When we think about the importance of names, labels, and their correlation to identity and understanding, we begin to reveal the nature of symbolism that is inherent throughout the material world and our experience as part of it. In yogic terms, this plane of existence is called Pakriti - Nature - the world of name and form in which we exist and interact.
As we begin this beautiful Autumn season with the upcoming Grand Re-Brand Open Day launch for our new studio name, I can’t help but to reflect on the Kundalini Bija Mantra ‘Sat Nam’ - meaning, ‘Truth is my Name,’ usually translated as ‘Truth is my identity.’ For many, the idea of identifying with your name - instead of labelling yourself as a student, mother/father, professional of some description - may perhaps mean, getting yourself out there, or making a name for yourself, carving out and collecting meaning by associations that feel true to ‘you’ in order to feel known and understood by yourself and others. While this is part of the brand-persona identity name-game that postmodern exploration of self-hood espouses - taking our influences from various places, genres, and eras - it essentially means you can cut, copy, and paste whatever looks good, feels good, and works to get those ‘likes and followers.’ However, everything goes in phases, and what no-longer resonates can become un-true to YOU. In the yogic context, it is also about maintaining awareness that we mustn’t get too caught up in grasping outside of ourselves to know what the true identity within really is - without name, form, nor any dependency on external influences, it remains unaffected - this is how we sink into peace in the stillness of the Self. So how do we keep our connection, and get by in this ego-driven world?
Forging your own identity in this world is somewhat required when you have something to share, otherwise it can be challenging to get your message across. You also represent yourself and how others perceive you, just by being you. As an act of self-expression, you can let your soul phase speak through words and images as symbols that will ultimately resonate with the energy of others. This is truly part of what means to play a part in this physical existence: to be attracted to what we feel is the same in ourself, or what we aspire to be, and to attract those who see visible representations of our personal truth, and feel our authenticity as kindred spirits.
As Shakespeare gave Romeo the famous lines, ‘What’s in a name? A rose by any other name would smell as sweet…’ it reminds us that our essence and true nature is surely beyond the name we are given, or any name we may attach to ourselves, an object, or another person. Once we label something (or someone), in our minds it has changed and becomes something other that what it really is. Therefore, we are subject to the use of written, verbal, and visual symbols to communicate messages about who we are. So, why not make yourself more accurately known? Some people like a nickname, some prefer their proper name, some change their name entirely!
So here we are, Soul Fire Studios! A brand, a name, a place to hold all of the vibrant activity that is housed here. From Yoga classes that have evolved from our humble beginnings as a Hot Yoga studio, with new variations of Vinyasa, Hatha, and just warm Yin yoga styles, to the bustling boom of Dharma Yoga that is now becoming more widespread in practise for its accessibility and advancing postures, to classes specially designed to introduce the magic of the Dharma Yoga Wheel, invented by the Master Sri Dharma Mittra himself. Aerial yoga is really catching on fast, and it is such a joy to have our regular class schedule filling up with silk wrapped yogis nestled inside. There are plans for more Aerial classes to come, and new teachers emerging from their training cocoons every year! It is wild to see how fast the yoga scene has evolved over the past 10 years here in Sheffield, and it shows no signs of slowing (great job yogis!)
Soul Fire Studios is our name, and it aims to represent the many offerings provided in this place by people of raw dedication. We believe in the power of Yoga to connect you to your authentic Self, to the intelligence, energy and Divine essence of all things in existence, to what can be known as your Soul calling. Fire is the passion that comes alive when you tap into that part of yourself. It gives you the determination to move forth with integrity and enthusiasm because you believe in yourself and your cause - we love yoga in the heat because it turns up the yogic Tapas - spiritual austerity that will help you get where you’re going!
Studios is plural because we have two yoga studios in this building (Soul & Fire/not-hot & hot). We also have a Healing cove located upstairs with three dedicated rooms for Sports and Therapeutic Massage, Reiki, Shiatsu, assisted stretching, and a range of Spa-style treatments for a more pampered experience. With a welcoming waiting area complete with sunshine (when available) and tea, the Soul begins to lift at the mere prospect of Self love and care. Finally, one thing that ties us all together is the emphasis on Vibrant Health. Whether it is for yourself, your children, the Earth, or all the living Beings we share this life with, we aim to share the knowledge and power of Vegan living. Wild Leaf is our in-house brand for all of our food preparations. From cold-pressed juices and raw desserts, to fully catered Day Retreats, the Wild Leaf kitchen is where we come together to relish in wholesome foods that fuel the good hard work of following your Soul Fire every day.
This place is a living entity, a community of like-minded people, yogis, healers and caregivers who are on a path of service to the wider world so that we may all see that we are beyond any name and form that may appear to separate us.
May we welcome you here to light the flame that gives you strength to live this life, and pass it on.
May you know your Self, and be true to your own authenticity and personal path.
May you light the way forward with your own Soul Fire.
