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Yoga Instructor: Barbara Interlandi. For more information, please e-mail Barbara: binterlandi@yahoo.com
The cost:
- Early registration by November 7th: $75.00 for the series ($15/session).
Check made out to InnerSource and sent to 980 Awald Rd. Annapolis, MD. 21403 by August 29.
- After November 7th, the cost is $80.00 for the series ($16/session).
Yoga, a "life science," originated in India thousands of years ago and is the oldest system of personal development encompassing the body, mind, and spirit. The word "yoga" means joining or union. The practice helps unite or bridge one's inner world with the external world. Philosophically, a yogi strives to understand what a human being's essential nature is and what is required to live harmoniously in the environment. The practice creates a sense of health and wholeness by understanding one's humanity and divinity. Balancing forces of action, emotion and intelligence within the body is the aim.
Western yoga focuses heavily on asana, or physical practice; it releases physical and mental tension that liberates boundless reserves of energy. Initially, practice may seem to be little more than an exercise series that creates a lean and flexible body by stretching and toning muscle, stimulating the spine, the skeletal system, as well as internal organs. But, with time and continued practice, subtle changes occur both physically and mentally. Through persistent toning, relaxation, and stilling the mind, a yogi attains a state of inner calm. Ultimately, true happiness is only attained via a peaceful mind.
My approach stems from the Kripalu School, an inquiry based practice. As a student moves mindfully through a routine of postures, attention is continually brought to the breath. Awareness of breath creates spaciousness, stability and stillness. As the breath slows down and as the mind follows the breath, the mind becomes less active. The student is freed to inquire of feelings, emotions, and physical sensations that might prevent obstacles to inner calmness. Acknowledging these helps students connect to witness consciousness – simply being present for what is. Practice becomes a mirror of life and how one chooses to live it.
A quiet time brings the practice to a close. The student is directed to scan and relax the body; guided imagery enhances the experience. The overall effect of the practice brings the yogi closer to inner acceptance, to being more compassionate to oneself and accepting of others.
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