Pratyahara
Gateway to Stillness
Pratyahara: Gateway to Stillness
Pratyahara is the fifth limb of the 8-fold path of Yoga and is considered to be the bridge between the external (bahiranga) and the internal (antaranga). This important stage could be perceived as a portal to inner realms, preparing the yogi for Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi.
Pratyahara is defined in the Yoga Sutras as the withdrawal of the senses from external objects back to the mind field from which those senses originally arose, thus enabling the mind to focus on its true nature.
Pratyahara practices lead to a state of deep relaxation, expanded awareness and inner stability.
The course will focus on:
- Reflecting on the meaning of Pratyahara
- Working with asanas and pranayama with emphasis on Pratyahara
- Looking at techniques of Pratyahara from Nada and Kriya Yoga
- Exploring other disciplines, such as Mindfulness, which bring about Pratyahara
- Experiencing Pratyahara through the practice of Yoga Nidra
- Moving towards Dharana and Dhyana
- Appreciating the importance of Pratyahara in our spiritual practice