In this episode, we explore the profound relationship between fear and courage through the lens of the ancient concept of Rasas. Fear, or Bhayanka, manifests in many ways, worry, anxiety, dread, while courage, or Virya, is the fearless heart that moves us forward with faith and trust. We'll discuss how fear arises from our attachments, our resistance to change, and our deep-seated need for safety and belonging. Using yoga philosophy and practical tools like breathwork, movement, and self-inquiry, we uncover how fear affects the mind, body, and soul. Together, we’ll explore how courage isn’t the absence of fear but the ability to face life’s uncertainties with an open heart. Whether it’s fear of the unknown, failure, or loss, this practice invites us to meet fear with loving awareness and step into our dharma with confidence. Join me on this journey of transformation...bravely, wholeheartedly, courageously.

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Rasa, meaning “nectar” or “essence,” captures the richness of life’s emotional experiences, much like the flavours of a meal. Just as the Gunas influence taste...Rajas being too intense, Tamas too dull, and Sattva offering the perfect balance...our emotions shape our human experience. As Robert Svoboda says, “Existence without juice is dry and tasteless.”

Tantric tradition recognizes nine Rasas, the core emotional flavors of life: Disgust, Fear, Anger, Sadness, Love, Courage, Wonder, Joy, and Calmness. Each Rasa is born from an underlying Bhava, our true feeling state, giving depth and meaning to our experiences.

In this practice, we explore these Rasas through movement, allowing emotions to surface and shift naturally. By embracing the full spectrum of our emotions with awareness and courage, we open to greater self-understanding and fulfillment. Let yourself fully taste, savour, and express the richness of your inner landscape.

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As we reflect on the past year and look ahead, we may seek focus through resolutions or intentions that align with what matters most. This class introduces R.A.I.N, a powerful tool to help manifest your Sankalpa—your intention, vow, or heartfelt prayer—while addressing the Vikalpa, the limiting beliefs that hold you back.

R – Recognize the thoughts, emotions, and sensations arising within you.

A – Allow them space to be seen and felt without resistance.

I – Investigate their root causes with curiosity and self-inquiry.

N – Nurture yourself with compassion and non-judgment.

This session marks the beginning of our exploration into Rasas (emotions) and their Bhava (feelings), offering a practical way to navigate life's complexities with clarity and purpose. Let’s embark on this journey together and cultivate a deeper connection to our true desires.

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In this episode, we explore the Granthis...energetic, physical, and emotional knots...and how unraveling them allows Prana to flow freely, guiding us toward self-realisation and liberation. We’ll dive into the timeless wisdom of Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra, reflecting on impermanence and the cyclical nature of life. At the heart of Yoga lies the union of polar energies...Shiva and Shakti. Shiva, pure consciousness, finds expression through Shakti, the creative force of form and action. Together, they represent the sacred dance of existence within us. Through asana, pranayama, and meditation, we harmonise these energies, awakening the five Shaktis; awareness, joy, intention, action, and wisdom. Join me in discovering the deeper purpose of practice and how embracing this divine partnership can bring fulfilment, contentment, and liberation both on and off the mat.

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In this session, we focus on Rudra Granthi, the final knot that binds us to the illusion of self-importance and worldly attachments. Located at the neck and head, this knot keeps us trapped in the egoic “I am” clinging to achievements, labels, and spiritual materialism. Rudra, an aspect of Shiva the destroyer, dissolves ignorance, revealing our true essence beyond thoughts and experiences. Through meditation, mantra, and breathwork, we practice Neti Neti...“not this, not that”...dismissing illusions to uncover pure awareness. The bija mantra KLEEM, invoking Kali’s fierce grace, helps us dissolve false identities and return to the limitless self. Techniques such as Jalandhara bandha and pranayama guide prana upward, unlocking deeper consciousness. With devotion and discernment, we learn to release attachment and step into the boundless truth of who we truly are...pure, free, and ever-present.

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In this episode, we explore Vishnu Granthi, the energetic knot that binds us to attachment, grief, and the struggle for acceptance in relationships and self-worth. Covering the Manipura, Anahata, and Vishuddha chakras, this knot fuels insecurities, the relentless 'I should' mindset, and emotional burdens that prevent honest communication and authentic connection. Inspired by Vishnu and Lakshm...symbols of preservation and abundance—we use the bija mantra SHREEM to open the heart and throat, fostering love, compassion, and acceptance. Through pranayama, chanting, and mindful movement, we dissolve the attachments that keep us from embracing life as it is. Surrounding ourselves with prana-rich experiences...nature, beauty, and connection...supports this process. Let this practice guide you toward deeper presence, gratitude, and the freedom to express your truth.

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In this episode, we explore Brahma Granthi, the energetic knot associated with fear, guilt, and shame, which binds us to concerns of survival, safety, and belonging. Rooted in the wisdom of the Upanishads, Granthis are psycho-emotional and energetic blockages that hinder spiritual liberation. Through yoga asana, pranayama, bandhas, and mantra...specifically the bija AIM, invoking Saraswati’s wisdom...we work to untie these knots and cultivate trust, grounding, and self-awareness. This practice invites us to recognise and release limiting beliefs, restoring balance and deepening our connection to our true essence. Notice how this experience unfolds within you beyond the mat.

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Wise Concentration, the final step of the Eightfold Path, integrates all preceding steps, guiding practitioners toward liberation and enlightenment. It involves steadying the mind to develop insight, clarity, and a deep state of presence.

Wise Concentration builds on:

• Wise Understanding: Focusing on why we practice and what we need.
• Wise Intention: Setting a clear purpose for practice.
• Wise Speech, Action, and Livelihood: Cultivating ethical discipline and clarity in thought and behaviour.
• Wise Effort: Redirecting the mind to the present moment with perseverance.
• Wise Mindfulness: Maintaining non-judgmental awareness to support concentration.

In yoga, concentration techniques include scheduling time, creating a focused space, steadying the gaze (Drishti), practicing Ujjayi breath, and using objects such as breath or sensation to anchor awareness.

With consistent practice, distractions lessen, leading to deeper focus, inner stillness, and the joyful absorption of the present moment—paving the way to freedom and fulfilment.

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Wise Mindfulness, a key aspect of the Eightfold Path, emphasises present-moment awareness and clear comprehension. It involves being fully attentive to experiences without judgment, resistance, or attachment, fostering a deep understanding of the mind, body, and reality.

Key aspects of Wise Mindfulness include:

• Present-moment awareness: Observing thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise and pass without attachment.
• Non-judgmental observation: Accepting experiences without labeling them as good or bad.
• Detachment with love: Recognizing impermanence and letting go of clinging or aversion.
• Body awareness: Connecting with physical sensations to stay grounded.
• Mindful breathing: Using breath to anchor awareness and regulate the nervous system.
• Daily mindfulness: Integrating mindfulness into everyday activities.
• Insight cultivation: Gaining wisdom by observing human nature and forming a compassionate relationship with oneself.

Through Wise Mindfulness, individuals cultivate clarity, peace, and freedom from suffering.

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Wise Effort, the sixth step of the Eightfold Path, is the foundation for developing concentration and leading a wholesome life. It involves the balanced application of energy and intention, recognising how our thoughts, speech, and actions impact ourselves and others. Self-awareness is key...examining whether our effort is driven by fear or faith, criticism or curiosity, judgment or discernment.

Wise Effort consists of four aspects: preventing unwholesome qualities, letting go of negativity with love, cultivating virtues like compassion and wisdom, and sustaining these qualities in daily life. It’s not about forceful striving but cultivating kindness, patience, and non-attachment.

Yoga supports Wise Effort through practices like stilling the mind, breath control, and contemplation. Reflection on our efforts helps refine actions aligned with well-being. Seeking guidance from teachers and communities can provide inspiration and support. Wise Effort is an ongoing process of patience and perseverance, fostering a heart and mind free from suffering.

To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. 

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