Yogic Wisdom For Modern Times

In this course, we will examine the origin, meaning, and practical relevance of popular terms within the yoga tradition. Specifically, we will illuminate 10 words which have become integrated into contemporary culture. We will utilize ancient texts and modern research to present a universal approach toward applying the essence of these words into all our affairs. We will acknowledge these profound words as a spiritual path toward individual illumination and collective transformation. We will view the principles inherent to these words as a design for living to deepen our understanding of life, love, and yoga.
Students will learn the unique history and contemporary relevance of words from the yoga tradition which have become integrated into popular culture. Students will learn how to practice the timeless wisdom of yoga philosophy within all modern situations.
Students will learn how to internalize the principles of these lessons as a means to quiet the mind and open the heart.

Lección 1: Connecting To The Source Of Creation (Aum Or Om)

AUM (also known as “OM”) is the sound or essence of Creation. It is the beginning of all things. In this lesson we examine the letters A-U-M. We look at each sound within this sacred mantra. We study specific lessons and stories from the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads and find similarities between what is taught in these ancient texts and how these teachings can be applied to contemporary living.

Lección 2: Acknowledging Oneself & Others (Namaste)

Namaste is to bow, recognize, and honor the Divine within ourselves and others. We will look at the history and meaning of this word. We will discuss why such a turning inward to honor the essence of oneself and others is important. We will discuss how this gesture is enacted with the hands and heart. We will also look at similar words in various cultures and discover how all traditions possess a principal word with transcendent meanings.

Lección 3: Developing A Daily Practice (Sadhana)

In this lesson, we will discuss how living a meaningful life is the result of a daily practice. We will discuss the importance of discipline and action. Specifically, we will define what a daily, spiritual practice consists of, and how to create and maintain such a practice. We will look at religious and spiritual traditions for inspiration on this topic, as many accessible examples throughout history can be found.

Lección 4: Being Intentional With Our Lives (Sankalpa)

This lesson will teach how to set a goal, so that we do not meander through life without direction.
We will learn what it means to set an intention in all areas of life, including financial, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. We will learn about the value of progress rather than perfection when we follow a clear intention.

Lección 5: Finding Our Purpose (Dharma)

We will discuss what it is we are individually here on Earth to do. We will identify unique skill sets, so that we can fulfill our Divine purpose in the world. We will also learn that all sentient beings have a role to play which contributes to the rhythm of the cosmos. We will talk about individual and collective dharma.

Lección 6: Taking Right Action (Karma)

Karma means action. We will discuss how our actions align with our purpose in life. We will talk about what we do with the gift of life which we have been given. We will look at how we live our lives when nobody is looking. We will discuss free will and the power of choice. We will talk about right action. We will also talk about Karma Yoga as the yoga of selfless action.

Lección 7: Being Of Service (Seva)

We will discuss the benefits of being other-centered, rather than self-centered. We will discuss the parameters and rewards of being of service. We will talk about humility, humanity, and honesty.
We will also discuss how service is exemplified through specific intentions, individual purpose, and acting in alignment with a collective purpose.

Lección 8: Harnessing The Force Of Life (Prana)

In this lesson, we will discuss the breath as a force of life. We will rely on ancient scriptures which explain the breath as the ultimate life force. We will look at different sources of energy and ascertain which ones can be replenished and which ones deplete our resources. We will also realize the steadfastness of the breath as it is with us the moment we enter the world and remains with us until the moment we transition.

Lección 9: Learning To Concentrate (Drishti)

In this lesson, we will talk about the significance of single-pointed focus. We will talk about concentration on the yoga mat and how to take this idea off the mat into the world. We will discuss the benefits of monotasking, rather than multitasking. We will learn how to place our attention in the right places and upon the right things so that we are aligned with our purpose in life.

Lección 10: Remaining Calm (Upeksha)

Upeksha is to be equal-minded. We will look at its significance as a means to calm the mind and as part of a path that leads to true love. We will talk about how to cultivate the qualities of upeksha in everyday situations. We will learn about tolerance and indifference. We will also learn about remaining stable and solid in all circumstances.

Reviews

Thank you for providing such a remarkable course. The content, and sequence of content, was so interesting, informative, and useful. I had no idea of the depth, breadth, and benefits of the Yoga principles and philosophies. I look forward to learning more. Thank you again for developing this excellent course.

Fabulous! A simple accessible explanation of profound and useful concepts. Thank you!

Transformative. I think I have finally found a spiritual path that will work for me: yoga. I understand it so much better now.

What an amazing course. I am so grateful to have experienced these wonderful classes. Thankyou Brian.

A thoughtful course extending much more of the yoga practice beyond the mat. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experience with us.

Very informative! Well said! I enjoyed these lessons very much and will listen to them again. Thank you.

A deep course. I needed to listen to most of the lessons more than once to personalize with the teachings in them, which is the same case with the 2 courses I attended earlier to Brian. The course is full of teachings that cultivate results (fruits) when we work them, practice them..not only listen to them.
Thank you Brian

Thank you for the “transformative” instruction. I thoroughly enjoyed each day, especially day 10, as it gave me deeper understanding of others. I am in so much gratitude for that. Namaste.

This is a wonderful course. It's a
" formula", if you will, for leading a joyful, purposeful life. I will come back to this again and again. Thsnk you.

A wonderful insight into the yogic philosophy.
Your calming voice and researched information and knowledge has opened my mind to finding out more and deepening my practice.
Once I’ve listened again to make notes….
Thankyou. 🙏

Thank you Brian for helping me along my spiritual journey💖
This course has been amazing to listen to. It’s great to be refreshed on the old & taking in the learning of the new. I believe everyone has something to learn from this course. Thank you for being such a kind soulful teacher of meditation 🧘‍♀️ 💖✨ Namaste

Best course I’ve taken on Insight Timer. I will revisit Brian’s teaching again and again. It is a gift and he is gifted. Thank you, Brian, for giving us guidance along the path. I personally want to thank you for taking the time to answer my many questions. Your courses and your kindness have been a tremendous help to me. Namaste.

Wonderful course!! Thank you.

Fantastic. Really clear teaching; keeping it simple yet challenging to. Particularly session 9 and 10.

Courses with Brian have been transformative and worthwhile. His explanations in each lesson are thorough and understandable. A compassionate teacher who puts a lot of thought into how he presents each lesson. Sending immense love and gratitude. ॐ

I loved this course. It sparked my interest in digging deeper and learning more about these principles. Now I’m actually going to read some of the yoga books I bought years ago!

Wonderful. I’ll be revisiting this course often. Thank you.

This is a wonderful course. Brian gives
the listener that core principles of yoga practice in a clear understandable presentation. Definitely a great use of time. Thank you. 🙏🏼🧘🏻‍♂️🌞🌈🌚

Thank you so much for this wonderful course ! Extremely interesting and I really learned a lot - i do yoga and am always interested in learning more about the theory part , so really enjoyed this . Beautifully structured - loved the day 10 overview / lookback,
Will definitely repeat this one.
Thank you again for sharing, namaste 🙏🏻🐾🌸

Thank you Brien I really enjoyed this course I will come back to it again. Nice to know the meaning of words I have heard but didn’t know the meaning. I am listening to your other course. Marry Christmas and happy new year.
Namaste Nada 🙏🏻🧘🏻‍♀️🌻🕊