Nada Yoga
(3 courses)
Nada Yoga - The Yoga of Sound
Nada Yoga is the Yoga of Subtle Sound. A part of Tantra, it consists of a series of techniques leading to an increasingly refined tuning of our perception, energised body and mind, and a heightened awareness of our chakras. Exploring levels of sound from gross to subtle gradually draws us closer to our highest potential.
The seminar will cover the following:
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Philosophical background of the concept of Nada
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Introduction to Indian Classical Music, including raga and tala
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Chakra sensitisation using Indian music scales
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Work with body and breath incorporating concepts of Nada
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Developing a practice of meditation with sound
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Contemplation on the mantra Om
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Relating the practice of Nada Yoga to daily life
From Sound to Silence
In this course we effect the transition from sound to silence through music, mantra yoga and body work, and we reflect on the meaning and nature of Silence.
From Sound to Silence is a natural progression from Nada Yoga - The Yoga of Subtle Sound. Although it is helpful, it is not a requirement that participants should have done the previous course. It is designed to take the practice of Nada Yoga to a deeper level, and prepare participants for an in-depth study of the Mandukya Upanishad.
This course covers:
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Overview of the concept of Nada
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Harmony and balance in posture and movement
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Working with mantras
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Sound and the chakra paradigm
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Exploring conscious deep sleep through Yoga Nidra
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Reflecting on the mantra OM through selected verses from the Upanishads
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Meditation
Music of AUM: the Mandukya Upanishad
Introducing the Mandukya Upanishad through Chanting and Reflection
This course is the third in the series on the subject of Nada Yoga.
In this course we will:
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chant/recite the text with awareness of Sanskrit pronunciation and metre
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explore the text with a view to reflecting on its meaning and essence
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develop a practice of meditation with the mantra OM
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integrate asana, pranayama with the study, leading to a more holistic approach
Bhakti Yoga : Through Love to the Self
Bhakti Yoga is a search for the Self, through Love. It awakens the heart centre, refining our perceptions and unveiling the true nature of reality. This is the Wisdom of the Heart which transcends the limited egocentric intellect, opening up the possibility of Yoga – union with the Absolute, Brahman. The path and process of opening up the heart centre is called Bhakti Yoga.
In this course we will be working with techniques from different forms of yoga ie. Mantra Yoga, Nada Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Chanting, Kirtana, Satsang, visualisations and meditations as means to sensitise the heart and awaken Bhakti. We will also chant and reflect on the 12th chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, which examines Bhakti Yoga.
Song of the Heart
Love and compassion are innate; they only need to be given the opportunity for expression. Song of the Heart focuses on the Heart Centre as a way of deepening our meditation practice. The course explores the symbolism and meaning of Anahata Chakra. Through visualization, mantra chanting, drawing, colouring and meditation practice, we will deepen our understanding and open our heart to intuition and insight. Practices will be suggested for awakening the joy and wisdom of the heart, and exploring our emotional landscapes, including feelings such as appreciation, kindness and forgiveness. Such practices have the potential to heal the heart and transform negative emotions such as fear and resentment into friendliness and free-flowing love.
A practice of meditation will be developed based on the concepts and the techniques covered during the day, opening the heart and focusing on the Inner Witness.
Bhakti Yoga
Kriya and Nada Yoga Retreat
The word kriya means action or movement. Based on an ancient tradition and texts it is a systematic approach comprising of practices which are designed to induce Pratyahara, leading to Dharana and Dhyana in the 8 fold path of Yoga. Awareness rather than one pointed concentration is the focal point of the Kriya practices, bringing about a witness attitude and preparing the path to deepening our meditation.
These practices are systematically laid out, following a logical sequence, enabling the practitioner to open up to the possibility of accessing the deeper recesses of the sub conscious, removing unresolved blockages, and thus living our lives to our full potential.
Kriya Yoga
Pratyahara: Gateway to Stillness
Pratyahara is the fifth limb of the 8-fold path of Yoga and is considered to be the bridge between the external (bahiranga) and the internal (antaranga). This important stage could be perceived as a portal to inner realms, preparing the yogi for Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi.
Pratyahara is defined in the Yoga Sutras as the withdrawal of the senses from external objects back to the mind-field from which those senses originally arose, thus enabling the mind to focus on its true nature.
Pratyahara practices lead to a state of deep relaxation, expanded awareness and inner stability.
The course will focus on:
• Reflecting on the meaning of Pratyahara
• Working with asanas, mudras, bandhas and pranayama with emphasis on Pratyahara
• Looking at techniques of Pratyahara from Kriya and Nada Yoga
• Exploring other disciplines, such as Mindfulness, which bring about Pratyahara
• Experiencing Pratyahara through the practice of Yoga Nidra
• Moving towards Dharana and Dhyana
• Appreciating the importance of Pratyahara in our practice