Month: May 2025

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From Plot to Pickle: Growing Mooli on the Allotment

Woman holding fresh purple Indian vegetable (mollie) in allotment garden, with jar of homemade pickle on table.

This spring I’ve been growing mooli, a type of radish that’s used often in Asian cooking, it’s been thriving — and I’m so pleased with the results!

Harvesting it felt like such a quiet joy, and as soon as I picked a few, I knew I wanted to turn them into something special. So I made a small batch of spicy homemade pickle — something I grew up eating, and still love deeply.

For me, this whole process feels like an extension of yoga — tending to something with patience, connecting with the seasons, and using my hands with intention. Just like time on the mat, growing and preparing food can be a moving meditation.

I’ll be posting the full recipe for the pickle soon, so check back if you’re curious to try it yourself 🌿

With love, Smitha

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Strength and Stillness: Supported Headstand with Bettina

Student practicing supported headstand (Salamba Śīrṣāsana) at the wall with legs fully extended and forearms on blocks.

Here’s a beautiful moment from this week’s class — my student Bettina holding a supported Salamba Śīrṣāsana (Headstand) with grace and quiet strength.

We built up to this shape slowly, first working with a tucked position and using cork blocks under the forearms to support the shoulders. From there, Bettina extended her legs upward with calm focus, staying connected to her breath throughout.

This pose isn’t about performing — it’s about:

  • grounding through your foundation
  • lifting with softness
  • and finding a sense of stillness even when upside down

Headstands can feel intimidating, but when approached mindfully and with the right props, they become accessible, safe, and even joyful.

If you’re curious about inversions — or want to learn how to support your neck and shoulders properly — join me in a class or book a 1:1 session. You don’t need to get upside down to benefit.

See you on the mat!

Smitha

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Gentle Yoga: A Supportive Approach for Every Body

This is one of my students, Chris, demonstrating a gentle, supported variation of Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana). We’ve used blocks under his hands, feet, and forehead to create a version of the pose that supports rest and ease—perfect for those working with tightness, fatigue, or simply wanting a more grounding experience.

In my classes, you’ll always find options to adapt the practice to your body. Yoga isn’t about forcing or pushing—it’s about meeting yourself where you are, with kindness.

My approach includes:

• Accessible yoga for all levels and abilities

• A welcoming, inclusive atmosphere

• Skillful use of props to support your body

• Gentle, mindful movement and breath awarenes

If you’re curious about yoga but worried you won’t “fit in,” this space is for you. Everyone is welcome.