The Yoga rules

By Hema Murty

If you are a yoga instructor, it is really nice to be able to speak the language of yoga, which is Sanskrit. Pronunciation and familiarity with the sounds of the yogic language is a key to becoming a great yoga instructor. What better way to learn Sanskrit than through a fun filled immersion course?

Every year, Samskrita Bharati is offers a three day intensive Sanskrit camp with a special class for those interested in using it to improve their understanding of yoga. This camp is called Jahnavi after the famous river that flows in India from the Himalayas.

Attendance at this camp will offer you an insight into the culture that makes up the heritage of the yoga philosophy. As well, you will meet other like-minded individuals interested in improving their understanding of Sanskrit. You will be able to speak in Sanskrit. This will give you the added ability over other yoga instructors. You can now offer correct pronunciation and understanding of yoga to your students. This will pass on the tradition in a time-honoured fashion.

Become an authentic teacher by attending this camp and getting to know the language of yoga better. You will learn to read and understand the Devanagiri script. You can then read the original yoga texts and get an understanding of them.

Patanjali was a sage who codified and systematised the yoga philosophy. Those who have studied yoga in its holistic format understand that the postures or asanas are only one part of the yoga methodology. Attitude is actually the first step. One must maintain a pure attitude towards oneself and the world. Patanjali wrote in Sanskrit. It will be possible to read these original sutras of Patanjali by attending this fun-filled Sanskrit camp called Jahnavi. Spend your Labour Day weekend getting to know the roots of yoga. Become a better instructor and get closer to the original yoga teachings. Become one with the language. You will not be disappointed.

Hema Murty is a volunteer for Samskrita Bharati, an organization devoted to bringing Sanskrit back into daily life. Hema teaches Sanskrit classes in Toronto for children and adults. For Sanskrit camp details go to http://www.samskritabharati.org/sb/jaahnavii This website also has contact info for Sanskrit classes in Toronto.