Yoga:

Yoga is an ancient practice originating from India that focuses on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It combines physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation, and ethical principles. The practice of yoga aims to promote harmony between the mind, body, and spirit.

Pranayama:

Pranayama is the practice of controlling the breath, which is believed to be the source of life force (prana). It involves various breathing techniques to regulate and channel the flow of prana within the body. Pranayama techniques help in calming the mind, improving concentration, and promoting overall health and vitality.

Syllabus:

Week 1-2: Introduction to Yoga

– Overview of yoga philosophy and its benefits.
– Introduction to basic yoga postures (asanas) such as Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Balasana (Child’s Pose), and Vrikshasana (Tree Pose).
– Understanding the importance of breath awareness in yoga practice.

Week 3-4: Asana Practice

– Learning and practicing a sequence of asanas to improve flexibility, strength, and balance.
– Incorporating sun salutations (Surya Namaskar) into the practice.
– Exploring modifications and variations of asanas based on individual abilities.

Week 5-6: Pranayama Techniques

– Introduction to pranayama and its significance in yoga.
– Learning foundational pranayama techniques such as Ujjayi (Victorious Breath) and Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing).
– Practicing pranayama techniques to increase breath awareness and calm the mind.

Week 7-8: Meditation and Mindfulness

– Understanding the principles of meditation and mindfulness.
– Exploring different meditation techniques, including mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness meditation, and guided visualization.
– Cultivating a regular meditation practice to enhance mental clarity and emotional well-being.

Week 9-10: Yoga Philosophy and Ethics

– Delving deeper into the philosophical roots of yoga, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
– Exploring the ethical principles of yoga (Yamas and Niyamas) and their relevance in daily life.
– Reflecting on how yoga philosophy can guide personal growth and relationships.

Week 11-12: Integration and Self-Practice

– Reviewing and integrating the concepts learned throughout the course.
– Encouraging self-practice and exploration of yoga and pranayama techniques.
– Developing a personalized yoga and pranayama routine based on individual needs and goals.

This syllabus provides a structured approach to learning yoga and pranayama, gradually building upon foundational knowledge and skills over a twelve-week period. It is important to adapt the syllabus according to the needs and abilities of the students and to encourage a safe and supportive learning environment.