BLOG
THE POWER OF THE BREATH
Yoga-Day with an emphasis on Breathwork
Saturday 23rd March
On March 23, 2024, yoga enthusiasts and wellness seekers gathered for a transformative experience led by Swami Saradananda, a globally celebrated yoga and meditation teacher known for her profound knowledge and inspiring teaching style. This full-day workshop focused on the power of breathwork, promising participants valuable tools to tap into the vital energies that sustain their lives. Through Swami Saradananda’s expert guidance, attendees unlocked new insights into breathing, gained a fresh sense of inner peace, and left with actionable techniques to incorporate these ancient teachings into modern life.
Why Breathwork?
Breathing is more than an automatic bodily function; it’s a pathway to physical vitality and mental clarity. This workshop aimed to bring that perspective to life by emphasising the connection between breath and life force energy (prana). Swami Saradananda shared methods to harness and optimise breathing for enhanced physical and mental capacity. Participants learned that by mastering their breath, they could tap into deeper intuition, foster emotional resilience, and build a foundation for radiant health.
A Holistic Approach to Wellness
The day wasn’t limited to breathwork alone. Swami Saradananda’s teachings integrated meditation practices, inspiring each attendee to deepen their personal journey towards inner calm and vitality. This holistic approach ensured a well-rounded experience, combining practical skills and spiritual wisdom. Drawing from the wisdom of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, she reminded participants that consistent practice can help diminish impurities and ignite an inner light, illuminating all aspects of awareness.
“Yoga anga anusthānād ashuddhi kshaye jñāna dīptir āviveka khyāteh. When all components of yoga are practiced, impurities dwindle; the light of understanding shines forth, illuminating all aspects of awareness.” — Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, 2.28
This workshop resonated deeply with those familiar with Patanjali’s teachings, offering them a practical, hands-on approach to embodying these ancient principles in today’s fast-paced world.
Event Highlights and Takeaways
Led by Swami Saradananda, whose books such as The Power of Breath and Mudras for Modern Life have inspired thousands, the workshop offered a deep dive into her extensive knowledge. She combined theoretical insights with practical exercises, helping attendees to align their breath, body, and mind. For many, this experience marked a pivotal point in their practice, sparking newfound dedication and motivation.
Nina Savarese, co-host and a devoted student of Swami Saradananda, shared her gratitude and insights, underscoring the value of lifelong learning and the importance of integrating breathwork into daily life. Nina's dedication to the practice inspired others, reminding them that yoga is a continuous journey of self-discovery and growth.
Looking Forward: Integrating Ancient Teachings into Modern Life
The beauty of this workshop was its focus on equipping participants with practical tools that seamlessly fit into busy lifestyles. Swami Saradananda’s methods made it easy to continue the practice of mindful breathing and meditation long after the workshop ended, allowing participants to carry the day’s insights into their everyday routines.
Closing Thoughts
This workshop was more than an event; it was a celebration of ancient wisdom brought to life by Swami Saradananda’s compassionate and insightful teaching. Participants left feeling energised, inspired, and ready to make transformative changes in their lives. For those who attended, the journey has just begun, with breathwork and meditation as their guide.
If you’re inspired by what was shared in this workshop and would like to learn more, keep an eye out for future events with Swami Saradananda. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, her teachings can bring fresh perspective and depth to your practice, allowing you to experience the true essence of yoga.
YOGA DAY RETREAT 15TH JULY 2023
Our first Yoga Day Retreat in Babylon Woods was a huge success. Hosts, myself and Jacky Brown, Naturopathic Nutritional Therapist teamed up to offer this very special outdoor experience to my Yogis and their friends.
We were incredibly lucky; the weather was fine and we were able to fully enjoy the outdoor yoga experience and woodland dining.
Set in hidden away, privately owned countryside just outside Hastings, this idyllic location was able to leave everyone feeling rested and restored, just as if they'd been on a real retreat.
Jacky and myself will be teaming up again next Summer with a new and improved Yoga shala and some more deep healing day retreats.
Yin Yoga
Delicious Healthy Soup Recipe
I often like to create new recipes in the kitchen with what I happen to have in the fridge. I wanted to share this recipe with you because it's particularly delicious and my family thought it was a hit! So here's a warming and filling soup that's great to make when the weather starts to turn colder.
- Heat onion, cauliflower with some a teaspoon of raw-el-hanout. Add garlic and chilli flakes to taste. Let the flavours infuse
- then add quartered new potatoes
- add stock. I like vegetable bouillon. Let simmer until everything's soft
- take out half the mixture and blend well, then pour it back into the saucepan.
- add the chickpeas and warm through
- serve with raw finely sliced red pepper and shredded spinach