Sangha in a Modern World – Community Yoga in Mittagong

Why I Created More Than Just a Yoga Studio

There is a Sanskrit word often used in yoga philosophy called saṅgha. It simply means community people gathering together in shared space.

• Not a cult.
• Not a religion.
• Not a performance.
• Just people coming together.

In many ways, this was one of the deeper intentions behind opening Sthira Yoga Academy.

Of course, yoga classes are part of what happens here. We move, breathe, stretch, strengthen, soften, and explore practice together. But over time, I’ve realised I’m not only interested in teaching postures. I’m interested in creating a space people actually want to spend time in.

Modern life can feel strangely disconnected. We are constantly online, constantly stimulated, constantly “connected,” yet many people quietly feel isolated, overwhelmed, or stuck moving from one obligation to the next. There are fewer spaces now where people can simply gather without pressure.

• No loud pub.
• No nightclub.
• No need to buy expensive dinners.
• No expectation to impress anyone.
• Just space.

That is part of what I hope this studio becomes over time.

Recently I added a small kitchen area to the back of the studio. Nothing fancy just a practical little space to make tea, prepare simple food, or eventually support workshops and Yoga Teacher Trainings if those unfold in the future.

After classes, I now often make tea for everyone to share.

The studio itself has slowly begun to soften and come alive. The plants are thriving. The heating hums gently through winter classes. Music fills the room. Bolsters and blankets are scattered around. People stay behind after class to chat rather than rushing straight out the door.

Little by little, the space is becoming inhabited.

• Not just used.

And perhaps that is what saṅgha really is.

• Not perfection.
• Not ideology.
• Not everyone thinking the same way.

Just people choosing to spend time together with openness, curiosity, kindness, and a willingness to slow down for a while.

This is part of the inspiration behind the free Movie Nights I’ve begun offering at the studio.

The idea is simple:

Come in comfy clothes. Have a cup of chai or tea. Recline onto bolsters and blankets. Watch a film together. Perhaps stay afterwards for another cuppa and conversation if you feel called.

• No pressure.
• No performance.
• No expectation to be “good” at yoga.
• Just community.

In the future, I’d love to continue offering things like workshops, talks, film nights, shared meals, and gatherings that encourage people to connect beyond the yoga mat.

Because while yoga can absolutely transform the body, I also think many people are quietly searching for warmth, belonging, conversation, ritual, stillness, and shared human experience. Perhaps that too is yoga.

And perhaps spaces of saṅgha matter now more than ever.