Online Weekend Intensives
The next online weekend intensive will take place from 6-28 November 2021.
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Staying true to our mission -- to create strong practitioners of traditional and authentic Yog -- we at Yog Ved Shala have adjusted our tested formats to meet the challenges of the current pandemic, and are happy to introduce our Online Weekend Intensive. Over the course of four weekends, we build and strengthen our foundations for the practice of serious Yog in a holistic manner, under the guidance of Yog Ved Shala’s founder and teacher, Shraddha Vora. Together, we follow the path of Sage Patanjali who collated his wisdom in the famous book “Yog Sutras”, in which he guides students ‘to remember who they really are’. Following the Yog Sutras, we learn how to concentrate and to observe the mind through asanas, breathing practices, chanting, and philosophy. While the sessions emphasize the experiential aspect of the practice, there is plenty of room for discussion, questions, and the sharing of individual learnings. This allows the group not only to bond over time, but also gives each student room to explore how the teachings of Yog can be applied in day-to-day-life.
As we become aware of our breath, we become aware of our existence, and of the wonder that is life. Here begins the journey that is Yog: a path towards inner peace, and clarity about who we really are. This begins long before we step onto the mat.
Timings & Topics
Every Saturday and Sunday morning, over 10 sessions from 6am-10.30am, the group will explore the theoretical, physical, and philosophical aspects of Yog. The curriculum includes
Introduction to basic concepts of Vedanta philosophy, Hatha Yog philosophy, and Ashtanga Yog, including an overview of the Patanjali Yog Sutras as well as an in-depth study of the first five sutras
Concentration techniques, and a focus on breath, sound forms, and Sanskrit mantras
Asana classes, based on each one's personal level of practice, with a special focus on alignment
Testimonials
“Yog Ved Shala’s Intensive Course over five weekends was that of discovery in so many ways! Whether it was the physical practice, studying Yog philosophy, or the experience of Ana Pana breathing. Shraddha made the vast knowledge - which would otherwise seem ever so daunting - very accessible. She herself embodies what she shares from the physical practice to tying in the spiritual aspect of Yog, and that has been such an inspiration. Shraddha has shown me what is possible when we put in the work.” - Prerna
“This was my first Yog Intensive with Shradha and Yog Ved Shala, and it taught me more than I could learn in my whole life. The teaching was so easily comprehendible and yet so deep. While I related to the content, much of still came as a revelation. Shraddha introduced us to dharana (concentration), the asanas, and Yog philosophy. Despite the barrier of it being online, she has always individualized her teaching, and it was almost as if we were in the same room. If I was to think what I took back from it, my answer would be: some of the compassion of my teacher, her inclusion of students, her spirit of oneness with nature and its beings, and the acceptance of different perspectives.”- Anushree
Online Intensive Requirements
Dedication & Curiosity: In order to dive into the deeper layers, and reap the benefits of the online weekend intensives in the most optimal way, it is important to attend the sessions with focus, mental and physical discipline, an open mind and heart, and the willingness to be a student again.
Space Requirements: Your mat has to be placed in an area without any distractions, with access to an empty wall, and with enough light for the duration of the intensive. Please keep pen, paper or a notebook handy.
Technology Requirements: Make sure your laptop is sufficiently charged or connected to a power source, that it is connected to a strong and stable WIFI signal, and that a working camera that can capture your practice space at an angle for the teacher to see you, and being able to correct you accordingly. Please keep the microphone on mute, expect when you have a question to ask, or we open the floor to discussion.
Props: Since we practice Yog in the tradition of BKS Iyengar, we use many props during the class such as belts, blankets, bolsters, bricks, and chairs. Please keep all items handy throughout class. If you don’t have any of those props, you can start with towels and pillows, and purchase all others over time from this website: https://yogikuti.com
Physical & Mental Preparation: In order to be fully prepared for class, we ask our students to warm-up their bodies on their mat at least 15 minutes before the starting time. We recommend that you attend morning classes on an empty stomach, and to not look at the phone, if possible, until the class is over, to keep the mind free and un-distracted. Please be well rested, eat light and not have intoxicated the body the evenings before, or, in the best case, throughout the entire month of the online intensive.
Practice & Contemplation Study from Monday to Friday: Making the weekend sessions truly matter requires implementing the learnings in day-to-day-life throughout the week, and to make dedicated time and space to contemplate and re-think the discussions. In addition, it is important to keep the physical practice alive and strong from Monday to Friday, so the body remains open and receptive to the input of the weekend classes. In the best case, you dedicate the full month (and not only the weekends) to the online intensive, and live, practice, study, and prepare accordingly.
Other Notes: It is important to understand one’s own physical limitations, and to listen carefully to the instructions and corrections of the teacher since no physical assistance during the asana is possible. Please share before-hand, any previous injuries or diseases, and convey any pain or discomfort during class immediately to the teacher.