Wellness finds home at Lifeyoga under the blissful canopy of peepal trees in New Delhi

The practice of yoga may take root on the mat, but its branches extend far into the expanse of life’s experiences. Lifeyoga is not a destination for occasional visits but a lifestyle enclave that becomes a quintessential part of your daily narrative. Designed by Ambrish Arora, founding principal at Studio Lotus, it stands as a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling vibrancy of New Delhi.

Lifeyoga is a space where calm isn’t just promised but is cultivated, offering a respite for those seeking peace. An immersive yoga centre, nested in the city’s heart in Chanakyapuri, engulfed within a canopy of peepal trees (banyan trees). It presents itself as a curated collective of holistic living, a singular destination where an Ayurvedic wellness store, a heritage grocery boutique, ‘Eleved’ an Ayurveda-inspired culinary haven and a quintet of yoga studios coalesce under one roof.

An enveloping, serene lifestyle experience is created by Studio Lotus’ craft. Every element is meticulously chosen to nourish the body, mind and soul. Ambrish Arora, reflects on the choice of locally sourced materials that inherently produce well-being. The interplay of light and space is designed to be beneficial for both the individual and the environment, crafting an experience that is as nurturing as it is sustainable. At the heart of their design ethos is the enhancement of the space’s spatial and tactile qualities.

Material muse

The incorporation of Mandana red sandstone is a testament to their dedication to their philosophy and Lifeyoga’s visual identity. This distinctive red stone, sourced locally in support of sustainability, is integrated into the flooring with various finishes — rustic sandblasted, refined polished and Keris — each enhancing the tactile experience.

The stone’s rich red hue, reminiscent of the sacred Kumkum (a sacred powder used for social and religious markings in India), harmonises the interiors with Lifeyoga’s brand palette. Drawing inspiration from the signature shades (or aesthetic array) of Lifeyoga, the team has consciously crafted a unique organic plaster from cow dung, gypsum and clay that is reminiscent of the sooty notes of vibhuti (sacred ash used in Hindu rituals). Using materials that mirror the holistic colours of Lifeyoga, Studio Lotus team has mindfully woven a space rooted in Indian tradition.

Quietude quarters

Amidst Delhi’s dynamic rhythm, a calm and quiet haven has become essential. A counterpoint to the city’s relentless energy, a space for rejuvenation is brought by Lifeyoga. A place that embodies the urban need for stillness and self-care in a city that seldom stops. The design is a celebration of calm within each of the three levels designed to enhance the yogic journey through a play of scale, volume and light.

Lifeyoga’s significance in Delhi is manifold. It certainly provides a physical space for individuals to practice yoga, but its impact goes deeper. It serves as a community anchor, a place where people come together in pursuit of health and harmony. Bringing back sustainability to the metropolitan maze, Lifeyoga reveals the transformative powers of urban spaces into sanctuaries that nurture the self and the planet. Lifeyoga is a microcosm of balance, reflecting the broader benefits of yoga in urban environments.

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