tapas [tuhp-uh s]
noun Yoga: 'to burn’,
evoking 'fiery discipline', ‘internal fire’ or
'passion'.
About Yoga Tapas
Offering a selection of classes from dynamic (rajas) to restorative (tamas), designed to create a balance (sattvic) in your practice and overall well being.
Our dynamic sessions are based on Matthew Sweeney's Atapa Krama (Sunshine Sequence) an adaptation of the Ashtanga Primary Series
And to support this energetic practice, we offer Matthew Sweeney's Chandra Krama (Moon Sequence).
Alignment focused and adapting the sequences with the individual practitioner in mind.
Both methods are designed for Self-Practice . Inviting you to explore and observe at your own pace and in your own time.
Yoga Tapas is the first and currently only authorised teachings of this method on the South Coast.
Self-Practice = Self-Awareness
Private classes also available.
All levels welcome.
Chandra Krama
Moon Sequence
The Moon sequence is a gentle flowing form that combines yin yoga with vinyasa. Chandra Krama was originally designed as a counterbalance to dynamic practices such as Atapa Krama (Sunshine sequence) or Ashtanga Primary Series.
Although it is intended as a support practice versus your main sequence, it also helps practitioners to balance all aspects of Yoga by applying some key principles: here & now awareness, letting go, balancing Rajas and Tamas to become Sattva, meditation, and a therapeutic and individual approach.
Chandra Krama is intended to be light, flowing & graceful and something all Āsana practitioners should embrace at least once per week – or something like it. The Moon Sequence, when practiced in this light, will develop your awareness in ways that a standard Vinyāsa practice, typically focussed on progression and learning advanced Āsana, will not. Please heed this advice! The Moon sequence is critical in this method for understanding all practices, both physical and non-physical, that progress from it.
Come and experience it for yourself!
Atapa Krama
Sunshine Sequence
Sunshine Sequence is Matthew Sweeney’s adaptation of the Ashtanga Primary Series.
Atapa Krama improves on that sequence, giving it greater balance and generally removing the flaws in the Primary Series. For example: the option of changing the sequence for individual needs, using props (blocks, straps, and wall) as needed, the variety in standing postures, the focus on the four quadrants of the hips (outer and inner, front and back), balancing between flexion and extension (forward bends and back bends), and variations to open the shoulders and thoracic prior to back bends.
Thus, creating a more accessible sequence for the Western body and modern living. There are variations of the sequence that allows ALL levels of student to practice and still be considered the Sunshine sequence.
There are still clear rules and framework to follow but with a less dogmatic approach, allowing much more opportunity to explore your capabilities.
A vibrant, dynamic sequence that focuses on both building strength as well as flexibility.
Myself with Matthew Sweeney at VKM Bali
Be steady. Be comfortable.
Mel Waters
Registered L1 Teacher Yoga Australia
200+hrs Apprentice Thirroul Yoga Shala
Yoga Synergy Anatomy & Physiology Course 2019 (High Distinction)
L1 Pranayama with Gregor Maehle
L1 Meditation with Gregor Maehle
Chandra Krama (Moon Sequence)
Authorised by Matthew Sweeney 2023
Atapa Krama (Sunshine Sequence)
Authorised by Matthew Sweeney 2024
Developing own practice (asana & pranayama) under the guidance of Matthew Sweeney
Vinyasa Krama Mandiram (VKM)
About Mel Waters
Introduced to Ashtanga Yoga circa 2005 in London, I have remained a dedicated practitioner to this method. Forever grateful for the transformation to my well-being, physically and mentally.
Following the years of continued learning & discovery and as a seasoned experienced practitioner, I felt I was in a position to pass on the benefits to others.
Upon moving to Australia, I met Alyson Johnson and continued to develop my self-practice with her at Thirroul Yoga Shala. and it is here I began my Teacher Training Apprenticeship.
Under Alyson's guidance for 12mths and proudly assisting in her hugely popular classes, I grew into the teacher I am today.
A shift in energy.
The Covid Lockdown and the acceleration of Zoom classes, opened doors for students/teachers alike.
It gave me the opportunity to practice with some of the most incredible teachers around the world, from Eileen Hall, David Swenson, Gregor Mahle to name a few... but of course, it was Matthew Sweeney that proceed to change my path.
Previously a dedicated Ashtanga practitioner & teacher, Matthew has designed his own selection of sequences - Vinyasa Krama Mandiram
and since 2020, I have been continuing my development under his guidance. I am now officially authorised to teach Chandra Krama (moon sequence) and Atapa Krama (Sunshine Sequence)
The combination of practicing both sequences has added a welcomed shift in my energy levels, offering a unique balance to my practice and state of being. Plus, adding different movements & asanas has done my (gracefully aging) body the world of good!
I can't wait to share it with you!
See you in class.