Day 1 (Finding the Ney) **1. Pick a chakra healing and describe how you would teach a student to find the ney, or crucial point, of that chakra.** Answers will vary. There are many inner and outer methods in the Lady Niguma system that allow us to “find the ney”. These include: 1. Chakra breathing 2. Visualization of the ne 3. Listening for the sound of the bija syllables at the ne 4. The very process of twist, stretch, gather, and distribute in the asana sequence itself will help us bring our attention and prana to these crucial points 5. Explaining the concept of lung sem jukpa chikpa (the wind and mind ride as one) will also help a student understand the concept of a crucial point and how to bring prana/attention there 6. Anatomical Landmarks **2. If a student said they couldn’t feel any of their chakras, what advice would you give them?** Answers will vary. It is important for students not to worry about not being able to feel their chakras. The focus should be on doing the practices consistently, correctly, and over a long period of time. Then the results will come. (Principles of Alignment 1) **1. Form in Yoga Alignment:** a. Is always more important than function b. Is just as important as function c. Is not as important as function d. All of the above **2. Tristhana is:** a. The trifecta of bandha, ujayi, and drshti in one technique b. Only meant for advanced practitioners c. The first thing that everyone learns when practicing asana d. All of the above **3. Anuloma, Viloma, Anuloma:** a. Is strictly referring to a breathing technique b. Is an approach to alignment that can be universal c. The only way to practice alignment in Yoga d. All of the above **4. Mulabandha is:** a. Strictly lifting the pelvic floor b. Bonding attention to the pelvis, legs and feet c. Detecting and directing subtle energy to cultivate stability & ease d. All of the above (Tristhana II) **1. What is the purpose of practicing Bandhas, and how do they impact the flow of energy in the body?** Bandhas are energy locks that redirect prana, promoting the upward flow of energy through the central channel (sushumna) to deepen the yoga practice and transform afflictions into bliss and wisdom. **2. How can refining Drshti enhance your awareness both on and off the mat?** Refining Drsti teaches you to maintain focus while staying aware of peripheral distractions, helping cultivate mindfulness and presence in both practice and daily life. **3. In what ways can you integrate Tristhana into your daily routine outside of a formal yoga practice?** Tristhana can be integrated by practicing mindful breathing, maintaining focus and awareness in daily activities, and using Bandhas to control emotional and energetic responses. (Elements Workshop – Space) 1. **How can you offer space to others in daily situations such as work, driving, or social interactions?** Reflect on real-life examples where you can apply the concept of offering space to others. You can offer space by practicing patience, understanding, and non-judgment in interactions. For example, at work, you might listen more attentively to colleagues, giving them time to express their thoughts without interruption. While driving, you could allow other drivers to merge without rushing or honking, creating a calmer experience for everyone. In social settings, offering space might mean respecting others' opinions and emotions, even when they differ from your own, fostering a sense of ease and respect in relationships. 2. **Why is it important to balance space with other elements within your body and external life?** Consider how internal and external balance contributes to personal and collective well-being. Balancing space with other elements—such as air, fire, water, and earth—creates harmony within the body and mind, promoting physical, emotional, and mental well-being. When space is balanced internally, it helps us stay calm, centered, and open to new possibilities. Externally, balancing space allows us to approach life’s challenges with greater flexibility and compassion. It ensures that we maintain respectful boundaries with others and create environments where peace and cooperation thrive. 3. **What role does space play in helping individuals or communities in need (such as during natural disasters or personal suffering)?** Reflect on how you can use the practice of offering space to support those facing challenges. Space allows us to offer empathy, compassion, and support without overwhelming or intruding on others. When individuals or communities face challenges—like natural disasters or personal struggles—offering space means being present for them while respecting their process of healing or recovery. It helps create an environment where people feel safe to express themselves and work through their difficulties. By holding space for others, we contribute to their well-being without imposing our solutions, fostering a sense of shared support and understanding.