What You’ll Learn: 

• Gain a thorough overview of the sutras in chapter four of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
• What is Kaivalya or independence – spiritual liberation
• The perfection of discriminative wisdom
• The non-identification of the full-blown Yogi with the qualities of creation – Sattva, Rajas and Tamas
• The nature of the mind
• Dharma Megha Samadhi

Description: 

For this intensive weekend retreat, Swami Brahmananda will be teaching sutra by sutra of the fourth chapter of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali which is focused on liberation. This is an inspiring and thorough study of the most important text for the yogis. You will learn practical tools to improve your own yoga practice and your spiritual journey.

Raja Yoga, the royal path of mind control, is the most comprehensive and scientific approach to God-Realization. The precepts and doctrines of this ancient science were first compiled and explained by Patanjali Maharishi, the greatest psychologist of all time. Never has man’s mind been so completely analyzed. Never has the process of eliminating human suffering been so succinctly presented. The methods of Raja Yoga are profound and timeless. They are the most useful techniques available to modern man beset by the tremendous stresses and strains of our competitive society.

The fourth chapter – Kaivalya Pada, which will be the premise of this course, discusses Kaivalya or liberation. It treats of the independence of a full-blown Yogi who has perfected his discriminative wisdom between consciousness and the matter and thus is not identified with the three gunas of creation – Sattva, Rajas and Tamas. The nature of the mind is dealt with also, and the states of consciousness accompanying the process of liberation.

Throughout this weekend retreat you will have the opportunity to practice a yogic lifestyle by joining our daily satsangs, chanting, meditation and traditional Hatha yoga classes.

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:

• 10.5 hours on-demand video
• Downloadable course manual