an experiential practice (meditation, contemplation, breath, embodiment or self-inquiry) that brings the philosophy out of the intellectual realm. Audio recordings are available afterwards if you miss a session in person.
Sign up for one gathering ($65) or for the whole Spring season ($180). The season price includes reflection prompts and practices between sessions, a private WhatsApp community group and a seasonal study guide covering the three themes, key concepts, readings and further study. No philosophy background needed, only curiosity about why we practise the way we do.
Please note the study group is not included with studio memberships and tickets are non-refundable.
- Sunday 27 September
Session 1: SvÄdhyÄya: the art of studying the self
What does it actually mean to study the self? What even is the self? We explore the historical yogic roots of svÄdhyÄya, examine the identities you carry and begin looking at the difference between who you think you are and what you can simply observe within yourself.
Already held - Sunday 25 October
Session 2: Saį¹skÄra: the patterns that become us
How do repeated identities, thoughts, behaviours and experiences shape who you have become? This session explores saį¹skÄra as the deep grooves of conditioning and how awareness can help you recognise the patterns you keep living, consciously and unconsciously.
Book this session ā - Sunday 29 November
Session 3: SÄkį¹£Ä«, Puruį¹£a and Prakį¹ti: understanding the seer and the doer
If thoughts, emotions and behaviours are constantly changing, what is the part that is unchanging? How do you relate to the physical world as a metaphysical being? We explore the yogic distinction between the witness and the changing self and what this can teach you about awareness, identity and freedom.
Book this session ā