with Graham Burns
Added Sun 27 Nov 2022
Zoom and watchAnytime
Looking at the yoga of the Haṭhapradīpikā and how some of its principles can be brought into our teaching.
For teachers (and interested students).
- £25 -
‘The science of haṭha yoga should be kept top secret by the yogi desirous of success. It is potent when concealed and impotent when revealed.’ (Haṭha[yoga]pradīpikā 1.11)
* The Haṭhapradīpikā *
Despite the verse above, the Haṭhapradīpikā – often referred to as the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā – is one of the best known source texts of haṭha yoga. This is, at least in part, because, although very largely a compilation of verses from earlier texts, it is one of the first texts to offer a thorough and complete haṭha yoga system.
The Haṭhapradīpikā was probably composed in the 15th century. It is attributed to an author called Svātmārāma, about whom nothing is known. Its name means ‘the casting of light on haṭha yoga’, and it was specifically composed (it says) ‘for those wandering in the darkness of too many theories’ as a ‘stairway’ or ‘ladder’ leading to rāja yoga (here a synonym for samādhi, the deepest state of yoga).
* Which teachings of the the Haṭhapradīpikā will we study? *
‘Haṭha yoga’ is often used in the contemporary yoga world as a synonym for any non-lineage based physical yoga practice. However, the yoga of the Haṭhapradīpikā contains many elements not routinely found in most 21st century yoga classes, and a number of important principles which can usefully be brought into teaching. In this workshop, Graham will present a brief introduction to the text, focussing on some of those important principles and their relevance to contemporary practice and teaching, before leading you through an integrated practice incorporating accessible physical cleansing techniques, āsana, mudrā and bandha, prāṇāyāma, and meditation.
* Workshop Format *
A 2.5 hour theory and practice workshop via Zoom. A recording will be sent out to everyone after the session and will be available for 21 days.
* Who is this for? *
The workshop is suitable for all levels of yoga experience, other than beginners, though some familiarity with prāṇāyāma is desirable. We are sorry, but some of the practices will not be appropriate for those who are pregnant or who have recently given birth – you are welcome to join the workshop, but will need to modify your practice accordingly.
‘Haṭha yoga is a sanctuary for those experiencing every type of suffering. It is the foundation for those practising every type of yoga.’ (Haṭha[yoga]pradīpikā 1.11)
* Certification & Hours *
The Principles and Practices of the Haṭha[yoga]pradīpikā counts for 2.5 Continuing Education hours through Yoga Alliance.
* In affiliation with YogaCampus London - www.yogacampus.com *
* Meet the Teacher *
Dr. Graham Burns has taught regular yoga classes for over 20 years. He is a faculty member of the Yogacampus Yoga Teacher Training Programme, where he teaches, amongst other things, the history and philosophies of yoga, Sanskrit, and meditation. He holds a Master’s degree in Indian religions and a PhD in Indian philosophy, both from SOAS University of London, where he has also lectured on the MA programme in Traditions of Yoga and Meditation. Graham particularly enjoys bringing some of the ancient textual teachings of yoga to life through practice, and is known for his accessible and light hearted style of teaching. www.samanayoga.com
** PRACTICAL BITS **
Due to the nature of the Crescent Bakery building, it's ideal to wear layers of clothing for cooler / warmer fluctuations.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay near the studio, click here for info.
Please note workshops will be refunded only if we can find someone to take your place. Obviously, we will take account of exceptional circumstances. If you have chosen to pay in instalments, payments to completion will still be due.
Please contact studio@orangeyoga.co.uk and we’ll be happy to help.