In a world that rarely slows down, Shaivya Pandey has found purpose in stillness. A dedicated yoga instructor, she has spent years guiding individuals toward balance — both on and off the mat. From breathwork to inner clarity, this dialogue offers a glimpse into the soul of someone who truly lives the yoga she teaches.
1. What Does Yoga Mean To You Beyond Just The Physical Practice?
- “Yoga, to me, is a way of being. Beyond the mat, it's about how I breathe through chaos, how I respond with awareness, and how I stay connected to myself, to others, and to the present moment. It’s a philosophy that gently seeps into every part of life.”
2. What Style Or Form Of Yoga Resonates With You The Most?
- “I resonate most with Hatha and Vinyasa. Hatha grounds me - it’s steady, reflective, and meditative. Vinyasa brings fluidity, rhythm, and creativity.
The combination lets me explore both stillness and movement, which feels like a mirror to life itself. I also like to combine the practice with Pilates as it goes hand in hand.”
3. What Is Your Core Philosophy When It Comes To Teaching Yoga?
- “My teaching is rooted in the belief that yoga is for every body—not just the flexible or fit. I focus on creating a space that’s safe, inclusive, and compassionate. For me, it’s less about the perfect pose and more about a personal, mindful experience.”
4. What Advice Would You Give To Someone Starting Yoga For The First Time?
- “Start slow, stay curious, and be kind to yourself. Let go of the idea that you have to “be good” at yoga. You’re not here to perform, you’re here to connect—with your breath, your body, and your inner self.”
5. How Has Yoga Transformed Your Physical Or Mental Health?
- “Physically, yoga made me stronger and more aware of how I move and hold myself. Mentally, it has been life-changing—it brought me tools to manage stress, soften anxiety, and return to a sense of calm even in the most chaotic moments.”
6. Your Dream Yoga Retreat Location?
- “Organising and planning yoga retreats has been a highlight of my year for almost a decade now. Anywhere close to nature—ideally a quiet mountain retreat with misty mornings, flowing rivers, and open skies has been my favourite locations.”
7. What’s one lesson yoga taught you that changed your life?
- “That everything is temporary—emotions, thoughts, discomfort, even joy.
Yoga taught me to witness things without clinging or resisting. That shift from reaction to observation changed everything.”
