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The Shala Within

Master your Mind through Yoga

Fundamentals First

Starting point

7 day introductory course

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Hi I am sushmitha 

Hi, I'm Sushmitha, but you can call me Sushi. As a Yoga teacher (RYT 500, AYI 200) from Chennai, India, I bring over a decade of practice and teaching experience to my work. My journey with yoga began at age 8, and I later formalized my training in Hatha Yoga at Kaivalyadhama, one of India's oldest and most prestigious yoga schools.

Since my teenage years, I've immersed myself in both Indian philosophy at Vedanta Academy and Western Philosophy, graduating with honours from the University of London. My deep connection with Ashtanga Yoga grew from its unique ability to help control and direct the mind, leading me to study at SYC (formerly KPJAYI). Under the guidance of the late Sharath Jois in Mysore, I became one of the youngest Indians to complete the Intermediate Series in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.

My path led me to East Africa, where I worked with an NGO delivering yoga training to refugee women at UN projects, orphanages, and sober houses. My work has been featured in national newspapers and on major TV platforms like Tata Sky Fitness. In 2023, I moved to South Africa, where I continue my mission of helping those who struggle with stillness achieve mind and body control through Yoga.

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Taking care of
your body, mind & Soul

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In Person Studio & Virtual Studio

सेवा 

Interactive Feedback

The community engagement

Video on Demand

Connect and Cure 6 Stages of Yoga
36:13
Finding Motivation
39:06
Pose Analysis
46:16
Basic Practices #1
13:03
45 mins Ashtanga Yoga | Daily routine to feel your best
46:01

45 mins Ashtanga Yoga | Daily routine to feel your best

✅ Build a practice that helps you master your mind and lasts a lifetime: https://bit.ly/3WZwPkz ———————————————————————————————————— Welcome to this complete Ashtanga yoga practice where we combine mindful meditation with traditional asanas to help you develop greater focus and body awareness. This class is perfect for those looking to deepen their practice while learning to use their body as a tool to quiet the mind. We begin with a centering meditation to release tension and connect with the breath, followed by three rounds of traditional Surya Namaskar A & B. The standing sequence includes detailed alignment cues for Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), Parivritta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle), and Prasarita Padottanasana (Wide-Legged Forward Fold) variations. We finish with core strengthening through Navasana (Boat Pose) and a peaceful Savasana. This practice is ideal for those who struggle with mental restlessness and want to develop a stronger mind-body connection through traditional Ashtanga methodology. Timestamps: 0:00 Centering Meditation & Breath Awareness 3:45 Surya Namaskar A (Sun Salutation A) 8:30 Surya Namaskar B (Sun Salutation B) 15:20 Padangusthasana & Padahastasana (Standing Forward Folds) 19:45 Trikonasana & Parivritta Trikonasana (Triangle Poses) 25:30 Prasarita Padottanasana A-D (Wide-Legged Forward Folds) 35:15 Standing Balance Sequence 42:30 Seated Sequence & Core Work 48:00 Savasana Your Guide: Sushi Yogi (RYT 500HR AYI 200HR), has been studying Yoga for 10 years in India and teaching students globally for 7. She has trained directly under Sharath Jois, the foremost authority on the ancient style of Ashtanga Yoga. Sushi seeks to help those who struggle with stillness achieve mind and body control through consistent study and practice of Yoga. DISCLAIMER: Please consult with your physician regarding the suitability of any recommendations made on this channel. Before beginning any form of exercise programme ensure that you are following all safety instructions specific to your own well being. When participating in any exercise or exercise program, there is the possibility of physical injury. If you engage in this exercise or exercise program, you agree that you do so at your own risk, are voluntarily participating in these activities, assume all risk of injury to yourself and release Sushi Yogi from any liability.

Class Schedule

Dec 11 - Dec 17

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How it works?

Product Breakdown

YOUR JOURNEY

01
Start free
Everyone can join The Shala Within community, and optionally try Fundamentals First to taste Ashtanga basics.
02
Choose a Path
If you want a step-by-step system to reach half Primary with 12 months of support, the Yoga Mastery Program is your best next move.
03
Stay Supported
Use community calls, private sessions, or future advanced programs to sustain and evolve your practice
  • Is this a beginners course?
    This course is suited to your level. As it is one-on-one, it is tailored to meet your needs, whether you are a beginner or advanced. The practice is customized to ensure a comfortable and progressive introduction to yoga, regardless of your starting point. My teaching style emphasizes mental benefits and holistic health over just physical shapes you make on the mat.
  • Can't I just do this on my own using Youtube Videos, or Group Classes?
    Private sessions offer a level of personal attention and customization that group classes simply can’t match. They are tailored to your unique needs, progress, and schedule, providing a more focused, effective, and intimate yoga experience.
  • What if I can't make it to a session?
    Please choose two time slots that you stick to consistently. If for some reason you can’t make it don’t worry, we’re not all perfect and life happens; There are over 15 slots per week dedicated to this program, you can just book into another slot and it will send me a request to approve your slot selection. If I am available, I will definitely accommodate you. Please keep in mind that slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis, and are booked for upto a week in advance. You have 8 weeks to complete the course, an extra two weeks in case you are sick, or unable to attend the session​⏰ That being said, if you are serious about your health and wellness, then you’re going to need to prioritise this commitment.​❌ If that's not something you are willing to do, then YMP probably isn't a right fit for you, and that is completely okay! There's nothing wrong with that.
  • Can I continue Private Sessions with you after the program?
    Absolutely. Once you’ve completed, you can either continue as a private student at our normal rates (YMP is 50% off private sessions) or join Sushi Yogi Online (our online membership). You can also join any of the in-person group classes.
  • What if I hate the idea of doing yoga online after covid?
    Listen, I completely understand where you are coming from. I used to think real yoga can only happen in a studio setting, but it all changed in 2019, when I met my first online private student. It took me many years to realise that practicing yoga online is one of the most practical ways to a deeper, more personal practice. ​ 📱 I’ve had women express concerns that I will not be able to correct their form, especially since they are not tech-savvy. All you need is a yoga mat, a mobile phone and some speakers. I’ll even run you through the set up and we can get comfortable with the technology before we start. ​ 🧍‍♀️ When your teacher is on the other side of the screen gently guiding you, you're the one doing the heavy lifting— without the physical adjustments, you're the one taking yourself to the edge of a stretch and back.
  • What if I can't make it to a session? 
    Please choose two time slots that you stick to consistently. If for some reason you can’t make it don’t worry, we’re not all perfect and life happens; There are over 15 slots per week dedicated to this program, you can just book into another slot and it will send me a request to approve your slot selection. If I am available, I will definitely accommodate you. Please keep in mind that slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis, and are booked for upto a week in advance. You have 8 weeks to complete the course, an extra two weeks in case you are sick, or unable to attend the session ​ ⏰ That being said, if you are serious about your health and wellness, then you’re going to need to prioritise this commitment. ​ ❌ If that's not something you are willing to do, then YMP probably isn't a right fit for you, and that is completely okay! There's nothing wrong with that.
  • Are all sessions and courses online, or do you offer in-person classes too?
    We primarily serve students online, so you can join from anywhere. If you’re in Durban, we do offer in-person group classes, events and workshops at select locations—details are on our “Group Classes” page, or watch out for events and workshops
  • What happens after I finish the 6-week private coaching?
    You’ll continue to have 12 months of premium community access to group calls, practice circles, and any Q&A sessions. If you need additional private support, you can book single sessions or a recurring monthly package.
  • What’s the difference between Fundamentals First, The Shala Within, and the Yoga Mastery Program?
    Fundamentals First: A free 7-day mini-course introducing Ashtanga basics. Perfect for beginners who want a quick, low-commitment taste. The Shala Within: A free community space where everyone can access practice circles, group forums, and peer support for an unlimited time. Yoga Mastery Program (YMP): A structured “zero-to-half Primary Series” online course with 12 months of premium community access—plus optional private sessions for personalized guidance.
  • I don't want a full program, but I'd like to advance in my practice with one-on-one help. Is that possible?
    You can book single private sessions ($50/R950 each) at any time or go for a 4-session monthly subscription if you prefer ongoing guidance without enrolling in the entire course.
  • I’m a total beginner. Can I do the Yoga Mastery Program?
    If you’re new to Ashtanga, we highly recommend completing our free Fundamentals First 7-day mini-course. You’ll learn essential poses and breathing techniques to build a solid foundation. Once you finish, schedule a quick 1-on-1 consult with Sushi to discuss your goals and get started on the Yoga Mastery Program
  • How do I add a new question & answer?
    To add a new FAQ follow these steps: 1. Manage FAQs from your site dashboard or in the Editor 2. Add a new question & answer 3. Assign your FAQ to a category 4. Save and publish. You can always come back and edit your FAQs.
  • How do I edit or remove the 'Frequently Asked Questions' title?
    You can edit the title from the FAQ 'Settings' tab in the Editor. To remove the title from your mobile app go to the 'Site & App' tab in your Owner's app and customize.
  • Can I insert an image, video, or GIF in my FAQ?
    Yes. To add media follow these steps: 1. Manage FAQs from your site dashboard or in the Editor 2. Create a new FAQ or edit an existing one 3. From the answer text box click on the video, image or GIF icon 4. Add media from your library and save.
  • Is this course really free?
    Yes, this course is completely free! We believe in making Ashtanga Yoga accessible to everyone. There are no hidden fees or charges. Our aim is to share the profound benefits of yoga with a wide audience, hoping to make a positive impact on as many lives as possible. Enjoy the full benefits of this course without any cost.
  • Is this really going to work for me?
    Absolutely! The Fundamentals First course has been tried and tested for the last five years and has been a game-changer for many, regardless of their previous experience with yoga. It's designed to be accessible and beneficial for everyone. We’re confident you’ll find it engaging and confident that it will benefit you too.
  • Do I need any kind of equipment?
    For our Ashtanga Yoga course, all you need is a yoga mat to get started. While additional equipment like blocks or straps can be helpful, they're entirely optional. Our course is designed to be flexible and adaptable, so you can use everyday household items as alternatives if needed. We provide suggestions for modifications and adaptations in our sessions to accommodate your available resources
  • Can I really practice yoga online?
    Yes, you can! In fact, practicing yoga online can be surprisingly effective. A recent study showed that over 70% of people who practice yoga online report easier routine building and higher consistency compared to offline practice. The convenience of accessing the course from home eliminates common barriers like travel time and scheduling conflicts. Our course is designed with this in mind – offering structured, bite-sized sessions that easily fit into your daily life.
  • Do I need any prior yoga experience?
    Not at all! Prior yoga experience is useful, but this course is also perfectly suited for beginners. We start from the basics, ensuring that everyone can follow along comfortably. Each session builds gradually, allowing you to develop your practice at a pace that feels right for you. Whether you’re new to yoga or looking to deepen your existing practice, you’ll find valuable insights and techniques to enhance your journey.
Being part of Sushi Yogi has transformed my relationship with yoga and my practice!

52, Entrepreneur, Bristol, UK

I had my reservations about whether a free online course could meet my needs, espacially at my age. Fundamentals First surpassed all my expectations. The adaptability of the course to different fitness levels allows me to practice safely, despite some physical limitations. The journey has been transformative, both physically and mentally, and I am grateful for how accessible Sushi has made it. Don’t let age stop you from trying it out!

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