(In Studio) Yoga History and Philosophy

Workshop presented by Megan Adamson Sijapati, PhD, Professor of Religious Studies - Gettysburg College, and RYT-200. Read Megan's bio here.

In the morning session (10:30am – 12:00pm), Megan will facilitate a guided discussion on the core texts of yoga history, philosophy, and practice to establish a basic understanding of key terms and concepts upon which modern yoga is built. The sacred texts you will review include the Vedas, the Yoga Sutra attributed to Patanjali, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, as well as and 20th century writings by influential Indian teachers. Through a closely guided and interactive review of these texts, participants identify important points in yoga’s historical and cultural contexts and trace postural yoga from its roots to the modern era, with attention to the foundational terms and concepts of yoga. Emphasis will be on developing an understanding of key terms, concepts, and practices in the long and rich tradition of yoga in which today’s yoga asana (postural) practices are situated. Participants are also introduced to the language of Sanskrit and will explore the names and pronunciations of basic postures.

There is a one-hour and 15-minute intermission between the morning and afternoon sessions.

During the afternoon session (1:15pm – 2:45pm), Megan will lead a deeper dive into the concepts, theories, and questions raised in the morning session. Attention is given to key religious and philosophical concepts, which participants can integrate into their lives to enhance both their understanding of yoga and to deepen their yoga as practitioners and teachers. Participants will be introduced to key points of cultural sensitivity and tools for inter-cultural awareness surrounding yoga. Participants will be asked to consider how awareness of the history and philosophy can enhance one’s practice, one’s teaching, and lives off the mat and in the world. A list of suggested further readings is provided at the conclusion of the session.