In this talk, we will explore the ways in which prana moves in the subtle body. The movement of prana, or life force in the subtle body is called vayu (literally meaning wind). Vayu moves in specific ways, and each movement governs a particular function of the body and mind. The five primary vayus are prana, apana, vyana, udana, and samana. The five secondary ones naga, kurma, krukara, devadutta, and dhananjaya. When we understand the functions of these prana vayus, we can gain greater clarity about our body-mind. Through particular pranayama techniques, we can learn to become acutely aware of these vayus and to bring about a sense of calmness and harmony in the body-mind. We can then harness these vayus through awareness, resulting in the increased cultivation of discernment, dispassion, equanimity, and contentment. Eventually, these vayus become the portals of freedom from the clutches of duality and suffering.
Ethical imperatives and personal observances form the foundation of the yoga system described by Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras. What is the underlying philosophy upon which the yamas and niyamas are based? Why are they an essential element of a complete yoga practice? How can we abide by them in a...
This talk will focus on what it means to call Sāṃkhya a “dualism” and how this contrasts with what is referred to as “nondualism”. We will critique the perspective that privileges one over the other and explore how these two perspectives imply their opposite.
