Pranayama 101

Course Number: 101
Title: NYTT-Pranayama 101 (30 CEUs)
Term: May
Instructor:  Richard Rosen
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COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The fundamental principles of pranayama will be explored and practiced, deepening the student’s understanding of how the movement of breath affects both body and mind. The anatomy of breathing, philosophy of breathing, and specific pranayama techniques will be discussed, including instruction on ujjayi, violma, and bhramari breaths that form the foundation of pranayamaas. Specific techniques of breath, body awareness and how to set up for pranayama practice will also be covered, as well as contraindications and cautions in the practice.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:

To understand how pranayama is a vitally important part of traditional Hatha Yoga, as a means of self-study and self-transformation.
To be able to incorporate the fundamentals of pranayama into an existing yoga practice.
To support your own body through a regular pranayama practice.
To recognize potential problems in the practice and when to seek the advice of a qualified teacher.

REQUIRED AND RECOMMENDED READING:
The Yoga of Breath: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pranayama (by Richard Rosen).

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.  Reading all required assignments. Keeping a practice journal and in-class notes, and discussing practice-related questions.