Five Part Series / Prānamāya Kośa: Vital Energy Sphere

Part 1: Apana: a Sequence for Stability

with Rebecca Hooper
In Studio
Saturday, November 14 | 3:30 - 5:30pm

In yoga philosophy there are said to be five kosas ( spheres or sheaths ) that cover the Atman ( soul ). The prānāyāma kosa is part of the suksma sarira ( subtle body ). The prāna~vāyus are the five winds or energies pervading the body, mind and spirit. It is via the vayus that all the functions of the body are performed. In this series we will explore the different locations and qualities of these five vital energies through the therapeutic application of asana and pranayama sequences.

' According to the Upanisads, prāna is the principle of life and consciousness. It is equated with the real Self ( Atmā ). Prāna is the breath of life of all beings in the universe. Prāna is the hub of the Wheel of Life. Everything is established in it. It permeates the life~giving sun, the clouds, the winds ( vāyus ), the earth ( prthvi ), and all forms of matter. It is being (sat ) and non~being ( asat ). It is the source of all knowledge. It is the Cosmic Personality ( the purusa ) of Sāmkhya philosophy. Therefore the Yogi takes refuge in prāna.'

Light on Prānāyāma BKS Iyengar

November 14 | Apana: a Sequence for Stability

December 12 | Samana: a Sequence for the Organs of Digestion

January 23 | Prana: a Sequence for the Respiratory System

February 20 | Udana: a Sequence for Immunity

March 20 | Vyana: a Sequence for the Nervous System