Meditation, Vitality, & the Chakras: An Exploration of the Subtle Body

"The clearer our perception, the greater our chances of experiencing the fullness of our being...The human body, more precisely the chakras--the vortices of consciousness in the body--are the gateway to discovering the mystery of the universe & our life in it."  

                          --Pandit Ramani Tigunait, from the The Practice of the Yoga Sutra

Meditation, Vitality, & the Chakras: An Exploration of the Subtle Body is a specialty workshop for those yearning to move deeper inward; for folks interested in meditation for cleansing and re-alignment of body, breath, and thoughts; and for those ready for yoga philosophy and nourishing healing capacities of the breath and mind.

You'll receive detailed information in an introductory discussion on the chakras--what they are & how such wisdom is helpful, how much popular ideas about the chakras are often misconceptions (and why this matters), and understand the benefits of drawing the relationships of the chakras into our conscious awareness. 

 

The origins and role of mantra, and how mantra relates to the subtle body and the chakras will be explained, and also add a rich layer to practice.  Sanskrit Mantra is the central technique of purification of each integrative center through which energies flow.

We'll also address the difference between Western physical practice of yoga and its emphasis on the physical body, and compare it to the notions, sensations, and purpose & significance of the subtle body.  You'' contemplate AND practice to connect to Nadis, or energy channels in the body.

 

You'll experience two gentle stretching routines:  The first hour will include really simple tension-relieving exercises to support and awaken the body.  Then, the second hour provides a gentle sequence of classical yoga asana (postures), alongside breath-centered movement.  This strengthens the body and also soothes the nervous system, so every layer of being is better prepared and receptive to deeper meditation.

Then you'll be guided through breath training exercises (Makarasana & use of a breath pillow) that target the diaphragm muscle, while linking mental focus to the rhythmic sensations of breathing.  This allows you to tune into very subtle and important details of Optimal Yogic Breathing.  Optimal Yogic Breathing enhances breath capacity, improves health, and calms the mind.  It also enhances attention inward, to better prepare for meditation.  

Two foundational pranayama (or "breath extension") practices -- Nadi Shodhanam & Kapalabhati -- will help you further prepare the mind for your inward exploration of the subtle body.

You'll then settle into your mats, lying down with blankets, bolsters, and eye pillows and be guided through a traditional, detailed systematic relaxation.  Relaxation is crucial for yoga practice, and is what allows for increased awareness of and through the chakras.  In addition, the relaxation routines we practice are designed to connect breath & awareness into the vital energies and their channels, to remove resistance and enhance overall potential & dymanic function.

Most significantly, your afternoon immersion into the chakras will include the traditional practice of Bhuta Shuddhi, a quiet and very rare & ancient meditation that involves visualization of inner purification, attentive reciprocity between you as an individual & natural elements, and more.  Its central method rests within recitation of Sanskrit mantras. 

Some familiarity with yoga and/or meditation, and the ability to sit still comfortably (chairs & other comfy props suggested and provided at the studio) is necessary.

To help you remember what you have learned and experienced, you will receive a complmentary take-home study guide.  A few CD recordings of a more traditional version of Bhuta Suddhi, accompanied with a pictorial guide to assist with visualization, will also be available for purchase.

Be sure to bring your favorite yoga mat (or rent one for $2).  All other props and chairs will be provided.

Also, please bring a water bottle, since this is a longer session.

Thank you for your interest in Meditation, Vitality, & The Chakras: An Exploration of the Subtle Body. This is the first time I have offered any mini-retreat at the studio, and this particular event synthesizes much of my detailed study, training, & personal practice of many years, so it is a special blessing to be able to share it, and have YOU be a part.  Your support & presence are incredibly appreciated.    

Looking forward to seeing you on the mat. We are so blessed and grateful to be able to bring yoga and meditation to our little neck of the woods; it could not happen without you, so thank you for your support, and for being a part of this yoga community!  

In service,

Virginia Hill, AHA Yoga Teacher

Interested in other workshops & courses, or want to know more about AHA Yoga, our teachings, and the studio?  Then explore more here for the full studio schedule and send us any questions.  If you'd like to make sure you receive our opportunities for VIP Priority Booking on courses (saving up to $64 on tuition!) then be sure to join our community mailing list here.

See you at the studio!  xo