Introduction to Yogic Pranayama
Cost: $150 for 4 sessions / Early bird: $135 through 2/14
Cost: $40 for individual session
Weekend One: Foundations of Breath and Awareness
The first weekend introduces the foundations of pranayama through an experiential and textual approach. We’ll begin by exploring the classical yogic understanding of breath as presented in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and related texts, grounding the practice in its traditional context.
Through guided awareness exercises, you’ll develop sensitivity to the subtle movement of the breath and establish postural alignment that supports unrestricted breathing. Foundational techniques such as Dirgha (three-part breathing), four-part breath, and OM ucchara (chanting and vibrational awareness) will help connect the respiratory muscles with mindful attention.
Sunday deepens the exploration with Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), Ujjayi, and the introduction of energetic locks (bandhas). Through vocal toning, we’ll map sound and vibration throughout the body, cultivating inner calm and focus.
By the end of the first weekend, you’ll have a grounded understanding of how breath, posture, and awareness interweave to stabilize the nervous system and prepare for a deeper pranayama practice
Weekend Two: Refining Energy and Awareness
Building on the foundations laid in the first weekend, this second phase refines and expands your pranayama experience through the integration of breath, sound, and subtle awareness.
We’ll revisit the grounding techniques covered the previous weekend, then progress to more active breathing practices while integrating postural restoration work to support ease in the body. The yogic perspectives on the five elements (tattvas) and the sensory field will be explored to understand how pranic regulation refines perception and brings steadiness to the mind.
Sunday deepens the practice’s energetic and imaginative dimensions with Bhramari (bee breath) and Tattva Shuddhi (elemental purification). Through this progression, you will learn to steady the nervous system while awakening subtle energetic experiences, preparing for a self-guided, sustainable home practice.