A Short Course in Yogic Thinking
Our brains are under constant bombardment. Our lives are a constant stream of technology, input, information, possibilities, news, noise and stress. At the same time, we have to work through a parallel assault from within, orchestrated by negative feelings of doubt, fear and regret.
Have you ever wished you could just turn down the volume and get some peace?
Think Flexible, Think Balanced
The physical benefits of yoga are now widely recognised by mainstream medicine. But yoga has much more to offer the stressed out, over-busy western psyche than just an exercise regime. The mental practices of yoga, when followed correctly, constitute one of the most effective sets of tools ever created for achieving, and keeping, genuine and lasting inner peace.
The yoga brain, like the yoga body, is agile, flexible, and balanced. It is stronger, more resilient to sickness, and better able to cope with the slings and arrows that life shoots at us.
The yoga brain observes situations without loading them with fear and anxiety. It is aware of the patterns that normally run our lives, but it acts consciously, without reacting, and can discern what is beneficial for the self from what is merely pleasurable.
Above all, the yoga brain knows what it means to be still – and is therefore free to experience the peace, joy and truth that this stillness brings.
What is The Yoga Brain?
The Yoga Brain is a six-week course designed to help you bring the benefits of a yogic state of mind into every moment of your daily life.
The Yoga Brain is not about philosophical gymnastics or rote learning of Sanskrit terms. Yoga at its heart is a practical science. Starting from the key elements of yogic thought and philosophy, the course will help you become aware of the mental obstacles that stand between you and happiness. We’ll investigate:
- the patterns that govern your actions
- the battle between the ego, the memory and your senses, and how to create balance between them
- how to rise above your likes and dislikes.
Then we’ll move on to explore practical techniques to work with these obstacles, such as:
- Kriya yoga – a powerful tool to aid spiritual development
- breathwork (pranayama)
- pratyahara, or control of the senses.
Classes take place in my private studio, in a comfortable and inclusive discussion group environment of no more than 12 students. Each class will comprise a mixture of inspiring discussions, lectures, meditations and practical exercises. Students will also be encouraged to embed the practices into their lives by a series of simple homework assignments.
Whether you’re a yoga student curious about the bigger picture of yoga, a teacher wishing to extend your knowledge of yoga philosophy, or you’re simply “yoga-curious” and interested in another point of view from which to ponder the big questions of life, The Yoga Brain is for you.
The important facts
When: Next course dates to be announced.
Where: in my peaceful and private Hazelbrook yoga studio. Call for address and directions.
How much: $135 for six two-hour sessions.
Want more details? Contact me