AYP Retreats
Local
Contacts
Modifications to
|
Advanced Yoga Practices
Previous
|
Next Note: For the Original Internet Lessons with additions, see the AYP Easy Lessons Books. For the Expanded and Interactive Internet Lessons, AYP Online Books, Audiobooks and more, see AYP Plus. Lesson 387 - Retreats (Audio)
AYP Plus Additions:
From: Yogani New Visitors: It is recommended you read from the beginning of the web archive, as previous lessons are prerequisite to this one. The first lesson is, "Why This Discussion?"
On a retreat, there is the possibility to systematically increase the number of meditations we do in a day. This can be to repeat our entire routine of practices a second time in the morning adding one routine of practice for one or two days on a weekend or holiday, or on an ongoing basis if on an extended retreat. This adds a large degree of purification, and deep momentum in spiritual progress. Being free of responsibilities is very important to do this, or it can lead to discomfort and unpleasant experiences because so much is being released from inside. If we do three routines in a day it is essential to have some light activity in-between the morning and evening sessions, such as non-strenuous walking and gentle (social) satsang. This light activity helps balance the process of release of obstructions from the nervous system. For two morning routines, the basic sequence of practices is asanas, pranayama, deep meditation, samyama (if doing it), rest (at least 10-15 minutes lying down) ... and then start over. In the evening only one routine should be done. This is three full routines of practice in a day. Practices may be done either with everyone together in a central hall, or individually in private rooms, accommodations permitting. Either way, practices are to be time-coordinated by the retreat leaders. Three routines per day is an ambitious schedule, especially with a group. Keep in mind that group practice brings extra purifying effects in and of itself, even with our normal routine of doing two practice sessions per day. First time group retreats, where both the leaders and participants are new to retreats with the AYP practices, are best undertaken with two practice routines per day. If all goes well, a more ambitious schedule can be considered for subsequent retreats. Do not be surprised if a lot of purification and opening occurs during a retreat. While advanced yoga practices are very simple, they are very powerful especially when performed in groups. If releases become too much, then back off practices to a more stable routine immediately, and advise the retreat leaders of any difficulties. Always keep self-pacing in mind.
A typical daily sequence of events for an AYP retreat would encompass the
following: The specific timing for each of these activities is
provided by the retreat leaders. Sticking to a predetermined schedule is the
most important rule of a retreat, and it should be adhered to as closely as
possible. It is recommended not to add new practices or extensions in time
of current practices while on retreat, except as may be instructed by the
retreat leaders. The beneficial effects of a retreat can be noticed for weeks or months after
the retreat is over. It is like adding a longer cycle of purification and
opening underneath our normal daily cycle. A retreat adds a large wave of
inner silence underneath us. If we attend weekend or week-long retreats two
or more times per year, it can add a significant boost to our overall
spiritual progress over the long term.
More information on leading and
participating in retreats can be found in the AYP
Retreats Book. Information on attending AYP retreats and teacher
training courses can be found on the
Programs Page. The guru is in you.
Discuss this Lesson in the AYP Plus Support Forum
|
eBooks - PDF, EPUB
FREE eBooks with
SAVE with Bundled
|
© 2003-present (see copyright notice) Public Home |
Plus Home |
Main
Lessons | Tantra Lessons |
Topic Paths |
Interviews |
Videos |
Site Search |
Links Section |
Testimonials |
AYP Survey |
Books |
Downloads |
Contact
|