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.



So what appears to be a gentle form of yoga, is in fact a very deep transformational yoga, that works on all levels of our being.



Some of the underlying power and strength of the Satyananda Yoga system is that it is taught in a very systematic way which is accessible to all, but works to gradually bring one deeper in touch with ones inner being, to let go of thoughts and to get in touch with the light within oneself.

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 through the practice of asanas which are physically gentle at the beginning and by keeping the attention inside noticing any sensations within.



This is different to the asana classes in many other forms of yoga where the main focus is often to try to make sure the body is in 100% correct alignment, and the focus is on how the body looks or appears from the outside.

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.

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.

Salutation to the sun

Although many of the postures can be more gentle than ashtanga or iyengar yoga classes, Salutation to the Sun is an excellent flowing set of asanas that include forward bends, back bends, hip openers, semi inverted postures and are also coordinated with the breath and eventually with awareness of inner energy.

The practice begins with standing with the hands in prayer position in front of the heart.



The sequence also includes forward bends which are only practiced to one's own ability.

There is no competition and the emphasis is on 'letting go'.



The Equestrain pose is a reasonably strong hip opener, and although beginners can do this posture in a reasonably gentle way, more experienced practitioners can go quite deep, and extend the leg further and sink down lower if they feel so inclined.



Mountain pose is sometimes called 'downward dog' in other schools of yoga and is a semi inverted posture.



Knees chest and chin.



Cobra is a good back bend in the sequence.



To see more photos of 'Salutation to the Sun' please see
Salutation to the Sun Satyananda

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.

Satyananda yoga in Ireland

What better way to learn Satyananda yoga than to treat yourself to a weekend or week's retreat at the Burren Yoga and Mediation Centre, Ireland


A full 6 day retreat in August is a great way to be introduced to Satyananda yoga, so that you can continue at home on your own after the retreat.

Satyananda Yoga Tadhg Ferriter week Aug 7th

Or a weekend of Satyanada yoga in May ?

Satyananda Yoga Tadhg Ferriter weekend May 15th

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