This online workshop explores how yogic texts can provide inspiration in times of adversity. Although their goals involve withdrawal from worldly life, they also promote peace of mind and harmonious relationships. Drawing on traditional texts, we'll reflect on their meanings in practical ways and see how their teachings relate to our lives. Yoga began as a way to escape from the cycle of births, so we’ll consider how this differs from modern priorities and ask if ancient texts need reinterpreting. This will spark new ideas for putting philosophy into practice.

A wide-ranging talk at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies. Originally titled “Tantric Sex, the Kama Sutra and Yoga,” it explored the distinctions between sexual rituals and physical pleasure, as well as the function of yogic techniques. This was part of a weekend school in Oxford in March 2020, which was later repeated online with new materials. You can stream the full programme here, including an updated version of this talk.

Is yoga the practice, or the state it results in? Where did it come from and what is it for? It's often said yoga means “union”, but with what? How do modern classes relate to what's taught in ancient texts? If you’re curious about yoga philosophy, this afternoon workshop will help you explore it in practical ways. We’ll look at a range of definitions of yoga from traditional texts and put some of their theory into practice. The venue is Globe House Yoga, near London Bridge (Saturday, 9 November, 2:00 - 4:00 pm). Contact Daniel to book.

In the past 2,500 years, yoga has evolved from a way of transcending the world to a multi-billion-dollar industry. But where did it come from and what was it for? A Brief History of Yoga is a four-week course that puts practice in context, presenting an overview of how it developed. Accessible and fun, combined with academic depth, it explores common themes in yogic teachings, and their relevance today.