“Psychologists have shown that there is a correspondence between personality types and breathing patterns. Yoga science also recognizes such a correspondence, but according to yoga, the relationship between the breath and mind is reciprocal. If a certain state of mind results in a certain mode of breathing, then conversely, by consciously adopting that mode of breathing we can evoke the corresponding state of mind. If there is a correspondence between personality type and pattern of breathing, then the yogi states categorically that by changing the pattern of breathing we can transform the personality, for when the mind is disturbed, breath is disturbed and becomes shallow, rapid, and uneven. By consciously making the breath deep, even, and regular, we will experience a noticeable release of tension and an increased sense of relaxation and tranquility. “

~Excerpt from Science of Breath by Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, MD, and Alan Hymes, MD

Through contemplation and practice we come to know that nothing is coincidental.  The yoga scriptures say that there is no forgiveness in the law of karma.  There are consequences to our actions – every action – so, as yogis our journey is one that is to continue to find out how we can act, speak and think in a way that produces the most beneficial consequences; those that bind us the very least to our action and to repeating things that are not ultimately helpful, healing and supportive.  The breath is the surest guide on this path.  It is an immediate way to not only perfect reflection on our present space and condition, but also a most compassionate and patient tool to healing past injuries and setting habits for a prosperous future. 

Join me for a weekend dedicated to the practices that at the deepest levels help us heal - physically, mentally and emotionally. This is an intensive on understanding, building, channeling and directing energy. Our study will take a comprehensive look at the breath; how we breath; where in our bodies we can breathe and in what ways we can manipulate our breathing mechanism to create measurable and immense changes.  Therefore, you will also learn how to relax and appreciate the power in calming the nervous system.  You will become proficient in knowledge and practice in arguably the most important voluntary process we perform.  You will:

·        Understand the dynamics of breathing anatomically, physiologically and energetically

·        Practice techniques precisely designed to establish diaphragmatic breathing and a relaxed awareness around the abdominal area

·        Explore specifically directed postures, techniques and skills for effectively strengthening a chronically weak and often underperforming respiratory diaphragm

·        Fine tune essential components to setting in motion a practice that is sustainable for years to come. 

Please remember that without breath there is no life; there is no yoga.  And by knowing how to work with the breath – consciously - we can literally experience an uncoupling of the breath with emotions.  This uncoupling lies at the heart of increasing our capacity in life for bhoga and apavarga; fulfillment and freedom, respectively.  It links us into the ultimate goals of yoga and it is how we heal on all levels.

Recent Testimonials from this Retreat:

 I attended a pranayama weekend workshop offered by Luke.  His deep knowledge of pranayama and yoga was an invaluable resource for students.   Luke's patient teaching and demonstrating made the subtleties of pranayama easy to grasp. I learned a great deal over the weekend and left with an appetite for more.       ~Chris, Jan 2017

I recently participated in one of Luke's pranayama intensive workshops. I learned so much - deepening my physical practice as well as expanding my perspective on how breath is interconnected with all other facets of a yogic life. The beautiful thing about Luke is he embodies what he teaches. Clearly, he has incredible expertise in pranayama - and more importantly, he is able to nurture a safe, inclusive space - infusing it a warm energy and gentle guidance.  Everyone feels welcome and can adapt the practice to their own needs and experience level.          ~Sophie N., Jan 2017