RICHARD FREEMAN
The Yoga Matrix: Ashtanga Yoga as a Gateway to Freedom
February 25, 26 and 27, 2005
LOCATION: GoodBody's Yoga Studio
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Richard Freeman has been a student of yoga since 1968. Thereafter, he found an integrative vision in the Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga System. Richard spent nearly nine years in Asia studying various traditions which he incorporates into the Ashtanga yoga practice taught by his principal teacher, K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, India. His background includes Zen and Vipassana Buddhist practice, Bhakti and traditional Hatha Yoga in India, Sufism in Iran and, starting in 1974, and an in-depth study of Iyengar Yoga. He is still an avid student of both Western and Eastern philosophy, as well as Sanskrit. His teaching style is unique in that it continuously re-structures and re-frames the biomechanical and perceptual forms of the asanas and movements. His ability to juxtapose various viewpoints, without losing the depth and integrity of each, has helped Richard develop a unique, metaphorical teaching style. He lives with his family in Boulder, Colorado where he is the director of the Yoga Workshop.

ITINERARY (subject to change):
Friday evening, February 25
7:00 pm to 9:30 pm
Detailed Meditative Flow

Saturday morning, February 26
10:30 am to 1:00 pm
Internal Methodology of Vinyasa

Saturday afternoon, February 26
3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Mulabandha is Not What You “Think”

Sunday morning, February 27
9:30 am to 12:00 pm
Ashtanga Yoga: Central Axis and Universal Form

THE WORKSHOP:
Like the Jeweled Net of Indra, the human body can be experienced as a field of immediate sensations and feelings. When examined closely, each point or pattern in that field opens like a jewel into a vibrant, interconnected web, a matrix of gates into the present moment. Yoga poses, breaths, techniques and philosophies appear as jewels when the contexts in which they rest are revealed. The flowing Vinyasa form of Ashtanga Yoga is the ideal practice to reflect and refine an understanding of this intricate, interlinked art of yoga.

During this weekend we will uncover the context and patterns of an internally rooted asana practice. We will learn to cultivate and observe internal feelings, sensations, thoughts and emotions, keeping us grounded and deeply engaged. Through the continuous refinement of the techniques of dristi, bandha, alignment and form, we will play with the paradoxes of breathing while opening the central axis of the body into a universal form. Moving into and out of this paradoxical heart of the Vinyasa system allows the practice to heal injuries and to continually reveal new facets of the present moment.

Friday Evening will begin this weekend workshop with a Detailed Meditative Flow — an intricate exploration of the postures of the primary series of the Ashtanga system. The universal form of internally integrated yoga posture will be experienced as a continuous joining and separating of masculine and feminine movements. Students will learn to pay close attention to the meditative quality of form and movement as a means of bringing refinement to their practice. Fine detailed attention to subtle technique will prove to be the way of avoiding injury and integrating obstacles.

Saturday morning will focus on the Internal Methodology of Vinyasa, which will involve a step by step exploration of the basic thread of form, breathing, and movement upon which the classical series of postures in the Ashtanga Vinyasa system is strung. We will explore the bio-mechanical principles of alignment and the meditative principle of awakening core breathing in context of the Ashtanga system. Using a rich context of philosophy and meditative insight, this class will allow participants to bring a new degree of freedom, technical skill and compassion to their every day practice.

Saturday afternoon we will resume after break and explore Mulabandha is Not What You “Think”. To flow gracefully and effortlessly in and out of poses, it is essential to stay vibrant and grounded in the breathing. This class will be based on a study of the essential and elusive activity of Mulabandha and the strong grounding effect of correct ujjayi pranayama. The actual Mulabandha is a conjunction of complimentary movement patterns which open the central axis of the body right up through the root of the palate. We will flow seamlessly through these movement patterns, following the thread of the central axis.

Sunday morning will complete this amazing experience and weekend with focus on Ashtanga Yoga: Central Axis and Universal Form. This is a deep exploration of how true internal alignment is used in posture and movement and how those rhythms translate into breathing and meditation. Students will learn small, subtle adjustments in form and attitude that can make problematic and difficult poses produce their fruits. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner of Ashtanga yoga, you’ll learn new ways to adapt to the present moment and make your practice graceful and free.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
For any additional questions on this or other events, please contact Living Yoga Dallas at 214-739-1605 or email info@livingyogadallas.com.

For more information on Richard, visit www.yogaworkshop.com.

WHAT TO BRING:
A well rested and well hydrated body; an open mind, body and spirit. Your own yoga mat, towel and props that you utilize in your practice. Bottled water available for purchase.

LODGING:
There is no lodging or meals provided for this weekend. Visit our Resources section for hotel recommendations with special rates for Living Yoga Dallas workshop participants.

LOCATION:
GoodBody's Yoga Studio
5301 W. Lovers Lane, #114
Dallas, TX 75209
214-351-9931