Exploring Asana through the philosophy of yoga with Alys and Maria

Date: Sunday 12th July, 2026
Time: 10am - 2pm
Where: Shala Yoga, 3/2B Victoria Street
Teachers: Alys Pardoe and Maria Nazar
Price: $120 / 10% off for Shala Members

Exploring Asana is an embodied, practical workshop that explores the physical aspects of yoga and how they weave together with its underlying philosophical principles. It offers a safe and supportive space for learning, asking questions, and deepening both your teaching and/or personal practice. Together, we move beyond shapes and alignment, into a more intentional and embodied understanding of asana. 

This marks the third offering of Exploring Asana in the South West of Western Australia. Following two sold-out events in Margaret River and Perth, we are excited to bring this experience to the Bunbury community.

DESCRIPTION

A 4-hour workshop designed for yoga teachers and dedicated practitioners who wish to deepen their understanding of asana beyond form — into sensation, awareness, and intelligent application.

Guided by Alys Pardoe, director of Ashtanga Yoga Margaret River, and assisted by Maria, physiotherapist and yoga teacher, this workshop offers an integrated approach to alignment, hands-on assisting, and embodied practice.

Together, we explore asana as an opportunity to cultivate balance in both body and mind — shifting from something we simply perform into a more meaningful and responsive experience.

Throughout the session, we will explore the ability to read bodies, recognise individual differences in structure and movement, and adapt postures with greater sensitivity and precision.

We will explore the role of the fascia system and its influence on movement and function, offering deeper insight into anatomical diversity and how this relates to both modern anatomical understanding and traditional concepts such as the “Nadis” and “Sthira Sukham”.

Intention will be placed on the art of hands-on assisting — not only the how, but the why and when. This includes a reflective exploration of the ethics of touch in contemporary yoga, cultivating awareness, respect, and presence in every interaction, and understanding when it is more appropriate not to assist.

Whether you are refining your teaching skills or seeking a deeper connection to your own practice, this workshop offers a thoughtful, practical, and enriching space to explore the layers of asana with clarity and intention.

YOUR TEACHERS

Alys Pardoe has been practicing yoga since 1998, beginning her journey in her homeland of England. She now lives in Margaret River, where she owns and directs the Margaret River Ashtanga Shala. A dedicated student of many teachers, including Sharath Jois, she received her authorisation to teach in 2016.

With over two decades of experience, Alys brings a grounded and evolving understanding of asana, alignment, and the importance of adapting practice to meet the individual body. Her teaching invites students to move beyond surface-level shapes, offering a space to explore practice with greater insight, awareness, and depth.

Maria Nazar is a physiotherapist and yoga teacher with over a decade of experience. Her yoga journey began 17 in her homeland of Chile, where she trained under experienced teachers and developed a strong foundation rooted in both tradition and the therapeutic potential of the practice. She now continues to deepen her studies under the guidance of Alys, who is both her teacher and mentor.

Maria offers a mindful and safe approach to movement, focused on enhancing the mind–body connection. “The ability to guide an embodied practice is developed through precise, intentional cueing and thoughtfully paced sequences, creating a clear and sustainable learning experience for every practitioner”.

For more information about Alys please visit:www.ashtangayogamargaretriver.com/

STRICTLY NO REFUNDS: We understand that sometimes plans change. If you are unable to attend for whatever reason, you may arrange for another person to take your place. No refunds given.

HEALTH DISCLAIMER & LIABILITY: If you have any injuries or health issues that may affect your ability to participate please let us know beforehand. You are responsible for your own health and wellbeing. We will not be liable for any injuries that may be aggravated or arise during the event. If you are feeling unwell please stay home and help us to protect the health and wellbeing of our community.