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Pranayama is a Sanskrit word meaning “extension of the prāṇa or breath” or, “extension of the life force”. The word is composed of two Sanskrit words, Prana meaning vital life force energy, particularly, the breath, and “ayāma”, to extend or draw out. Pranayama, the formal practice of controlling the breath, lies at the heart of yoga, it is the 4th Limb from Pantanjali’s 8 Limb system. It has a mysterious power to soothe and revitalize a tired body, a depleted spirit, or an over active, busy mind. The ancient sages taught that prana, the vital force circulating through us, can be cultivated and channeled through a variety of specific breathing techniques. In the process, the mind is calmed, rejuvenated, and uplifted. Pranayama serves as an important bridge between the outward, active practices of yoga, like asana, and the internal, surrendering practices that lead us into deeper states of meditation.

Specific pranayamas have been proven to lower elevated stress levels and calm and anxiety. Over the six weeks we will learn particular pranayama practices that will calm and support your nervous system and revitalize your body, mind, and spirit.

This is a six-week series; Sundays, November 16 – December 21, 2014, 3:30 – 4:45pm

Teacher: Alex Baker

Bio: Alex has been a dedicated Hatha Yoga practitioner for over ten years. She continues to discover joy and humility through the efforts of her practice. Alex finds inspiration from the Krishnamacharya lineage including the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar, A.G. & Indra Mohan, Donna Farhi & Judith Lasater. Alex has a gentle and encouraging teaching style, meeting each individual student exactly where they are at within their practice. She creatively focuses on building the relationship between our breath and our physical body. Alex’s classes will increase your physical strength & flexibility in addition to deepen your awareness of the healing qualities found within your breath. While exploring a full range of asanas with Alex, you can expect to learn more about the ancient philosophical teachings from Patanjali’s Sutras as well as learning how to better support yourself within the seasons through the science of Ayurveda. Alex is a 2009 graduate from the 8 Limbs Teacher Training Program and is excited to share the wonderful therapeutic benefits of yoga with you.

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