XL: Focus, Concentration, Meditation: Philosophy & Yoga
With Daniela Gfeller
Dharana Dhyana and Samadhi: The last limbs of Ashtanga Yoga point towards the deepest aspects of awareness, moving through stages of consciousness. These aspects are often missing from modern yoga classes, yet they are integral aspects of all spiritual paths, including yoga.
In this workshop Daniela will bring a down-to-earth approach to understanding these concepts. Tools for developing them in your own life, and you will practice yoga and other practices that will give you and experience of integration.
Here are the last 3 aspects as outlined by the sage Patanjali:
DHARANA – Focused Concentration:
Closely linked to the previous two limbs; dharana and pratyahara are essential parts of the same aspect. In order to focus on something, the senses must withdraw so that all attention is put on that point of concentration, and in order to draw our senses in, we must focus and concentrate intently.
DHYANA – Meditative Absorption
The seventh limb is ‘meditative absorption’ – when we become completely absorbed in the focus of our meditation, and this is when we’re really meditating.
SAMADHI – Bliss or Enlightenment
Breaking the word in half, we see that this final stage is made up of two words; ‘sama’ meaning ‘same’ or ‘equal’, and ‘dhi’ meaning ‘to see’. There’s a reason it’s called realisation – and it’s because reaching Samadhi is not about escapism, floating away or being abundantly joyful; it’s about realising the very life that lies in front of us.
Yoga & Philosophy series of workshops will give you a fun and accessible view into the foundations of yoga philosophy as outlined by the ancient sage Patanjali.
Each workshop we explore a new aspect of the view from the Eightfold Path of Yoga. We will be referencing the lovely book called: The Tree of Yoga by Mr. BKS Iyengar (which we recommend you get, but its optional). Each session we will also practice asana in the Iyengar tradition (renowned for its emphasis on precision, alignment, and the use of props), but practice in a way that attempts to integrate the concepts of the philosophy topic into our practice. In this way - your practice becomes infused with awareness of a different kind.
The philosophical aspects of yoga through the Eightfold Path, encompasses principles such as ethical conduct (yamas), self-discipline (niyamas), sense withdrawal (pratyahara), mindfulness (dharana), meditation (dhyana) and liberation (samadhi). By weaving together the precision of Iyengar yoga with the ethical and mental disciplines of the Eightfold Path, participants will gain a profound understanding of the interconnectedness between the body and the mind. This course aims to provide a holistic yoga experience, equipping students with tools for both physical well-being and spiritual growth, fostering a balanced and transformative journey along the path of yoga.
Each workshop is a stand-alone workshop - but it will be more impactful if you take the whole series.
Yoga Moves XL Series
Our series of workshops with you in mind. We want to help you explore your yoga, your mind, your heart more in depth than you might be able to in class, at an affordable price with our top teachers. Bring a friend or make new ones in these fun filled learning spaces. Our members (Infinity & Balance) enjoy a 25% discount on our XL Series. Sign up today for one or more.
Do more of what you love!
Date & Time: Sunday, 21 April 2024 | 13.30 - 16.30
Location: Studio Hot | Jan van Scorelstraat 41 | Utrecht
Price: €29 | 25% off for Infinity & Balance Members
About the teacher:
