Advanced Yoga Study
Module 1: Philosophy
Components:
- Monthly Asana Practice
- Monthly Pranayama Practice
- Readings
- Assigned Written Paper
EGO PSYCHOLOGY FROM WESTERN AND EASTERN PERSPECTIVES, AND INQUIRY
Dates: TBA
Presenter: TBA
We will explore the nature of the ego-self from the perspectives of both ancient yoga philosophy as well as modern psychology. We will discuss the enlightened state and the spiritual path.
Using inquiry, we begin to see how the capacities for balance, harmony, love, integration, power and skillful action do not come from our ego image. These resources are inherent in our larger nature, always ready to serve us once we trust in them.
INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHISM AND BUDDHIST MEDITATION
Dates: TBA
Presenter: TBA
We will explore experientially the basic teachings of Buddhism and Buddhist Psychology through the practice of vipassana (insight meditation) and the direct pointing out of awareness itself. The class will engage in dialogue about what can be observed through the meditative process about the mind and the body. Presentations will center upon the Four Noble Truths (suffering and ending suffering) and insight into the “Three Characteristics”. We will also learn how to do loving kindness meditation (Metta) as a healing salve for ourselves and others.
YOGIC PHILOSOPHY WITH MAIN EMPHASIS ON THE UPANISHADS
Dates: TBA
Presenter: TBA
The Vedanta, or Brahma, Sutras has emerged as the most important of the six schools of Indian philosophy. It has almost become synonymous with Hindu philosophy. The Vedanta Sutras were written in order to clarify the abstruse statements of the Upanishads. The Upanishads are the oldest philosophical texts in Hinduism. The cryptic nature of the Vedanta Sutras produced a number of distinct streams of commentarial interpretation. This course will be an overview of the main schools of Vedantic thought up to the medieval period — Sankara, Ramanuja, Madhva, Nimbarka, Vallabha and Baladeva. Attention will be paid to some of the prominent points of agreement as well as arguments amongst some of these schools. The course will focus on primary texts.
