shakti opened the first Prana Yoga Center in 1982. Entering Prana Yoga and Zen Center you immediately feel transported into an oasis within the hurried energy of downtown Vancouver. The studio offers a distinct environment for students to be able to relax even before the first instruction. The studio features plenty of natural lighting from oversized windows, fresh air, as well as full heating and air conditioning when necessary. Immaculately maintained and decorated with rich fabrics from Thailand and Bali, Persian rugs and hand made Indian furniture, the studio is warm and eclectic with a distinctly exotic flavor. After every class tea and cookies are offered for the students.
The style we teach at Prana is based on the flow of life i.e. practicing the asanas (postures) effortlessly, moving beyond the mind, creating endless prana (energy) for the aim of realization.
The main message I am weaving into my teaching is that hatha yoga is not only about the physical body, it is a tool to connect with the higher self through the body, to move beyond concepts and illusions.
Unlike the mind that manifests itself in a constant motion, the higher self is pure stillness. This is why in Prana style we teach the students to move in slow motion from one asana (posture) to the other; and while in the asana, we encourage the students to connect with their inner silence and practice stillness.
There are no interruptions around the postures, as in: walking to the wall and using it for balance, obtaining props etc. The asanas dissolve one into another with grace and natural logic, flowing organically and symbolizing the natural flow of life. This is why in one class students go through a variety of postures. For example: if the students are lying on the floor and the teacher would like them to move to standing positions, it will take place by using a few other asanas (postures) that will slowly bring the students into standing position instead of asking them to stand up.
Prana Yoga has the precision of Iyengar, the style of Sivananda, and the flow of Ashtanga with a focus on safety and alignment.
In other words, you will learn all the principles that will help you to practice in a precise manner and yet without disturbing the natural flow of prana (life force).
Please respect the studio. This space is to be a sanctuary for sincere students wishing to pursue their yoga practice and as such must be kept safe and serene.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the class start time and ensure that you have sufficient time to complete the full 90 minutes. Leaving before the class is finished is not permitted under any circumstances.
Students are admitted to class on a first come, first serve basis. If you do not arrive early you may not have a space in class.
Remove your shoes before entering the studios and place them on the shoe rack.
Make sure that your cell phone is turned off.
Take all belongings to the studio with you and leave them on the shoe and coat racks provided. You may not have access to reception or the other studios when your class is finished. Also, please do not bring personal belongings to the yoga mat with you.
Please refrain from eating for at least 1-2 hours before class.
Please refrain from wearing perfume, cologne, or other scents to class.
No food or drink other than water is permitted in the studios.
Hydrate well before and after class.
Please ensure that your attire is modest. No shorts other than long, thigh-hugging shorts will be permitted. Toplessness is absolutely forbidden. Sports bras are not acceptable. T-shirts and tank tops as well as sweat pants or yoga tights are examples of appropriate attire.
Do not come to yoga if you are sick. Your body needs time to rest and your immune system will need all the energy it can get.
shakti mhi the founder of Prana Yoga Teacher College, brings a quarter century of experience and complete personal commitment, having trained hundreds of yoga leaders around the globe.
The teaching is transformational, experiential and deeply profound. This course is far more than just learning about the postures which is why it is open to people with a variety of yoga experiences.
The course is especially relevant if you are looking to :
learn how to teach with confidence and precision,
take your practice to the next level and go beyond the physical,
fully integrate asana (poses) with meditation,
immerse yourself in a retreat of like-minded people,
cleanse your body, discipline your mind, and awaken your spirit.
For our graduates, this is the foundation to a lifelong journey of self discovery. Deepening your practice, sharing your love of yoga with others or perhaps changing the world you live in and the lives of others for the better are just some of the possibilities.
