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Introductory Workshop

The Introductory Course is a 12 hour course designed for those who wish to deepen their study of yoga. The approach has developed from the work of T Krishnamacharya, TKV Desikachar and his student Paul Harvey. The course gives background material and a structure which is developed further within the Foundation Course.

Check the "Courses list" for a course near you!

The course outline is as follows:

  1. BACKGROUND TO YOGA

    • Origins of yoga, time-line with main texts
  2. PRACTICE DESIGN

    • Use of breath, and the link with movement

    • Movement and stillness in postures
.
    • SKLIBS

    • Counterpose

    • Sthira/sukha
  3. ASANA

    • Asana groups (Name, form, vinyasa, place in the practice, counterpose, breathing, modifications, contraindications, focus/bhavana)
    • The role of postures, intention, form and function
.
    • Simple Modifications
  4. PRANAYAMA

    • Basics of breathing, location (and physiology)

    • Length, quality and rhythm

    • Ujjayi
  5. YOGA PHILOSOPHY

    • Overview of main texts, especially
 Yoga Sutra, Hatha Yoga Pradipika
.
    • Key concepts linking to role of yoga - Citta vritti nirodha
and to practice -Sthira sukha.
  6. ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
    • How we breathe, and the main organs and muscles, lungs, diaphragm
    • How we move: function of muscles, joints and bones
  7. HOME STUDY
    • Simple practice to take away
    • Relevant reading


Membership of aYs is required of all who take the Course, but the course tutor should have included it in the overall fee for the course. Ask the tutor if you are in any doubt.

Courses list