Raja Yoga
Commences June 2 2023
12 weeks
10 hrs per week
Prerequisite for Instructor Training
$750
There have been so many aspects that have blossomed, knowledge and concepts, practices, attitudes, and then, combining these into a sadhana practice both on and off the mat/meditation cushion.
About the course
The classic text on Raja Yoga by Patanjali, the Yoga Sutras, contains many concise jewels, useful tools and strategies for understanding and managing the patterns of the mind. This includes skills for self-reflection and developing sustained regular practice. Patanjali helps us develop understanding of the nature of the obstacles we place in our own path and provides powerful techniques for overcoming them. A highly practical down to earth approach to this classic text taught through a mix of practical classes, tutorials and lectures.
Raja Yoga is often thought of in terms of meditation and the inner journey. First steps on this adventure reveal that every aspect of life contributes to the harmony that makes the journey possible. This includes yoga asana and pranayama, daily routines, alignment of feelings and thoughts, and balanced interactions with others. Only then is consistent progress possible.
These practices and concepts are thousands of years old, the heritage of humanity, and more relevant today than ever.
One of the starting points to understanding and applying Raja Yoga is the Ashtanga or 8 limbs of Patanjali: Yamas and Niyamas, Pranayama, Asana, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. This module covers a range of themes from Patanjali, including these eight limbs, with a particular focus on techniques and understanding of Pratyahara.
Pratyahara is often interpreted as withdrawal of the mind from the senses. More widely it is the harmonisation of the patterns of mind and the capacity to remain undisturbed no matter what is happening in life.
A preparatory module for yoga instructor training.
Sadhana
This module explores the experience of developing Sadhana, personal practice, through the prism of this classic text, in the light of the Satyananda tradition of yoga. This is done with the understanding that yoga is about taking responsibility for one’s own life, developing self-understanding and a positive approach to living. When these skills are developed, any goal is possible. This process has traditionally been referred to as Sadhana, the subtle discipline of a lifestyle adopted to reach one’s deeper goals.
Structure
The approach will be highly practical unfolding over 12 weeks of practice and investigation. It will provide tools and inspiration that if applied will transform one’s practical life and spiritual journey.
Part of Yoga Instructor course
This Raja Yoga course is a prerequisite module for the course Yoga Instructor in the Satyananda Tradition.
Useful for experienced practioners and teachers
For experienced practitioners and yoga teachers, as a standalone module, it provides comprehensive exploration of Raja Yoga, insight into the fundamental Satyananda practices, pratyahara and meditation skills, and strategies for integrating yoga into daily life.
I have learnt to see my life through a different lens. Nearly everything, if not already, will be utilised in my everyday life.
Weekly Timetable
(there may be some adjustments to this)
Essential
Sunday 11.30-12pm – YOGA NIDRA, live, also recorded for practicing at your convenience.
Monday 5-6pm – LECTURE , live, also recorded for viewing at your convenience.
Tuesday 6-7.45pm – ASANA PRANAYAMA MEDITATION CLASS, Live, priority to attend, also recorded for later viewing.
Friday 7-8.05am – ASANA PRANAYAMA MEDITATION CLASS, Live, priority to attend, also recorded for later viewing.
Friday 5-6pm or Saturday 9-10am TUTORIAL, Live, priority to attend, not recorded for privacy reasons.
Attendance key criteria for achieving certificate.
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Optional
Saturday 4-5pm – OPEN DISCUSSION, open to all current Sharing and Learning Yoga students, questions and answers, sharing of perspectives.
Sunday 7-8.30am CLASS – Simple Sunday. We are moving this class to the morning for the Southern Hemisphere summer as we find that Sunday evening during summer is hard for potential participants.
Wednesday 7-8.05am – CLASS – Meditative Wednesday
Big Day In with Yoga, (every two months) is included in course fee.
Learning resources
- A systematic sadhana of asana, pranayama, yoga nidra, meditation and mantra is provided
- A full original easy to follow manual with commentary explaining the practices, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, and related topics
- Learning website: audio, video and other learning resources
- Weekly verses for reflection from Patanjali, with a related task to explore in daily life
- Live lectures (recorded for flexible viewing) each week
- Weekly tutorials with participants from around the world
- Practice classes are typically Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Weekly Yoga Nidra. All classes may be done live or from video recordings for later practice. Come to at least one class per week, with deeper benefits from greater commitment
- Ongoing email, text and phone support from experienced teachers throughout the length of the course
- The main review tasks are a reflective diary to be submitted each fortnight, the development of a personal sadhana template, and participation in tutorials and practical classes.
- Flexible options with live and/or recorded access to materials.
- 10 hours per week with a high level of flexibility to suit personal circumstances