THE YAMAS & NIYAMAS:
On the Mat & Off
An Online, Self-Paced Continuing Education Course

More Than a Theme: 
Putting Yoga Philosophy Into Practice

This is not a course about learning how to theme a yoga class.

The Yamas and Niyamas are often introduced in teacher trainings as philosophical concepts and then incorporated into classes through a quote, an opening intention, or a short message woven into the practice. 
While these approaches can be meaningful, they can also leave yoga philosophy separate from the physical practice – as something we talk about rather than something students actually practice.

This course takes a different approach.
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The Yamas and Niyamas were never meant to be ideas we simply understand intellectually. They are guidelines for how we relate to ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we move through the world.

As yoga teachers, we have an opportunity to help students experience these teachings directly. The poses, transitions, breath, repetition, effort, challenge, and even frustration that arise during an asana practice can become tools for self-observation, inquiry, and transformation.

• Instead of simply telling students about ahimsa, we can create opportunities for them to notice how they respond when something becomes difficult.
• Instead of talking about aparigraha, we can teach students to recognize when they are gripping, forcing, or becoming attached to achieving a particular pose.
• Instead of defining tapas, we can give students an opportunity to experience the difference between discomfort that asks for discipline and a signal that asks them to back off.

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