Exploring Bandha & Pranayama : Workshop
Sunday 1 Nov 10:00-13:00
Service Description
This workshop offers an exploration of pranayama and bandha within the context of Vinyasa Krama practice, drawing from the teachings and system of Matthew Sweeney. The session will begin with a brief overview of the history and principles underlying pranayama, followed by guided exploration of key preparatory steps and techniques. Bandha will be explored with clarity and discernment, addressing what bandha is and is not, and gently unpacking some of the common misconceptions that surround its more mystical interpretations. Exploration will focus on bandha as a subtle, responsive process rather than a muscular action. Movement will be used as a means of inquiry, allowing understanding to arise through sensation rather than instruction. Through selected vinyasa transitions from the Ashtanga Primary Series, as well as postures such as Navasana, Handstand, and supta vinyasa, students will explore how release, containment, and internal organisation support movement without force. Alongside the physical exploration, there will be discussion on the nature and function of the three bandhas — mula, uddiyana, and jalandhara — both in their anatomical expression and their subtler, symbolic meanings. Attention will be given to the metaphors traditionally used to describe bandha, offering a way to understand these principles beyond effort, contraction, or control. This workshop is suitable for students wishing to deepen their understanding of breath and internal organisation, and for teachers seeking a clearer, more embodied approach to pranayama and bandha practice. This workshop may be counted as 3 hours of self-directed CPD for yoga teachers. Limited to 8 students to allow for individual attention. Booking confirms your place.
Cancellation Policy
In-Person Classes, Programmes & Workshops Policy Booking & Payment Classes, programmes, and workshops are normally booked and paid for in advance to secure a space. Occasionally, cash payment on the day may be accepted for regular drop-in classes by prior arrangement and subject to availability. Class passes, programmes, and workshops are non-refundable and non-transferable. Booking Cut-Off Times Advance booking is required. • Daytime and evening classes must be booked at least 1 hours before the start time. • Mysore / Self Practice sessions must be booked by midnight the day before. Bookings close automatically once these cut-off times have passed. Cancellations & Refunds • Classes: Late cancellations (within 12 hours) will be charged in full, as spaces are limited and it’s often difficult to refill them at short notice. • Class passes: non-refundable and non-transferable. • Programmes and workshops: bookings are non-refundable once confirmed, as spaces cannot be filled mid-block or at short notice. Missed classes cannot be refunded, transferred, or carried over. Late Arrival Please arrive on time. Late entry may not be possible once a class has begun, particularly for led classes, and workshops, to avoid disruption. Self Practice / Mysore Mysore sessions run within a set time window. Students arrive and practise for a length of time appropriate to them. Teaching includes individual guidance, adjustments, and modifications as appropriate. Health & Responsibility Students practise at their own risk and are responsible for working within their own limits. Please inform the teacher before class of any injuries, medical conditions, pregnancy, or changes in health. Guidance and modifications are offered, but it remains the student’s responsibility to practise with awareness and care. Yoga is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about suitability for practice. Studio Etiquette Mobile phones should be silenced and stored away. Please respect the quiet nature of the space. Mats and props should be returned neatly after use. Shoes are left outside the practice space. Teacher Absence & Closures As the studio is led by a single teacher, occasional closures may occur due to training, study, illness, or travel. Where possible, planned closures will be communicated in advance.