Advanced Training
Sundara Advanced Teacher Training
Courses with Brian Dorfman
| Sundara 300 | Dates & Curriculum | Tuition & Registration | CEUs |
Soul of Body Module
Anatomy of Common Injuries: From an understanding of the structure of the body and the material of which it is made, this course will focus primarily on what often goes wrong and why. Students will gain an in-depth appreciation for common injuries of the arms, legs, neck, and back. Discussion will also include how Yoga can help or hinder rehabilitation of these injuries.
Assessment and Adaptation: One pose does not fit all. Skillful teachers, therefore, must be able to make a quick assessment and offer appropriate adaptation of asana for students in group classes and private sessions.
In this class, participants will learn to assess their students’ strengths and weaknesses in order to offer a practice that best fits each individual. Simple adaptations to common postures will be taught, along with how and when to use them.
Sequencing: A well-thought out sequence is the key to an effective asana practice. Learning the art of sequencing will allow you to organize your asanas to create specific effects. Expand your understanding of sequencing and learn to design harmonious, effective practices that meet your intentions. Discussion will focus on the necessary ingredients for optimal sequencing, including such concepts as pose and counter pose, peak pose, rests, and the balancing of extension and contraction
Anatomy of Aging pt 1: Overview of the Effects of Aging
What happens to the body as we age? Why is it important to consider the age of a student when teaching Yoga? As the baby boomer generation rapidly enters both retirement and the practice of Yoga, it is more important that ever to have a clear understanding about the needs of this population. In this class, we will explore what happens to the body as we grow older – how metabolism, muscular strength, bone density, physiology, cardiovascular functioning, and neurological functioning are all affected by age.
Anatomy of Aging pt 2: A Practice for Grandparents
Why might the Yoga practice of a 30 year-old be harmful for someone in their 60s? What sorts of poses might be contraindicated for someone with a knee replacement? In the second part of this course, we will focus more intently on common maladies associated with aging, including arthritis, osteoporosis, stenosis, and high blood pressure among others, and learn how to adjust a Yoga practice to meet to the needs of older students. In addition, participants will gain insight into how Yoga can help mitigate the effects of aging and how Grandma or Grandpa can participate in a safe and happy Yoga practice for the rest of her days.
Dharma
One of the fundamental principles of yoga, intimately related to the concept of Dharma, is that yoga helps the individual form deep spiritual connections, as well as strong personal relationships. So whatever aspirations you have, experiencing your true dharma will create mental clarity and strengthen the desired connections. Understanding your dharma will allow you to move forward with confidence in a way that enhances the positive effect of your action, direction and focus.
Yoga Sutra Study: The classical philosophy of the yoga as described by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras is a precise science of mind. In four short chapters, the capabilities of the human mind are clearly and succinctly described, as are the ways that these potentials can be realized. In this course, we will review all four chapters with a goal of understanding how Yoga refines the quality of our mind, can help us to clear negative emotions, create positive habits/behaviors, improve our relationships, and bring forth profound experiences.
Tuesday, June 12th, 2012
10:45-12:15 pm
Cost: $25

Brian Dorfman has been practicing Yoga, healing patients, and teaching for over 25 years. Influenced by TVK Desikachar, Brian's instruction focuses on helping the student develop a personalized, balanced practice. He incorporates asana, pranayama, sound, and meditation to create an environment for the student's innate wisdom to develop. Brian has extensive knowledge and instructional ability in the art and philosophy of Yoga, as well as in the areas of kinesiology, anatomy, physiology, and the biomechanics of movement.