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Yoga of the Subtle Body – Pasadena CA
November 7, 2019 - November 10, 2019
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Connection to the subtle body suggests not simply an intellectual knowing but an embodied, cellular knowing. In this course we will explore the pathways of the muscle, bone, blood vessel and nerve in order to bring greater wakefulness to the body-mind connection. We use the physical structure to explore the subtle body and the flow of nadis, prana and movement through the chakras. All asana and somatic training (SATYA) emphasize slow, deep and internal movement. In this training on the subtle body you will learn to cultivate sensitivity and inner listening through yoga, meditation, somatic exercises, dream work and cranial-sacral study. We explore the way that fatigue, stress and anxiety deplete the subtle body. By investigating breath, inner pulsation, and dream images you will learn how to protect your subtle body and enhance the potency of your own deep life force.
Each day begins with seated meditation followed by Somatic Training (SATYA). This involves floor work to release the joints, connective tissues and the spine. Late morning involves dynamic yoga asana practice. Afternoons include anatomical study of the subtle body and restorative yoga sessions. Tias incorporates verse and poetry from classical yoga, Taoist and Zen traditions. This is a transformational and deeply restorative week of practice and study. Recommended Reading: Yoga of the Subtle Body, by Tias Little.
DAY 1 – BUILDING FROM THE BONES
The bones provide core stability for the body but as we age the bones become lighter and less stable. In the spiritual traditions of India and China, the bone and the bone marrow are thought to hold the deep life force. In this class we build greater connection to the bones through standing and supine poses.
DAY 2 – THE SACRUM AND THE FLUID REALM
This day explores the fluidity and equilibrium of the sacrum and sacral-iliac joints. We do SATYA movements and asana to access the lower psoas and abdomen and to begin to gain support from uddiyana bandha.
DAY 3 – THE FIRE WITHIN
The third chakra is a common place for constriction due to stress and emotional holding. This class investigates the adrenal glands, lumbar spine and psoas muscle. We emphasis twists and supported backbends in the asana practice and pranayama with focus on inhalation.
DAY 4 – THE PRANA PUMP and THE SPACE WITHIN
Prana is the source of all being and becoming. It flows primarily through the lungs and heart. This day explores the pulse of the prana in the chest emphasizing techniques for the shoulder joint, the scapulae and the collar bones. In asana we do backbends and in pranayama practice Viloma I and II. In the afternoon we practice techniques for the cranium including the sensory organs of the eyes, ears, tongue and facial skin.
