This workshop will provide a clear understanding of the "vayus" which are the five primary aspects of the life force/prana. These five movements of prana have very subtle yet distinct energetic qualities. They govern physical, mental and emotional processes and can become weak or exacerbated. 

Imbalances in these primary vayus create physical and psychological disease and suffering. When we understand these five vayus better, we can better influence the subtle energies that underlie yoga practice and correct the energetic imbalances we may observe in ourselves.

This is done through chosen physical postures (asanas), breathwork (pranayama), mudras (gestures), mantra chanting and mindful habits to consciously shift our state, relieve stress, enhance focus, be more humble, and be a little freer from the shackles of our birth constitution.

In the sanskrit language, Jihva means tongue and the pronunciation of the word "jihva" itself is a little bit of a tongue twister but this is not what this workshop is about :) 

In Vedic tradition, the tongue is often considered one of the hardest senses to control. Physically, it is a complex, constantly moving muscular organ with no bones, making it difficult to control and keep still. From a functional point, it is mastering two important faculties: speech and taste. Controlling the tongue is often viewed as the ultimate test of self-discipline.We have a sense of that if we reflect how we use food and words under stress. Impulsivity can often take over before rational restraint can come in

For some ardent devotee, the goal is to become a “mantrajihva”, one whose tongue is a mantra, in other words to develop the capacity to be in constant prayer. This may not be an end goal, and even less a possibility, for many us but the yoga taught by Krishnamacarya and his son Desikachar provides means for disciplining the monkey mind so our food intake, but most importantly our communication, become less reactive. 

In this workshop, Martine will present the use of Vedic mantras in general, their functions, and characteristics.

We will also learn the Gayatri Mantra exactly the way it was heard by ancient seers.