The Yoga Sutras, the main foundation for yoga as we know it in the west, outlines the basic practice in 195 verses. Only 2 out of those 195 verses mention the physical practice of asana. The rest of the sutras provide tools for self-inquiry and ways to ground the practice of yoga in our everyday life. In short, the author Patanjali tells us that we’ve got to start looking at life as it is if we want to practice “yoga”. The secret is to develop a “witness consciousness.”

For me the answer has been through the practice of Gestalt Awareness. Gestalt Awareness Practice (GAP) is a nonanalytic, noncoercive, nonjudgmental practice where we deepen our ability to BE with what is. This form of practice evolved from the work of Fritz Perls, was influenced by Reichian and other somatic approaches, and incorporates Buddhist practices. (gestalt is German for “form” or “whole” as in becoming whole). It is not therapy – it is designed to be an educational process and life practice. People come to this practice as students or practitioners – not patients. It is best viewed as a form of active meditation or as a practice of svadhyaya – a psycho-philosophical look at the sources of suffering and possible ways to alleviate suffering.

The basic principle of Gestalt Awareness Practice is to let one’s natural wisdom or intuition flow. The process is aimed at discovery, not problem solving. Through this work we explore: (1) taking responsibility for all our parts -- our traits, decisions, feelings, and actions, (2) being our own true independent self, --not conforming to others' expectations, and (3) living in the here and now--not obsessing about the past or future, but being in touch with our feelings and what is going in present time.

Private Sessions
The basic practice is showing up with a sense of curiosity, openness, kindness and humor, to observe whatever arises: breath, movement, and sensations, feelings, emotions, thoughts, and images. Trusting that our experience will lead us where we need to go, we follow. As the reflector, I offer myself as a companion and guide on your journey toward wholeness. I hold a space in which you can contact, explore and express what has heart and meaning for you. Together, we listen deeply for what needs attention and healing, and work with what gets in the way of your happiness and full-hearted participation in life.

Small Group Sessions
Groups offer a container to support each other in this process of inquiry. Using group exercises, meditation and group discussion participants have the chance to be seen and heard in a supportive, non-threatening environment. The emphasis is intrapersonal rather than interpersonal. The aim, as in our asana practice, is unfoldment, wholeness, and growth, rather than adjustment, cure, or accomplishment.

Begin Within Series
In our asana practice, we intentionally put ourselves into positions of discomfort, playing the edge. What happens at those edges? Where are you stuck, where are you free, and what is your inner experience as approach your edge? This series will offer a safe, supportive environment to explore this rich territory. This series brings the practice of Gestalt to the yoga mat, and invites us to deepen our experience. See the Yoga page for details and dates.