Dear Yogis,

Welcome to the Prana Yoga Newsletter for October 2007!

In this issue:

1. October Schedule
2. Holiday hours - Thanksgiving
3. Schedule Changes for October 2nd-20th
4. Courses at Prana - deepen your practice
5. Don’t Miss A Unique Opportunity To Learn The Secrets Of Tantra Yoga
   Workshops with Guest Tantric Teacher Swami Vivekananda Saraswati starting October 4th
   • "Tantra Level 1" and "Tantra Level 2"
   • "Metaphysical Workshop"; "Meditation and Esoteric Teachings"
   • "Parapsychology", "The Art of Dying - Bardo Thodol Rites and Training"
6. Other Upcoming Workshops:
   • Psych-K Workshop
   • Shivambu (Urine Therapy)
   • The Five Tibetan Exercises
   • Pranayama
   • Introduction to Ayurveda
7. Upcoming Teacher Training:
   • Level 2, 300 Hour Upgrade Diploma Program begins October 4th
   • Exclusive ~ Teacher Training in Antigua!
   • Thailand Teacher Training - 200hr retreat
   • May 2008 Teacher Training Italy
   • Spring 2008 Teacher Training 200hr in Vancouver
   • Summer 2008 Teacher Training 200hr in Vancouver
8. Street Heat Initiative ~ Providing Relief to Homeless
9. Conversations with God ~ Movie night ~ October 14th
10. Teachers at Prana
11. shakti's blog - A place to Connect with shakti to ask spiritual questions

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View our October Schedule Online:

http://www.pranayoga.com/studio-class-schedule.htm

Schedule change Oct 2nd to Oct 20th there will be no 9:00 am and Saturday classes at Prana due to workshop dates.

Thanksgiving hours:

Sunday Oct 7th - 10am
Monday October 8th - closed

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Workshops with Guest Tantra Yoga Master Swami Vivekananda

We are happy to announce that Swami Vivekananda will be a guest teacher in our College this fall. Swami Vivekananda is the brilliant exponent of a unique and modern trend of thinking in Yoga. Educated as an electrical engineer, he is a passionate and dedicated teacher of the true, ancient lines of Indian and Tibetan Yoga, rapidly becoming lost in today's "spiritual marketplace." Although he does not deviate in spirit from the traditional teachings of ancient masters, he has found the resources to present spirituality not as something dogmatic and dead, but as a living science, based on common sense and joy.

Amazing and comprehensive workshops included in his teaching schedule are: Tantra 1, Tantra 2, the Art of Dying (including Bardol Rites), Parapsychology, and Metaphysics (with focus on meditation and esoteric teachings). Register for one or all of the courses and take the opportunity to discover this guest Yoga Master and his wonderful knowledge and insights. For a full biography and full course descriptions, click here.

http://www.pranayogacollege.com/guest-yoga-master.php

Tantra 1
Instructor: Swami Vivekananda Oct 4 to Oct 6

The esoteric Tantra 1 teachings are presented in a coherent, step-by-step approach, well adapted to the Western mentality without losing their original mystique and richness.
See workshop info

Metaphysics
Instructor: Swami Vivekananda Oct 8 to Oct 10
Metaphysics leads us to a practice which defines our position in the Universe, why we are here.
The Metaphysical Workshop is a spiritual eye-opener, an excellent introduction to anyone who might be interested in anything spiritual. It is meant to be a motivator, to provide aspiration, to highlight the existential condition, to give a meaning to and ground for true spiritual practice. It can change your life, opening a new door in your world.
See workshop info

Tantra 2
Instructor: Swami Vivekananda Oct 11 to Oct 13
The Tantra 2 workshop builds on the foundations established in Tantra 1. This workshop explores the depths of tantric lovemaking.
See workshop info

Parapsychology 1
Instructor: Swami Vivekananda Oct 15 to Oct 17
This workshop explores two main topics in depth:
1. clairvoyance (seeing beyond the normal);
2. astral projection (travel in the astral body, as well as lucid dreaming).
The term "parapsychology" is generally credited as being the scientific study of the paranormal or of extraordinary phenomena.
See workshop info

The Art of Dying
Instructor: Swami Vivekananda Oct 18 to Oct 20
An enlightened approach to death and dying. Explore the Tibetan Bardo Thodol rites and training. Lectures, initiations, meditations, practice, Hatha Yoga. This workshop could be the first in the world to address a very important gap in modern times: the spiritual preparation for death, one of life's greatest passages. If you interested please pre register at 604.676.8812 as space is limited
See workshop info

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Other Workshops in October and November
These workshops at Prana are open to the public if you are interested or require more information please contact us at 604-682-8812 or visit our website.
See workshop info

Psych-K ~ Your life is a reflection of your beliefs
Instructor: Darryl Gurney
Oct 2 and Oct 3

These beliefs - usually subconscious - are the cumulative effect of life-long "programming." As a result of past negative programming, we sometimes think and behave in self-defeating ways. PSYCH-K provides a user-friendly way to rewrite the "software" of your mind by changing beliefs that sabotage you into beliefs that support you... quickly and easily.

PSYCH-K helps you communicate directly with both the conscious and the subconscious minds, so you can change old beliefs that sabotage you into new positive ones that support you! This unique process is a blend of various tools for change, some contemporary and some ancient. Like many innovations in the world, PSYCH-K was the result of a "blinding flash of the obvious" generated by years of research and thousands of sessions with individuals and groups. PSYCH-K techniques are easy to learn and simple to use.

See workshop info

Registration Required: 604.676.8812

Psych-K Workshop

Dates: (Inclusive)

* Oct. 2 (8:30 am - 5:00 pm)
* Oct. 3 (8:00 am - 4:30 pm)

Location: Prana Yoga & Zen Centre (1083 Cambie St.)
Regular Fee: $425 +gst

See workshop info

Shivambu (Urine Therapy)
Instructor: shakti mhi
Oct. 24th
12pm - 2pm
Shivambu (Urine Therapy) is an ancient yogic practice known for many centuries that has lapsed into obscurity. Our own shakti mhi is Vancouver's foremost authority on this powerful healing technique.

The Five Tibetan Exercises
Instructor: shakti mhi
Oct. 24th
2:30pm - 4:30pm
The Five Tibetan Exercises are a rejuvenating series of movements that will keep you young, healthy, and energetic throughout your life. This series can be performed by yourself in the morning in as little as 12 minutes with no equipment required. By balancing the hormonal systems, improving circulation, and increasing bone density these exercises can halt or reverse the negative effects of aging.

Pranayama
Instructor: shakti mhi
Oct. 25th and Oct 29
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Prana is a Life Force which flows through all living things. The amount of prana in your body will largely depend on your capacity to hold it. This capacity can be changed. Prana is the force which provides us with a strong and healthy physical body, creates clear, calm minds and balances and controls our emotions. With insufficient prana, one becomes physically weak, mentally foggy, confused and often emotionally unbalanced.

The more prana we have, the more alive we are, the more passionate we are about our moments.

Introduction to Ayurveda
Instructor:Todd Caldecott
November 16,19 and 20th:
12 pm - 4:30 pm
Ayurveda translates into English as the "Science of Life". It is considered to be the oldest healing science in the world which is passed down through time. This ancient science of healing focuses on the connection between the body and the mind, and is directly linked to the foundations of yoga. Using natural cures, Ayurveda maintains the body in a balanced state of health.

For more information on these courses or for other available courses please check the website
http://www.pranayogacollege.com/yoga-teacher-training-workshops.php

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Antigua Teacher Training

Level 1 Yoga Instructor Certification Program in Antigua, Caribbean
November 13 - December 10, 2007

This program will be located on a beautiful private luxury villa overlooking the shores of one of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Enrolment is exceptionally limited as only a maximum of 12 can stay with us in the Villa. You will receive unparalleled instruction in this intimate and exquisite environment, feasting on the tropical beauty that surrounds.

This is an intensive 200 hour introductory yoga certification course. The fantastic benefits of enhancing your yogic practice combined with an intimate retreat-style setting will provide an unequalled foundation for your aspirations as a yoga instructor. Learn more here:
http://www.pranayogacollege.com/level-1-yoga-teacher-training-antigua.php

Level 1 Yoga Instructor Certification Program in Thailand- 4 spaces left
January 19 - February 15, 2008

Escape to our Paradise Academy at the world-renowned Sanctuary Resort and Health Spa on the Island of Koh Pangan. This magical bay surrounded by one of the last remaining virgin rainforests in South East Asia is accessible by boat and on foot only. We will have exclusive use of a custom built ocean view 2000 sq. ft. Yoga Hall and dormitory.
http://www.pranayogacollege.com/level-1-yoga-teacher-training-thailand.php

Level 1 Yoga Instructor Certification Program in Vancouver
March 17 - April 13, 2008

This program is located at the Prana Yoga and Zen centre, allowing for a peaceful environment for practice and contemplation.
http://www.pranayogacollege.com/level-1-yoga-teacher-training-spring.php

Level 1 Yoga Instructor Certification Program in Tuscany, Italy
May 1 - May 31, 2008

Transform your body, mind and soul in the splendour of the Italian countryside, with an intimate gathering of aspiring teachers from around the world. Infused with the charm and warmth of the ancient farmhouses of Tenuta of Monaciano, on a hilltop with majestic views, you will receive instruction and mentorship beyond compare.
http://www.pranayogacollege.com/level-1-international-yoga-teacher-training.php

Level 1 Yoga Instructor Certification Program in Vancouver
July 14 - August 10, 2008

This program is located in Vancouver at the Prana Yoga and Zen centre. On a summer break like no other, you will immerse yourself in the ancient teachings of yoga and flourish in your practice as you gain certification to follow your passion.
For more information please visit us at our website:
http://www.pranayogacollege.com/level-1-yoga-teacher-training-summer.php

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Prana Yoga is Offering Courses in October 2007

Courses for Enhanced Yoga Practice

All current pass holders can try any of the classes offered within the new courses, space permitting.

We are pleased to announce that starting in September 2007; Prana Yoga Centre will be expanding options for students by offering a variety of courses that specialize in various intriguing aspects of yoga. All course classes will include the signature Prana style posture flow along with expanded teaching on a variety of subjects of interest for a deeper yoga experience.

The primary purpose behind introducing these new and exciting class options is the commitment of the Prana team to the evolution and education of our members and enhancing their personal practice; as well as allowing for a disciplined commitment in a more structured fashion.

Members currently holding a pass with Prana can still attend any of the course classes at Prana under the same conditions that existed when the pass was originally purchased. This means that students are free to come to any class on the schedule. All courses are open to drop-ins; however it is strongly recommended that you sign up and commit to the course(s) of interest and attend from beginning to end, to maximize your benefit of each course. Course duration ranges from between 4 - 8 weeks.

Courses Will:

1. Include hatha postures
2. Provide detailed, attentive instruction unavailable in most yoga studios which offer generic classes
3. Be cost efficient: course purchases are comparably economical to paying regular drop in fees
4. Offer unique style and depth as each teacher has specially developed their courses to reflect the knowledge and diversity of their personal yoga inquiry including anatomy, core strength development, advanced asana, pranayama, and meditation
5. Develop teacher/student dynamics insofar as working with the same teacher creates a foundation for consistency and growth within the practice
6. Offer courses of varying levels so that students who pre-register for courses can be suited accordingly; For example, beginner courses will be suited to beginners and advanced courses will be suited to advanced students
7. Enhance the approach to yoga without becoming limited to the physical aspect by embracing yoga's many layers of study

Here are the courses to be offered in October/November:

Ana

Sun salutation class (Ana) ~ Monday 7:00 am

Description: Hatha yoga class beginning with asanas (postures) and ending with sun salutation. Explores a different sun salutation in each class.
Pranayama: Kapalabhati, Bhastrika, Ujjayi; breath and light Pranayama with arms work
Starts: Sept 10th - Oct 29th (7 classes)

Candlelight: Gentle Flow to Prepare the Body for a Great Sleep (Ana) ~ Tuesday 8:00 pm

Description: Encourages relaxation of the nervous system, anxiety relief, and in general how to calm the body and mind to develop a healthy state of genuine rest. Incorporates breathing techniques to facilitate this process.
Pranayama: Anuloma Viloma
Starts: Sept 11th - Oct 30st (8 classes)

Detailed Exploration of Asana (Ana) ~ Friday 5:30 pm

Description: This is an all level course that will focus on the exploration of 2 asanas in detail and with full demonstration. Though the flow will be developed around opening up the body for the two postures to be studied in depth, it will incorporate other related asanas as well as counter postures to relax the body. The asanas of focus will include camel, cobra etc.
Pranayama: Kapalabhati
Starts: Sept 7th - Oct 26th (8 classes)

Kreg

Integration of Advanced Poses (Kreg) ~Tuesday 6:00 pm

Description: An exploration of deeper Yoga poses and strengthening yoga transitions. Emphasis will be on incorporating meditative and releasing breathing techniques to bring an open yet grounding energy into the practice. NOT FOR BEGINNERS
First Course Starts: Sept 11th - Oct 30st (8 classes)
Second Course Starts: Nov 6th - Dec 18th (7 classes)

Wakening Pranayama (Breathing) and Hatha Flow (Kreg) ~ Thursday 7:00 am

Description: Introducing warming and cleansing Pranayama (breathing) techniques throughout energizing hatha yoga flows. NOT SUITABLE FOR THOSE WITH RESPIRATORY CONCERNS, OR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE.
First Course Starts: Sept 13th - Nov 1st (8 classes)
Second Course Starts: Nov 8th - Dec 20th (7 classes)

Cooling Pranayama (Breathing) and Hatha Flow (Kreg) ~ Thursday 6:00 pm:

Description: Introducing calming Pranayama (breathing) and breath work throughout slow, meditative yoga flows. Emphasis will be on relaxing the body and mind through breath and applying visualization techniques to calm the nervous system.
First Course Starts: Sept 6th - Oct 25th (8 classes)
Second Course Starts: Nov 1st - Dec 20th (8 classes)

Dan

2 Hour Flow (Dan) ~ Saturday 10:00 am

Description: Focus on connecting breath and movement to develop a flow in which the intention is to absorb and process the prana (lifeforce) created in the body.
Starts: Oct 27th - Dec 15th (8 classes)

Asanas and Pranayama (Dan) ~ Monday 5:30 pm

Description: This is a hatha class with emphasis on incorporating postures and different breathing techniques to increase and master prana (lifeforce) in the body.
First Course: Sept 10th - Oct 29th (7 classes)
Second Course: Nov 5th - Dec 17th (7 classes)

Yin Fusion (Dan) ~ Wednesday 5:30 pm

Description: A calm hatha practice in which a series of poses are held for several breathes to help open and strengthen fascia, the connective tissue in the body. Increase your understanding of the role of fascia and its interconnectedness to bodily movement.
Starts: Sept 5th - Oct 24th (8 classes)
Starts: Oct 31st - Dec 19th (8 classes)

Grounding Series (Dan) ~ Friday 9 am

Description: A hatha yoga class with focus on postures that open the lower parts of the body, increasing stability and concentration. As well, this course will utilize various balancing postures to strengthen concentration and balance in the mind and body.
Course: Oct 26th - Dec 14th (8 classes)

Standard Hatha Yoga Class (Dan) ~ Monday 7:30 pm

Starts: Sept 10th - Oct 29th (7 classes)
Starts: Nov 5th - Dec 17th (7 classes)

Standard Hatha Yoga Class (Dan) ~ Friday 7 am

Starts: Sept 7th - Oct 29th (8 classes)
Starts: Nov 2nd - Dec 21st (8 classes)

Sadie

Hatha and Meditation (Sadie) ~ Tuesday 7:00 am

Description: Hatha postures in Prana's flow style followed by relaxation, finishing with a 20 minute meditation.
Starts: Sept 11th - Oct 30th (8 classes)
Starts: Nov 6th - Dec 18th (7 classes)

Standard Hatha Yoga Class (Sadie) ~ Sunday 10:00 am

Starts: Sept 9th - Oct 28th (7 classes)
Starts: Nov 4th - Dec 16th (7 classes)

Krista

Stillness in the Motion(Krista) ~ Wednesday 7:30 pm

Description: Students will be encouraged to move slowly and mindfully through a series of traditional Hatha flows. By fostering stillness in each posture, deepening the breath to open the body from within, and observing, with non-attachment, the processes of the mind, students can begin to practice connecting with their inner stillness. Students will also be encouraged to practice mindfulness throughout the transitions in the flow to begin to experience this practice as a moving meditation, one that does not end when you leave the mat.
Starts: Sept 5th - Oct 24th (8 classes)

Hatha and Meditation(Krista) ~ Saturday 12:30 pm

Description: Hatha postures in Prana's flow style followed by relaxation, finishing with a 20 minute meditation.
Starts: Oct 27th - Dec 15th (7 classes)

Heather

Sun Salutation class (Heather) ~ Monday 7:00 am

Description: Hatha yoga class beginning with asanas (postures) and ending with sun salutation. Explores a different sun salutation in each class.
Starts: November 5th - Ends December 19th (7 classes)

Core Strength (Heather) ~ Monday 9:00 am

Description: This course will explore yoga postures specially targeted to awake abdominal muscles. Increases core strength and assists people with back injuries. Pranayama: Ujjayi, Kapalabhati
Starts October 22nd - Ends December 19th (9 classes)

Stillness in the Flow (Movement Meditation) (Heather) ~ Tuesday 9:00 am

Description: Students will be encouraged to move slowly and mindfully through a series of traditional Hatha flows. By fostering stillness in each posture, deepening the breath to open the body from within, and observing, with non-attachment, the processes of the mind, students can begin to practice connecting with their inner stillness. Students will also be encouraged to practice mindfulness throughout the transitions in the flow to begin to experience this practice as a moving meditation, one that does not end when you leave the mat.
Starts: Oct 23rd - Dec 18th (9 classes)

Detailed Exploration of Asana (Heather) ~ Friday 5:30 pm:

Description: This is an all level course that will focus on the exploration of 2 asanas in detail and with full demonstration. Though the flow will be developed around opening up the body for the two postures to be studied in depth, it will incorporate other related asanas as well as counter postures to relax the body. The asanas of focus will include camel, cobra etc.
Pranayama: Kapalabhati
Starts November 2nd - Ends December 21st (8 classes)

Standard Hatha Yoga Class (Heather) ~ Saturday 8:00 am

Starts October 27th - Ends December 15th (8 classes)

Randall

Deepen your Yoga Practice with Pranayama (Randall)

Breath is Life. In what ways does it move and affect all aspects of our being?
Description: This class will focus on the powerful benefits of using breath cycles for asanas and everyday life. Learn how to change and alter the breath in postures and meditation to transform your yoga practice and your life. In both Asanas and Pranayama patterns such as kumbhaka breath retention, ratio breathing etc. will be explored in each class along with the introduction of energy locks used with breath to deepen your practice. The practice will be physically powerful, transformational, and open to all.

Saturday October 27th, 12:30 pm to 2:00pm
Sunday October 28th, 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Saturday November 3rd, 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm
Sunday November 4th, 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Hatha for Beginners ~ Sunday 12pm

Description: The Beginners class is aimed at students who are relatively new to yoga or haven't practiced yoga recently. The classes provide an introduction to the postures, breath work and meditation. Each class concludes with a guided relaxation, leading to a state of calmness and completeness.
Starts Oct 14 - Ends Dec 16th

Course Fee Structure:

Pre-register through the office and pay NO GST! Call 604.682.2121 to pre-register (by credit card only).

Unit Prices:

• If taking one course = $10 per class
• If taking two courses simultaneously = $9 per class
• If taking three courses simultaneously = $7 per class

To calculate your total registration fee:

• Calculate the total number of classes you are taking in all your courses simultaneously.
• Multiply the total number of classes by the unit price (shown above)

The result is the registration fee (not including GST).

For Example:

• If taking 2 courses with a total of 14 classes: 14 X $9 = $126 +GST
• If taking 3 courses with a total of 24 classes: 24 X $7 = $168 +GST

* Courses must be taken simultaneously for discounted price to apply
Please contact our office with any questions at 604.682.2121

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Street Heat

Donate $1 and keep someone warm and dry
Update!!!!

Prana has received donations in the amount of $100, bought over 100 ponchos and will continue to buy more. Prana will match donations dollar for dollar. Our goal is to distribute 300 ponchos to provide relief to the homeless over the winter.

Thank you for your generous contributions
Time for Action

It has been concluded that we will start the project in a smaller, more controllable scale first. Will not involve media or large corporate sponsors at this stage as we will pilot-test this year's project and expand on it as we go. Initially, we will be collecting and distributing on the same day so we will not have to complicate the issue with storage considerations.

Action plan

Street Heat Initiative - Winter 2007 Distribution Dates

Time: 3 pm to 6pm

Friday, October 19, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
Friday, November 2, 2007
Friday, November 9, 2007

We need volunteers for these dates. If you are interested in getting involved, or would like more information please call 604 676-8812

Collection Points

ESL School - from students
Business Objects - from staff
Crystal Vision - from staffs & customers
The Space - open for public drop-off on Collection Days
Prana - from students

We will send 3 or 4 cars out to the parks to distribute and another 1 or 2 car that will be free-roaming around a designated area every week, to hand out clothing whenever we spot someone in need. Distribution will be done face-to-face as much as possible, with a good mix of volunteers (i.e. male and female) per distribution point to ensure safety and protection of our volunteers.

Visit the website for more information and updates.

www.streetheatproject.org

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Movie Night

Conversations with God: An Uncommon Dialogue
Sunday October 14th

Addressing issues of a global and universal nature, respectively: from politics, population, and human sexuality to life, the universe, the mysteries of the soul, and our planet's future.

This unique perspective on the homeless situation, which will change the way you look at homeless people. Following the movie, we will have a brief discussion for anyone interested in staying about Street Heat the community initiative to help our homeless neighbours.

Sun, Oct. 14th, 6:00 pm
Prana Yoga and Zen Centre
(by reservation - 604.682.2121

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Teachers at Prana

Randall O'leary

Since becoming involved in yoga at the age of 23, Randall's life has been increasingly shaped by spiritual work. Every year that passes is a deeper commitment to the life of the yogi and the rewards and difficulties that this life demands. The first decade of his work was mainly in the idiom of modern yoga practice, which essentially means asana and pranayama. After many trips to India and exposure to the deeper lessons which yoga has to teach he met his teacher, Amargiri Nagababa, who is a Sadhu, by the banks of the Ganga river. After years of study with Guruji, Randall was initiated as a Sadhu of the Giri sampradaya which has led him to new insights into life and yoga practice. He has knowledge of Sanscrit, Jyotish, Hindi language, Ayurveda and Tantra.

For more information about Randall's course

Heather New Courses

Heather DeLong is back from her fantastic trip from Shanghai teaching yoga abroad. In her words:

As a student of yoga, I tried many different studios. I didn't know what I was looking for exactly - but I had a feeling it wasn't about putting my legs behind my head. The first time I went to Prana, I remember being so impressed by how sincere and supportive and skilled the teachers were. Practicing in this setting enabled me to truly relax and connect with a deeper quality of being - - in other words, it allowed me to experience yoga.

As a teacher, creating a safe, supportive environment is my priority. Students are encouraged to accept the limitations of their bodies and to practice with awareness and compassion in the moment, cultivating a lifelong practice and an understanding that moves beyond the mat.

Check the new schedule for her courses.

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shakti's blog- A place to connect with shakti to ask spiritual questions

Visit shakti's blog, a place to bring spiritual questions directly to a teacher; her insightful teachings touching her many students.

www.shaktimhi.com

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