Berkshire Yoga Festival 2024

Taoist Yoga and Philosophy is an approach to life that seeks mind/body balance and recognizes that  
everything is both sacred and dust at the same time. The body’s vitality(Jing/Jung) is sacred but will eventually die, one’s heart center and emotional life (Qi/Shim/Maum) is sacred but is bound to suffer, and one’s insight/mind/spirit/brain(Shen/Shin) is sacred but bound to be confounded by the mystery of existence… In this workshop you will learn how to integrate and harmonize these three energy centers of the body/mind as well as dive deep into the core Taoist concept of "wu-wei" and the teachings of Lao-Tzu. Whether you are a yoga teacher looking to incorporate more spiritual practices into your teaching or a yogi interested in studying the Tao, this workshop will be a powerful introduction to the practices and teaching of Sahm-Je Taoistm.

Part 2: of 2 A model for healing
It's recommended to take Part 1 in the morning first unless you've done previous work with Nikki and Y12R

When we mistakenly look outward for what lies within, believing that happiness and fulfillment reside in external factors like people, places, things, education, behaviors, substances, or experiences, we are led down a path that ultimately results in darkness and disconnection. This detachment from our true selves, often due to trauma or unfulfilled needs, is not just a catalyst for addiction, eating disorders, and co-dependent behavior, but according to ancient yoga and Vedanta texts, it's also the fundamental cause of all suffering, including societal issues like racism, sexism, and gender-based discrimination. However, we don't need to endure or inflict suffering. We have the power to rediscover and embrace our authentic selves. This journey of self-reclamation involves returning to and embracing the aspects of ourselves that we have long neglected or hidden, with the goal of restoring the innate love, acceptance, and sense of belonging that is our inherent right. Lecture, Discussion, Embodiment practices.

Allow your body and mind to deeply relax in this musical restorative yoga practice. Each restorative yoga posture is a journey into profound ease. It creates a space where tension dissipates and relaxation emerges. As you melt into these carefully crafted poses, surrender to the embrace of comfort and stillness, enhancing the restorative benefits of each moment. The healing touch of live music woven sweetly throughout the practice. The resonant sound vibrations serve as a gentle guide, nurturing your senses and elevating the overall therapeutic impact. This harmonious fusion of restful postures and live music creates a sanctuary for relaxation, allowing you to release stress, soothe the nervous system, and elevate your mood. The synergy of supported yoga and live music invites a profound sense of well-being into every fiber of your being.