Come and immerse yourself in the wonderful depths of Ashtanga Yoga with one of the world's best teachers. David has been practicing Ashtanga for nearly four decades. His expertise as a practitioner is matched by his ability to share a wealth of knowledge in a very personable, fun and down-to-earth manner. His courses are presented in a supportive and compassionate fashion making it accessible to all levels of practitioner to participate.

There are always practical tips offered in his practical class, where he breaks down the dynamics of vinyasa into minute details, or philosophical classes where he offers practical insights into Patanjalis Yoga Sutras and the yogic lifestyle in general. David also sheds light onto the more ethereal areas of the internal practice through explorations of pranayama and the energetic realms of bandhas. Whether new to Ashtanga or a seasoned practitioner, all are sure to gain benefit from attending the classes. Don't miss the opportunity to study with David. You are sure to return home with greater insights into your practice and a smile on your face.

Friday 19 May (new moon) 18:00-20:30 Breath, Bandha's & Pranayama Exploring the Mantra of Ujjayi and the Mystical Energy of Bandhas In Sanskrit, Man means Mind and Tra means to Free or Deliver. Therefore the word Mantra means to Free the Mind. There are many mantras in yoga such as Om, Hare Krishna, Om Namo Shivaya and a plethora of others. In Ashtanga Yoga the mantra is the sound of our breath: Ujjayi. There is no other sound more universal than breath. It is not tied to language or culture and is “chanted” from the first moment of birth. This class will focus on the mantra of ujjayi within asana practice as well as during pranayama. In addition to breath work the class will also explore the invisible world of Bandhas. We well attempt to gain greater understanding of these subtle yet powerful tools through interactive discussion as well as a series of practical exercises.

Saturday 20 May 13:00-15:00 Full Primary Series Led Class Dancing with the Breath in a First Series Flow This class is designed for those already familiar with the First Series of Ashtanga Yoga yet it is open to all levels of proficiency from the daily-practicing aficionados to the novice fit-it-in-when-I-can weekend warriors and everyone in between. The class will be conducted like a choreographed dance flowing along all of the way from the opening sun salutations to the closing savasana. David will spend time at the beginning of class to introduce alternatives to some of the more challenging asanas as well as offer user-friendly vinyasa options. There will be time at the end of the flow to enjoy a soothing, deep relaxation.

16:00-18:00 Flying, Floating and Handstanding A Fun-filled exploration of Vinyasa and Arm-balances One of the greatest challenges of the Ashtanga flow is the vinyasa. In this class David will break the vinyasa down into its components. He likes to refer to this as: “The Physics of Flight”. The class will also explore the elements of handstands and arm-balances. This will all be done through the avenue of partner work. There is always plenty of laughter and fun as well as a depth of information in this class. All levels may attend even if you have never done a handstand before. Alternatives are always given.

18:30-20:30 Eight limbs and Daily Life How does this practice apply within the context of daily living? Underlying the mysterious and complex philosophy of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras there is a truly profound simplicity that may be applied within the context of our daily lives. This class will discuss the Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga and explore their applications within our day-to-day life. What is the use of Philosophy without real application? We may memorize quotations or stanzas from great writings but unless we can apply them within our life they are merely words spoken rather than knowledge realized.

Sunday 21 May 13:00-15:00 Nadi Shodana : a guided tour An Introduction to the Intermediate Series of Ashtanga Yoga There will be an introductory discussion of the dynamics inherent to the Second Series. David will then lead the class through a portion of First Series acting as a springboard into as much of the Second Series as seems appropriate. Many people are intimidated by the Intermediate Series of Ashtanga yet it is truly one of the most fun and exciting sequences! David will present the asanas with great compassion, patience and humor, making it accessible to anyone wishing to explore this dynamic routine. David will methodically work through the series offering options and user-friendly alternatives as he goes. Class will be followed by an open discussion allowing students to ask David questions about any topics of interest.

16:00-18:00 Life, love and living with Purpose Seeking A Path, Building Dreams and Finding Peace David will share Stories, Anecdotes and Insights gained over his more than 40 years of yoga practice and pursuits of spiritual life, love, health and adventure. David is a witty, humorous and inspiring storyteller. His life is filled with colorful, sometimes wild, sometimes sad, sometimes hilarious and always entertaining pursuits of knowledge of the world around him and the wonders that reside within us all. Within his tales of travel, fasting, chanting, seeking, studying, laughing and crying there is always a thread of sincerity of purpose that anyone seeking greater meaning of life can relate to and possibly even gain tools of insights of their own from the mistakes, successes, failures, triumphs and bumps along the road of life that David shares with honesty and heart-felt sincerity. Buckle Up It’s a Wild Ride!

The workshop is suitable for students of all levels. Previous experience with the Ashtanga Yoga system is highly recommended.

Dates: 19-21 May 2023

Location: YogaToday Weesp

Time: Friday 18.00 - 20.30 Saturday 13:00-15:00, 16:00-18:00, 18:30-20:30 Sunday 13:00-15:00, 16:00-18:00

Price: €328 or 10% discount for members (incl. 9 % BTW) (no single sessions possible)

Level: All levels of students are welcome, although prior experience with Ashtanga yoga is highly recommended.