What is Satyananda Yoga
Satyananda Yoga is a traditional form of Yoga which includes Asanas, Pranayama, Tantric practices, Cleansing practices, Mind focusing practices, Pratyahara and Meditation. It differs from Asthanga and Iyengar yoga in that it does not place the main focus on Asana, but rather works on the multi layered aspects of our being right from the beginning.
Introduction to Satyananda yoga
When one is introduced to Satyananda Yoga, the first 12 weeks of classes include pranayama, asana, and a tantric technique of Yoga Nidra which is used to systematically relax the body and the mind, and eventually helps our consciousness to move beyond the mind.
This deepening of awareness is carried out while practicing gentle asanas at the beginning and keeping the awareness inward focusing on how one?s being ?feels? from the inside.
This is far from many of the Asana Yoga classes which often try to make sure the body is in 100% correct alignment, and focus on how the body looks or appears from the outside in an asana.
Effects of Satyananda yoga
One?s initial experience of Satyananda yoga is usually that one notices the deep relaxation experienced during the classes and the calmness and peace of mind which slowly develops. At the same time the asanas begin to work with any tensions which may be held in the body and ones awareness of bodily tension and how to release tensions improves with ones experience.
Working with oneself
As one progresses practicing Satyananda Yoga one proceeds to unravel or become aware of the conditioning of our mind and the patterns of our mind and thought patterns. This ?self knowledge? allows one to step outside the ?reaction mode? that many of us reside in, and begin to work towards our higher potential.
Health improves and body becomes leaner
A side effect of the Satyananda classes is that ones body becomes stronger and leaner and one?s general health usually improves as a result of the physical asanas and also the awareness of our body and breath and other internal energies. However, this is considered a side effect and is not the central goal of the practice.
Inner awareness
The main emphasis of Satyananda Yoga is on inner awareness. Breathing techniques are taught from the beginning and most of the postures are practiced with the eyes closed and the awareness directed inwards.
Who it is suitable for
The Satyananda yoga classes begin quite gently and these classes are suitable for all ages, whether fit or unfit, large or small.
The instruction is given in such a way that experienced practitioners can practice at a deeper level of awareness, while the classes are also suitable for beginners to Yoga.
Satyananda yoga in Ireland
What better way to learn Satyananda yoga than to treat yourself to a weekend or 7 day retreat at the burren Yoga and Mediation Centre, Ireland
Satyananda Yoga retreat with Tadhg Ferriter and Dave Brocklebank August 2006
