Samyama Lab is a collaboration between South Asia Research Institute (SARI), Australian National University and Yoga Mandir where we work together to explore the meaning of Yoga and its practice in the modern world. Yoga Mandir will also work to expand the number of Remote Study groups and these participants may attend remote study group weekend workshops to enhance their skills. Those involved will be invited to contribute to and participate in the Samyama Lab events.
Samyama means integration. Samyama, from Sanskrit, refers to philosophical inquiry within South Asian traditions of Yoga. Lab, from Latin, connotes the spirit of collaborative empirical experimentation.
'Samyama is a technical word defining the integration of concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana) and absorption (samadhi). In samyama the three are a single thread, evolving from uninterrupted attention to samadhi'. (BKS Iyengar, Light on Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Thorsons 2002, p.182)
Yoga recognises that we do not always see things clearly. Our perception is shaped as much by our expectations as by the objects we interact with. Experience of objects varies between individuals and points in time. A Samyama is meant to remove the tendency to project our fears and desires and to see things clearly. A Reflective practice is the means to conduct a Samyama and through a reflective practice we begin a self-study (Svadhyaya).
Samyama refers to a process or means of knowing. Its said that when we conduct a Samyama upon an object we look beyond its projection on the mind and we look into the object. We come to understand the essence of the object by removing our thoughts and judgements. There will be opportunities to contribute and to participate in the study and practice of Yoga as well as attend future events.
Email mentor@yogamandir.com.au with your details and ask to be added to the list for updates on Samyama Lab events
Click on the link to read this introduction to Contemplative Practice by Alan Goode
An introduction to Samyama Lab will be running at ANU on 4 August in Canberra. Yoga, Ethics and the Body workshop details and booking can be found by clicking on this link to Yoga, Ethics and the Body workshop