The eight limbs of yoga: an introduction

Explore the ‘eight limbs of yoga’ as described in Patanjali‘s Yoga Sutras. Study basic principles of yoga philosophy and discover their relevance for your daily life. This workshop includes discussion, practise of yoga exercises, breathing techniques and meditation.

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Key course information

Dates
20/05/12

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
1 week

Time
10:15 - 17:15

Fees
Full fee: £51^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
FGD31

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
health@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2622

Course outline

What is the course about?

Using the Patanjali’s Classical ‘Yoga Sutra’ (verses 2.28 - 3.6) as a basis, this course aims to provide an overview of the basic principles of Yoga philosophy and practice, and to explore how these may be integrated into daily life. We will discuss lifestyle, practise Asana (movement exercise) and Pranayama (breath control), relaxation and investigate meditation.

What topics will we cover?

- Overview of the different schools and branches of Yoga and discussion and exploration of the ‘Eight Limbs' of Yoga as described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra:
1. Yama, our attitudes to the environment
2. Niyama, our attitudes toward ourselves
3. Asana, the practice of exercises and Yoga postures
4. Pranayama, the practice of breathing exercises
5. Pratyahara, non-attachment to the senses
6. Dharana, concentration
7. Dhyana, meditation
8. Samadhi, enlightenment.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Name the 8 limbs of yoga
- Compare personal lifestyle with Patanjali's recommendation
- Feel inspired to make small changes in life style to enhance quality of life using Patanjali's teachings
- Recognise the importance of the principles of stability (Sthira) and ease (Sukha) in movement exercise (Asana)
- Perform certain Pranayama (breath control) techniques
- Practice several Relaxation and Meditation techniques.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for any student of Yoga with some previous experience. You will need to be able to read and write short sentences, follow verbal instructions, observe and copy physical movements and use spatial awareness within a group.

PLEASE SEE THE PRE-EXERCISE CHECK LIST BELOW:

To assist us in providing a safe and healthy environment for you to exercise in please take a moment to consider the list below. If you have suffered from any of the conditions listed, please check with a medical practitioner whether it is suitable for you to undertake an exercise programme and bring a referral letter from your doctor to your tutor. If you have not checked, or if it is not suitable, please do not participate in an exercise or movement class.

- Do you ever have pains in your chest?
- Have you had any operations or injuries in the last year?
- Do you often feel faint or have spells of dizziness?
- Are you receiving medication for any condition?
- Do you have high blood pressure?
- Is there anything else we should know about your health?
- Do you have a bone or joint problem, such as Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Back or knee problems?

However, an open class is not suitable for people suffering from certain ailments. It is inadvisable for students suffering from certain medical conditions to attend an ordinary Yoga class. This does not mean that they should not do Yoga, but they may need individual attention or a special programme of asanas (postures). These conditions include:

Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Conditions associated with Heart Disease, Cancer or benign tumours
Epilepsy including Petit Mal
Diabetes
Meniere's Disease
Detached Retina
AIDS
MS (Multiple Sclerosis)
ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)
Recent post-operative conditions
New students who are pregnant.

Advice can be sought from the Department Office for those who have concerns about the suitability of the class for them.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

- This course will cover both theory and practice
- The theoretical themes will be introduced and discussed
- The practical exercises will be discussed/explained and demonstrated by the tutor, and practised together
- There will be ample opportunity for 'question and answers'
- Course notes and a reading list will be provided.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Participants may want to obtain a copy of Patanjali's Yoga Sutra and read verses 2.28 - 3.6 prior to attending the course.
Please wear loose, warm clothing and bring a cushion to sit on. Bring pen and notebook.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

This is a one-off day, which aims to help students of Yoga improve their practice.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2622

health@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Tuesday 12.30 - 13.30 and 17.30 - 18.30 Thursday 12.30 - 13.30 and 17.30 - 18.30

Non term-time Tuesday 17.30 - 18.30 Wednesday 12.30 - 13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Select another date / day / time

Dates	Day(s)	Time	Duration	Fees	Snr	Conc	Code	Availability
06/11/11	Sun	10:15 - 17:15	1 weeks	£51	£51	£51	FGD36	Finished	» Select
20/05/12	Sun	10:15 - 17:15	1 weeks	£51	£51	£51	FGD31	Finished	» Select

Contact us

Health and movement studies

Tel: 020 7492 2622

health@citylit.ac.uk

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