Join us for a weekend of transitions: from the intense forward bending of Ashtanga Primary series into the deep frontal openings of intermediate series, embodying the heart, lungs and breath as part of the journey. We will study yoga philosophy from the Buddhist perspective, integrating heart centered awareness, compassion, in our practice.
Friday
Friday night we will do a practice inspired the Moon Sequence, a complimentary sequence to the Ashtanga series that prepare you for the weekend ahead: this sequence focuses more on hip opening and backbends, less on arm strength.
Saturday/ Sunday
We will start the day with a short meditation followed by and either Mysore style morning classes or led (half- half Primary/intermediate) classes. We will transition smoothly into the back bends allowing the body time to breathe. Students will be given modifications if necessary so that they can safely progress in their practice.
Yoga philosophy from the Buddhist perspective
Although Buddhism and Classical Yoga developed within the same cultural context, the Buddhist view differs with regards to its altruistic intent to liberate all beings from suffering. During the weekend we wil learn Buddhist meditation practice focused on compassion for ourselves and others.
«As the self is allowed to dissolve as an egoic structure the spiritual reality emerges»
Ian Baker
This retreat is suitable for practitioners with some experience in Ashtanga: those practicing half or full primary Ashtanga series, and those who are either practicing intermediate or wishing to look at what lies further down the road. If you have some previous exposure to yoga philosophy, great - but this is not a prerequisite - just come with an open mind!
Ellen Johannesen
Your instructor on this course is Ellen Johannesen; level 2 authorized by KPJAYI and one of Norway´s most experienced Ashtanga Yoga teachers. With more than 25 years of experience, Ellen teaches yoga based on her extensive background in movement, first as contemporary dancer and later as an advanced level Ashtanga practitioner. Ellen is deeply engaged in Eastern philosophy, holding an MA degree in Buddhist studies and Himalayan languages. She is well versed in the practices of the Himalayan yogis, speaks fluent Tibetan and works as both an oral interpreter and textual translator of Buddhism. She is a practitioner of the Vajrayana path of Buddhism and also pursues an interest in the scientific research into the benefits of contemplative practices. In this context she has undergone extensive courses in Sadhana rituals, positive psychology, neuroscience and sustainable compassion. Ellen is a much -loved teacher of asana as well as philosophy and meditation. She runs Mysore classes, pilgrimages and retreats in Nepal and teaches regularly throughout Norway and internationally.
Programme
Fredag
16.30-18.00 Led class "Lunar Sequence"
Lørdag
07.00 - 09.00: Meditation and led half primary/half intermediate
09.00 - 10.00: Breakfast
11.00 - 12.30: Philosophy and Meditation practice
13.00 - 14.00: Lunch
14.00 - 16.30: Free time
16.30 - 18.00: Technique backbending/ heart opening
18.00 - 19.00: Dinner
Søndag
07.00 - 09.00: Meditation and Mysore practice
09.00 - 10.00: Brakfast
11.00 - 12.30: Yoga Philosophy and meditation Practice
13.00 - 14.00: Lunch
Departure
More about Ellen: www.ashtanganepal.com
Instagram: @ashtanganepal
Contact: elljohan@online.no
Price
Price is per person and includes teaching during the weekend, three vegetarian meals a day served as a buffet, complementary coffee and tea, and chosen accommodation type.
Single room: 4900 NOK
Twin room: 4600 NOK
Double room: 5100 NOK / 8250 NOK
Group room: 4000 NOK
Price does not include transportation from Gol/Fagernes.
