What is Satsang?

Satsang comes from the Sanskrit “sat” meaning truth and “sangha” meaning community. Practicing in community allows us to benefit from the momentum of the collective. Our load is lightened and there is space for heart-centered connection. Knowing we are in good company of fellow truth seekers, we can walk more confidently on our own unique path of self-realization.

What is Yoga?

Yoga originated about 5,000 years ago in the region that is now modern day India. Yoga comes from the root yuj, meaning to yoke or unite. Thus, yoga refers to a state of “union” with the self, the world, and the divine. Yoga refers to both the state of “union” and the practices that help us get there; including, but not limited to, postures (asana), breathwork (pranayama) and meditation.

What is Yoga Therapy?

The International Association of Yoga Therapists states, “Yoga therapy is the process of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the teachings and practices of Yoga”. (iayt.org source)

A private therapeutic yoga session might incorporate physical movement (asana and Somatics), breathwork (pranayama), meditation, relaxation, yogic philosophy models, and lifestyle guidance from Ayurveda; all intended to support the well-being concerns of an individual. Group sessions include the same elements with a more general focus to serve the group. 

In our study together, we use self-inquiry informed by yoga’s ethical framework (yamas and niyamas) to find true and compassionate relationships with self and others. In a therapeutic yoga relationship, practitioner and client enter into a commitment to inquiry and non-judgement. They focus on finding more freedom and ease in life while reducing suffering and pain.

What is SomaYoga?

At a physical level, SomaYoga works to release commonly found stress reflex patterns that can cause dysfunction and pain in bodies and minds by blending somatics, therapeutic yoga, and classic asana. SomaYoga was created by teachers Ann Maxwell and Molly McManus at the Yoga North International SomaYoga Institute in Duluth, MN. 

Somatics involves finding intentional movement where one senses and feels from the viewpoint of their particular Soma (mind, body and spirit). It asks us to cultivate an internal experience instead of concentration outward on external appearance or an end result. 

All together, this unique blend of practices gives the potential of freeing us from chronic pain and aims to improve physical functioning that serves our favorite ways to move! We welcome all levels, abilities, goals! This methodology is beneficial to anyone who wants to live with more freedom and ease in their whole being.