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In Hatha Yoga, the body's inner fire (jatharagni - digestive or metabolic fire) is cultivated through the synergy of
rythmic breathing (ujjayi), energetic locks (bandhas), concentration, and the precise moving and positioning of the
body. A strong inner fire improves digestion and elimination - the cornerstone of good health. It also heightens mental
clarity, concentration, and is instrumental in making the body more flexible and fluid. To "cultivate the fire within"
is to learn to regulate and manage this inner energy for personal transformation in body, mind, and spirit. It is
central to what we teach at Moksha Yoga Shala.
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"Moksha" is a Sanskrit word which means liberation or freedom. "Shala" is a school.
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We offer a quality and depth of teaching that remains true to the
traditional methods of Hatha Yoga while simultaneously addressing
the needs and demands of modern life. With the popularization of yoga
this is getting harder to find. Our program integrates weekly classes,
as well as courses and workshops that bring in a greater depth of
instruction than is possible to achieve in a drop-in class setting
alone. These are offered on a rotating basis which allows students
to progress at their own pace and start at any time. Also unique to
our Shala are Individualized Asana Courses which
adjust the practice for the unique needs of each student. This is
the traditional way of learning Asana, and requires a teacher be skilled
in the art of assessment and adjustment. Another distinguishing characteristic
of our school is Shadow Yoga. All the teachers at
our Shala have studied this style of practice with its founder, Zhandor
Remete and with Mark Horner. We have found Shadow Yoga to be one of
the most powerful and comprehensive styles of yoga taught today and
are one of only a few schools throughout the world to offer a complete
training program in Shadow Yoga. |
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Shadow Yoga, as developed by Zhander Remete, is not a new "brand"
of yoga but rather a compilation and integration of the essential
methods and practices which have always been a part of authentic Hatha
Yoga since ancient times. With the entry of yoga into the mainstream,
much of this understanding has been lost due to an emphasis on accessibility,
quick results, and mass appeal. For further information on this approach,
and to learn what the term "shadow" refers to, click
here. |
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Being stiff and out of shape are excellent reasons to begin a yoga
practice. It is important to realize that flexibility is only one
component of yoga. Strength, stamina, and the ability to concentrate
are also important. While the stiff person is challenged by bending
and folding the body, the naturally flexible person is often challenged
by poses that require strength and stability, so everyone will have
something to develop. Most people can begin with our Level 1-2 Foundations
classes. If you want to begin with a more basis preparatory class
- try our "Stiff Bodies/Yoga Basics" classes. In addition, we encourage
all new students to take our Intro
to Shadow Yoga Level I and Level II courses. These are offered
throughout the year, usually quarterly. |
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If by "workout" you mean a challenging and vigorous practice that
will get you in shape, the answer is yes. Our classes are generally
quite strong and if your attendance is frequent and consistent, you
will definately tone your body, become more flexible, and stengthen
muscles you didn't know you had. However, our focus includes more
than just physical fitness. We prefer to call the process a "work
in" rather than a "work out". By this we mean that besides the physical
training, we also help students learn to build and accumulate life
force within the body, develop self-awareness, a clear mind, and open
heart. |
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Yes. The integrative style of practice that we teach is energetically
very powerful, and for many this is the missing component in their
yoga practice. This way of working is challenging on many levels,
but with consistent and dedicated practice it can completely transform
one's yoga. Mark Horner is a teacher of teachers and has lead three
18-month Teacher-Training programs at Moksha Yoga Shala (completed
in 2002, 2004, & 2007. Many of the graduates of these programs
are now established, successful teachers. Mark 's next training will
begin in 2008 and run through December 2009. Please go here for the
details and to download a program brochure: 2008-2009
Advanced Studies and Teacher Training Program. Private sessions
with Mark are also available at Moksha Yoga Shala on an hourly basis.
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Mark has been leading yoga retreats for the past 15 years. In that
time he has led more than 45 retreats to various spots in Northern
California, Alaska, Bali, Mexico, Canada, and Hawai. There is no substitute
for experience when it comes to organizing, coordinating, and leading
a smooth and successful yoga retreat. Mark's passion is to combine
the joy of travel and outdoor adventure with a comprehensive and deep
yoga experience in an atmosphere of community and friendship. Retreat
Centers are chosen for their combination of high quality facilities
and remote, or semi-remote locations. Three-day weekend retreats are
a great way to take a break from the routines of life and deepen one's
yoga and rejuvenate. The week-long trips are true vacations and combine
intensive yoga with all manner of guided adventure, sightseeing, and
cultural immersion. Of course there is also plenty of unstructured
time to just hang out or pursue personal interests. Participants frequently
remark on how healing and transforming the retreat experience is.
Many have developed lasting friendships on these trips. If you are
interested in deepening your yoga practice, and enjoy traveling within
a spirit of community, then try a retreat. |
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