A day exploring the real meaning of hatha yoga, its tantric origins and its systems and practices. We will combine shatkarma, asana, pranayama, mudra and bandha focusing on balancing the nervous system, the solar and lunar flows of energy and preparing the body and mind for Raja Yoga. A neti lota for nasal washing, will be required for this day – can be provided if needed.

This programme will focus on the traditional practices and approach to hatha yoga. We will start the day with neti – nasal cleansing, a practice now acknowledged to be very beneficial for cough and cold, sinusitis, allergies etc. Additionally, it is a traditional shatkarma – cleansing technique – used also to bring balance to the nervous system. Hatha Yoga is often misunderstood and we will explore the aim and purpose of hatha yoga with reference to the main hatha yoga texts. The balancing of the solar and lunar forces, expressed in the body via the nervous system is the aim of hatha yoga and we will practice techniques that contribute towards achieving and experiencing this balance. This balance leads to the awakening of the central energetic channel, or sushumna. Traditionally hatha yoga was practiced before one approached the meditation practises of raja yoga as once hatha yoga has been experienced the mind is naturally steady and quiet and prepared for meditation, eliminating the effort. A systematic approach, if followed with discipline will always bring results and experience.
The day will include neti, asana, pranayama, mudra and bandha class, talks and discussion, karma yoga and meditation.

Simple lunch will be provided but please also bring vegetarian food to share.
This will be followed on the Sunday with a karma yoga day, and if you wish to stay for this you are welcome and the accommodation will be free.

Of these four events, Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga parts 1 & 2 and the Mooladhara chakra day, book one for £65, any 2 for £120, any 3 for £165 and all 4 for £200.