PATANJALI’S YOGA SUTRAS: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE

WITH SHAMITA RAY

15TH JUNE 2024, YOGARISE PECKHAM

Doing yoga makes our bodies and minds feel great, but have you ever wondered what the spiritual and philosophical roots of the practice really are? If so, this training will be just what you are looking for! Whether you are new to yoga philosophy, or if you want to deepen your existing knowledge, this training will be an inspiring and illuminating journey into ancient wisdom, and its relevance in a modern context. Open to teachers, trainee teachers, curious yoga practitioners and anyone with an interest in the history and philosophy of yoga.

Join Shamita for this special, deep dive into one of the most referenced yoga texts.

The day will start by discussing who Patanjali was, his central philosophy, and our problems with translations.

Chapter 1 will then be explored in detail, including unpicking the famous definition of yoga – stilling the fluctuations of the mind.

Moving onto an in-depth study of Chapter 2, we come across Patanjali’s section on posture, and the frequently quoted advice that postures should be steady and comfortable. What did Patanjali really mean by this?

Complementing our theoretical approach with a practical experience, we then enjoy a 75-minute yoga class, which will include an imaginative recreation of all the 13 postures Patanjali recommended, including the bizarrely named ‘sitting like an elephant' pose’, and ‘reclining on a couch pose’.

After a break for lunch, the afternoon will be spent investigating Chapters 3 and 4 which contain one of the most perplexing ideas of the Yoga Sutras – that yoga practice was considered to bring on magical powers, including flying, becoming very small, travelling very long distances, etc. How did Patanjali ‘sell’ yoga – was it really about reaching enlightenment, or was it more about performing extraordinary powers?

Throughout the day there will be plenty of time for group discussion and questions…..
and maybe some answers

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

This one-day workshop is open to teachers, trainee teachers, curious yoga practitioners and anyone with an interest in the history and philosophy of yoga.

WHEN + WHERE?

This workshop takes place on Saturday 15th June 2024 from 10.00 - 16.00 at Yogarise Peckham

STRUCTURE OF THE DAY:

The day will begin with an introduction to the text. The morning will see a deep dive into Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 followed by a 75 min yoga class incorporating some of the lesser-known asana Patanjali mentions in the text.

After lunch, we will look at Chapters 3 and 4 before concluding the day. The day will include plenty of time for group discussion and questioning.

A pdf of the full English translation of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the powerpoint slides used and a comprehensive reading list with suggested website links will be provided.

WHAT WILL I LEARN

By the end of the day, you will deepen your awareness of some of the ancient principles and practices of Yoga. You will have a better understanding of how modern yoga has retained some of these principles and yet embraced new ideas, evolving to where it is today. Plus, you will have mastered the ‘sitting like an elephant pose’!

If you are a yoga teacher, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to confidently introduce elements of Patanjali’s philosophy in your yoga classes and workshops.

Meet the Teacher

Find out more about Senior Yoga Teacher Shamita, here.

Fees

£99 ( Early Bird until 15th May £89)

Fee-Free payment plans available on request.

Lore Botanicals will be providing free samples of a tea called rise & shine to take home as a special gift to participants of the workshop. Lore Botanicals love creating joyous teas that are delicious, brimming with natural goodness & kind to the earth.

Please email Clare@yogarise.london for more information or any questions about the course.