About Us
Mati means "discernment," and is one of ten Niyamas in the Haṭha Yoga Pradipika. This is a valued and verifiable self-observation practice, unveiling both clarity and faith in our efforts to recognize the One in all.
Though this Truth– this oneness– is true for all, it is our responsibility to devote our time to remembering. Discernment is the practice, yet also the foundation for practice. It is loving, true observation, without judgment, of oneself to know Self.
Mati Yoga School offers clear and useful practices of discernment through Haṭha Yoga (physical yogic practices), Bhakti Yoga (loving devotion) and yogic philosophy to walk the path of mokṣa—liberation from Self-ignornace.
Through applied knowledge and practice, we can work to purify the physical, emotional and mental conditions which have veiled us from seeing the ever present, unconditionally joyous, eternal nature of Self. Through discernment, and the recognition of who we are not, we can realize who we are.
At Mati, we believe this potential to Know lies within all beings, without exception, and that a loving, devotional practice can, and will, unveil. We offer this in both community and/or private classes.
The space:
Mati Yoga School is filled with aliveness— the walls and ceilings both vibrant with texture, surrounded by wood sourced from PA farms and hand-painted deity art from Rishikesh, India. Each piece in this room was purposefully and lovingly selected, allowing for an experience of complete serenity and restoration.
We offer props for students to use. Mats are free for members, or available for non-members to rent. Cork blocks, blankets, straps and bolsters are available to all students. All of our props are from Jade Yoga— the world’s best performing, most environmentally friendly yoga gear.
The space itself is non-heated, though we will keep the temperature comfortably cozy. Cleanliness is an important value at Mati. Please return any props as you found them, and clean up after yourself.
Murti:
Our Murti— statue of Divine— of Sarasvatī embodies the wisdom of Knowledge, and represents the energy in which one can receive the teachings which transform into knowledge. She is graceful discernment, helping us to clearly establish and recognize what is True, Pure and Light, through knowing what is not.
Our other Murti of Gaṇeśa represents the removing of obstacles. One prays to Lord Gaṇeśa on any new endeavor as he is the God of new beginnings. He brings forth wisdom and luck, representing intellect and wisdom.
Remember, these deities are attributes of God, which is ultimately attribute-less. And only One! One that we already know— already are— but need something to wrap our minds around along the way to Realizing. At our Tea Talks and Kirtans, we will speak more of their stories/energies, chant their mantras, and, perhaps, one may resonate with you!