sandeyeYoga Styles: Gitananda Yoga
November 7th 2008 17:37
Based on Patanjali's Yoga Sutra, and explained by Swami Gitananda, Gitananda Yoga is a form of Ashtanga (8 limbs) Yoga. It is best learned in the traditional Indian manner of direct teachings from teacher to pupil. This is possible with 6-month teacher training courses, which are currently available. For details on current courses and other events, see: Really Long Link
Gitananda Yoga is far from being a mere workout style of Yoga. The complete Yoga package from physical asana practice to enlightened cosmic consciousness is included in this variation of Yoga. Yoga is treated as a complete lifestyle, and not just a one hour routine to be taken once or twice a week.
Moral restraints and ethical observances are a part of practice, along with the physical Asana and Pranayama exercises that many of us take to 'be' Yoga. Additionally, the meditative forms of Yoga are practiced - Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi.
Pranayama practice is not taken as physical breathing exercise alone, but concerns its origin 'prana'. Props are not encouraged, rather a sincerity of practice and the gradual growth of a complete life encompassing Yoga practice. Comprehension of such areas as the Chakras, Tantra, Bindus, Mantra, Mudras, Yantra, and Nadis is also a part of Gitananda Yoga. An understanding of the Indian culture from which Yoga originated is encouraged, in order to accomplish perception in some areas where the Western student may otherwise be at a loss.
Gitananda Yoga would be a suitable option for someone wishing to live their Yoga, develop a complete Yogic lifestyle, and/or mature completely - in body, mind and spirit. It would not be suitable or someone wanting a three-times-a-week physical workout.
Gitananda Yoga is far from being a mere workout style of Yoga. The complete Yoga package from physical asana practice to enlightened cosmic consciousness is included in this variation of Yoga. Yoga is treated as a complete lifestyle, and not just a one hour routine to be taken once or twice a week.
Moral restraints and ethical observances are a part of practice, along with the physical Asana and Pranayama exercises that many of us take to 'be' Yoga. Additionally, the meditative forms of Yoga are practiced - Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi.
Pranayama practice is not taken as physical breathing exercise alone, but concerns its origin 'prana'. Props are not encouraged, rather a sincerity of practice and the gradual growth of a complete life encompassing Yoga practice. Comprehension of such areas as the Chakras, Tantra, Bindus, Mantra, Mudras, Yantra, and Nadis is also a part of Gitananda Yoga. An understanding of the Indian culture from which Yoga originated is encouraged, in order to accomplish perception in some areas where the Western student may otherwise be at a loss.
Gitananda Yoga would be a suitable option for someone wishing to live their Yoga, develop a complete Yogic lifestyle, and/or mature completely - in body, mind and spirit. It would not be suitable or someone wanting a three-times-a-week physical workout.
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