Links for Yoga
The Integral Yoga of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother
The teaching of Sri Aurobindo originates from that of the ancient sages of India who understood that behind the appearances of the universe there is the Reality of a Being and Consciousness, a Self of all things, one and eternal. This is the foundation of all authentic spiritual practice.
Seasoned practitioners offering an innovative approach to asana with focus on listening from within.
Breath focused approach offering a slow deep inquiry thru asana and breathing for self evolution.
Continuum, the work of Emilie Conrad. Somatically based, it is a process by which one can experience the interconnection of our own origins with the larger currents of all organismic life, beginning with the first cell and ultimately layered into the intricacies of human form. Emilie’s work opens the body to the subtle nuance and full spectrum of the practice of yoga.
Dr. Jean Klein, a musicologist and doctor, spent several years in India where he met his Guru and was initiated into traditional wisdom. He was eventually sent back to Europe to teach Advaita Vedanta. This teaching employs a “direct approach” beyond any mental activity or striving, pointing straight to the ultimate where all that belongs to the mind, time, and space is integrated. What is sought is a sudden insight, a clear awakening to what we are, what we have been, and what we shall be forever.
In keeping with Patanjali’s philosophy, the KYM, founded by TKV Desikachar, has played a significant role in popularizing yoga as a holistic science that stems from a well founded theoretical basis, rather than as mere exercises for physical fitness. His teaching method is based on Krishnamacharya’s fundamental principle that yoga must always be adapted to an individual’s changing needs in order to derive the maximum therapeutic benefit.
The Feldenkrais Method® is a form of somatic education that uses gentle movement and directed attention to improve movement and enhance human functioning.
Thomas Hanna, an original philosopher/teacher, developed a theory of somatology and of the field he named Somatics. His work opens new pathways for sensory awareness and fluid movement, re-awakening human potential.
Authentic Movement
Authentic movement is a profoundly simple form in which a mover moves with eyes closed in the presence of a witness. Rooted in Jungian depth psychology, it is a practice that stands alone with its own integrity. At its core, Authentic Movement is about trusting the innate wisdom of the body to lead us toward healing and the development of conscious presence. In the practice of Authentic Movement, the body is the gateway of awareness itself. It informs the creative process, contemplative practice, and healing on all levels.
Having spent many winters on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala, we have become involved with the non-profit organization, Sharing the Dream. The organization provides food and medical care for marginalized elders. Here, in the village of Santiago on Lake Atitlan in the Guatemalan highlands, the lives of the indigenous people have deeply inspired and enriched our lives.
Links for Pranayama and Breathwork
A general overview of the various approaches can be found here.
Comprehensive overview of Holotrophic Breathwork by Stan Grof is here.