*Space is limited to 20 students*

Program Type: Online Course

Date & Time: Offered as 6 weekly sessions on Mondays. Nov 9, 16, 23, 30, Dec 7 & 14, 7:00-8:30pm EDT

Hours: 9 hours

What you’ll learn:

• Discuss the 5 points of Yoga and practical ways they can help you release anxiety and depression
• The importance of the practices of the 4 paths of Yoga
• Understand the 3 gunas and their potentials for imbalance
• Releasing stuck energy through Asana, Pranayama and Relaxation

Course Description:

Do you feel overwhelmed, sad, depressed, or anxious on a regular basis, perhaps even more so during these uncertain times? Many people suffer from these debilitating emotional states, ranging from mild to severe symptoms. Thankfully, Yoga has the answers. This ancient proven science is beneficial for alleviating suffering, elevating your mood, and coping with depression and anxiety. In this course, we will to systemically learn the principles that are based on these ancient teachings.

There are 5 basic principles that are meant to bring health to the body and peace to the mind. They are simple yet profound.

Proper exercise releases blockages from the nervous and energy systems. Research shows that exercise is an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression. One tends to feel good after yoga practice because energy is flowing. Endorphins are released, producing a euphoric effect, which reduces stress.

Proper breathing is extremely important in reducing stress and anxiety. By using yogic breathing techniques one immediately experiences significant benefits. People who suffer from anxiety simply don’t breathe properly. Oftentimes all it takes is to stop and take a deep breath or to use breathing techniques to bring fresh oxygen to the brain, encouraging a clearer mind.

Proper relaxation is a major component in encouraging stress relief. Our daily lives have become so hectic in modern times, and this year, in particular, has induced stress and anxiety more than ever. When you learn to relax, you can bring control to the body, mind and breath. You are able to cope with life challenges more easily when you are less overwhelmed by your emotions. We experience relaxation during savasana in our yoga practice, and we can begin to practice deep relaxation in our daily life as well.

Proper diet is important because food affects the mind and our emotions. This is proven not only through ancient yoga knowledge and also by science. Simple changes to daily eating habits, such as eating food that is plant-based, fresh, and sattvic, supports our other yoga practices.

Positive Thinking and Meditation are two practices that work directly on the mind. When we shift our way of thinking we are able to reclaim our own true nature of joy and bliss. We remove the clouds that inhibit our thoughts by focusing the mind and bringing it to stillness and calm.

In this course, we will explore the 4 Paths of Yoga and the Yoga of Synthesis

The 4 Paths of Yoga are: Karma (selfless service), Bhakti (devotion), Raja (meditation), and Jnana (knowledge)

All of these paths have their own unique benefits, however, Karma Yoga is one of the best practices for anxiety and depression because it turns our attention away from ourselves towards helping others. It uplifts our mood and moves stuck energy.

We integrate all of these practices in our daily life by what is known as Yoga of Synthesis – combining the 5 Principles and the 4 Paths in an integrated way, ensuring that our development is harmonious and balanced so that every aspect of our body, mind, and spirit grow and evolve together.

Once we reach the goal of knowing who we are, there is no room for depression and anxiety because the True Self is untouched by these emotional states.

During the course, you will notice a shift in your mood and begin to feel better already. We are not only learning theory, but practices to immediately incorporate into your daily life. You will receive homework so you can practice during the week and begin to establish your own commitment to your practice. You’ll leave this course with tools that will stay with you forever, allowing you to move forward on your journey more independently and successfully. Most importantly you will connect with an online community of like-minded people who are striving for a better life through positive practices. Establishing this sense of community is especially important when people are feeling isolated. You may develop life-long connections, and can feel at ease knowing the support of the ashram will always be there for you.

Additional Details: 

This program is offered live through Zoom webinar with the availability for students to interact through Q&A with the presenter.

For enrolled students, a video recording will be available after each class in the event you miss a class or would like to review the content.

It is possible to register and take the course at any time. You can catch up on any classes you miss with the recordings.

Requirements & Recommendations: 

• No experience necessary. This program is open to beginners as well as advanced practitioners.
• Viewing Device: Desktop or laptop computer will provide the best experience, although you can also connect via a tablet or smartphone.
• Internet connection: High-speed broadband wired or wireless is best.
• Video: Download Zoom to your computer, or install the Zoom app to your device.  For interactive group sessions, a webcam or integrated camera will allow others to feel more connected with you.
• Audio: Headphone speakers are recommended. If you wish to participate vocally, a headset with a microphone will be ideal.

Course Includes:

• 9 hours on-demand video
• Downloadable course manual