Lesson 3 - Intro & Outline

Tanya P. Johnson: Morning Call. Technology of (a) mantra, a vector.

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That which does not exist shall never be. That which exists shall never cease to be. ~ Bhagavad Gita (2:16). 

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Hello my friend, 
In the upcoming Lesson 3 from A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, we will become introduced to many new and transformative practices and concepts. First, we will practice a new mudra that has been shown to dramatically improve and detoxify our lymphatic system -- all the while, making a ridiculous face and laughing at ourselves. Mmhmm. Seriously. Have you ever heard of Simha Kriya (The Lion's Yawn)? It looks a bit like this.

Nadi Shodhana

Next, we will discover what prana and the pranic body are. As there are many misconceptions about prana and pranayama, we will attempt to inform ourselves by considering religious and traditional aspects. We will also briefly analyze several ancient scriptures. Then we will delve into prana research provided by modern scientists in order to answer the following question, "What do the scientists conclude?"

But, as you know, we cannot only learn about prana and the pranic body through scientific discoveries and investigations. We will need to step into the practitioner's role, and with an open mind. Thus, the next step in our program this month calls for the practice of Pranayama: Nadi Shodhana (Stage 1). After this practice, we might find ourselves intrigued, relaxed, and calm yet still wondering, "Where should my awareness lie?"​

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We will attempt to answer the above question through an introductory lecture on "Awareness." Although we have previously and briefly discussed 'Awareness,' we will spend more time discussing its meaning and implications in this lesson. It is vital to understand this concept, as it lies at the very basis of yoga and yogic techniques.  

And lastly, we will put all these pieces together in order to practice Meditation: Body Awareness (Part 1). The meditation lesson will include a ten-minute audio guide, so lie out your blanket and prepare to relax on the floor on your back and close your eyes for a journey. ​

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Daily Practice Programs Lesson 2

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A Brief & Personal Update

It has been a while since I have been here with you, dear reader, and I apologize. I was honestly afraid this would happen. I applied to a Comparative Literature Master's program at King's College London two years ago and was accepted. When I accepted my place in the program, I worried about how I would manage parenthood, my yoga practice, and my academic studies. I wondered how I would maintain balance. It was very challenging, hence my absence. There were moments of harmony and insight and then moments of imbalance and fluctuation. Still, on Wednesday, I successfully turned in a dissertation for a Master's Degree in Comparative Literature from King's College London! I am so grateful for the skills I have gained as a result of my education, in particular my research skills. I cannot wait to use them as I delve further into Yoga philosophy, and I cannot wait to share what I find with you here and on our YouTube channel.

I hope you have been well! Please feel free to send me an update on your life, as well as anything you'd like me to write about or research concerning yoga, meditation, pranayama, and overall well-being. Sending you love. ~ Ashley