Philosophy 101

Course Number: 101
Title: NYTT-Philosophy 101 (30 CEUs)
Term: October
Instructor: Michael Stone
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COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course will provide an overview of yoga from a historical and philosophical perspective to situate its evolution and application in our culture and our times. The philosophical foundation of yoga and the key teachings of the tradition (including traditional texts: Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads) will be covered. Topics include:

Patanjali’s 8 Limbs of Yoga: The psychology and practical implication of each limb, and practices for putting them to work in our lives.
The 5 Kleshas:  “hinderances” or obstacles to practice (as described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras), and how to practice and teach when we are stuck.
The 10 Vayus: “pranas” or movements of breath/energy/mind, and the psychology of the breath and mind in vinyasa and pranayama practice.
The 5 Koshas: “sheaths” or energetic bodies.
The 5 Skandhas: “aggregates”or what we hold onto to define ourselves
The Bandhas: energetic “locks” or “seals” (as described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika), and how to use and teach them as internal measures of practice.
What is a yoga studio? Is a studio a commercial enterprise, a temple or a community centre?
Bhagavad Gita: Lessons on taking action in an imperfect world. Non-violence in communication and action.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:

Understand the relationship between various traditional yoga philosophy texts and how to read them, learn, study and take insights into your teachings.
To encourage a personal exploration of this philosophy in a modern context that is relevant to our lives, and how to teach from this perspective.
How share yoga as a teacher in a way that supports yourself, the needs of your community and effects real change.

REQUIRED AND RECOMMENDED READING:
The Inner Tradition of Yoga (Michael Stone), selected chapters; Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras-Ch. 1 (Chip Hartranft), Philosophy 101 Manual.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
Basic understanding of yoga asana and a consistent yoga practice of at least one consecutive year.  Attending regular classes at Naada Yoga and/or another institution.  Viewing of “Yoga Unveiled”, documentary by Gita Desai (first Fri. of the training). Reading all required assignments. Keeping a practice journal and in-class notes, and discussing practice-related questions.