|
Classes are typically composed of instruction of poses (asana), meditation or relaxation, followed by tea and discussion. Class size is small, instruction is hands-on, and participation is essential. The yogic philosophical precepts of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, which detail moral and spiritual growth and responsibility, are the underlying foundation of the system. Poses are taught according to the methods developed by BKS Iyengar*. Meditation follows the principles of Vipassana** or Insight Meditation. Students of every level should practice regularly between lessons. Students should repeat each level of class, sometimes several times, before moving up.
Yoga is not a religion, but a teaching that is over 4,000 years old. Originally the teaching was handed down in an oral tradition from teacher to pupil; from one generation to the next. At the Yoga Path we try to honor this tradition, in an atmosphere that is simple, quiet, and conducive to this learning. So yoga can be practiced by any person in any circumstance and condition. Learning is not restricted by health, injury, age, size, or stress level. All that is required is a willingness to learn and a commitment to walk through the door. The essence of this practice is articulated in the sutras:
"Yoga is the settling of the mind into silence. When the mind has settled, we are established in our essential nature which is unbounded Consciousness." Patanjali's Sutras I, 2-3
Yoga has crossed the distance of centuries and the spanned of oceans of the earth. It has had many teachers and been translated into all languages. It has known popularity and obscurity; been in favor and disrepute; known many styles and seen many teachers. Yet in spite of yoga’s antiquity, the simplicity of it teachings remain relevant even today.
In modern times, many styles of hatha yoga have developed from a variety of remarkable teachers. At The Yoga Path we respect them all, but teach the following:
Iyengar
The teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar approach is internationally respected for its sophisticated understanding of physical movement. It helps students combine strength, flexibility, and endurance through precise attention to the body and the breath. The method is safe, orderly, and progressive, and the postures are adaptable to meet the needs of each student. At The Yoga Path class sizes are kept small to allow for individual attention to each student's needs and progress.
Meditation
The meditation taught is based in Vipassana, which means to see things as they really are. This one of India's most ancient techniques of meditation, rediscovered by Gotama Buddha more than 2500 years ago and was taught by him as a universal remedy for universal ills, i.e., an Art Of Living.
This non-sectarian technique aims for the total eradication of mental impurities and the resultant highest happiness of full liberation. Healing, not merely the curing of diseases, but the essential healing of human suffering, is its purpose.
Vipassana is a way of self-transformation through self-observation. It focuses on the deep interconnection between mind and body, which can be experienced directly by disciplined attention to the physical sensations that form the life of the body, and that continuously interconnect and condition the life of the mind. It is this observation-based, self-exploratory journey to the common root of mind and body that dissolves mental impurity, resulting in a balanced mind full of love and compassion.
The scientific laws that operate one's thoughts, feelings, judgements and sensations become clear. Through direct experience, the nature of how one grows or regresses, how one produces suffering or frees oneself from suffering is understood. Life becomes characterized by increased awareness, non-delusion, self-control and peace.
For more information see http://www.dhamma.org/en/vipassana.shtml
|
|
