Ashtanga Yoga – aṣṭāṅgayoga – is the practice of the great sage Patañjali and (over a thousand years) later, Patabhi Jois when he created the original vinyasa practice. What does it mean? Where did it come from? How did it get here? How has it changed over time? Why do we do supta padangusthasana standing up before we do it laying down? How do I do it and maintain a healthy (injury/ache-free) body? Why are there six series? Is meditation at its core? What does it (meditation) have to do with what we do on the mat today? And why should we care? These questions and much more will be explored during this course.
In this course we will delve into the ancient roots of Ashtanga Yoga and explore its relationship to the modern day practice from Mysore, India. We’ll do this through both a historical and philosophical/cultural lens. In doing so you will come away with an enriched understanding and appreciation of why we do what we do six days a week on the mat; how it sets us up for a better life; and how it’s related to the ancient teachings of Patañjali. You will also gain a clear understanding of a select group of sutras – from the Yoga Sutras of Patañjali – that you can draw upon and incorporate into your practice to gain inspiration and support!
What?
Each week will include:
A group session – on Zoom and in the shala – wherein Cory will guide you through a study of Ashtanga and provide the backdrop for the exercises to follow on Mon and Thurs of the following week.
Two recordings delivered to your Inbox on Monday and Thursday:
The first (Monday) will be an “Asana-Meditation” wherein Cory will guide you through a blending of the modern Ashtanga postures with the ancient techniques of focusing the mind.
The second (Thursday) will be a short dharma talk followed by a guided meditation following the LISTEN - CONTEMPLATE - MEDITATE model to support your personal direct experience of Ashtanga old and new.
When? 4 Weeks— Sundays – April 23 - May 14 – 10:30-11:30amCST
Where? In the shala and on Zoom (with recording distributed same day)
How much? $140 (20% of for shala members)