While it is valuable to stretch and strengthen the musculoskeletal system in yoga, the health of the organs brings radiant vitality to the entire body. In this course we utilize postures, pranayama, meditation and dietary regulation to support the health of the internal organs.
We focus on generating the flow of prana (blood and lymph) through each organ to support motility (inherent motion) and metabolic exchange. We review the anatomical position and function of each organ and practice SATYA (Sensory Awareness Training for Yoga) to slide, squeeze, wring, drain, and flush fluids through each organ.
Many people suffer from stagnation in the viscera due to excess sitting, dietary imbalances and repressed emotion. This can lead to sluggishness, fatigue, stagnation, and the unwanted growth of tumors and cysts. In each day of this course, we practice active postures such as twists, back-arches and inversions and do restorative postures to reduce inflammation.
The organs are highly sensitive, highly responsive structures given their soft-bodied walls and compartments. Thus we will take into consideration not only the physiological make up of each organ but also the psychological and emotional characteristics of the liver, kidney, lung, and large intestine.
Surya will present information on the alchemy of yoga and food to heal the internal organs. From both Ayurveda and Oriental Medicine, we study the meridians and key acupressure points associated with each organ. In this unique course, you will gain a new approach to practice, healing your organic body for longevity and vitality.
Cost: $725 for the full immersion, or $150 for individual days
Day 1 | The Large Intestine – October 13 | 9:30am – 12:30pm Mountain Time
The Large Intestine is the primary organ of cleansing and removal. We begin the course by preparing the base of the GI tract for elimination. We build stability and mobility in the sacrum, hips, and pelvis to support the movement of apana in the lower gut.
Day 2 | The Kidneys – October 14 | 9:30am – 12:30pm Mountain Time
The kidneys are considered the source of vitality for the entire body. It is essential not to allow the kidney region to become restricted, locked, or dehydrated. This can happen as a result of muscular tension in the low back, fear, and emotional holding. In this class we will regard the kidneys as huge aquifers that provide endurance and homeostasis to the entire body.
Day 3: | The Liver – October 15 | 9:00am – 1:30pm Mountain Time
Called “The General” in Chinese Medicine, the liver is the largest organ in the body. It is a real multi-tasker — it manufactures and stores blood and is the primary site where blood is purified. The liver is also a receptacle for toxins and negative emotion. The practice of yoga improves liver function by cleansing and purifying the blood.
Day 4 | The Lungs – October 16 | 9:30am – 12:30pm Mountain Time
The lungs are highly sensitive organs that are responsible for oxygenating the blood, removing carbon dioxide, and absorbing prana into the body. We keep the lungs supple through asana, pranayama, and heart centered practices. In the time of COVID we build resiliency and immunity within the lung tissue.
Day 5 | The Brain – October 17 | 9:30am – 12:30pm Mountain Time
B.K.S Iyengar once said that the brain is the hardest organ to adjust. The neural expression of the brain can be felt in every tissue of the body. Through movement and meditation we support the cranial rhythms, optimize circulatory flow through the brain, and balance the two brain hemispheres.
DAILY LIVE ZOOM MEETINGS:
**Please note ALL Live Zoom sessions will be recorded should you be unable to attend any live streams. These recordings are available indefinitely.
**Included in this course is bonus access to two Prajna Live classes at 10:00 – 11:30am Mountain Time (5:00 – 6:30pm UK Time) on Tuesday, October 12 and Friday, October 15. You will have access to these classes directly in the course curriculum for 2 weeks after the course completes.
**Healing the Organic Body is good for 30 hours of total combined live training, pre-recorded material, classes, homework, and mentorship available for Continuing Education hours through Yoga Alliance. All course materials are available indefinitely.
**Healing the Organic Body can be applied towards required hours for the Prajna Yoga 300/500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Program.
**Healing the Organic Body is part of the Prajna Yoga Therapy Track.
**Have your props handy! We recommend two blocks, blankets, a thick bolster, an 8’ or 10’ belt/strap, and a backless Iyengar chair (modifications will be given if you do not have a chair). We recommend yogaoutlet.com and Manduka for props; backless chairs can be found on Amazon and Etsy.