This classic 15th Century text by Swami Swatmarama outlines, in very specific terms, how the vigorous physical practices of hatha yoga may be employed to bring about a profound spiritual transformation in the life of the practitioner. The effective means involves the arousal and skillful manipulation of internal subtle energies (prana and kundalini) in order to effect profound states of consciousness, intended to culminate in deep wisdom and spiritual liberation. The 389 verses of the text are divided into four chapters which cover a broad range of practical instructions for serious yoga practice, including: restraints, observances, diet, asanas (postures), advanced purification techniques, pranayama (yogic breathing), energy locks and seals, and the culminating stages of nada yoga or absorption in interior sounds. This course will include some basic practice elements involving asana, pranayama, and stimulation of cakra centers through the chanting of Sanskrit seed syllables. This text is essential reading for yoga teachers who wish to have a more fully grounded understanding of the vital connection between the physical and spiritual dimensions of classical yoga.

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Required Text:

• Swami Muktibodhananda, Hatha Yoga Pradipika, 3rd Edition (Bihar School of Yoga, 2013)

Erika Burkhalter, MA Yoga Studies, MS Neuropsychology, E-RYT 500, has been teaching yoga since 1999, and exploring its practices since childhood.   Erika teaches at Yoga Works, Costa Mesa, and offers philosophy and asana intensives to a variety of yoga teacher training programs in Southern California. A graduate of Loyola Marymount’s inaugural class of the M.A. in Yoga Studies, Erika focused her research on the interconnection between mythology, philosophy and modern science. As a former neuroscientist, Erika is particularly intrigued with how ancient wisdom correlates with modern science to allow us to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. The author of several articles, Erika is currently completing the writing of her book, Interconnected.   http://www.erikaburkhalter.com