Pranayama & Meditation Intensive

Pranayama & Meditation Intensive

$129

★★★★★ (103 reviews)

Journey into the subtle dimensions of yoga with this comprehensive 6-week course focused on breath control, meditation, and inner awareness. Develop techniques to manage stress, enhance focus, and cultivate presence.

What's Included:

  • 18 live online sessions (3 per week for 6 weeks)
  • Personalized breathing pattern assessment
  • Comprehensive pranayama and meditation manual
  • Guided audio practices for home use
  • Weekly progress check-ins and journaling prompts

Course Details

While asana (physical postures) often receives the most attention in modern yoga, the ancient traditions consider pranayama (breath control) and meditation to be even more powerful tools for transformation. This intensive course explores these subtle practices in depth, giving you practical techniques to harness the power of your breath and mind.

Through progressive instruction in various pranayama techniques and meditation approaches, you'll develop skills to regulate your energy, calm your nervous system, and cultivate deep states of awareness. The course balances traditional yogic methods with contemporary understanding of neuroscience and psychology, making these ancient practices accessible and relevant to modern life.

Benefits You'll Experience:

  • Enhanced respiratory function and lung capacity
  • Reduced stress and anxiety levels
  • Improved concentration and mental clarity
  • Better emotional regulation
  • Deeper connection to your internal landscape
  • Tools for managing energy levels throughout the day

Who This Course is For:

  • Yoga practitioners looking to deepen their non-physical practice
  • Anyone seeking effective tools for stress management
  • Those interested in developing a consistent meditation practice
  • Individuals wanting to explore the subtle aspects of yoga
  • Yoga teachers wanting to expand their knowledge of pranayama

6-Week Progressive Curriculum

Week 1: Foundations of Breath Awareness

  • Assessment of current breathing patterns
  • Diaphragmatic breathing and full yogic breath
  • The science of breath and its effect on the nervous system
  • Introduction to breath-centered meditation

Week 2: Balancing Breath Practices

  • Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing)
  • Sama Vritti (equal ratio breathing)
  • Introduction to the bandhas (energy locks)
  • Breath as preparation for meditation

Week 3: Energizing Practices

  • Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath)
  • Bhastrika (bellows breath)
  • Understanding prana (life force) and the subtle body
  • Concentration practices (dharana)

Week 4: Calming and Cooling Practices

  • Sitali and Sitkari (cooling breaths)
  • Chandra Bhedana (moon-piercing breath)
  • Extended exhale techniques
  • Introduction to Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep)

Week 5: Advanced Pranayama

  • Kumbhaka (breath retention) practices
  • Surya Bhedana (sun-piercing breath)
  • Viloma Pranayama (interrupted breath)
  • Deepening meditation with breath

Week 6: Integration and Personal Practice

  • Creating a balanced pranayama sequence
  • Establishing a sustainable daily practice
  • Adapting techniques for specific needs
  • Long-term progression in breathwork and meditation

Lead Instructor: Nilgün Demirci

Nilgün has devoted over 15 years to the study and practice of pranayama and meditation, studying with masters in both India and Turkey. Her approach combines traditional yogic techniques with modern scientific understanding, making subtle practices accessible to everyone.

Credentials:

  • E-RYT 500 (Yoga Alliance) with specialization in pranayama
  • Certified in traditional Himalayan meditation techniques
  • Advanced training in therapeutic breathwork
  • Author of "Breath as Medicine: A Guide to Self-Healing"
  • Regular meditation retreats in the Vipassana tradition

Assistant Instructor: Berk Öztürk

Berk brings his background in psychology and mindfulness-based stress reduction to his teaching. He specializes in making meditation accessible to beginners and those who find it challenging to quiet the mind.

Do I need prior yoga experience for this course?

No prior experience is necessary, though some familiarity with basic breath awareness is helpful. The course is designed to meet you at your current level of experience.

How much time should I dedicate to practice outside of class?

For optimal results, we recommend 15-30 minutes of daily practice. However, even 5-10 minutes daily will yield benefits. We'll help you create a realistic practice schedule that fits your lifestyle.

Are there any health conditions that would prevent me from participating?

Certain breathing techniques may not be suitable for people with specific health conditions like uncontrolled high blood pressure, glaucoma, or recent abdominal surgery. Please consult your healthcare provider and inform us of any health concerns before enrolling.

I've tried meditation before and couldn't quiet my mind. Will this help?

Absolutely! Many people struggle with meditation initially. Our approach uses breath as an anchor for attention, making it easier to focus. We also teach various styles of meditation, helping you find approaches that work best for your mind type.

Will this course help with my anxiety/stress/insomnia?

Many students report significant improvements in these areas. While not a replacement for medical treatment, pranayama and meditation are evidence-based approaches for managing stress, anxiety, and sleep issues. We'll specifically address these applications during the course.