From Breath to Samādhi

This course presents yoga not as a relaxation technique but as a discipline for deliberately training the nervous system, moving between states of arousal and recovery on command rather than by chance. It builds from philosophical foundations, namely self-authority, truthfulness, and the idea that bliss is an inherent quality to be uncovered rather than produced, into practical tools for examining and reshaping automatic biases and reactions. Discernment is treated as a moment-to-moment skill, sharpened through attention and small acts of trust rather than fixed rules.

The course then moves into breathwork, distinguishing genuine prāṇāyāma, involving extended inhalation, exhalation, and retention, from simpler calming techniques. It explains why these methods are traditionally taught only once a strong foundation exists, and describes the broader effects practitioners report: a growing sense of awareness beyond the physical body and a lessened attachment to intrusive thoughts and symptoms. Together, the lessons trace a path from personal conduct through breath to the eight limbs of rāja yoga and samādhi.

About the Facilitators:

Josh Pryor is the CEO for Yoga Australia, a Mysore Style Yoga practitioner, author,
studio-owner, and life-long student.

Celia Roberts is a Senior yoga teacher and therapist, an award winning Mind-Body practitioner and among other qualifications, has a Bio-Medical Science degree.