Advanced Anatomy Training Course

Anatomy & Physiology of Respiration - Understanding the Physiology of Pranayama

December 5 - 19, 2009

with Neil Barker

* This course qualifies for 100 hours continuing-education credit toward Yoga Alliance 500- and Centered Yoga 1100-hour training certification. A 100-hour certificate will be issued upon completion.

About the Training Course

This advanced anatomy and physiology workshop, which focuses on vinyasa, Asana and Pranayama, is aimed specifically at dedicated yoga practitioners and teachers. As part of the ongoing advanced-anatomy series, this particular module will deepen your knowledge of Asana practice with the breath and how it impacts the physical body, preparing it for the subtle practice of Pranayama.

The more you understand the science of this practice, the more you will appreciate and value your time on the mat. This ultimately serves to fortify and deepen your devotion to your practice and the tradition from which it stems.

If you are already teaching, this series will enhance your ability to communicate physical and energetic benefits confidently to your students.

A detailed exploration of the Physiology of breathing, how it is controlled and the anatomical structures will be a main feature of this workshop.

More specifically, we will

Explore basic anatomical terms relating to the mechanics of breathing.
Look into internal respiration at the cellular level.
Understand lung capacities
- Tidal Volume, Residual Volume, Peak Flow, Inspiratory Reserve Volume, Expiratory Reserve Volume.
Understand the Voluntary and Involuntary control mechanisms
- Carotid Sinuses, Aortic Arch, Vagus nerve, Sinus nerve, Chemo-Receptors, Stretch Receptors, Apnea.
Explore how Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide are transported in the blood.
Analyze the Principal types of breathing
- Diaphragmatic, Costal/Clavicular, Paradoxical/Reverse breathing.
A detailed look at the physiological affects of each Pranayama and important Kriyas.
Explore and Present some of the scientific work and evidence of the Kaivalyadhama Institute and the work of Swami Kuvalayananda.

In addition to this, you will

be immersed in yogic living and in the company of like-minded individuals.
have the opportunity to deepen your personal practice under the senior tutelage of Neil Barker and Paul Dallaghan.
deepen and further your understanding and personal experience of Pranayama.

For those students working toward the Yoga Alliance 500-hour or the Centered Yoga 1100-hour accreditation, taking at least one advanced anatomy module is compulsory. These courses also afford you the opportunity to review and refine your adjustment techniques.

Please note that the advanced-anatomy modules may be taken in any order.

About the Teacher

Neil

Neil is a creative, lively, and gifted teacher with a unique ability to share learning in a way that students immediately "get" even difficult lessons. He is a senior teacher at Samahita Retreat and the training director for Centered Yoga Institute. He has been teaching with Paul since 2004. He is also a dedicated student of Sri O.P. Tiwari and is authorized to teach the Ashtanga practice by the master Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.

Neil has a solid background in the healing arts, having studied and practiced as a chiropractor/spine specialist, acupuncturist, and Chinese medical practitioner. Neil spent a number of years living in Beijing, where he opened the first modern-day yoga center. For more about Neil, see his full bio.

The Daily Schedule

The program begins at 5pm on the first day of the retreat with a group welcome and departure is at 12pm on the last day.
The schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the teacher.

7 am	Meditation and Pranayama
8 am	Mysore Style Self Practice with occasional Led Explorative classes to deepen the understanding of the material covered.
10 am - 1 pm	Brunch buffet
2 - 3:30 pm	Anatomy Lecture
4 - 6 pm	Anatomy Lecture or Practical Workshop with Q & A
6 pm	Dinner buffet
6 - 9 pm	Steam room available
7:30 pm	Evening program - video, tratak, meditation

Based on request and availability, you are welcome to arrive early or extend your stay, our Residential and Wellness Programs details are on http://www.yoga-thailand.com/yoga-holidays.html

The rate is inclusive of: