THURSDAY, June 7, 7–9:30PM Chakra Shuddhi:
Practices for Purification of the Chakras
An evening of intensive exploration of the potential of Yoga to promote wholeness
ABOUT THIS PROGRAM
The program introduces the concepts and experience of the chakras in an easily accessible way.Chakras are the psychic centers, which control every aspect of our individual being. They govern the physical body, our mental process and states of consciousness. Shuddhi means to purify and rejuvenate, to remove faults and restore complete and proper function. The foundation practice of Chakra Shuddhi is an important stage in beginning the yogic and meditative practice of dharana (concentration). Chakra Shuddhi awakens the individual chakras, removes blockages that reduce health, happiness and freedom, and improves physical wellbeing, mental clarity and spiritual awareness. The technique is one of the powerful tools of the higher yoga.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Dr Swami Shankardev Saraswati is an eminent Yogacharya (authority), medical doctor, yoga therapist and internationally acclaimed author. A direct disciple of Swami Satyananda Saraswati, he lived with his teacher in India for 10 years (1974-1985), where he studied the highest practices of yoga tantra. During this period, he participated in the editing of many of the books on Yoga and Yoga Therapy published by the Bihar School of Yoga (BSY) and wrote several of his own. Dr Swami Shankardev’s teachings focus on the mind-body connection and its role in illness and healing, as well as on the special ability of Yoga to promote health and healing. He integrates western psychological medicine and psychotherapy with eastern methods of mind-body development. Dr Swami Shankardev specializes in the treatment and rehabilitation of chronic physical and mental conditions. His 30-year medical experience and extensive esoteric studies combine in a revolutionary and authentic approach to total health. Dr Swami Shankardev has toured extensively throughout Europe, USA and Australia teaching yoga, meditation, psychology, philosophy, yoga therapy, and Ayurveda. He is a senior teacher of Yogic Studies and the Teacher Training Courses for Satyananda Yoga Academies (Australia & India). He is the author of such widely known books as Yogic Management of Asthma and Diabetes, The Effects of Yoga on Hypertension, and The Practices of Yoga for the Digestive System. Shankardev has recorded a number of rarely available relaxation and meditation practices, his CDs include: Three Easy Steps to Deep Relaxation, Introduction to Meditation & Yoga Nidra, Introduction to Prana & Pranic Healing, Core Strength Calm Mind, and Purify Strengthen Awaken the Chakras (Chakra Shuddhi). He is a regular contributor to the Yoga Magazine published by the Bihar School of Yoga.
ABOUT YOGA BEYOND ASANA
The YOGA BEYOND ASANA series started with the visit of Swami Satyadharma Saraswati in August 2005. The series is intended as a platform for teachings of the Bihar School of Yoga, one of the leading Yoga traditions in the world today. The Bihar School of Yoga was established by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, and his teachings are also known as Satyananda Yoga. Satyananda Yoga takes an integral approach, including practices of Hatha, Raja, Karma, Jnana, Mantra (Nada) and Bhakti Yogas. While firmly grounded in the ancient Yoga tradition it is adapted to the needs of the modern man. This highly systematic approach is flexible enough to be applied according to individual needs and to the modern lifestyle. Satyananda Yoga offers a rare opportunity to experience and try out a variety of different yogic paths. It provides unique tools and skills to manage life’s journey. Among the best-known practices developed by Swami Satyananda on the basis of ancient spiritual sources are Yoga Nidra, Prana Nidra, and purification practices such as Chakra Shuddhi and Tattwa Shuddhi. The YOGA BEYOND ASANA series presents leading teachers of the Satyananda Yoga tradition and facilitates an introduction to more advanced practices of the high yoga. In the session on April 24 in Washington swami Shankardev will present some of the unique techniques of Satyananda Yoga with an emphasis on the use of breath, mudras (hand gestures), mantra and awareness of the subtle energy of the body-mind.
The Experience of Prana:
Pranic Practices for Vitality, Mental Strength and Higher Awareness
Saturday/Sunday June 9-10, 10 am to 4:30 pmAt Crossings, 8505 Fenton Street, Suite 202, Silver Spring, MD 20910 ● Inquiries: 202-333-0430 or 301-565-5024
Workshops 
