20-Hour Yoga Alliance CEU programme

Are you ready to unlock the more profound wisdom of Patanjali's Sutras?

While the first two chapters on aims and techniques are well-known, the true treasures lie in the third and fourth chapters, which reveal the profound results of practice.

Join us as we delve into these often-overlooked sections with Simon, who spent seven transformative years in an ashram dedicated to meditating and studying the sutras. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore the hidden depths of Patanjali's teachings!

Dates:

Sat and Sunday 14:30 16:30

Sept 21/22
Oct 19/20
Jan 11/12
Jan 18/19
Feb 1/2
Feb 15/16
Mar 1/2

Each weekend covers each module described below.

If you miss a weekend, then material from the weekend will be provided. Homework and reading exercises will be assigned.

Structure:

Yamas, Niyamas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi: Each limb will be explored in 2 sessions

Each session will include essential sutras, the Sanskrit study, and the sutras interpretation.

Each session will cover one of the limbs, discussing the sutras associated with the in-question limb. We will read and interpret the sutras and discuss how to apply them. This workshop will also help you guide yourself in life.

The yoga sutra’s goal is to rewind perception to its source. To perceive pure consciousness, one has to dismantle one’s view of the world, which obscures true knowledge.

Modules

1. Yama (Ethical Guidelines)

Session 1: Introduction to non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, sexual restraint, and non-possessiveness. Learn the foundational ethical principles that underpin Yoga practice.

Session 2: Engage in group discussions, case studies, and role-playing exercises to deepen your understanding and application of these ethical guidelines daily.

2. Niyama (Personal Observances)

Session 1: Explore the personal observances of cleanliness, contentment, discipline, self-study, and surrender to the divine. Understand how these practices cultivate inner peace and discipline.

Session 2: Develop personal practices with journaling prompts and self-reflection exercises to integrate these observances into your routine.

3. Pranayama (Breath Control)

Session 1: Introduction to essential pranayama techniques such as Ujjayi and Nadi Shodhana. Learn how breath control can enhance your physical and mental well-being.

Session 2: Engage in longer pranayama practices and discuss the energetic effects of these techniques.

4. Pratyahara (Withdrawal of Senses)

Session 1: Discover techniques to manage sensory overload and withdraw attention from external stimuli. Learn how to create a calm and focused mind.

Session 2: Practice meditation techniques that cultivate inner awareness through guided visualizations.

5. Dharana (Concentration)

Session 1: Develop focused attention practices on a chosen object. This will enhance your ability to concentrate and quiet the mind.

Session 2: Practice mantra repetition and discuss the challenges and benefits of maintaining concentration.

6. Dhyana (Meditation)

Session 1: Explore different meditation styles, including mindfulness and loving-kindness. Understand the various approaches to achieving a meditative state.

Session 2: Share insights and discuss strategies for establishing and maintaining a consistent meditation practice.

7. Samadhi (Union with the Divine)

Session 1: Understand Samadhi as a state of blissful absorption and union with the divine. Learn about the profound experiences associated with this ultimate stage of Yoga.

Session 2: Participate in a guided meditation focused on unity and interconnectedness to experience a taste of Samadhi.