HATHA YOGA IMMERSION
The Power & Potential of Sadhana
SESSION 1: PRANAYAMA, UNCOVERING THE LIGHT
According to the ancient texts, we come into this world endowed with light. We are, in fact, expressions of light. But our awareness of this becomes clouded by constant externalized attention and over-stimulation. Pranayama is a key remedy for decongesting & re-balancing our nervous system, the nadis (subtle channels of energy), and for unveiling the light within.
Our first workshop lays a solid foundation for pranayama and prepares students for advanced stages of breath regulation and energy locks (bandhas). In it, students will:
1) review diaphragmatic breathing and understand its effects on the nervous system
2) learn the meaning of nadis, understand the quality and function of 3 main nadis
3) learn variations of nadi sodhana
4) prepare for kumbhaka (breath retention)
SESSION 2: THE ALCHEMY OF BANDHAS
The Hatha Yoga Pradipika classifies bandhas as mudras. Mudra literally means "to move toward delight." Learn why the bandhas, the energy locks, skillfully and potently aid in internalizing attention and ultimately aim to unify your awareness with joy. This second workshop offers more advanced work with breath regulation, including an introduction and practice of the bandhas. Students will explore:
1) the meaning of bandhas and proper preparation with asana and breath work
2) the function of bandhas in preparing for higher states of awareness
3) the psychological effect of bandhas
SESSION 3: MANTRA: MOVING BEYOND YOUR LIMITED CONDITIONING
In the third session, we refine our skills by focusing and strengthening the mind via meditation. Specifically we will discuss mantra not only as the means for taking us beyond the chatter of our minds, but also as a way to unveil our dormant talents and capacity. Topics will include:
1) introduction to Sanskrit as a technology for enlivening consciousness
2) explanation of mantra and various applications
3) ajapa japa meditation
SESSION 4: SANKALPA SHAKTI, THE COMMITMENT TO YOUR FULLNESS
In our fourth and final workshop, we explore how to more fully and consciously direct our lives through Sankalpa Shakti, or the power of resolution/intention. Creating an intention is not new for most of us. Every year millions of people make resolutions, in hopes of mobilzing some type of change in their lives. Yet it is estimated that 80 % do not follow through with their intentions. During our session, we discuss what differentiates resolve that is effective from that which is not. And we look to teachings, contemporary and ancient, to understand how to fully activate a Sankalpa, "an intention formed in the heart."
Topics covered will include:
1) the four aims of the soul according to the Vedas
2) guidelines for creating a Sankalpa
3) recognizing and dealing with obstacles
4) combining Sankalpa with yoga nidra ( systematic, guided relaxation)
The class will include an abbreviated asana practice, so as to have enough time for yoga nidra.