donna farhi 3 rd - 7th OCTOBER 2014 Auckland

Centering Down A Intensive with Donna Farhi

Yoga Sutra III:29: “Concentrated attention on the primordial navel center brings understanding of all bodily systems.”

In both Western and Eastern traditions the centre of gravity within the pelvis is considered the calibrating keystone for organizing the entire body. Sometimes referred to as the hara, dantien or the deep navel center, refining the position of the navel center gives us the ability to both release and contain the energy that moves through the pelvis. Having a strong yet mobile core not only has a powerful physical effect, it also affects us energetically, emotionally and spiritually.

In this intensive we will explore the principle of core support through the lens of the koshas, investigating what it means to establish physical, mental and emotional stability. The intensive will begin by establishing a deep connection with the energetic support of the breath. Building upon this work we will then investigate the way in which energetic support from the hara is reinforced through our physical structure. A key feature of this intensive will be learning to release and then activate the support of the “primary” inner core muscles, the psoas, a complex stabilizing muscle that lies parallel to the lower spine and acts as a functional bridge between the vertebral column and the pelvis and legs. We will then learn how to engage the “secondary” inner core muscles; the subtle yet powerful pelvic diaphragm, the deeper girding layers of the abdominal muscles and the stabilizing muscles of the lower back. These all serve to protect and support the sacroiliac joint, lower back and spine. To support a fuller understanding of the complex relationship between inner core muscles Donna will present two new anatomical PowerPoint presentations. Participants will also receive detailed digital handouts, which they can print at home and read prior to attending the workshop.

A particular emphasis of this workshop will be using the practice of yama or “restraint” as a way of bringing our fullest attention to stability within both the body and mind. Stability is then used as the prerequisite condition from which to expand and a stable reference point to which we can return. The mindful practice of yama serves to develop a sense of calmness in the nervous system and steadiness of the mind and heart.

Donna Farhi is a Yoga teacher who has been practicing for 35 years and teaching since 1982. She is one of the most sought after guest teachers in the world, leading intensives and teacher training programs internationally. Donna is best known for her unique ability to help students and teachers embody their spiritual practice. Her work focuses on the refinement of natural and universal movement principles that underlie all Yoga practice. This concentration on fundamental principles allows student of all levels of experience and from all traditions to build their own authentic Yoga practice. Considered the “teacher of teachers”, students return to Donna’s intensives again and again to be a part of the inspiring evolution of Donna’s own practice and teaching.

Donna has been the columnist for both and Yoga International Magazine (U.S.A.), and has been profiled in four separate publications on exceptional contemporary teachers of our time, including : The Power of Women in Yoga. Donna is the author of the contemporary classics, The Breathing Book, Yoga Mind, Body & Spirit: A Return to Wholeness and Bringing Yoga to Life: The Everyday Practice of Enlightened Living. Her fourth book Teaching Yoga: Exploring the Teacher- Student Relationship is used as a curricular text in teacher training programs worldwide. American born, Donna now lives on a 30-acre farm in Christchurch, New Zealand where she pursues her passionate study of dressage and horsemanship. donna farhi 3 rd - 7th OCTOBER 2014 Auckland

Workshop Content Each day will be divided into two sessions. Morning and afternoon classes will include some lecture, guided movement inquiry and a diverse range of both active and restorative asana practice, including sitting meditation and the practice of Yoga Nidra. Participants should have a sound working knowledge of the basic and have had a consistent Yoga practice for at least one year. No partial attendance will be allowed for this intensive.

Workshop Schedule Cancellation Policy Friday 3 Oct, 6.00pm - 8.30pm Cancellations on or before 15 August, 2014 will be refunded minus Saturday 4 Oct - Tuesday 7 Oct, a $50.00 administrative fee. Cancellations after 15 August, 2014 will 9.30am – 12.30 pm and 2.00pm – 4.30 pm (each day) only be refunded if your place can be filled from the waitlist.

Please note: What to Bring • There will be no partial enrolment for this intensive. , belt, block, 2 blankets, 1 bath towel. • Class numbers will be limited for this engagement. 1 wash cloth and a bolster (if you have one). • Depending on numbers Donna will have at least four experienced A bag lunch each day (optional). teaching assistants to help participants integrate the material.

Our Venue For More Information and to Register Bookings and registration via the Sacred Moves website: Michael Parks Steiner School www.sacredmoves.com 55 Amy Street, Ellerslie (You may pay via Internet Banking or Credit Card or PayPal) Auckland 1051 Contact: Neal Ghoshal Fees Email: [email protected]; Phone: (09) 372 7650 $525.00 Or send the completed form below to: A deposit of $100 is required at registration to secure a place. Neal Ghoshal The balance (or the full fee) is due no later than 15 August, 2014. 69 Makora Avenue, Waiheke Island, New Zealand 1081

Registration for the Donna Farhi Auckland Workshop, 3rd til 7th Oct 2013 Name Address City/State Postcode Phone ( ) Mobile Email Age

Please indicate if you have any physical injuries or health conditions that may affect your participation. (Feel free to attach a separate sheet.) I have enclosed a deposit cheque of $100.00. I have enclosed a post-dated cheque (15 August, 2014) of $425.00.

I will pay by Internet Banking / Credit Card / PayPal via the website: www.sacredmoves.com Full details for paying are available on the website. For internet banking, once you have completed the online form, you will be emailed the payment details.

Signature Date