200-Hour program
Mindfulness, Somatics, & Yoga
Mindfulness, Somatics, and Yoga: 200-Hour Program is a course of study that leads to internal transformation at the deepest level. This immersive training has two primary components. First we open the heart-mind through meditation, poetry, and the study of the wisdom traditions. Secondly, we explore the body in motion through the lens of somatic integration, anatomy, and fine-tuned awareness.
module 1 | From the ground up
In this module we begin by establishing the foundation of the body-mind connection. Whether in the study of the Tao or the Yoga Sutras, we believe that inquiry, self-reflection, and contemplation are the cornerstones of practice. In our investigation of the body, we begin with the amazing, ever-changing fluid matrix of the fascia and how it provides support for all structures of the body.
We build the temple of the body from the ground up. We study the architecture of the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower spine. Through floor work, standing poses, and prop work, we open the pathway of energy through the legs.
Throughout this module we investigate the underpinnings of the wisdom tradition teachings on impermanence, conditionality (karma), and “Big Mind” / “Big Heart.” Through metta practices on loving kindness we practice to dissolve mental fixation, free from extremes that polarize, divide, and isolate. In meditation, we yoke to an all pervading intrinsic wisdom, sometimes called “natural mind.”
module 2 | THE FLUID BODY
Because we are 80% water, we emphasize fluidity in both body and mind. In the study of the fluid nature of consciousness we include the power of myth, story, and dreams. In the body we cover the fluid dynamics of the spine, the kidneys, the lungs, and circulation of blood. In practice we mobilize and stabilize the lower back while strengthening the core musculature of the abdomen.
Throughout the course we weave in verses from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Through the lens of the five yamas (ethics) we address the complex and divisive issues of today that include race, gender, sexuality, and power in our society. Through meditation, we further develop the witness consciousness, seeing the way thoughts, hopes, and fears arise against the backdrop of a spacious and boundless “mind essence.” We note the way stress, anxiety, and the “busy brain” corrode the vital spirit.
Throughout the course we weave in strands of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Through the lens of the five yamas (ethics) we address the complex and divisive issues of today that involve race, gender, sexuality and power in our society. Through meditation, we further develop the witness consciousness, seeing the way thoughts, hopes and fears arise against the backdrop of a spacious and boundless “mind essence”. We note the way stress, anxiety and the “busy brain” corrode the spirit.
module 3 | The SUBTLE body
Connection to your subtle body is a time honored process. You can’t push the river and it comes through settling, gaining insight, and opening to grace. In this module we gain postural balance and fine articulation of the upper spine, neck, and cranium. We re-educate the neural-muscular system and brain pathways by working with the eyes, ears, and brainstem. This allows greater freedom of movement in feeling, thought, and action.
We investigate the “sheath” of the emotional/psychological body including how anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma get embedded in the tissues. To do this, we invoke the energy of compassion, tolerance, and non-judgmental awareness into our lives. In our restorative/therapeutic practices, we use blocks, belts, bolsters, and the yoga chair to release patterns of holding in the body.
In the teaching practicum, we help students find the language to articulate their mind-body connection through sensitivity and mindful precision. We investigate what it means to be a leader in today’s larger community, not only as a teacher of postural yoga, but as a facilitator of change. We encourage each student to tap their greatest potential in order to teach yoga from a place of clarity, authenticity, and kindness.
OUR KEY INGREDIENTS
Mindfulness & Meditation | All of our practice is rooted in mindful, loving presence. In the Path of Practice, you will come away with an established daily meditation and a steady practice to help you live fearlessly in the world with an open heart.
Yoga Postures & Somatic Awareness | You will learn not only classical yoga postures but through our unique, highly sought after SATYA program (Sensory Awareness Training for Yoga) develop skillful connection between body and mind.
Anatomy Principles & Alignment | We specialize in living anatomy, that is how to align your bones, balance your fascial and increase the flow of prana through your circulatory system.
Subtle Body Training | Subtle body awareness connects us to the chakras, the flow of breath and the exquisite movement to the pulse of life within.
Environmental Protection | We believe that the ecology of the body cannot be separated from the ecosystem at large. You will discover ways to advocate on behalf of the rivers, oceans, forests and fields.
