Yogic Philosophy, Leadership and Ethics
with Jessie Carson
Friday, April 2 to Sunday, April 4, 2021
Yoga is an open spiritual practice with a deep history and long existing philosophies that can be an extremely helpful and relevant practice for modern times. This module provides teachers with an understanding of the historical evolution of yoga and how that differs and aligns with the practices we see today. We come together to address questions like, why do we study these histories and philosophies of yoga? Do we have to abide certain philosophies to be yoga teachers? What is yoga anyway and how has it transformed over time?
Yoga teaching integrates the spiritual, moral and transformative dimensions of leadership. Being a leader in this way takes courage. It suggests that we develop steadiness and ease when living in uncertainty. It also encourages us to be able to, again and again, let go of old patterns and welcome new ways of being. This is not just the transformation of leadership, but of leading an awakened life. In the realm of leadership, we will explore the term ‘leadership’ and what that might mean for each of us. We will consider what makes an effective and ethical leader and the power dynamics of some leadership that continue to erode ethical practices and communities.
Course Outline
This course also addresses some challenges and misconceptions that arise in both practice and a well-intentioned spiritual life. Together, we will look at questions that have arisen more adamantly during the recent popularity of contemporary yoga such as what are we doing with our bodies? How are our bodies influenced by culture and how does this show up in our practice?
Most importantly, we will be together in community and deep practice and conversation. We will ground ourselves with shared wisdom and, together, develop the courage it takes to live with moral grit in a changing world.
Learning Objectives
- Develop a broader understanding of the history of yoga and consider why we study yoga history and philosophy.
- Invite in and recognize some of the challenges encountered on the path of yoga and examine how to move through them.
- Explore the role of a leader and what this means in uncertain times.
- Clarify what leaders need to navigate the unexpected with a collective mindset.
- Build your capacity for change-making and social activism in your life, community and the world.
- Address how we can meet the challenges of the 21st century and embody personal, cultural, social and systemic change.
- Practice and understand the foundational ethics of the yoga practice and how we can live with these values in our heart.
- Be in community with other practitioners and teachers and both speak our own truth and give the gift of listening to others.
Dates and Timings
April 2-4, 2021
- Friday 6 pm to 9 pm.
- Saturday and Sunday 11:30 am to 6 pm each day.
Cost and Registration
Early Bird SAVINGS! $450.00 per person before January 31, 2021, $495.00 per person thereafter.
This course is open to the general public. 6 months to 1 year of regular yoga practice is recommended for participation.
Please consult the Course Outline and complete the required readings listed before the start of the course.
300 Hour Program Core Module: 20 Hours
In the event you are unable to attend the course after registration, please refer to our Refund Policy.
About Your Teacher
Jessie’s classes are taught from a balanced and practical approach. Her steady and clear guidance encourages students to both challenge themselves and release the tension that works against creating ease in the body. Having taught since 2002, she is adept at working with students of all levels and can support practitioners in establishing and growing their practice based on the needs of their own bodies. Jessie is a former competitive athlete and massage practitioner who gives regular adjustments in class to helps students stay safe but also to release tension.
Her understanding of yoga continues to evolve but she believes yoga is an art and a science of working with physical and mental discomfort in order to bring more harmony and richness to one’s day-to-day life. Even though the benefits of yoga are vast, she continues to remind herself that the practice of yoga happens in small moments of understanding, connection, and peace. Having begun her practice in 1999, Jessie is a 500hr Certified Hatha teacher.