This October and November
Join Annie Carpenter in-person and explore the history and philosophy of the Maha Bandha practices and the 5 Koshas. Learn them step by step to create both physical vigour, enhanced energy and a state of calm.
Moving through the Koshas: The Yogic Journey Inward
November 3rd – 6th | Sydney, NSW | Early Bird Price $629
The 5 Koshas
Yogis have long understood and described layers or sheaths of our beings; these are called Koshas. Each of these Pancha (five) Koshas (sheaths) are designed to lead us from the physical outer sheath: ANNA-MAYA, towards the breath-based energy body: PRANA-MAYA, through the mental layers of both mind: MANO-MAYA, and discernment: VIJNANA-MAYA, towards ANANDA-MAYA, the inner bliss layer that opens the gate to awaken to the true Self.
The search for a true sense of Self includes predictable and time-honored steps: the recognition and release of diverting and distracting physical and mental habits, sensing and balancing breath and subtle energy, evolving the capacity for compassion towards both self and others, and learning to evoke the joy that the path of yoga promises. This module will guide you through the philosophical underpinnings and essential practices, that step by step and layer by layer, reveal this very personal journey.
Each day we will practice Asana, Pranayama and guided meditations designed to move us through the sheaths. Bring your body, mind, heart and soul and let’s move through the Koshas.
Day 1
Morning Workshop 10:00 – 12:00
Practice highlighting AnnaMaya Kosha
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Teacher Training 1:00 – 4:00
Philosophical underpinnings; Introduction to Pranamaya Kosha
Day 2
Morning Workshop 10:00 – 12:00
Pranamaya Kosha Pratice: nurture breath and connect to subtle energy
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Teacher Training 1:00 – 4:00
Breathing and the Nadis; Breath, subtle energy and steadying the Gunas
Day 3
Morning Workshop 10:00 – 12:00
Manamaya to Vijnanamaya Koshas: Witness and balance
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Teacher Training 1:00 – 4:00
Discerning: releasing obstacles and creating tools towards Dhyana
Day 4
Morning Workshop 10:00 – 12:00
Anandamaya Kosha: portals to freedom
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Teacher Training 1:00 – 4:00
Deep Vairagya: acceptance and forgiveness
The Maha Bandhas: Support from Within
October 28th – 30th | Fitzroy Studio | Early Bird Price $499
Maha Bandhas
The Maha (meaning great), Bandhas (seals or locks) is a powerful practice. It is both advanced, and advancing. The 3 Bandhas are Mula (or root lock), at the base of the pelvis, Uddiyana (or abdominal lock), at the solar plexus, and Jalandhara (or chin lock), at the throat. These powerful practices are designed to be learned in a clear order, mastering them one by one. The integration of the three is known as Maha Bandha.
In this weekend, we will explore the history and philosophy of these practices and learn them step by step to create both physical vigor, enhanced energy and a state of calm. The 3 Bandhas begin with physical activation and then are applied to pranayama practices, ultimately landing in subtle energy management and mental and spiritual well-being.
The strong morning practices will include asana and pranayama; afternoons will begin with lecture and discussion and conclude with breathwork and meditation. This weekend will truly deepen and advance your Yoga.
Day 1
Morning Workshop 10:00 – 12:00
Physical Practice for Mula Bandha, and the pelvic wheel
Teacher Training 1:00 – 4:00
We’ll begin with an Intro to the history of the practice including:
* Physical and subtle body anatomy
* The Nadis, the Sushumna and Kundalini
* When — and when not — to practice the Bandhas
The afternoon will include essential practices for locating and using Mula Bandha in asana and pranayama.
Day 2
Morning Workshop 10:00 – 12:00
Practice for Jalandhara Bandha, and the Skull wheel
Teacher Training 1:00 – 4:00
We’ll review the basic cervical and breathing anatomy, and the classic dristhis (gazing spots). You will learn to practice this Bandha to enhance your asanas and daily posture, as well as uplift your breathing practices and begin to shift your subtle energy.
You will learn to practice this Bandha to enhance your asanas and daily posture, as well as uplift your breathing practices and shift your subtle energy.
Day 3
Morning Workshop 10:00 – 12:00
Practice for Uddiyana and Maha Bandha, and the Rib wheel
Teacher Training 1:00 – 4:00
We’ll review the physical, energetic and mental “pre-requisites” for Maha Bandha. The ordering and rhythm of the practices will be brought together. Deeper pranayama techniques including Maha Mudra (the great seal) will be practiced, and we will aim ourselves towards the abiding goals of Yoga: directing our whole Self towards freedom in body, mind and spirit.
Can you make it to both workshops?
Annie Carpenter is a truly inspirational yoga teacher. If you’re serious about learning from our amazing international guest, we invite you to attend both workshops.
If you let Annie guide you at both locations, you will collect 45 hours towards your 500hr RYT Certification.
Ready to Know More?
Enter your details below and one of our awesome Programs team will be in touch to chat to you about our Teacher Training:
Annie Carpenter Bio
Annie has been practicing Yoga for over 40 years. It continues to be a source of steadiness, depth and joy in her life. Annie taught movement and dance, anatomy, and lead movement rituals for many years; she’s been teaching Yoga for almost 30 years.
Having spent long periods practicing and studying Integral, Iyengar and Ashtanga Yoga, Annie believes that there are many wonderful approaches to practice—we all will find just what we need as our lives and bodies evolve. The commitment TO practice is the essence; WHAT we practice will expand and mature.
Annie created her school, SmartFlow Yoga, 13 years ago. It is a modern approach with an anatomically sound foundation, inspired creative sequencing and ground in the essence of Yogic and Buddhist philosophies. Annie is committed to mindfulness, which inevitably leads to spiritual development and light-heartedness. SmartFlow Yoga guides you to know your true Self. With the knowledge of the true Self comes compassion, peace and appreciation for all life.