Part 1 : Foundations of the Subtle.
Philosophy :
During this time together, we will delve into the vital themes presented in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Philosophy of Samkhya. We will look to see how engaging with the wisdom offered, we will become more able to move into a life of deeper spiritual richness.
Subtle Body Mechanics :
From here we will move into depth of the Subtle Body and explore the way our innate internal anatomy affects our being. We will look into how we can interact with the systems of the Vayus as well as the Koshal Planes in order to increase perception, dexterity of choice, and overall sense of well-being.
Effects of Mantra :
We will complete Part 1 with an exploration of Mantra, and how Shabda, sound, allows us to integrate with ourselves from this original internal level.
Part 2 : Merging with the Subtle through Sequencing
Sequencing for Class or Personal Practice :
In this final section, we will discuss, analyze, and specify more complex and creative sequencing - built for a clear purpose beyond "peak pose."
Pranayamas effect on the Kosha, Vayus, and Overall Practice :
We will study and practice pranayama in order to discern how its structure actively influences the practice, both in asana and out.
Ayurveda as a means to Affect Practice :
We will study the introduction to Ayurveda and understand how environment, choice, time, and circumstance affect the intention and direction of a practice. We will learn why a group class must be different than a private, why a class at 6am requires a different focus than a 6pm class - even if the postures are the same etc.
The Art of Touch :
Finally, we will go more thoroughly into adjustments built precisely for the variety of body types, ages, and skill levels we encounter in the shala.
Throughout the Sequencing Aspect of this Immersion, we will look to discern methods of interweaving the aspects presented in Part 1 into the physicality of a Yoga Class in order so to create a Personal Practice or an Open Level Class that permeates beyond than the realms of the physical body, in order to touch the soft eternality of the Spirit.
My hope for those involved is that after this course, the Yoga will have a deeper sense of “settling” inside of each student so that it begins to express as an emanation from within, like a soft, but strong wind. It might present in the form of teaching yoga, or personal practice, or just as a means of walking through the world. I always feel that deeper understanding makes the ground both feel firmer and more fecund.
I would like to keep this training intimate, located in Philadelphia at a Beautiful Private Residence.
Dates : April 2-17 with a day off after every 6 days together.
Hours : 8am-3:30pm, with a one hour lunch break. We will get right to nitty-gritty, with a group practice daily. Those who participate will leave feeling refined, refreshed, and inspired.
