Principles and Practice
11 OCTOBER 2026 10 – 4 pm
Yogarise Peckham
Doing yoga makes our bodies and minds feel great, but have you ever wondered what the spiritual and philosophical roots of the practice really are? If so, this training will be just what you are looking for! Whether you are new to yoga philosophy, or if you want to deepen your existing knowledge, this training will be an inspiring and illuminating journey into an ancient wisdom, and its relevance in a modern context. Open to teachers, trainee teachers, curious yoga practitioners and anyone with an interest in the history and philosophy of yoga.
Delve deep into yoga’s most foundational text: Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.
The day will start by discussing who Patanjali was, his central philosophy, and the problems with translations. Chapter 1 will then be explored in detail, including unpicking the famous definition of yoga – still the fluctuations of the mind. Moving onto an in-depth study of Chapter 2, we come across Patanjali’s section on posture, and the frequently quoted advice that postures should be steady and comfortable. What did Patanjali really mean by this?
Blending our theoretical approach with a practical experience, we then enjoy a 75 minute yoga class, which will include an imaginative recreation of all the 13 postures Patanjali recommended, including the bizarrely named ‘sitting like an elephant pose’ and ‘reclining on a couch pose’.
After a break for lunch, the afternoon will be spent investigating Chapters 3 & 4, which contain one of the most perplexing ideas of the Yoga Sutras – that yoga practice was considered to bring on magical powers, including flying, becoming very small, travelling very long distances, etc. How did Patanjali ‘sell’ yoga – was it really about reaching enlightenment, or was it more about performing magic tricks?
Throughout the day, there will be plenty of time for group discussion and questions…. and maybe some answers. A pdf of the full English translation, the Powerpoint slides, and a comprehensive reading list with suggested website links will be provided.
Email clare@yogarise.london if you have any questions.
shamitaray.com 