As Yoga Bhoga's resident guru, Meghan Maris has dedicated her life to the passing on of the yogic traditions, lifestyle, and teaching philosophies. Alongside her partner in crime Scott Lennartz, Meghan is celebrating the closing of Yoga Bhoga's 6th annual Teacher Training. Yoga Bhoga is immensely proud of their sixteen graduates who successfully completed 200 hours of advanced study and self-practice. Check out some of our pics from the retreat below!
Good news for non-teaching students!!! You don't have to do teacher training to participate in deeper study with Meghan Maris. The interview below will give you insights into her upcoming immersion, teaching background, and teaching mission.
What is your background and teaching philosophy?
I began teaching in the winter of 2000. I was deeply enthusiastic about living the yogic lifestyle. So much so that it led me to live with my teachers in London for 3 years at the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center. (In light of the current events in Manchester, my heart goes out to all my beloved friends and spiritual family in the U.K). I returned to Portland in 2004 where I have been teaching the modalities of yoga ever since.
What yogic theories are you most passionate about teaching?
My philosophy of teaching yoga is manifold as there are so many aspects of the practice. Through the lens of the asana practice, I am most inspired to strike a balance between strengthening and lengething both the body and the mind. Perhaps where the asana practice can be the most profound is revealing how we move our bodies unconsciously by accessing parts of our body that are familiar places to move from. The alchemy of the asanas is to awaken us to the subtle aspects of our bodies and mind to utilize what has been neglected and contain what is unstable. I teach a class that is focused on breath inspired movement as a pathway to inner stillness.The physical practice is the spring board to explore the inner world. Penetrating our inner landscape requires a quietening of our minds. Our minds, however, only function to the degree in which we understand its workings. The ancient philosophies of yoga are present throughout what I offer.
How is the immersion different than a regular hatha class?
The Early Morning Immersion will be different than a regular class for a variety of reasons. One of the most simple and yet powerful reasons is the consistently of practicing with a regular sangha or community. Many people come to yoga seeking community and programs like the immersion are wonderful opportunites to support and grow with others. The immersion is inspired by Yoga Sutras 1.13 through 1.16. These particular sutras discuss the topic of abhyasa or practice. The intention is to explore how we can strengthen our practice through the understanding of how we can easily lose ground with it and how we can keep ourselves inspired and enthusiastic. I will be providing contemplative questions which the student will be welcome to explore throughout the immersion. I will also be providing guided instruction on a variety of breathing techniques which will be incorporated in our morning practices.
Is this workshop for more advanced practitioners or novices too?
Both long term students of yoga and novices alike will benefit from this immersion.
What exactly does this program include?
In the one hour what will we actually be doing????
The morning practices will include meditation, guided pranayama, and a strong, although accessible, asana practice. In addition, I will be offering questions pertaining to Yoga Sutras 1.13-1.16 for the students to contemplate through the two weeks. On the final Saturday, we will come together to share our experiences throughout the two weeks and wrap up the discussion.
For more information about Meghan visit her website at meghanmarisyoga.com.