Samkhya Studies: Introduction to Foundation Yoga and Ayurveda Philosophy

Sankhya philosophy （Samkhya Darshan）is a classical Indian thought system that divides the universe into two principles: "Purusha" (pure consciousness) and "Prakriti" (material principle). It considers that human suffering arises from the inability to distinguish between these two.

Yoga is a practice that puts Sankhya theory into action. In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, yoga is defined as "stilling the fluctuations of the mind," and works to harmonize mind and body through eight stages (Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, etc.).

While physical postures (Asanas) receive attention in the modern world, traditional Yoga is a comprehensive practice aimed at spiritual awareness and liberation. If Sankhya is a map, Yoga can be thought of as the method for traveling using that map.
Let's learn the basics of map reading with Yoga classics expert Indu Arora!

Workshop Overview:

• This workshop focuses on Samkhya Darshan, the foundational philosophy of Yoga and Ayurveda, exploring its deep wisdom and practical applications over a 5-day program.
• Importance of Samkhya Philosophy
• Samkhya Darshan forms the bedrock of Yoga and Ayurveda, clarifying the purpose of these traditional teachings and preventing misinterpretation or dilution.
• Indu Arora has experienced how Samkhya provides a profound foundation for yogic practice through 20 years of studying Yoga, Ayurveda, and wisdom traditions.

Learning Points:

• Introduction to Samkhya Karika
• Foundational understanding of Samkhya philosophy and its historical context
• How Samkhya principles underpin yoga practice and spiritual growth

Program Structure:

• This workshop consists of the following sessions:
• Theory Sessions: Learn about the origins, stories, and purpose of Samkhya Darshan, deepening understanding through references to Samkhya Karika, Bhagavad Gita, and the Yoga Sutras.
• Practice Sessions: Learn how to incorporate Samkhya's core concepts into daily yoga practice.
• Q&A Segments: Time for deeper exploration through questions and answers.
• Overall, participants will learn the main features and non-negotiable principles of Samkhya that are essential for dedicated yoga practitioners, developing a more authentic and mindful approach.

Session 1: History, Purpose, Meaning of Samkhya, References from the various texts.
Session 2: Practice + Q&A
Session 3: Tattvas of Samkhya and Its application in Yoga
Session 4: Practice + Q&A
Session 5: Samkhya in Everyday Practice + Short Meditation + Q&A