Weekend Workshop Sacred Anatomy 27 29 with Yogi Ashokananda & Chogyal Rinpoche Sacred Anatomy The weekend of workshops will focus on practices, techniques and experiential learning to lead you towards greater self-awareness. You will expand your sense of who and what you are with applying the knowledge and experience of Yogi Ashokananda and Chogyal Rinpoche. Yogi will be teaching the yoga and meditation disciplines he has developed with Rinpoche guiding his mantra chanting. Yogi sees the journey of yoga and meditation as one which allows you to see all of yourself; his philosophy of without engaging the vehicle, you cannot make any journey applies to the engagement of the physical, emotional, mental and psychological aspects of self through his practices of yoga and meditation. The spirit or soul, he says, does not need healing as it is already whole and complete; it is the consciousness, the awareness around the soul and the mind which yoga and meditation can help to clear giving you access to the spirit or soul. The aim of the practices is to bring you to the centre of yourself so that you can transform you and your life from this authentic place within you. 1
Agenda Day Time Description 5:00pm 7:00pm Pranayama, Friday, 27 July Kriya Meditation & Satsang Saturday, 28 July 10:00am 12:30pm 12:30pm 1:30pm 1:30pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 6:30pm Himalayan Hatha Yoga AM Practice Lunch Break Himalayan Hatha Yoga - Restorative Practice Chanting, Satsang & ATMA Meditation Sunday, 29 July 9:00am 11:00am 11:30am 1:30pm Prana Kriya Yoga Practice Pranayama & Science of Relaxation Prices book full workshop 160,- EUR book Saturday only 100,- EUR book Sat & Sun 140,- EUR book Sunday only 60,- EUR book individually Please get in contact with us (yoga@colita.net) Location Doctor Beat Mevissenstr. 62b Building No. 11 47803 Krefeld, Germany The venue is located in Krefeld, a city close to the Düsseldorf/ Ruhr area with a distance of 25 km from DUS airport (Düsseldorf) 45 km from NRN airport (Weeze) 90 km from CGN airport (Köln/ Bonn) The nearest train station is Krefeld HBF. From here you can take the bus line 57 to the bus stop Mevissenstrasse, which is walking distance away from the venue. 2
Pranayama, Kriya Meditation & Satsang Friday, 27 July 5:00pm 7:00pm This section will begin with Pranayama (control of the prana). The breath carries the life force known as prana into each person s body and is considered to be the physical manifestation of this vital energy. As we breathe, prana is the inhalation and apana is the exhalation, and the time between the two is called samana. We will be practicing various forms of pranayama to bring prana to every part of the brain and thereby improving mental balance & stability. Kriya meditation holds the same transformative qualities as Prana Kriya Yoga. As a meditation it draws the energy inwards and an ecstatic and all peaceful state of being can be experienced. It moves the prana (life force) through the body into your higher consciousness by using the breath, gentle concentration of the mind and subtle awareness of the process. In Kriya meditation you offer up your energy to your higher self. This meditation is one of the best remedies for improving concentration and memory as it fine-tunes the mind. It also affects your nervous system, which feeds your organs and renews you from the inside out. It is also highly effective for erasing depression, anxiety and stress giving you greater selfawareness & self respect. Satsang in Sanskrit means sat ( being, essence, or reality ) & sanga ( association ) and is a gathering of people who have similar aspirations and who will meditate as a group. The group gathering strengthens the magnetism of everyone s association through discussion on a relevant topic. Yogi Ashokananda & Chogyal Rinpoche will lead together the discussion. Participants are encouraged to share their meditation experience, providing an opportunity for further development of self-awareness, understanding and an opportunity for people new to meditation to develope an initial understanding of the sensations experienced through the meditation. 3
Himalayan Hatha Yoga Saturday, 28 July 10:00am 12:30pm This section will allow you to experience the essence and authenticity of true Hatha Yoga with Yogi Ashokananda s signature style of Himalayan Hatha Yoga In this joyful workshop, you will be guided through a Himalayan Hatha Yoga morning practice series, solar / surya, to create lightness, freedom and space within your body. This is an energetic practice which will explore sun salutation series, balancing and seated postures as well as incorporating bandhas (locks), mudras and elements giving you psychological as well as physical strength. Using breath awareness within each posture, you will explore the use of the powerhouses of Himalayan Hatha Yoga. Yogi will close the practice with a deeply restful savasana allowing your body to relax and integrate the powerful changes in your physiology and psychology that you have created through the practice. Himalayan Hatha Yoga is one of the forms of yoga founded and taught by Yogi Ashokananda. It is based on traditional principles of yoga. A strong, yet supportive form of yoga, working through the entire body, cleansing and revitalising through special sequencing with a combination of subtle body exercise. Yogi s teaching style manages to instil a sense of discipline in the mind and body without stress. His expertise and caring attitude towards his students provides a supportive environment where you can develop your practice at your own pace, in a way that is unique to you. 4
Himalayan Hatha Yoga Restorative Practice Workshop Saturday, 28 July 1:30pm 3:30pm This section will allow you to build on the morning s practice experience of Himalayan Hatha Yoga with a restorative practice. The restorative practice will explore a limited number of asanas, using the mind and breath to take you deeper in the posture allowing you to truly let go. Once you let go, the restoration can take place. The restorative practice will include asanas that brings your mind to a state of calm or stillness, lessening the strain on the nervous system, with less engagement of your physical body, the postures will be done either seated, lying down on back or tummy. All the parts of the body are being used in such a way where the mental approach to them means you have less strain on your muscles so that the flow of the blood happens effortlessly and releases the tension from your nervous system. This type of restorative practice will give energy to the body and recharge you. 5
Chanting Saturday, 28 July 4:00pm 5:00pm The power of mantra is betrayed in the roots of the sanskrit word, man, meaning mind, and, tra, meaning deliverance, or, projection. Chanting is a pleasure that transcends the senses; it takes us beyond the bounds of time and space. Thus it soothes in a most profound way. It soothes on a cellular level. It merges our finite identity with the infinite, and so dissolves us. Mantra chanting is not only an ancient knowledge but a powerful spiritual art. It has shown to have countless benefits promoting also healing on a physical, mental and spiritual level. In Buddhist and Hindu traditions as well as in modern spirituality and medicine, thousands of different mantras are used. The unique sound, vibration and visualization of every mantra stimulate various areas of the body and the brain. On a physical level the use of sounds and vibrations of different mantras can cure illnesses and improve overall health. The energy centers (chakras) of the body are stimulated bringing back the flow of our life force. Mantra chanting with Chogyal Rinpoche opens the individuals heart, reverse negative mindsets and dissolve creative blockages. Mantras also purify negative impressions in the subconsciousness and enable practitioners to discover and awake their inner qualities. On a spiritual level the rhythm of a mantra helps to increase concentration and awareness giving the ability to stay focused in the present moment. Mantras assist to let go of limitations created by narrow mindsets of our ego, create space and freedom in the sub-consciousness and remind the individual of its connection to the universe. 6
Satsang & ATMA Meditation Saturday, 28 July 5:00pm 6:30pm The 2 nd Satsang over the weekend will follow a similar format to the Friday evening session with Yogi Ashokananda & Chogyal Rinpoche together. The topic will be a continuation from Friday s session and the guided meditation will build upon Friday s session and the practice realised throughout Saturday. Yogi Ashokananda s Atma meditation means meditation of Self or of your soul. It will bring the power of the universe into you aligning your individual self with that of the universe and make you realise the centre of your individual reality. By experiencing this space you will create a multitude of benefits and positive developments in your life. Because you are aligning with universal energy and truth, your individual reality will alter as will your perception of your life, allowing real changes to take place. Atma meditation will renew your energy, heighten intelligence by awakening and altering your perceptions, help you to have greater self-awareness, feel a connection to yourself, to others and to a source greater than you. Each and every one of us is entitled to feel greater inner peace, love, joy and fulfilment, happiness, freedom and success and this meditation will allow you to have access to the source within YOU from which these experiences can develop and make them a natural part of your life and who you are. It will help you to feel a connection to the energy of the universe. 7
Prana Kriya Yoga Sunday, 29 July 9:00am 10:30pm This workshop will allow you to experience the essence and authenticity of true Kriya Yoga with Yogi Ashokananda s signature style of Prana Kriya Yoga. Regardless of your physical strength and ability, Yogi will expertly guide you so that you can experience the layer of your highest consciousness by focusing on the fundamental principles of the practice. In this energetic and empowering workshop, we will go into fascinating detail and experience of Prana Kriya Yoga, covering kumbhakas (breath retention), mudras, kriyas and the five pranas with a focus on the practice of strengthening heart energy. Prana Kriya Yoga harmonises and unites the flow of the physical movement in our bodies (kriya) with its energetic power helping you become aware of your creative potential. This form of yoga is one of the most effective means by which to achieve your goals and aspirations, material, emotional and spiritual, and bring your actions in line with your mental and emotional state. Prana Kriya Yoga has also long been highly regarded among many great masters and yogis to hold the key to slowing down the ageing process. It achieves this by recharging the blood with oxygen and decarbonising it, thus rejuvenating the brain and spinal centre and preventing the decay of tissues in the body. It awakens the hidden energy (kundalini) within you allowing you to transform and free yourself from limiting beliefs and old behavioural patterns that hold you back. 8
Pranayama & Science of Relaxation Meditation Sunday, 29 July 11:00am 1:00pm Described as "instant therapy without the talking" and a process of clearing the body and mind from the inside out, Yogi Ashokananda s signature active meditation helps release unwanted baggage in the form of your samskaras. Samskaras are the remaining impressions left on your soul from experiences which form your personality. They are the unused emotions that remain in the body and hold your energy which may make you feel lethargic, stressed, anxious and can develop into long term chronic dis-ease. The Science of Relaxation active and transformational meditation gives you the ability to experience true relaxation as the samskaras are released. This meditation is one of the most profound and simplest ways of aligning your higher consciousness with your physical existence. When you are in this state you can experience true relaxation, the source of your inner power and peace. The process takes place in 3 different seated positions and with some dynamic arm movements to move energy through the body, as well as primordial sounds relating to the upper and lower chakras. During the practice, attention is on grounding through the root and second chakras bridging the division between the higher and the very human self, healing any split between spiritual self and material personality. You can explore your full raw personality and see all of yourself clearly in the mirror of your awareness. The result is felt on every level on a physical level, this meditation is one of the best antidotes for depression, stress and insomnia. It is good for balancing blood pressure, for heart problems and positively affects the nervous system. The cardio vascular exercise also takes you to a state of meditation and tranquility. On an emotional and spiritual level, you will experience renewal and transformation. 9
Yogi Ashokananda An authentic Yoga teacher, raised in India. Yogi Ashokananda is an expert and pioneer as a practising master of yoga and meditation and a speaker on humanity and spiritual philosophy. Yogi has been practising yoga since early childhood when his Grandfather was his first teacher. Over many years Yogi Ashokananda has been fortunate to develop his teaching, experience and education of yoga under some of the great, remote, Indian masters and siddhas. He has taught the teachings of the Bihar School of Yoga, the Sivananda Ashram, hatha yoga and meditation at the Shri Ved Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh and the Yogamaya Ashram in Vrindavan. Now he teaches a number of his own profound disciplines and insights which have their roots in ancient, sacred Indian tradition. Yogi Ashokananda s philosophy and practical methods combine both mystery and attainability and evoke a sense of the jewel like quality of mysticism which is totally relatable to modern society and the lives we all lead today. Meditation/Mindfulness Yogi Ashokananda spent many years in India learning, exploring and developing what he has found to be the most simple, beneficial forms and techniques of meditation. He believes that meditation is one of the most powerful and subtle ways of getting to know yourself, and to understand who are we. This exploration of the self helps you to explore the depth and subtleties of both your human self and your spiritual self; known as swadharma finding the centre of yourself, your self-religion. Yogi s approach to the origins of yoga and meditation is grounded and down to earth, based on beginning with embracing the human self and all that entails. This can help you return to a place within you which is both magical and very real. When you rediscover this place, your life will change around you as your perception shifts and you see through new eyes. It is not about running away from yourself or creating a fantasy, it is in fact the opposite; it is based on staying with yourself, on every level and with every aspect of your physical body as well as your emotional and psychological self. http://www.yogiashokananda.com/ 10
Chogyal Rinpoche Chogyal Rinpoche is a Tibetan Buddhist master, who became a monk in the age of 5 and graduated 22 years later with a Khenpo degree in Buddhist Philosophy. Inspired by the great meditators of the past Chogyal Rinpoche continued his own spiritual journey for the next 3,5 years with a solitary wandering retreat in the Himalayan Mountains. Chogyal Rinpoche has traveled to more than 20 different countries in order to study different cultures and religions such as Islam, Christianity, Hinduism and Sikhism. His aim is to develop and foster a better understanding of global religions and spiritual practices. A respectful and knowledgeable interfaith community is one of the keys to a better life for everyone. Chogyal Rinpoche is currently pursuing a diploma in psychology in Zurich, Switzerland and just last year started his studies in social psychology at Harvard University in Cambridge, USA. He is actively engaged in exploring scientific research and methodologies and combining them with religious practices and doctrines in order to help as many people as possible to overcome inner obstacles. Since 2014 he has been teaching Buddhist philosophy, mediation & mantra chanting all over the world. Mantra Chanting & Yoga For the purpose of benefitting beings through the healing powers of mantras, Chogyal Rinpoche intends to record 108 different Buddhist mantras, of which 18 are already published. As body and mind are strongly connected, Rinpoche emphasizes the importance of yoga having a most essential impact on meditation. http://chogyalrinpoche.org/ 11
Benevolent work Even though they come from a different cultural background, Yogi Ashokananda & Chogyal Rinpoche share common values, pursue similar, holistic goals and commit equally for humanitarian aid. Yogi s Projects for Humanity Yogi has established two charities, the Yogi Ashokananda Foundation, India based charity established in 2006 and the Ashok Tree Foundation, a UK established charity in 2014. Each of the charities focuses on the development of strong physical, mental & emotional health, wellbeing, education, animal welfare and homes for the needy with yoga and meditation at the core of most of the projects. The charities, supported by many volunteers and sponsors, focus on these key project areas: Education - Primary School in Tamil Nadu educating 115 girls & boys aged 4 10. Yoga & Meditation are core to the daily curriculum. Healthy Body - Teach yoga in the communities we serve. 20 regular classes available with over 200 participants to develop strong and flexible bodies. Health camps are providing a good baseline of health for over 400 people during the year, utilizing ayurvedic and naturopathic approaches to preventive care & health care. The Health Clinic provides first aid services for the school on an as needed basis and will provide treatment as required Healthy Mind - Offer mediation classes in the communities we serve, to manage stress and support a more balanced life for 50+ people weekly. On a monthly basis Sanghas are held to help particpants access group meditation sessions to develop self -awareness and enhance focus. Healthy Food - Provide daily meals to 150+ people improve general health and reverse the effects of malnutrition Animal Welfare - Adopting and caring for animals who have been abused, abandoned and left for dead Homes for the Needy We constructed a two-room house for two deserving individuals. Our plan is to provide the housing and meals to the occupants for as long as they require. 12
Chogyal Rinpoche s Social Work Already as a teenager the well being of socially vulnerable groups was one of Chogyal Rinpoche s biggest concerns, something that remains very close to his heart until today. One of his most important mottos is: Help Others Life is Beautiful. Through his own participation in both spiritual as well as social activities Rinpoche gives an example on how everyone can contribute to make the world a more beautiful place. Orphanage - At the age of sixteen Rinpoche founded the Sertshang orphanage in Kathmandu, Nepal, which today is home to 65 children. Music academy - The My Peace music academy in Kalimpong, India aims to give children from poor families the opportunity to learn a musical instrument. Tibetan Medicine - After the major earthquake in Tibet in 2010, Chogyal Rinpoche build up the Tibetan Medical Institute in order to train doctors and help people in Yushu. Bodhisattvas in Action The BIA in Kathmandu, Nepal aims to improve the employment opportunities and general quality of life of handicapped people, who regain the ability to earn lifesustaining salaries. Earthquake Relief - After the two major earthquakes in 2015 in Nepal, BIA organized an international earthquake relief team of volunteers to help as many Nepali people as possible. Nepal Buddhist Association Builds up 108 destroyed monasteries & stupas in the remote areas of Nepal & preserves authentic Buddhist teachings. Nowadays the Nepal Buddhist Nunnery institute is home for more than 20 children. Like Yogi Ashokananda, Chogyal Rinpoche focuses on Meditation, Mantra-chanting and Yoga are at the core of his social projects. 13