The history and philosophy of yoga is remarkably vast and poetic: many curious individuals crave access to understanding the sacred context & depth. Yoga scholars say that there is not one yoga, but many yogas, which have adapted and evolved with the influences of history, time and culture. And yet, sturdy truths & threads of yoga have survived - and need our collective effort to be preserved.
Together, we will begin by contextualizing the physical practice we are most familiar with ("asana") within the greater spiritual tradition. We will explore the definitions of yoga (what IS yoga?); qualities of matter ("gunas"); discerning our true nature (consciousness); implications of "tapasya;" the eight limbs of yoga; and the relationship between our senses, mind, and soul from a yogi’s lens. Stories & metaphors will help knit together the pieces.
After a short break, we will breathe the knowledge to life. Sadhana refers to a yogi’s set of daily practices aimed toward a spiritual goal, which go well beyond physical poses. You'll get to experience practices of mantra/japa (repetition of sacred sounds), kirtan (singing), pranayama (breath work), and dhyana (meditation). These are ancient ideas though remain remarkably potent and relevant to our modern daily experiences. All bodies welcome. This will be discussion-based (no vigorous physical practice).
About Sandy
By understanding the element of the body, Sandy supports individuals towards greater purpose and clarity of Self. With a masters degree in Nutrition, after nearly 10 years at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Sandy recognized the value of calling forward her knowledge of yoga and Eastern philosophy.
In Sandy’s eyes, her life has undeniably benefited from the body of yogic wisdom. Now, she hopes to illuminate the same sacred knowledge for others by teaching yoga and its context of philosophy, practices & history.
Sandy’s fascination with Eastern culture began at an early age, and after college her spiritual curiosity only continued to gain momentum. Over time, she has experienced a variety of yoga traditions that have uniquely shaped her course as a student and teacher.
Initially, her love of yoga and meditation stemmed from a Buddhist framework taught by David Magone. Attraction to yogic teachings led Sandy on pilgrimage to the holy villages of India with Raghunath, who opened her eyes to Bhakti. While Buddhism is still dear to her, Bhakti has transformed her heart as well as her personal practice and perspective. Bhakti, sometimes referred to as the yoga of love & devotion, is the path of directing spiritual consciousness towards the divine to cultivate a spacious loving soul, rather than (mis)identifying “my” ego-self as the center. Sandy returns to India annually to deepen her understanding of the teachings and commitment to yogic life. Her ongoing study acts as the vital connection between what she experiences as a student and what she shares as a teacher.
Sandy is an E-RYT 200 yoga teacher and certified Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider (YACEP). She will soon finish a 500-hr academic certificate from the Yogic Studies school.
With deep gratitude to Eastern traditions and her collective teachers, Sandy shares these teachings through her heart, mind, and the experience of being a dedicated student & practitioner of yoga. Once exposed to the greater context & spirit of yoga, she trusts these teachings will continue to unfold for students, inspire a deepening of their practice, and transform their life.