Saya Shala

Courses · Multi-day immersions

Go deeper.
Begin every Monday.

Structured 3 to 7 day programmes for those who want to settle in and study one practice properly. For one-off classes and short workshops, see our Learn page.

Start day

Every Monday

Format

3 to 7 days · small group

Where

Saya Shala, Tapovan

Upcoming Course

Yin Yoga — Three-Day Module

For Post-TTC Candidates

Yin Yoga session at Saya Shala with Dr. Rucha Shinde

Discover the transformative practice of Yin Yoga — a slow, mindful approach that targets the body's deeper connective tissues while calming the nervous system. An advanced module for experienced practitioners, introducing the foundations of Yin, the philosophy behind the practice, key postures and breath awareness.

Dates

29 June – 1 July

Duration

3 Days

Location

Saya Shala, Tapovan

Meals

Lunch included

Facilitator

Dr. Rucha Shinde

MBBS, MD · Yoga Teacher · Holistic Healthcare Practitioner

Module Overview

  • Day 1 — Foundations of Yin: philosophy, meridians and the principles of long, supported holds.
  • Day 2 — Key postures, fascia release and working with breath to deepen stillness.
  • Day 3 — Sequencing a complete Yin practice and integration for personal practice and teaching.

Workshop Offering

Journaling — The Ashtanga Way

A Guided Framework for Self-Inquiry

Journaling: The Ashtanga Way workshop

A guided framework for self-study through writing. Using the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga as a lens, this workshop turns reflection into clarity, awareness, and meaningful change. Participants receive a complete journaling reflection kit with details and prompts for continued guided journaling after the session.

Why Journal?

Most of us spend our days reacting — to circumstances, emotions, habits, and endless streams of thoughts. Journaling creates a pause. It allows us to observe our inner world rather than being unconsciously driven by it. Through writing, we bring clarity to confusion, awareness to habits, and intention to action.

Why an Ashtanga-Based Approach?

In the yogic tradition, the path of self-understanding is structured. The eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga provide a framework for understanding how we relate to ourselves, others, our habits, our attention, and our deeper nature. Rather than only asking, “How do I feel?”, we explore:

  • What patterns are shaping my actions?
  • Where am I acting against my values?
  • What supports my growth, and what depletes it?
  • How can I cultivate greater awareness in daily life?

What You'll Experience

A guided journaling framework inspired by the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga — prompts, reflection exercises, and practical tools for clarity, self-study, and meaningful change. No prior experience with yoga or journaling is required — only a willingness to observe, reflect, and explore.

From the Shala

Our sweet seekers from past

Moments from previous Yin Yoga modules — students, props, conversations and quiet holds, held together at Saya Shala.

Seekers gathered in the Yin Yoga course at Saya Shala
Dr. Rucha teaching at the Yin Yoga blackboard
Teacher and seeker reviewing notes after class
Seeker in conversation with Dr. Rucha overlooking the mountains
One-on-one session in the rooftop shala
Supported Yin pose with bolsters and props
Hands-on adjustment in a restorative posture
Evening session welcoming seekers to the Yin Yog course

Join the next circle. Seats are intentionally few so the holding stays close.

The Programme

Six paths in.

Yin Yoga7 days

Yin Yoga

Long, supported holds and quiet breath. A practice of softness, surrender, and inward listening.

Sound Healing — Master Level7 days

Sound Healing — Master Level

Tibetan bowls, gongs and overtone work. Learn the language of vibration and how to hold a session.

Ayurveda Cooking7 days

Ayurveda Cooking

Spice, dosha, and the rhythm of a sattvic kitchen. From morning kitchari to evening dal — by hand.

Astrology7 days

Astrology

An introduction to Vedic astrology — chart reading, planetary cycles and the patterns of a life.

General Hindi3 days

General Hindi

Conversational Hindi for travellers — the words that open the bazaar, the temple and the chai stall.

Mantra Chanting3 days

Mantra Chanting

Sacred sound, pronunciation and devotion. The voice as a tool for focus and stillness.

Stay & Logistics

Arrive easily.
Stay close.

Free pick-up & drop

Complimentary transfer from Balaknath Temple — just 250 m from the institute.

Food & accommodation

Sattvic meals and stay can be arranged on request, with extra charges. Tell us what you need and we will plan it for you.

Reservation

Cohorts are intentionally small. Please write to us in advance to hold your seat for the next Monday.

Saya Shala Café · Badrinath Road, Near Ayushman Retreat, Tapovan