Class and Lecture Descriptions

Yoga Sangraha

Sangraha means “a collection” or “compendium.” This class is a grounding and calming sequence of postures arranged to have a positive effect on the nervous system. The postures come from the larger Hatha Yoga tradition, but not from any one lineage. Eddie has put these sequences together over the past couple of years of experimentation and exploration of Hatha Yoga practices and texts. The class is oriented towards regulation of the autonomic nervous system leading to states of inner calm and balance. 

Sun Salutation Class

The Sun Salutation class is a lot of fun. We do the 6 different types of Sun Salutes from Yoga Sangraha, and then six different dands from the Hindu wrestling tradition called Kushti. This is followed by a few standing asanas, cool down seated postures, and slow breathing and meditation to finish. In this class you will also be introduced to some of the fundamental building blocks of Yoga Sangraha Level 1. It is an energetic class, but accessible to all.

Yoga and Strength

This is a challenging class that combines Yoga with classical Indian physical exercise practices, including different types of pushups and squats, along with dynamic practices that are cardiovascular in nature. There is about 40-50 minutes of Sun Salutations, dynamic practices, and strength building and mobility practices, followed by calming asanas. 

Pranayama Level 1

This is an introductory pranayama practice where you will learn how to slow the breath down to bring a deep calm to the nervous system. It is an accessible, gentle, but highly effective practice, suitable for all levels. We will do eight different breathing patterns over the course of 40 minutes, followed by a short relaxation practice.

Pranayama Level 1+2

This pranayama practice has the same impact as level 1, but introduces two extended practices that are both energizing and grounding. We will do eight different breathing patterns over the course of 40 minutes, followed by a short relaxation practice.

Kriyas

Kriyas are energizing and purifying practices that largely stimulate the digestive fire and support digestive function. These are fundamental Hatha Yoga practices that can be incorporated into your routine several times per week.

Lectures

Eddie will also give lectures on his forthcoming book, Concentration, The Practice of Presence, which explains how the Yogic sense of concentration differs from our usual ideas of what it means to focus. Concentration is one of humanity's most valued attributes, yet it can be so elusive. Yoga describes clearly what concentration is, what the mind is, and how to use it. Eddie will cover these ideas in simple ways over this weekend. He will also lead chanting and meditation practices within each lecture. The lectures include supporting Western science regarding brain function and thought processes, along with lots of Yogic textual references.