Dharma Yoga

Dharma Yoga is a type of Hatha-Raja yoga – a graceful, strong and playful practice created by beloved guru, Sri Dharma Mittra in 1975. Compared to other types of yoga these days, Dharma Yoga can be described as more classical or traditional, integrating aspects of all eight limbs of yoga into the practice. 

Ahimsa (compassion, non-violence) is a key ethical concept from the Yamas that is ingrained into every Dharma Yogi, and students are often encouraged to practice svadhyaya (self-study) from the Niyamas – “Use every tool available!”, as Dharma says. The asana expression of the practice is split between a flowing vinyasa sequence during the first half and more stationary poses held longer during the second half – a combination of balancing postures, inversions, arm balances, backbends and twists – with the aim of bringing the yogi into states of focus, strength, confidence, opening, alignment, surrender and meditation. While classes open with some mantras and intention-setting, they conclude with a guided, deep healing savasana and pranayama.

In a nutshell, one can say Dharma Yoga is a modern-day expression of an ancient practice – perfect for the spiritually curious wanderers looking for their way home…