Aki Omori

Quick Glance 2012

2012-01-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

2012

Sun 29th January 2012
Restorative Yoga Teachers Training 11am - 6pm
Learning the skills to share the art of Restorative Yoga safely and effectively.
Location:
Lotus Studio, Yogamatters, 32 Clarendon Road, London N8 0DJ
Cost: £80
Booking:
Please contact Aki ASAP. There is one space available at Jan 11th.
This workshop covers:
-Experiencing some of the main restorative poses
-Theory behind it
-Body and tissue reading skills
-Learning variations and use of props to meet individual’s needs
-Hands on adjustments
-Work in pairs to practice putting someone in restorative poses
Suitable for teachers and teacher trainees, holistic therapists and experienced students.
The spaces are limited to only 8 persons to provide semi-private tuition.
Book early to avoid disappointment.

Sat 25th February 2012
Workshop at Triyoga Primrose Hill 10am - 12:30pm
"Pranayama: Forgotten Practice"
Please book directly with Triyoga.

Sat 24th March 2012
Workshop at Triyoga Primrose Hill 2-5pm
"Ease of Movement" (Title TBC)

Sat 15th April 2012
Workshop at Triyoga Chelsea 4:30-6:30pm
"Standing Poses Basic" (Title TBC)

Fri 4th - Mon 7th May 2012
A Long Weekend Yoga Retreat at Kilnhanger, Surrey
Starts Fri 4pm and finishes Mon after lunch around 2pm.
Cost: £390 all inclusive (except your travel) - All yoga sessions, 3 night accommodation, 3 meals per day.
2 single options available for £90 extra.
For more details and booking, please contact me.
Only 8 residential spaces available, so please book soon.
Day attendance is also available.
Booking is open. Please see here for more information.

Sun 9th - Sun 16th June 2012
One Week Yoga and Meditation Retreat at Santa Maria del Sole, Puglia, Southern Italy
Booking is now open. See here for more information.
Cost:
Early booking rate (by 29th February) £850, full rate £915.
Prices are per person for two people sharing (please enquire for single room rates) and include:
• 2 yoga sessions daily • 1 pranayama & meditation session daily • 7 nights accommodation • 3 meals per day • Teas and coffees throughout the day • Use of Yoga mats and props
Booking:
You can secure your place by sending a non-refundable deposit of £300 to Aki either via bank transfer (details available on request) or by sending a cheque. Please contact Aki for details.

Fri 24th - Mon 27th August 2012
A Long Weekend Yoga Retreat at Kilnhanger, Surrey
Starts Fri 6pm and finishes Mon after lunch around 2pm.
Cost: £390 all inclusive (except your travel) - All yoga sessions, 3 night accommodation, 3 meals per day.
2 single options available for £90 extra.
For more details and booking, please contact me.
Only 8 residential spaces available, so please book soon.
Day attendance is also available.
Booking is open. Please see here for more information.

Sun 2nd - Sun 9th Sep 2012
One Week Yoga and Meditation Retreat at La Locanda della Quercia Clante, Umbria, Italy
Booking is now open. See here for more information.
Cost:
Early booking rate (by 2nd May) £795, full rate £850. Prices are per person for two people sharing (please enquire for single room rate) and include:
• 2 yoga sessions daily • 1 pranayama & meditation session daily • 7 nights accommodation • 3 meals per day • Teas and coffees throughout the day • Use of Yoga mats and props
Booking:
You can secure your place by sending a non-refundable deposit of £300 to Aki either via bank transfer (details available on request) or by sending a cheque. Please contact Aki for details.
The remainder will be due by the 2nd July 2012.

A Weekend Yoga Retreat at Kilnhanger, Surrey 4th-7th May 2012

2012-01-10T17:05:00.000-08:00

Cost
£390, which includes: • All yoga sessions. • 3 nights accommodation (2 persons sharing or 1 or 2 single options with an extra £90. Please notify me if you would like to get a single room. First come first served.) • All meals. • Teas and Coffees / Cakes & Biscuits during break times.

Time
Please arrive between 5 and 6pm on Friday 4th. We will start with an introduction and a restorative yoga session at 6:30pm. On Monday 7th, we finish with a morning asana session and depart after lunch around 2pm.

Booking
You can secure your place on this retreat by sending a deposit of £100 (non-refundable) to Aki either via bank transfer (details available on request) or by sending a cheque. Please contact Aki for details.
There are only 8 residential spaces available on this retreat. Early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Alternatively you can come for 1 day. £50/ day includes lunch. (10am - 6:30pm) Please contact Aki for details.

The place
Kilnhanger is a brand new yoga retreat centre. It has a large, fully equipped beautiful yoga studio and offers stylish accommodation.
At Kilnhanger they believe in using organic, eco-freindly and ethically produced food and products wherever possible. Organic vegetables are grown in their garden. Many evenings are enjoyed eating and relaxing outside watching the sun go down.
It is located within an area of outstanding natural beauty, set high up in beautiful woodland with stunning views of the surrey hills. Glorious sunsets and an abundance of birdlife is often seen from the house. Surrounded by 40 acres of fields, woodland, orchards and gardens with many idyllic spots to sit and unwind.
Between yoga classes time can be spent walking, cycling, swimming (summer season) and playing tennis.

The area
Fantastic walks nearby include Farley Heath, Blackheath, Holmbury hill, Pitch Hill, Friday street and Hambledon, Wisley gardens (20 mins by car), Winkworth arboretum (15 mins by car), Shere village (5 mins by car), Guildford city (15 minuites by car), Silent pool (5 mins by car) and Loseley park (15 mins by car).

Getting there
Kilnhanger is in Surrey, near Guildford and is easily accessed from London.
By Train: It is only 1⁄2 hour on the fast train from Waterloo to Guildford and then about 15 min by car to Kilnhanger. A group collection from the Guildford station can be organised with a prior arrangement. Please enquire once you have your place.
By Car: It takes roughly 45 min once on the A3 out of London by car. Detailed direction will be provided upon booking.

Yoga and Meditation Retreat Puglia, Italy June 9th -16th 2012

2012-01-10T17:03:00.000-08:00

Date: 9th - 16th June 2012
Cost:
£850 Early booking rate (by 29th February)
£915 , full rate
Prices are per person for two people sharing (please enquire for single room rates)

It includes:
• 2 yoga sessions daily • 1 pranayama & meditation session daily • 6 nights accommodation • 3 meals per day • Teas and coffees throughout the day • Use of Yoga mats and props

Booking:
You can secure your place by sending a non-refundable deposit of £300 to Aki either via bank transfer (details available on request) or by sending a cheque. Please contact Aki for details.
The remainder will be due by the 9th April.

The Place:
The Santa Maria del Sole (St. Mary of The Sun) is an absolutely delightful place, nestled on a hillside with a panoramic view of the Itria valley in Puglia (the ‘heel’ of Italy) in the country side of Martina Franca, Cisternino and Ostuni.
The beauty of the surrounding nature, the good facilities they offer and the friendly and helpful staff make it an ideal place for a yoga retreat.

Practise takes place in the beautifully converted “masseria”, a typical Puglian farmhouse. It is fully equipped and completely dedicated to yoga practice and meditation.
The accommodation is set in converted traditional “trullis” with their characteristic conical roofs. All the rooms have an en-suite bathroom and are very clean, conforable and tastefully decorated.

Participants from my previous two retreats are still raving about the fantastic food. It is prepared with fresh local produce, nutritionally well balanced and absolutely delicious. During June, we can enjoy al fresco dining.

Within the grounds you’ll find rose gardens, a wild forest, two fields of swaying wheat, many beautiful old olive trees and even a tiny chapel. There is plenty of space to walk around and be free, and a lovely swimming pool to refresh yourself.
There are bicycles available for you to explore the many beautiful places in the area. An excursion trip may be organized during the week, if desired.

June is one of the best times to visit Puglia, when temperature is averaging around 27 degrees. Perfect for yoga, swimming and sunbathing.

visit www.santamariadelsole.it for more information and some gorgeous photos.

Getting there:
The nearest airports are Brindisi (45 minutes) and Bari (1h30min). Several airlines fly to these airports from the UK.
Airport group transfers will be arranged upon request at an extra cost.
If you prefer to hire a car to get there by yourself, the directions will be provided.

About the retreat:
Many yoga teachers run yoga holidays under the flag of “yoga retreat”. Following my own teacher’s footsteps, I run yoga retreats, not holidays.
The difference is mostly in spirit: our intention is to deepen our practice. It means that we see the time away as a conscious ‘retreating’ away from busy-ness of life to dive into yoga, have some moments of quiet to properly rest and reflect, cultivating mindfulness, giving yourself a chance to see what’s really going on in your life and start making clear choices rather than being carried away by the momentum of unconscious, habitual thinking patterns and being lost in the conditioning that is no longer serving your true values.
A cocktail of asana (physical movement), pranayama (breathing exercise), meditation and restorative practices together with advaita / tantra teachings will give you the strength, inspiration and mindfulness you need to explore an inner journey. We will keep part of each day in silence to give ourselves space to be quiet and restful and have more contemplative time.
You will of course have time to have fun and explore the beautiful scenery surrounding the venue.
There will be 3 yoga sessions on most days (one morning meditation & pranayama, one morning asana and one afternoon asana, meditation) and some talks on yoga and its meaning.
You will feel the difference by the end of the week and will go home energised, rested and with a clearer mind.
The week will be a combination of dynamic and quiet practice.

Aki Omori has studied many styles of yoga over the last 20 years and teaches mostly a vinyasa style of yoga that is gentle yet deep. She is also a Somatic Movement Therapist and is recognised for her work in restorative yoga. Aki teaches from movement principles rather than simply achieving forms. She guides her students in a way that encourages them to find their own unique path that is honest and truthful. Her classes are known for their lightness and are fun yet profound. Aki is also an experienced Pranayama practitioner and is devoted to Advaita (non-dual) teaching.
Aki Omori

A Weekend Yoga Retreat at Kilnhanger, Surrey 24th - 27th August 2012

2012-01-10T09:27:00.000-08:00

Cost
£390, which includes: • All yoga sessions. • 3 nights accommodation (2 persons sharing or 1 or 2 single options with an extra £90. Please notify me if you would like to get a single room. First come first served.) • All meals. • Teas and Coffees / Cakes & Biscuits during break times.

Time
Please arrive between 5 and 6pm on Friday 24th. We will start with an introduction and a restorative yoga session at 6:30pm. On Monday 27th, we finish with a morning asana session and depart after lunch around 2pm.

Booking
You can secure your place on this retreat by sending a deposit of £100 (non-refundable) to Aki either via bank transfer (details available on request) or by sending a cheque. Please contact Aki for details.
There are only 8 residential spaces available on this retreat. Early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Alternatively you can come for 1 day. £50/ day includes lunch. (10am - 6:30pm) Please contact Aki for details.

The place
Kilnhanger is a brand new yoga retreat centre. It has a large, fully equipped beautiful yoga studio and offers stylish accommodation.
At Kilnhanger they believe in using organic, eco-freindly and ethically produced food and products wherever possible. Organic vegetables are grown in their garden. Many evenings are enjoyed eating and relaxing outside watching the sun go down.
It is located within an area of outstanding natural beauty, set high up in beautiful woodland with stunning views of the surrey hills. Glorious sunsets and an abundance of birdlife is often seen from the house. Surrounded by 40 acres of fields, woodland, orchards and gardens with many idyllic spots to sit and unwind.
Between yoga classes time can be spent walking, cycling, swimming (summer season) and playing tennis.

The area
Fantastic walks nearby include Farley Heath, Blackheath, Holmbury hill, Pitch Hill, Friday street and Hambledon, Wisley gardens (20 mins by car), Winkworth arboretum (15 mins by car), Shere village (5 mins by car), Guildford city (15 minuites by car), Silent pool (5 mins by car) and Loseley park (15 mins by car).

Getting there
Kilnhanger is in Surrey, near Guildford and is easily accessed from London.
By Train: It is only 1⁄2 hour on the fast train from Waterloo to Guildford and then about 15 min by car to Kilnhanger. A group collection from the Guildford station can be organised with a prior arrangement. Please enquire once you have your place.
By Car: It takes roughly 45 min once on the A3 out of London by car. Detailed direction will be provided upon booking.

Yoga and Meditation Retreat At Locanda Quercia Clante, Italy, 2nd - 9th September 2012

2012-01-10T05:33:00.000-08:00

Do come and join me in lovely Italy for a week of yoga to energize, rest and have fun!

Date:
2nd - 9th September

Venue:
La Locanda della Quercia Calante
(see their website for more pics and location: http://www.querciacalante.com )

Cost:
Early booking rate (by 2nd May) £795, full rate £850.
Prices are per person for two people sharing (please enquire for single room rate) and include:
• 2 yoga sessions daily • 1 pranayama & meditation session daily • 7 nights accommodation • 3 meals per day • Teas and coffees throughout the day • Use of Yoga mats and props

Booking:
You can secure your place by sending a non-refundable deposit of £300 to Aki either via bank transfer (details available on request) or by sending a cheque. Please contact Aki for details.
The remainder will be due by the 2nd July 2012.

The place:
Locanda della Quercia Calante is located in the Castel Giorgio countryside, 18kms from Orvieto in the province of Terni, southwestern Umbria, near the border to Tuscany.

The place is nestled in the hills of Orvieto, where you can enjoy walks through quiet woodlands and fields.
Within its own grounds, every care is taken to maintain the peaceful, relaxing and at the same time life-giving quality.

The Locanda is environmentally friendly and uses solar energy extensively.
An advanced climate control system keeps all the rooms comfortable and free from magnetic fields, ensuring its guests the most relaxing and healthy environment.

The tastefully decorated rooms all have en-suite bathrooms and are located in cottages spread around a beautiful garden.

Each room has its own porch in front, which can be a good spot whenever you like a moment to yourself or just wish to escape the sun.
The beautifully maintained lawn surrounding the buildings offers plenty of deckchairs ideal for reading or sunbathing between dips in the special spring water swimming pool.
If you would like a bit of socialising, the lovely al fresco dining area is always at your disposal.

The well-equipped yoga studio has a beautiful wooden floor and large windows creating a special atmosphere which will nurture your yoga practice.

Please see the venue’s own website for more photos and other information including the location. (www.querciacalante.com)
The Locanda della Quercia Calante has a reputation as one of the best retreat centres in Europe.

Getting there:
Rome’s two airports Fiumicino and Ciampino are the best ones to fly to.
Group airport transfer will be organised upon request at an extra cost. Please enquire when booking.

The Locanda can also be reached by train or car.
For more detailed travel information please visit www.querciacalante.com.

About my retreats:
Many yoga teachers run yoga holidays under the flag of "yoga retreat". Following my teacher's footsteps, I run yoga retreats, not holidays.
The difference is mostly in spirit: our intention is to deepen our practice. It means that we see the time away as a conscious 'retreating' away from busy-ness of life to dive into yoga, have some moments of quietness to properly rest and reflect, cultivating mindfulness, giving yourself a chance to see what's really going on in your life and start making clear choices rather than being carried away by the momentum of unconscious, habitual thinking patterns and being lost in the conditioning that are no longer serving your true values.
A cocktail of asana (physical movement), pranayama (breathing exercise), meditation and restorative practices will give you the strength and mindfulness you need to explore an inner journey. We will keep part of each day in silence to give ourselves space to be quiet and restful and have more contemplative time.
You will of course have time to chat and play, have fun and also to take short or long walks to explore the beautiful scenery surrounding La Locanda della Quercia Clante. (see their website for more information)
The week will be a combination of dynamic and quiet practices.

About Aki:
Aki Omori has studied many styles of yoga over the last 20 years and teaches mostly a vinyasa style of yoga that is gentle yet deep. She is also a Somatic Movement Therapist and is recognised for her work in restorative yoga. Aki teaches from movement principles rather than simply achieving forms. She guides her students in a way that encourages them to find their own unique path that is honest and truthful. Her classes are known for their lightness and are fun yet profound. Aki is also an experienced Pranayama practitioner and is devoted to Advaita (non-dual) teaching.

Yoga Retreat at Santa Maria del Sole 18-24 Oct 2010

2010-07-22T12:28:00.000-07:00

Venue:
The Santa Maria del Sole is located in Puglia, the heel of Italy, in the countryside of Martina Franca, Cisternino and Ostuni. The place is a masseria, typical puglian farmhouse, completely dedicated to yoga practice and meditation.
Their farmhouse, Santa Maria del Dole (St. Mary of The Sun) is nestled on a hillside with a panorama view of the Itria Valley. It is on 15 hectares of land, full of hundred year old oak trees, olive trees, fruit trees, lavender, rose gardens, pure air and sunshine.

All rooms are en suite

The nearest airports are Brindisi Airport (45 minutes) and Bari Airport (1h30min.). There are several airlines fly to those airports.

There is transport service by the venue with an extra cost of up to 70 Euros (per car/ up to 4 persons). There are bigger vehicles, if enough people arrive at the same time and the cost would be less) which can be shared with others if arriving around the same time.
If you would like to share the transport with others to cut the cost, let me know.
Please enquire for more details on this.

On 18th, we will begin with a short orientation meeting, followed by a gentle stretch / restorative / pranayama class just before dinner time.
So if you can arrive by mid to late afternoon, that’d be ideal.
There are some flights from UK that arrive around 2:30pm. See if you can get on one of those. However, flight times vary and that may be difficult, then that'd be fine.
Once booked your flight, please make sure you inform me your details.

(please see the bottom of this post for more flight information.)

For more photos of the place, please go to their website, www.santamariadelsole.it

Cost:
£500 (sterling pounds) + €250 (Euros)
If booked by 31st July 2010, there will be a discount of £50.
(If you are not a UK resident and difficult to convert the currency into pounds, please let me know.)

The cost includes:
1 x Meditation / Pranayama /day
2 x Yoga sessions /day
3 x meals /day
Accommodation for 6 nights
Bicycles
Yoga mats, bolsters, blankets, yoga straps are available for you to use - if you wish to use your own, please bring them.

A range of massage treatments are available at reasonable rates not included in the cost.

Booking:
A non-refundable £250 deposit will secure your space.
The payment will be accepted either by cheque/cash or bank transfer.
To book, please contact Aki (email: aki2002@gmail.com or call: +44(0)7966 204 842) for a booking form and more details you will require.

The remainder will be paid in 2 stages.
The first part:
£250 is due by 31st August 2010.
(or £200 if you are entitled for the discount. See above)
The second part:
The remaining €250 (Euros) will be paid in cash on the first day of the retreat upon arrival.

About my retreats:
Many yoga teachers run yoga holidays under the flag of "yoga retreat".
Following my teacher's footsteps, I run yoga retreats, not holidays.

The difference is mostly in spirit: our intention is to deepen our practice.
It means that we see the time away as a conscious 'retreating' away from busy-ness of life to dive into yoga, have some moments of quietness to properly rest and reflect, cultivating mindfulness, giving yourself a chance to see what's really going on in your life and start making clear choices rather than being carried away by the momentum of unconscious, habitual thinking patterns and being lost in the conditioning that are no longer serving your true values.

A cocktail of asana (physical movement), pranayama (breathing exercise), meditation and restorative practices will give you the strength and mindfulness you need to explore an inner journey.
We will keep part of each day in silence to give ourselves space to be quiet and restful and have more contemplative time.

You will of course have time to chat and play, have fun and also to take short or long walks to explore the beautiful scenery surrounding Santa Maria del Sole. (see their website for more information)

The week will be a combination of dynamic and quiet practices.

More Flight Information:
On 18th, I suggest you take the flight from UK that arrives at Brandisi or Bari in early-mid afternoon.
So there will be more chance of sharing the transfer with others, and you will have time to relax once arrived at the venue before our orientation meeting / gentle first session before dinner.

On Sun 24th, we will finish the retreat with a morning practice followed by lunch.
So ideal time for travelling would be in mid-late afternoon.

I have listed some flights from UK to Brindisi / Bari below. These are just examples, so you can, of course, take flights that are not listed here.
There are several airlines who fly to those airports.

Brindisi is about 45 min, Bari is about 90 min from Santa Maria del Sole.
The cost of the transport organized by Santa Maria is 70 Euros for a car that carries 4/5 people and 100 Euros for a mini bus that carries 6/8 people.
So the more people arrive near enough time (some may have to wait a bit), the cheaper it gets per person.

If you are planning to make a holiday before or after the retreat in the area, it may be a good idea that you hire a car at the airport.

Please do let me know when you booked your flights.
So I can have your transport organised.

Flights from UK to Brindisi / Bari, October 2010

Brindisi Flight options

Alitalia (around £170-185)
Outbound
6:00 Heathrow via Rome 14:30 Brindisi
6:50 Heathrow via Milan 13:10 Brindisi
12:20 Heathrow via Rome 18:30 Brindisi *
* this one arrives maybe little too late. so try to avoid it if you can,
Return
17:20 Brindisi via Rome 21:45 Heathrow
14:25 Brindisi via Rome 19:10 Heathrow

Bari Flight options

Luft Hansa (around £160)
Outbound
7:00 Heathrow via Milan 14:10 Bari
8:50 Heathrow via Milan 14:10 Bari
Return
15:05 Bari via Milan 18:30 Heathrow

Alialia (£140-160)
Outbound
6:50 Heathrow via Milan 14:25 Bari
7:00 Heathrow via Milan 14:25 Bari
Return
15:20 Bari via Milan 19:10 Heathrow
17:20 Bari via Milan 20:50 Heathrow

2 Long Weekends At Tilton House, East Sussex

2010-01-31T09:44:00.000-08:00

Please note: the first weekend (April 30th - May 3rd) retreat is fully booked.
The 2nd weekend (June 25th - 28th) is still open for booking.

2 weekends of Asana, Pranayama and Meditation are coming up.

There is a magic in the cocktail of those three practices.
In usual yoga classes, they can hardly be practiced altogether due to limited times or lack of supportive atmosphere.
When we are away on a retreat, we can experience them all.
If you have never retreated before, this will be a great taster.
The weekend will be a combination of dynamic and quiet practices.
Feel energised, refreshed and rested!

Dates:
April 30th - May 3rd 2010 (Bank Holiday weekend) SOLD OUT
June 25th - June 28th 2010 BOOKING STILL OPEN
(Fri 5pm - Mon 5pm)

Venue:
Tilton House, Firle, East Sussex BN8 6LL
It's an absolutely beautiful venue. Have a look at the website.
www.tiltonhouse.co.uk
All the bedrooms offer high standard and are decorated in great style.
There will be a larger lovely new yurt with good wooden floor and wood burning stove in their garden to practice in as well as a beautiful room inside the house.
Also, 2 comfortable sitting rooms with large sofas and a fire place to read, relax and chat with each other.

Cost:
April 30th - May 3rd (This weekend is SOLD OUT)
£380 for early bird discount for booking by 28th Feb 2010
£410 for bookings received after 1st March 2010

June 25th - June 28th
£380 for early bird discount for booking by 21st May 2010
£410 for bookings received after 22nd May 2010

The cost will include Yoga & Pranayama sessions (1 session on Fri eve / 3 sessions on Sat & Sun / 2 sessions on Mon), 3 meals a day and accommodation.
You'll be either sharing with another or two others though the prices will be the same. (Triple room has en-suit)
There could be 2 single room options with extra cost. This is subject to availability and depending on the final number of attendance. Please express your interest at the time of booking your place.

Booking:
£150 deposit (non-refundable) will secure your place.
The remainder due by 10th April for the April/May weekend and 4th June for the June weekend.

Cheque made payable to Aki Omori and send it to:
Aki Omori, 18 Charlbert Court, Charlbert Street, St.John's Wood, London NW8 7BX, England UK
Or be paid directly into Aki’s account. Please contact Aki for the account details.
Please notify me via email to let me know you have sent the money. (aki2002@yahoo.com)

Please contact for any further enquiry.

Bookings have already started to come in. The last weekend retreat had a waiting list. So book soon rather than leaving it till later.

About my retreats:
Many yoga teachers run yoga holidays under the flag of "yoga retreat".
Following my teacher's footsteps, I run yoga retreats, not holidays.

The difference is mostly in spirit: our intention is to deepen our practice.
It means that we see the time away as a conscious 'retreating' away from busy-ness of life to dive into yoga, have some moments of quietness to properly rest and reflect, cultivating mindfulness, giving yourself a chance to see what's really going on in your life and start making clear choices rather than carried away by the momentum of habitual thinking pattern and being lost in the conditioning that are no longer serving your true values.

A cocktail of asana (physical movement), pranayama (breathing exercise), meditation practices will give you the strength and relaxation you need and take you through an inner journey.

You will also have time to take short or long walks to explore the beautiful scenery of East Sussex surrounding the Tilton House.

Even just a weekend away, you will leave refreshed, energised and rested.
The weekend will be a combination of dynamic and quiet practices.
If you have never retreated before, it will be a great taster for you.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

A weekend retreat at Tilton House, East Sussex, Nov 27 -29th 2009

2009-08-30T09:39:00.001-07:00

A weekend of Asana, Pranayama and Meditation.
There is a magic in the cocktail of those three practices.
In usual yoga classes, they can hardly be practiced altogether due to limited times or lack of atmosphere. When we are away on a retreat, we can experience them all.
If you have never retreated before, this will be a great taster.
The weekend will be a combination of dynamic and quiet practices.
Feel energised, refreshed and rested!

Dates: November 27th-29th
(Fri 5pm - Sun 5pm)

Venue: Tilton House, Firle, East Sussex BN8 6LL
It's a beautiful venue. Have a look at the website.
www.tiltonhouse.co.uk

Cost: £280 if booked before Sep 21st
£295 after Sep 22nd

The cost will include Yoga & Pranayama sessions (1 session on Fri eve / 3 sessions on Sat / 2 sessions on Sun), 3 meals a day and accommodation.
You'll be either sharing with another or two others though the prices will be the same. (Triple room has en-suit)
If the number is low then there will be 2 single room options with the extra cost. Please enquire near the time.

Booking:
£100 deposit (non-refundable) will secure your place.
The remainder due by the 1st week of November.

Cheque made payable to Aki Omori and send it to:
Aki Omori, Flat 10, 27 Bassett Road, London W10 6LB UK
Or be paid directly into Aki’s account. Please contact Aki for the account details.
Please notify me via email to let me know you have sent the money.

Email or call me for any enquiry.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Finding Your Centre - 2 workshops - 12th April, 12th July

2009-06-23T06:11:00.000-07:00

Workshop "FINDING YOUR CENTRE"

Sun 12th April 2009, 5-7pm at Triyoga

Sun 12th July 2009, 9am-4pm(one day) in Brixton, South London for British Wheel of Yoga

Finding the centre's my on going theme and I will be sharing some of my exploration in this workshop. I feel it's going to be a good and fun workshop.
Please read the below description and join me on the day if you can.
For the booking for Triyoga workshop, please follow the link here.
http://www.triyoga.co.uk/story.php?titleid=1400
For the booking and details for the BWY Brixton workshop, please contact me or Rupert Linton (rupert@linton.myzen.co.uk)
I will put the info up here as soon as I have it.

"FINDING YOUR CENTRE" workshop with Aki Omori

What is your centre? Where is it? How does it feel? What is it for?

Martial Arts talk about the energy ball in the centre.
In Yoga we speak of the central axis in the body as something of fundamental importance, both physically and esoterically.

Here are some examples of not having your centre:

We all remember situations in life:
- when you are dealing with stressful situations or meeting someone who makes you feel nervous, suddenly you lose perspective of what you are doing and unable to be effective with your knowledge and skills.
- when practicing yoga, you're filled with tensions all over the body in your effort to achieve the pose.

It does not need to be that way.
By finding the centre and moving from and through it, you are able to free your movement, you are able to access more strength and flexibility without unnecessary tension both in the body and the mind.

As the body and mind are inseparable, re-aligning the body will naturally re-align the person. And remembering to stay in the centre mentally will help the body to come back to its centre too.
It is as simple as that.

Because your being will be more grounded and free, you will move with ease.
Your perspective on life will change.
How you relate to the world and how the world relates to you will change.

Finding your centre is the journey towards a powerful and exhilarating expression of your authenticity.

In this workshop, we will explore how we can find the centre in our body, using some movement exploration, vinyasa (sequenced yoga poses) and learn how to reflect it in our daily life.

Workshop - Opening The Senses July 19th 2009

2009-06-23T06:07:00.000-07:00

Primrose Hill Workshops with Aki Omori

Opening The Senses

The True Meaning of Pratyahara - The Tool For Clear Seeing
We live in an environment in which we are bombarded with constant stimulation. In order to cope, we shut down our senses, whether we are aware of it or not. Our sense organs become both tense and numb, and clear perception is obscured.

Because we are numbed, almost paradoxically we tend to seek for more sensations. Unconscious Yoga practice isn’t an exception.

Pratyahara, the 5th of the 8 limbs of yoga from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, holds the key to restoring our senses and helps us shift from blindly seeking more sensations to opening the senses for clear perception. Pratyahara is generally translated as ’withdrawal of the senses’. Its true meaning is often misunderstood leaving its potential unfulfilled in our practice.

In this workshop, we will look into the true meaning of pratyahara and how it can both enrich our asana practices and enhance the quality of our lives.

Having studied many styles of yoga, Aki Omori utilises the differences that each style offers and appreciates where they meet. Her style of teaching encourages students’ active involvement into enquiries, instead of them being passively taught. She runs workshops on Restorative Yoga and is an experienced Pranayama practitioner. She is trained in Structural Yoga Therapy and studies Somatic Movement Therapy.

Dedicated to Advaita (non-dual) teaching as well as Buddhist philosophy, she enjoys sharing meditation practices and dharma teachings with her students. This to her is the most important aspect of the practice. Aki’s classes are fun and light, and yet profound.

Sun 19 Jul 2009
At 5.00 - 7.00pm
£20

For booking -

Yoga Retreat - Ibiza, Spain, May 21-28, 2009

2009-02-09T15:28:00.000-08:00

Click individual photo to view

YOGA RETREAT IN IBIZA, SPAIN
MAY 21st - 28th 2009
WITH AKI OMORI

Come to a retreat with Aki and immerse yourself in daily practice at Villa Kumharas in Ibiza, Spain.
It is a totally natural, beautiful spot surrounded by sea views, pine forest, mountain paths in old rural Ibiza.
A perfect venue for a retreat.

DATE: May 21st - 28th 2009
VENUE: Villa Kumharas in Ibiza, Spain
COST: £610 for two people sharing.
(Possible option for £520 for 3 people sharing provided the room is filled with 3 people.)

Yoga Retreat
This is a yoga retreat and not just another holiday.
For those who wish to explore the practice to learn more about yourself through yoga.
It will allow you more time and space to go deeper and unlock some holdings you carry which are preventing you to be free - to be authentic.
Yoga practice ultimately comes down to knowing how to be kind to yourself and others by seeing the truth clearly through the authenticity of who you really are.
Each day, there will be practices of Asana, Meditation, Pranayama and some investigation into dharma & yogic teachings and how we can practice yoga both on and off the yoga mat. We’ll keep a part of each day in silence. You will enjoy this.
And yes, of course, we’ll have fun too!
As I always say, it will be light & open-hearted and fun but at the same time, very profound & brave...
I would like this week to be something like that and it usually is on my retreats.

Cost
* Twin Room with en-suite bathroom 610GBP
* Triple Room (Huge Master Bedroom with massive terrace) with shared bathroom 520GBP

Please note:
Triple room option is only available if the room is filled with 3 people willing to share with two other persons. Otherwise, everyone pays £610. If you wish to be one of the three, please state it as you book and we will let you know.

Included:
* All Yoga/Meditation Tuition for duration of retreat approx 5 hours per day
* Accommodation
* Vegetarian Brunch and Vegetarian Buffet Style Dinner all made with Fresh, healthy, local and where possible organic ingredients
* All day Tea/Coffee/Mineral Water

Not Included:
* Massage and Treatments
* Flights, transfers and Insurance

Booking and Payment
150 GBP per person secures reservation
All the bookings are taken by Gemma Mallol. Please see below for the details.
Please do make sure to email Aki to notify her of your booking.
Please state your name, address, contact number and email address as you book.

Payment by cheque to:
Gemma Mallol
17 The Meadows
Whitchurch
Bucks HP22 4TL
England

Or make bank transfer direct to:

Gemma Mallol
Nat West PLC
Sort Code: 52 10 03
Account No: 68665598
Swift Code BIC: NWBK GB 2L
IBAN: GB84 NWBK 5210 0368 6655 98

Please try to book early as the spaces are very limited (9 people) and also otherwise flights can become expensive.

Full payment of 610 GBP must then be received by 4 weeks before the start date.
Guests making international bank transfers must add 10 Euros to the cost of the retreat to cover international bank transfer charges.

The deposit is non-refundable and cancellation fees will be incurred as follows:
* Up to 4 weeks before start date - loss of deposit
* 4 to 2 weeks before start date - loss of 50% of total price
* 2 weeks or less - loss of 100% of price

About the venue
Set high in the hills of Ibiza with infinity Mediterranean sea views from the lawn, Villa Kumharas sleeps 10 people in 5 bedrooms. 3 of the bedrooms are en-suite, and there is an additional main bathroom. There is a sleek uber modern kitchen, large open plan dining area, huge indoor yoga shala of 80m2 with sea views (see photo with the red sofa), and many outdoor terraces and decks that can be used for yoga and meditation, al fresco dining or just purely hanging out. Villa Kumharas has a swimming pool, its own ample secluded grounds and is surrounded by rural paths where you can walk in all directions to typical quaint villages (a rare treat in Ibiza). The finca has been recently renovated using only the very highest quality materials and has a feel of elegant and homely simplicity, perfect for immersion in yoga. There are sabina wood beams throughout, both tiled and wooden floors, marble surfaces, balinese tiles and stonework, antique asian artifacts and decor, and stylish, comfortable furniture throughout. Villa Kumharas is centrally heated, and as such lovely in all seasons.
At the Ibiza Yoga Retreat we offer a diverse and delicious selection of vegetarian health food prepared and cooked by yoga people for our yoga guests. We use local fruit and vegetables and organic grains, pulses and rice. At Villa Kumharas we provide 2 meals per day. On a retreat there is a large brunch after yoga and a buffet style evening meal. Should guests require further snacks during the day there is an additional fresh juice and healthy snack menu. Guests are welcome to all day tea, coffee and mineral water. At the Ibiza Yoga Retreat we also provide a range of therapies, massages and extra-curricular activities for guests to choose from should they so wish.
The venue is normally rented out for much higher prices. This is their first year promotional price for their yoga retreats.

Contact
If you have any enquiry regarding booking, payment, traveling, anything else to do with the venue, please email or call Gemma Mallol.

Emails: gemma@ashtangaom.com / info@stillflowingyogateachertraining.com
Webpages: www.ashtangaom.com / www.stillflowingyogateachertraining.com
Spanish Mobile Number: 00 34 690681068

If you have any enquiry regarding the contents of the retreat, please speak or email
Aki directly.

mail@akiomori.com
+44-(0)7966-204-842

Getting there

NOTE: All enquiry regarding your traveling please contact Gemma Mallol at Villa Kumharas (see
below for contact info)
* Guests need to arrive on the Thursday and the first session is on Friday morning at a civilised
time so that you get adequate rest.
* A direct transfer is arranged by the venue from the airport to Villa Kumharas this will meet the Stanstead Ryan Air flight coming arriving in Ibiza on the Thursday evening. This will cost 7 Euros per person each way. Please let us know what time you are arriving as we need to know in advance to know how many cars to send.
* If you arrive on another flight you will need to get a taxi on your own to Villa Kumharas, nr. Cala Salada on the west side of the island.
We will email you a map. A taxi will cost you approx 25 Euros one way. If you get lost just stay at the entrance to Cala Salada beach and call or text and we will direct the cab driver to the house which is a few minutes drive away up the hill.
* It is perfectly acceptable to hire a car if you want to explore the island... again let us know if this is your idea and we will email you a map of how to get to Villa Kumharas.

Flights:
There are reasonable flights to Ibiza on many different airlines however Ryan Air from Stanstead is the best direct flight to Ibiza for May and coincides with the times of these retreats as it flies on the Thursday.... Teaching starts Friday morning...
* www.ryanair.com direct flights on Thursday – Stanstead - Ibiza
* www.easyjet.com for flights from Stanstead, Luton, Gatwick, Bristol and East Midlands and various other UK airports.
* www.skyscanner.net to check all flights

Yoga - when practiced daily, you will really feel the difference.

YOGA RETREAT in Morocco October 1st-8th, 2008

2008-04-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

This is a yoga retreat and not just another holiday.
For those who wish to deepen the practice and learn more about yoga than you can get from just weekly classes... And we’ll have fun too!

Yoga - practiced daily, you will really feel the difference.

Due to demand, I have decided to run a retreat this autumn.

Each day, there will be practices of Asana, Meditation, Pranayama and some investigation into dharma & yogic teachings and how we can practice yoga both on and off the yoga mat. We’ll keep a part of each day in silence. You will enjoy this.
We will spend the last day as a holiday to relax and enjoy other activities offered there before coming back to London.

It may be a nice idea to book a 2-week holiday to spend a few more days in Morocco afterwards, either at the venue or traveling around this amazing country. (If you would like to stay at the venue after the 8th, please contact the venue directly to book your room).

There are only 2 places left.

Details:
Date: October 1st – 8th 2008
Venue: Surfmaroc in Taghazout, Morocco
Cost: £690 p.p. (based on 2 people sharing) for 7 nights / 8 days.
It includes: accommodation, all the meals, transport from/to Agadir airport,
1 x meditation/pranayama session, 2 x yoga asana sessions/day.
Flights and travel insurance not included.
Single supplement available for £150

Booking:
Deposit: £250 deposit to secure your place.*
Cheque made payable to Aki Omori and send it to:
Aki Omori, Flat 10, 27 Bassett Road, London W10 6LB UK
(Please notify Aki prior to posting the cheque.)
*As the retreat date is approaching, the payment is now required in full.
It can be made either by cheque or be paid directly into Aki’s account.
Please contact Aki for the account details.

About the venue:
The venue, Surfmaroc is located in a small quiet fishing village of Taghazout, about an hour from Agadir in northern Morocco.
It offers beautiful Killer's Bay apartments and a lovely yoga space with the views of the ocean and mountains. For more pics of the accommodation.
They serve delicious, nutritious vegetarian meals.
There are many activities like surfing, walking, horse riding and other excursions for very Moroccan experiences offered at little extra cost. (i.e. £2 - £20)

About the flight:
Many companies fly directly from Gatwick to Agadir.
They are inexpensive this time of the year less than or around £200 for return.
Some of the cheap flights run on 7 or 14 nights basis and will be good if you are planning a 2 week holiday in Morocco.

For flight information and other FAQ

*About the deposit:
Please note that the deposit is non-refundable after June 30th.
Before June 30th, £150 will be refunded.
If you can find somebody else to take your space then all of the deposit will be refunded.

**About the retreat:
The week will be a precious time we take aside to retreat from our habitual ways of doing too much, being “on missions” or cluttering our minds with 'un-witnessed' thoughts. Instead, we'll make space within (and without) to be quiet, so we can meet who we really are when we allow ourselves to "be".
Daily practice of Yoga will help us through the process.
As I always say, it will be light & open-hearted and fun but at the same time, very profound & brave...
I would like this week to be something like that and it usually is on my retreats.
All that in the beautiful location of the Moroccan seaside.

Restorative Yoga workshops 2008 / 2009

2008-04-08T10:17:00.000-07:00

I am running a series of workshops on Restorative Yoga in and out of London. Please see the details bellow.
Please contact the venue/organizer for booking and other enquiries.
If you have any question about the restorative yoga, you can contact me directly.

Special Yoga Centre: Thursday 27th March 2008
(Kensal Rise, London)
Booking & Enquiry: 020-8968-1900

Somerset: Friday 28th & Sat 29th March 2008
(Bruton, Somerset)
Booking & Enquiry: 07985-013085 (Uma)

Special Yoga Centre: Thursday 24th April 2008
(Kensal Rise, London)
Booking & Enquiry: 020-8968-1900

Special Yoga Centre: Thursday 15th May 2008
(Kensal Rise, London)
Booking & Enquiry: 020-8968-1900

Special Yoga Centre: Thursday 19th June 2008
(Kensal Rise, London)
Booking & Enquiry: 020-8968-1900

Triyoga: Friday 29th June 2008
(Primrose Hill, London)
Booking & Enquiry: 020-7483-3344

British Wheel of Yoga: Sat 28th February 2009
(Cambridge)
Details to be added when ready.

ABOUT RESTORATIVE YOGA:
Yoga is now very popular everywhere and people are benefiting greatly from this ancient art and wisdom in all aspects of their lives. However, the current trend of the practice sometimes can be just a continuation of our habitual way which is another “self-improvement project”, a kind of pressure we put ourselves under.
The life styles we lead are often so busy and tend to deplete us of our energy. In order to get healthy we add yoga classes to our already busy schedule.

Of course yoga is beneficial, but striving in yoga practice is not always helpful when what we really need is to rest, relax and recharge. A lot of us find it difficult to find the time for deep relaxation and rest or worse still; we find it hard to give ourselves permission to rest and do nothing! Because “we are not supposed to!!” This pattern creates a vicious circle and will contribute toward decline in health in the long run.
We keep running on empty until we can no longer continue, reaching the point of sickness, emotional or mental break down.

What we really need to learn is how to rest when we need to, so we can carry on and enjoy our lives with good health.

Restorative Yoga practice will allow you to continue with your yoga practice without further depletion of the energy - and restore the energy that was lost.
"Restorative postures are adaptations of classic yoga postures during the practice of which you are passively supported by props, such as chairs, blankets or bolsters. Because you are supported, you do not have to use energy to get energy. Because the passive action reaches deep into the nervous system, the practice of these postures can dismantle chronic tension patterns, improve immune function, and bring the body and mind back to their original state of equilibrium." (Donna Farhi)

It is a beautiful practice of stillness and insight, which brings rich landscape of experiencing our inner-self.

Workshop 1: Introduction to Restorative Yoga
These are 2 hour lead classes to experience the Restorative Yoga. (They are not paired so you only need to take one of them – unless of course you wish to repeat.)
They are open to all levels of experience in Yoga including the beginners and those suffering from some physical conditions that are not able to participate in ordinary Asana practice.
Especially recommended for people who suffer from stress or fatigue.
If the case is severe, please contact Aki prior to the booking.

Workshop 2: Restorative Yoga for Teachers (Somerset workshop only)
For teachers who wish to learn how to practice restorative yoga in order both to include in their existing practice and to teach their students.
Attending one of the introductory sessions prior to attending this workshop is strongly recommended, as it will help you understand the nature of the practice better.

About Aki Omori:
Aki is a dedicated teacher who has studied with some of the world's greatest teachers. She encourages her students to recognize the subtler elements of their yoga practice by cultivating inner awareness.
She studied Restorative Yoga mainly with Judith Lasater, the leading teacher in this practice, and Donna Farhi.
Having realized its benefits, she now teaches Restorative Yoga extensively and leads workshops and courses across England.

WORKSHOP - "Finding The Ground As A Constant Partner" Sun 6th May @ Triyoga Primrose Hill

2007-04-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

FINDING THE GROUND AS A CONSTANT PARTNER
– FOUNDATION FOR VINYASA (SEQUENCED MOVEMENT) –

Date: Sun May 20th 2007
Time: 5 - 7 pm
Venue: Triyoga Primrose Hill
020-7483-3344
www.triyoga.co.uk

Begin to experience what it’s like to keep the breath free,
to find the ground as a constant partner when we move…

This is a unique workshop inspired by one of Aki's teachers from the US, Eric Stewart - it explores fun and incrediblly effective ways to learn how to be grounded and understand what it means to be grounded and then to experience how we can use this connection with the ground in movement through various excercises.

Contents description:
One of the most (if not the very most) fundamental elements when we practice yoga – either in stillness or in movement – is to be able to work with the ground.
Finding the ground as our constant partner while both in movement and in standing and seated poses means that there is a constant exchange of the forces between our body and the ground.

In order to find the ground, the breath must be free.
By protecting the lung space and finding just the right amount of tone (tension) in our body – the breath will be maintained as we move our body.

When joint spaces are closed and tight, the force (from gravity) and the fluid are blocked and prevent us from moving freely. When there’s space within the joints of the body, the force we receive from the ground will leap across the joints.
When you open up your door to let the force come back into your body from the ground, and at the same time able to give actively to the ground, it also allows the joint space to be open.

We can maintain continuous engagement from ground upward.

We will enjoy the continuous live connection to and from the ground through the structure of the body.

It's continuous and constant and that means as we move, or while we are even seemingly still, our relationship with the ground/gravity/force are constantly changing and while these constant changes occur (throughout our practice and our normal daily life) this connection continues and can be left alive.

An unbroken, continuous awareness while in movement = Constant changes = The most fundamental element in vynyasa flow.

We can be so sensitive to the subtlest movement in our body within the space / environment around us that it can give us a true sense of being alive in the present moment in our body. And this experience can help eliminate our false understanding that we are "a separate entity" in the universe. Because we are not!

In this workshop, we will explore this fundamental element through some playful exercises, and toward the end of the session, what we discovered will be applied in simple vinyasa and some standing poses to have a taste of staying alive & free during the vinyasa flow practice. The session will end with a restorative pose.

Suitable for people with little experience of yoga or experienced practitioners or even teachers.

Come and have fun and re-discover your constant partners – the breath and the ground.

Please contact Triyoga for booking information. Feel free to contact Aki for any enquiry for the contents.

From THE DHAMMAPADA "CHOICES" Translated by Thomas Byron

2007-02-27T15:01:00.000-08:00

This piece has always been my favourite from Dhammapada.
And I really like this translation.
Every line speaks directly to my soul... with lots of space around it.
When I first read it, I especially loved the line;
"You too shall pass away. Knowing this, how can you quarrel?"
Pema Chodron, another wonderful meditation teacher from Shambala tradition said 'when you look at someone, you are definitely looking at a dying person.' And knowing this has a very interesting effect on how we feel about the person.
When I try it, I am able to find more friendliness, compassion, love and forgiveness toward the person whether he/she is a benefactor or someone who caused pain and harm to me. (well, can be challenging, I know - but stil, even in heated emotions, it certainly creates some space)
Maybe you can have a go at this interesting experiment yourself and let me know what your experiences were. I'd be interested to hear from you.
Recently, my friend reminded me of something important. During a very casual conversation, he said 'we are here for a short time, right?' I was very grateful he'd said that.

Ram Dass, who wrote the preface to this edition of the Dhammapada, wrote "Read them slowly... a phrase at a time. Let them feed your soul."

So enjoy this piece, read it slowly, a phrase at a time, if you can. And maybe come back to it again and again whenever you are called back to it.

- - - - - - - -
CHOICES

We are what we think.
All that we are arises with our thoughts.
With our thoughts we make the world.
Speak or act with an impure mind
And trouble will follow you
As the wheel follows the ox that draws the cart.

We are what we think.
All that we are arises with our thoughts.
With our thoughts we make the world.
Speak or act with a pure mind
And happiness will follow you
As your shadow, unshakable.

“Look how he abused me and beat me,
How he threw me down and robbed me.”
Live with such thoughts and you live in hate.

“Look how he abused me and beat me,
How he threw me down and robbed me.”
Abandon such thoughts, and live in love.

In this world
Hate never yet dispelled hate.
Only love dispels hate.
This is the law,
Ancient and inexhaustible.

You too shall pass away.
Knowing this, how can you quarrel?

How easily the wind overturns a frail tree.
Seek happiness in the senses,
Indulge in food and sleep,
And you too will be uprooted.
The wind cannot overturn a mountain.
Temptation cannot touch the man
Who is awake, strong and humble,
Who masters himself and minds the law.

If a man’s thoughts are muddy,
If he is reckless and full of deceit,
How can he wear the yellow robe?

Whoever is master of his own nature,
Bright, clear and true,
He may indeed wear the yellow robe.

Mistaking the false for the true
And the true for the false,
You overlook the heart
And fill yourself with desire.

See the false as false,
The true as true.
Look into your heart.
Follow your nature.

An unreflecting mind is a poor roof.
Passion, like the rain, floods the house.
But if the roof is strong, there is shelter.

Whoever follows impure thoughts
Suffers in this world and the next.
In both worlds he suffers
And how greatly
When he sees the wrong he has done.

But whoever follows the law
Is joyful here and joyful there.
In both worlds he rejoices
And how greatly
When he sees the good he has done.

For great is the harvest in this world,
And greater still in the next.

However many holy words you read,
However many you speak,
What good will they do you
If you do not act upon them?

Are you a shepherd
Who counts another man’s sheep,
Never sharing the way?

Read as few words as you like
And speak fewer.
But act upon the law.

Give up the old ways –
Passion, enmity, folly.
Know the truth and find peace.
Share the way.

from The DHAMMAPADA
translated by Thomas Byrom

- - - - - - - -
About Dhammapada;
Dhammapada is a collection of the sayings of the Buddha.
They were probably first gathered in Northan India in the third century B.C., and originally written down in Sri Lanka in the first century B.C.

"Dhamma" means law, justice, righteousness, discipline, truth.
(I find that difficult whenever this word or "Braman" are attenpted to be put in words)
"Pada" means path, step, foot, foundation.

It was originally transmitted and recorded in Pali language and it's become the principal scripture for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

I just had to put this one up...

2007-02-20T06:44:00.000-08:00

The person who, being really on the Way, falls upon hard times in the world, will not, as a consequence, turn to that friend who offers him refuge and comfort and encourages their old self to survive.
Rather, he will seek out someone who will faithfully and inexorably help him to risk himself, so that he may endure the difficulty and pass courageously through it. Only to the extent that a person exposes himself over and over again to annihilation, can that which is indestructible be found within them. In this daring lies dignity and the spirit of true awakening.

Karlfried von Durkheim, Zen teacher

AHIMSA - Non Violence - From Yoga Sutras of Patanjali II-34, 35

2007-02-19T03:05:00.000-08:00

"Negative thoughts and emotions are violent, in that they cause injury to yourself and others, regardless of whether they are performed by you, done by others, or you permit them to be done.
They arise from greed, anger, or delusion regardless of whether they arise from mild, moderate, or esxcessive emotional intensity.
They result in endless misery and ignorance.
Therefore, when you consistently cultivate the opposite throughts and emotions, the unwholesome tendencies are gradually destroyed. (II-34)"
By abiding in nonviolence, one's presence creates an atmosphere in which hostility ceases. (II-35)

"Yoga Sutra of Patanjali" II-34, 35 (about Ahimsa)
Interpreted by Mukunda Stiles

I am putting this one up to share with you, one of the teachings from Yoga Sutras, to which I feel we can keep coming back over and over again.
In order to reflect on our thoughts and actions, to see if choices we make in our lives are truly serving us and others around us or not, and also to see if our thoughts & actions are aligned, in harmony in our being. (This leads to the teaching on truthfulness - satya, also from Yoga Sutras)

When we go deeply into this enquiry, we find (well, I do) some things are not so easy to put into practice. In fact, they can be very difficult indeed, when it gets closer to some insecurity that's hidden deeply in ourselves.
However, I also feel that we can always start with whatever we can now, no matter how small, and keep observing more challenging issues over a long period of time, with compassion and without judgment.

By doing so, I feel, we can return 'gradually' into the wholeness of our being - which ultimately leads to our freedom from the deeply seated fear that keeps driving us into unnecessary actions & reactions.
This process takes place sometimes with guidance from trusted others, whether it be a spiritual teacher or a good therapist to help us heal our our psychological wounds, and sometimes by learning to trust one's own self.

Over time, I've recognised that going down the negative thought path is somehow easier than staying positive and light, especially when going gets tough - which is interesting, because when we are suffering, we feel as though we are faced with difficulties - which is true in a sense, because that's how it really feels and it's real to us - but the true challenge actually lies in cultivating the opposite, despite the strong "pull" into indulging ourselves in more painful situations. And by allowing ourselves to continue to be pulled in that direction, we end up perpetuating our own suffering... make sense?
This painful on-going circle must be stopped, the pattern needs to be broken.

One day, it suddenly made very clear sense to me. And that was one of my fist true turning points.
Once seen, recognised and acknowleged with true honesty, then changes are already on their way...
And believe me, it can be done - though it may not seem so at times when our visions are so narrow and solid and so real and you believe that you are in the darkest place with no way out. Wait patiently, persistently and compassionately - you'll find a finest 'crack' in the solid darkness. Stay awake not to miss that crack!
The solidness is only in our mind = not real.
Or in other words, we needed to go through the solid darkness in order to truly recognise and appreciate the freedom and the strength we find in ourselves when finally come through. (It seems unfair for some of us sometimes. It'll always be unfair if we only identify ourselves as our personality with its history. Remember the big one!! Anyway, at least, nothing is your fault! And you have the power to change your thought. If you want to change your life, change your thought, someone told me. That's brilliant!)

We will go through those dark phases, long or short, big drama or small irritation, over and over again throughout our life time. Each time we come through, we are lighter and closer to the wholeness of our being - only to realise that it has always been there. We just like making D-tours.

We can take even a tiny little step toward getting out of negativity. And that is the courageous path of a spiritual warrior.
When failed, the important thing is simply NOT to dwell into our "failure" (= negative thought) and is to keep trying again and again with mindfulness and compassion.
I think that's brave.

On Teaching by Vanda

2007-02-01T05:41:00.000-08:00

I have had this excerpt from "Awakening The Spine" by Vanda Scaravelli on my wall for years.
As something to remind myself of what it is to teach yoga. It keeps my spine "awake", literally and metapholically!
I felt like putting this up as a new post today. So here it is.

- On Teaching -

To teach is an act of love.

To teach yoga is also a responsibility, because occasionally certain centres are awakened in which the energy released can be tremendously powerful.
This energy is not meant to be used for personal or egoistic purposes, but for other people's sake.

To teach implies also a certain vigilance and dedication in everyday life.
(This is why, in the past, this practice was limited to the very few.)
There are no good pupils, there are only good teachers.

Teaching is not an imposition of the teacher's will over that of the pupil, not at all. Teaching starts with freedom and ends with freedom.
A receptive state is required on the part of the pupil, a feeling of acceptance, even before the brain sees the truth of what is shown; an empty free space that one might call "innocence". It is from here that intelligence starts to function.
The aim of the teacher is to awaken interest and curiosity in the mind of the pupil, giving him a clear picture of the subject. His explanations should be so evident and logical that the pupil cannot but grasp the significance of what is said.

"Awakening The Spine" by Vanda Scaravelli

Welcome to akiomori.com

2007-01-16T09:58:00.000-08:00

Just to celebrate that I now have a website and blog so that you can check out all the information about yoga.