Philosophy of Yoga
If you are running a teachers training programme, I can offer a philosophy module for your course. Below are some suggestions, but I can personlise the module to fit your needs.
If you have a group who is interested in yoga philosophy, I am available to give talks —
or to teach a variety of courses, workshops, lectures.
I also teach advanced trainings for yoga teachers.
Suggested philosophy classes (2-3 hours each)
Introduction to Indian scriptures, Indian philosophical systems, yoga philosophy, and the main paths and practices of yoga
What is Yoga? You will be presented with an introduction to the categories of Indian scriptures, the Vedas, the 6 classical schools of Indian philosophy and the 5 Paths of Yoga — and historical timeline is included.
Introduction to Meditation
What is meditation; how to start your meditation practice; the nature and function of the mind; the 4 states of consciousness.
Is there more to life than just the physical body?
This class will introduce the yogic concepts of the 3 bodies and 5 sheaths; what the bodies and sheaths consist of, when they are present and active, their experiences, and how to purify them. This is an essential class if you are thinking to go more deeply into your yoga practice — especially if you are thinking of becoming a yoga teacher.
Chakras 1: Prana, Nadis and Chakras
The subtle energy, 72,000 psychic channels through which the prana moves and the energetic centres within the astral body. You will be introduced to the Ida, Pingala and Sushumna, as well as to the vital energy centres that are known as "the chakras".
Chakras 2: Introduction to Chakra Meditation
Chakra meditations are simple, yet powerful techniques for helping you to develop inner poise and keep your life in balance. How smoothly yourchakras function influences how fully you inhabit your physical body, the success of your relationships, and how much inner peace you are able to enjoy. With regular practise these meditations can help you to tap into your vast potential reservoir of psycho-spiritual energy. Swami Saradananda presents you with a down-to-earth approach to inner peace. Many of the exercises are aimed at eliminating the negative emotional behaviour associated with each of the chakras.
Bhagavad Gita 1
The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most important scriptures of yoga. It teaches the way to live a spiritual life in the midst of daily stress, conflicts and problems.
Bhagavad Gita 2
The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most important scriptures of yoga. This class will continue on from where the previous class left off — or it may be taken separately.
Introduction to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika
Hatha Yoga Pradipika is the classic guide for the advanced practice of Hatha Yoga.
Brahman, Maya and the 3 Gunas
You will be introduced to the yogic concepts of the Universal Self and the individual self; Illusion and ignorance; the powers of Maya and Her qualities. The class will include a look at the "Qualities of Nature" in relation to diet and lifestyle. These are essential concepts if you are looking to go more deeply into your yoga practice — especially if you are thinking of becoming a yoga teacher.
Introduction to Meditation
What is meditation; the nature and function of the mind; the 4 states of consciousness.
Patanjali's Yoga Sutra 1
This 2-part workshop (may be taken separately or together) presents an investigation into the landmark scripture on classical yoga. Patanjali approaches eternal psychological, philosophical and spiritual questions. This first workshop includes a look at the 8 Limbs of Raja Yoga.
Patanjali's Yoga Sutra 2
This second half of a 2-part workshop (may be taken separately or together) continues your investigation into the landmark scripture on classical yoga. Patanjali approaches eternal psychological, philosophical and spiritual questions. This second workshop includes a look at the 4 Brahma Vihari — the four "vehicles" for attaining enlightenment and inner peace.
Mythos of Yoga
This class focuses on some of the core myths of yoga that can assist you in obtaining a deeper understanding of your yoga practice.
