Apsara dancers have intrigued me since I first discovered them when visiting Angkor Wat in Cambodia 17 years ago. Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world. It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple of god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, gradually transforming into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century. It is decorated with depictions of Apsaras and Devata~ as decorative motifs on pillars and walls and it incorporates larger full bodied Apsara images at every level of the temple, from the entry pavilion to the tops of the highest towers. In 1927, Sappho Marchal published a study cataloging the remarkable diversity of their hair, headdresses, garments, stance, jewellery and decorative flowers, which were based on actual practices of the Angkor period.
It was during this time of exploration and adventure that my interest in eastern philosophy, Yoga and meditation was ignited, and my love of Apsara dancers began.
So what exactly do Apsara's represent? They are nymphs described as beautiful, youthful, supernatural female beings, who excel at moving and dancing. They are associated with clouds and waters and may be portrayed as if in flight.
The representation of heaven (the clouds, the spirit) and the ocean (the water and emotions) is symbolic of Yallingup, which is where this yoga studio is situated. The name Yallingup comes from the Aboriginal word meaning "Place of Love" which is also symbolic of the goal of yoga, which is ultimately to unveil the heart and to allow one to LOVE and accept one's self, and all others.
These spiritual beings also represent the spiritual and emotional element that is so much a part of the journey of Yoga.
Lastly, they represent my love for movement, dance, femininity and all things beautiful.
And so it was that Apsara Yoga Studio came into being..... I welcome you to join me on the mat, to allow your body to move freely, to uplift the spirit and to open the heart to the endless possibilities of LOVE!
“Yoga is like music. The rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul creates the symphony of life.” B.K.S. Iyengar
