All Workshops & Immersion Offerings
All workshops and immersions can be configured with varying parts lecture and practice. Practices include a variety of āsana (physical yoga), prānāyāma (breathwork), guided meditation, yoga nidrā, and other techniques. Duration of workshops is configurable as well; to meet the given time allotment. Offerings are most effective at 2 – 3 hours each (unless otherwise noted), but many are even more appropriate and rich when presented as multi-session (and / or multi-day) sessions of 2 – 3 hours each. Each offering is listed below, and following are detailed descriptions.
Meditation & Breath Work
Light on Prānāyāma: The Magic of Yogic Breathwork
Yoga Nidrā: The Path to Turiya
Meditation and its Practice
Sound Meditation Experience
Philosophy & Personal Growth
Clarity Workshop: Finding Your Path & Purpose (based on The Four Desires)
Yoga Philosophy 201: Buckle Up!
Find Your Voice! A Yoga Teacher’s Empowerment Training
Language of Yoga
Yoga Sūtra & Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā: An In-Depth Study
Āsana, Movement, Bodywork
Yoga Arm Balances and Inversions
Partner Yoga!
Intro to Thai Yoga Bodywork
Mindful Hands-On Assists Clinic
Yogāsana Posture Clinic: Who Made the Rules Anyway?
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga: Primary Series Immersion
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga: Intermediate Series Immersion
The Energetics of Yoga Sequencing
Moon, Sun, Fire: The Master Sequence of Haṭha Yoga
Lecture / Discussion
Karma: The Yogic Law of Harmony
The Truth About New Year’s Resolutions and Why They Don’t Work
Living Rāja Yoga
Religion, Spiritualism, and Materialism… What Should I Believe?!
Practical Guide to Yama and Niyama
The Evolution of Spirit
Emotions: Friends or Foes?
The Yin and Yang of Yoga
Detailed Descriptions
Meditation & Breath Work
Light on Prānāyāma: The Magic of Yogic Breathwork
This workshop is a journey through the theory and practice of prānāyāma as an integral part of yoga. It is equal parts lecture and practice. The āsana portion emphasizes guided breath work and meditation during the physical practice. Instruction draws from the teachings of Patañjali, theosophy, ParaYoga, tantra, and the book Ancient Wisdom for a New Age: A Practical Guide for Spiritual Growth, which Paul co-wrote.
Prānāyāma & meditation practices
What is prāna, and how can we use it to transform our lives?
The science of nādis, bandhas, and the etheric body
How to direct energy to achieve positive results
What are the largest obstacles in this practice?
Yoga Nidrā: The Easy Way to Dimension-Hop
You’ve heard the term, but what does it actually mean? Nidrā, translated from Sanskrit, means “sleep”. How is “yogic sleep” different from regular sleep? Is it the same as meditation? What are the different “dimensions” of consciousness that we can access through this practice? There are multiple approaches to yoga nidrā, with different intentions, but all include the principle of letting the physical body relax completely while the mind remains alert. The body moves into the sleep state and the mind is guided through a process of calming, then is directed toward more subtle experiences. Paul will share the foundational theories of yoga nidrā and guide students through several practices. Practices include light āsana and breath work, then students lay down on yoga mats for yoga nidrā.
Yoga nidrā for relaxation, healing, sharpening cognition, and spiritual awakening
Sankalpa shakti (the power of resolve); how to increase capacity of will and determination
Differences between yoga nidrā and traditional meditation
Yoga nidrā and the koshas; how to address each layer of our being
The four states of consciousness
Meditation and its Practice
Let’s demystify meditation! It’s not difficult and it’s not mysterious. It’s also, contrary to popular belief, making the mind go blank. It is a process of understanding, then regulating ourselves at our physical, emotional, mental, and eventually our spiritual dimensions. This process, in turn, begins to shape and direct our lives. To gain control of life, we must gain control of our thoughts, which is done through the practice of meditation. This workshop guides students through the theory and practice of meditation in Paul’s approachable and applicable fashion, emphasizing practical application of the teaching.
Meditation relating to stress relief
Meditation relating to building energy
Meditation relating to spirituality
Various techniques for learning focus and concentration
Understanding meditation as a process; and as a state of awareness
Learning the innumerable benefits that come from a regular practice!
Sound Meditation Experience
The sound meditation experience is not a workshop, but a gift of relaxation, bliss, and an energetic cleanse that will leave students feeling light, positive, peaceful, and has been said to even provide mental clarity and new ideas and insights! Participants are led through gentle movement and breath work to free up the energy in the physical body and starts to loosen heavy emotions and thoughts, then participants lie down and get comfy for a sonic journey through guided yoga nidrā and sound bowls, gong(s), and sometimes drums and other instruments. Very juicy indeed, and is a place where time, as we know it normally, stands still. 1 – 2 hours is ideal.
Philosophy & Personal Growth
Clarity Workshop: Finding Your Path & Purpose (based on The Four Desires)
How do we live our yoga off the mat? In its highest aspect, by becoming masters of our destiny. Until we become masters, we all have the power to shape the trajectory of our lives, achieve meaningful goals, and thoughtfully evaluate our circumstances in order to course-correct when necessary. This workshop gives us the tools. Join Paul on a journey of self-discovery as we boldly uncover aspects of ourselves that will inspire us to shine right now, today, and motivate us to work through that which dims our light. Based on the ancient Vedic concept of Purushārtha (intentions of the soul) and presented by the modern teachings of The Four Desires (book/workbook/courses by ParaYoga/Rod Stryker) along with other various supporting texts, students will leave with a tangible, specific, and appropriate roadmap for the next 6-18 months complete with fail-safes, and, an honest definition of possibly the biggest question of all: “what is my purpose in life”?! Each of the sessions build upon the last and it is strongly recommended that students attend all sessions for complete benefit. Tuition does not include The Four Desires Workbook ($25 paperback / $9.99 Kindle); not required but encouraged. Can’t wait to dive in together! This course is best suited as a 12-hour immersion and presented in multiple 2-hour or 3-hour sessions. This course is (and all others are) registered as continuing education credits with Yoga Alliance.
It's "goal setting on steroids"
We'll uncover our subconscious habits and patterns
We'll set conscious smaller monthly / annual goals that support our overall purpose
We'll discover reasons preventing us from achieving past goals
The majority of our time together is discussion, contemplation, writing/journaling, meditation, breathing, and yoga nidra (relaxation)… very little physical yoga is practiced.
A look into karma, vikalpa, and dharma, and how these forces inform our life’s path
The power of affirmation and manifestation through kriyashakti
Sankalpa shakti (the power of resolve); how to increase capacity of will and determination
Yoga Philosophy 201: Buckle Up!
Are you interested in the theory, intentions, and history behind the practices of yoga that we love doing? Is yoga more to you than just physical movements, stretching and sweating? Join Paul as he guides an exploratory journey into the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of classical yoga, in a holistic sense, with the aim to understand yoga as a worldview. How can we use these ancient teachings to inform our daily actions and modify our lives for the better? Is it actually possible to reduce suffering while navigating this chaotic world? Is life fair? Do we truly have free will? The study of yoga philosophy gives us these answers and more. This course is best suited as a 20-hour or (even more appropriately) 30-hour continuing education training and presented in multiple 2-hour or 3-hour sessions. This course (and all others) are registered as continuing education credits with Yoga Alliance.
Texts for study will include:
Yoga Sutras of Patañjali
Bhagavad Gita
"Theosophy: An Introductory Study Course" by John Algeo
"A New Earth" and "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle
"Ancient Wisdom for a New Age" by Terry Hunt and Paul Benedict
"The Masters and The Path" by C.W. Leadbeater
Additional topics of focus are:
How does karma operate in my life and what can I learn from it?
Is there an afterlife?
The nature of the human soul
The power of thought
The plan and purpose of physical existence
What is spirit?
Comparative religions and yoga
Developing clairvoyance
Find Your Voice! A Yoga Teacher’s Empowerment Training
Another of Paul’s signature workshops, found nowhere else, like this! Drawing from Paul’s 19 years in the business world as a Realtor, trainer, and employer, along with his 14 years of teaching in the yoga world in various capacities and his various public speaking engagements, Paul has created a training like no other. Think “public speaking 101” merged with motivational personal growth, spiritual training, and yoga philosophy to create a rich, immersive, and impactful program for participants. The basics of quality and effective communication will be taught, but more importantly, what holds us back from sharing our voice with the world? Elements of self-esteem, assertiveness, confidence, charisma, and compassion are all key points. The program also explores the even deeper concepts of dharma (purpose), kriyashakti (manifestation), and using our power to create the life of our dreams. This training is highly customizable and can be offered as a “teaser” session of 45 minutes to an hour, or as long as a multi-day training program.
Language of Yoga
This workshop is a practical, participatory adventure into the theory of Sanskrit, pronunciation, mythology and history of yoga āsanas and related terminology. Introductory-level exposure to Devanagari and grammar will be provided as well. Students will leave with a foundational understanding of the language of origin of yoga, and how to effectively use it to teach an effective yoga class. Best suited as a 1.5 - 2-hour workshop.
Yoga Sūtra & Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā: An In-Depth Study
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Āsana, Movement, Bodywork
Yoga Arm Balances and Inversions
This is a fun, dynamic, and physically expansive workshop for yoga practitioners who want to develop and strengthen their skill in balancing on arms, hands, head, and going upside down! A consistent physical asana practice is required for attendees, as well as an open mind and adventurous spirit! No prior experience with arm balances and inversions required!
Safety in lifting off the ground
Proper breathing, proper gaze, and proper focus before and during inversions
Proper entrance and exit from balances
Preparing joints and muscles
Using props to make balances accessible
Basic to intermediate arm balancing poses
Drills to improve balance and strength
“Uplifting”, “light”-hearted, fun experience and connection with community!
Partner Yoga!
This workshop is a fun, relaxing, and all-around good feeling partner yoga experience that is sure to stretch your boundaries and bodies and build beautiful bonds between besties, bros, better halves, buds, your blind date (yikes!), or basically anyone! Bring your mom! Bring your sister! Bring your spouse! But be open minded and prepared to use breath and movement together as we explore not only traditional partner yoga poses and flows, but also some Thai Yoga Bodywork and maybe a little (basic and accessible) arco yoga! A perfect start to an evening out or a perfect prep for rest. This workshop is best presented as a 2 or 3 hour session.
Couples only please!
Yoga experience not required but suggested
Appropriate for all levels
Intro to Thai Yoga Bodywork
We’ve all heard of Thai massage, but have you heard of incorporating more breath and yoga into it? This partner-based, experiential workshop is light-hearted, fun, and certainly very feel-good! This is hands-on and active, but also the recipient receives genuine, deliberate, accessible entry level Thai Yoga Bodywork from their partner. Based on traditional Thai, Thai Yoga Bodywork is considered by several cultures to be a sacred healing treatment that integrates Traditional Thai Medicine, energy theory, and Buddhist spiritual practices. This workshop is best presented as one a 90-minute to 3-hour session.
Mindful Hands-On Assists Clinic
The most effective yoga teachers are skilled with using not only verbal instruction but also connecting with students through physical touch. There is a vast array of methods by which to lead students through touch, from barely perceptible finger contact to firm pressure stabilization and posture-deepening contact. This clinic will expose students to the various types of touch, their intentions, the situations in which to use them, how to develop the “sensitivity” to know what is appropriate and when, and, possibly most importantly, when not to use physical touch at all. This clinic is dynamic, active, experiential, FUN, and requires a working knowledge of basic asanas in traditional level-1 yoga classes and is best presented as a single 3-hour session or multiple 2- or 3-hour sessions, up to a 20-hour full weekend training.
Clear understanding of types of assists and partner work to practice each type
Clear understanding of each asana and which assist(s) are most appropriate
Ethics of using physical touch in public and private instruction
Developing discernment and situational awareness
Understanding the energy that is transferred and received during physical touch
Methods to develop sensitivity to energy and how to direct it mindfully
Yogāsana Posture Clinic: Who Made the Rules Anyway?
Not only for yoga teachers! This posture clinic is for any and all yoga enthusiasts who want to step into the theory, intention, subtle energy, alignment, and into-level anatomy of the physical āsanas (postures) that we love practicing in yoga class! Students can expect lecture, discussion, demonstration, verbal cuing, key safety points, and active participation in a group setting. The question will be asked, “what is the right way?” This workshop is relatively fast-paced, higher energy, and fun for all while learning in a safe environment. Discussion on lineage, history, as well as modern adaptation of ancient practices will be presented, along with plenty of real-world practice relating to current public popular yoga styles.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga: Primary Series Immersion
Develop a working knowledge of the traditional (and arguably, the original) vinyasa style of physical yoga practiced in the western world, as taught by Patthabi Jois. Students will learn the structure of the practice, the specific methods employed throughout the sequence of physical postures, and the intentions behind them. Theory will be given relating to the development of the practice, and how its evolution has spawned countless other styles and teachers today. A distinction will be made between “formal” Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga, Ashtanga yoga as rāja yoga taught by Patañjali in the yoga sutras, and other styles of vinyasa yoga that appear similar to Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga. Emphasis will be place on the tristhana method; ujjayi prānāyāma (yogic breathing), bandhas (energy locks), and drishti (gaze). This immersion is best presented as 1, 2, or 3, 2-hour sessions.
***Not sanctioned nor acknowledged by any ashtanga-based organization or certifying body***
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga: Intermediate Series Immersion
Same as above, but instead focusing on the second or intermediate series of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.
The Energetics of Sequencing
A hallmark of a skilled yoga teacher; creating and guiding an intelligently crafted practice of āsana (postures), prānāyāma (breathing), shavāsana (relaxation), and meditation that, when woven together, produces a desired effect in the student. Intelligent sequencing applies to all areas of yoga: personal practice, led group classes, led private sessions, and anywhere yoga is taught and practiced… it truly is a must-have skill, or else a practice could be considered gymnastics, simply “a workout”, or can even produce undesirable effects when finished. Paul draws on his training and experience with hatha yoga, ayurveda, tantra yoga to present a holistic view of how mindful sequencing can transform a practitioner at a deep level. Of course, the physical postures will be addressed and emphasized, but this workshop goes much deeper! Best presented as a 2 – 3-hour session (or multiple sessions).
Moon, Sun, Fire: The Master Sequence of Haṭha Yoga
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Lecture / Discussion
***The following 6 offerings are best suited as lectures/discussions of 1 – 3 hours each and can incorporate guided yoga / meditation / breathing practices as well.***
Karma: The Yogic Law of Harmony
Is there such a thing as a “karma eraser”? What about vicarious atonement? Karma affects us every moment of our lives, so it is very important to understand more completely just how the practice of Karma Yoga works. Learn the importance of embracing your “unlearned life lessons” as easily as you do your “good” karma.
What is the Law of Harmony?
Is there such a thing as “good” karma and “bad” karma?
Do animals have karma?
Group karma – Why am I responsible for someone else’s karma?
Reincarnation – Are skandhas the same as karma?
What is meant by “the sins of the father?”
How do I get rid of karma?
The Truth About New Year’s Resolutions and Why They Don’t Work
80% of people who set new year’s resolutions do not achieve them. Why? It’s not that we don’t have motivation and it’s not that the changes would benefit out life. The answer lies within the laws of force or resistance (karma, in this case), the strength and control of our egos, and our relationship to the present moment and the power that presence provides. Paul is fascinated with human psychology and has studied the effects of natural human behavior in the context of yoga philosophy. This presentation shares valuable insights on how to step into the captain’s chair and steer our lives, rather than letting the sea winds dictate our ship’s course.
This talk is a prelude / teaser for the Clarity Workshop: Finding Your Path & Purpose, described above
Some concepts discussed:
The nature of time and how our brain processes it
The part of us that does the thinking, the part of us that feels, and then the part that witnesses.
The yogic way to set goals.
How to seed your subconscious with your intention.
Specific steps to water and grow the seed of your intention.
Understanding vikalpa and being honest about our inner resistance.
Am I willing to change habits? A practical roadmap to guide us.
Living Rāja Yoga
The teachings of classical yoga are ancient. We live in a modern world. How do the principals taught in the rāja yoga system apply to our lives today, and how do we achieve the universal objective of true happiness?
What is the nature of human emotions, and why do they exist?
What is the human ego, and what is its relationship to the soul?
How can we practice non-reaction?
The three modalities of awakened doing
What is time, and how did our concept of time evolve?
How do clairvoyants see the past and the future?
Your own meditation practice
How can I practice using the Power of Now?
Religion, Spiritualism, and Materialism… What Should I Believe?!
Are you searching for something… to give your life more meaning perhaps? To Answer questions about hardships and the confusing relationship between making money and “being a good person?” Might you struggle with the belief structure from your childhood and now how you see life? There are answers. There are teachers and there is peace… but which story is the right one? Seekers throughout time are presented with multiple paths of personal growth. Paul takes great pleasure in studying these various paths and simplifying the options available to us today, in our current western-world society so that you can gain some clarity on how the world works.
Some concepts discussed:
What does religion do for us?
How does religion relate to yoga?
What is the nature of God?
How does nature really work and what is my part in it?
The question of evil in the world.
What role do emotions play in religion, in yoga, and in materialism?
The five stages of grief
Is it truly possible to know ourselves?
Practical Guide to Yama and Niyama
Practicing yoga on a mat is only part of the story. Applying the concepts of yoga in your actual life will guide the serious student toward a life of intention, purpose, peace, and effect. The five Yamas and five Niyamas, as taught by Patañjali in his Yoga Sūtras are the roadmap for living, without which, the student cannot hope to make real progress on the path. The ancient scriptures lay out these life-practices, and Paul brings them into the modern day and gives tangible methods for using them as tools to figure out how life works.
How can ethics eliminate suffering for you?
Understanding where your current moral compass is pointing
What is honesty? What is dishonesty? How does this apply to yoga practice?
Learning to identify what is real, what is unreal, and why it matters
Viewing relationships from a higher perspective
Right use of energy
The Evolution of Spirit
In yogic philosophy, physical form is not the only aspect of nature that evolves. The consciousness that animates physical forms is on a journey of it’s own. The practice of yoga is the active acceleration of one’s own spiritual evolution.
The relationship of spirit and matter
Why do we suffer so much in life?
What is the purpose of living on earth?
How can we understand how life works?
The constitution of man
How do we achieve enlightenment?
What is our ultimate goal?
Emotions: Friends or Foes?
This is an exploration of the realm of human emotions, from anger to contentment, happiness to unhappiness, love to hatred, and all levels in between. For some, the roller coaster ride of emotions is exhausting, but for others it is the only thrill they know. Do emotions really serve the traveler on the Path to Enlightenment? How do we eliminate emotions, if that is our goal? Must we get rid of all emotions, or just the “bad” ones? How are emotions tied in with our personal ego? Together we will examine our emotional nature and come to a better understanding of emotions and the Spiritual Path.
What is the nature of human emotions, and why do they exist?
The evolution of human emotions
Is it important to control emotions or even eliminate them?
What is the difference between kāma-manas and buddhi-manas?
The power of emotions
How can we practice non-reaction?
The emotional aura and what it reveals
The Yin and Yang of Yoga
This presentation elucidates the correlation between the classical teachings of Patañjali and modern physical yoga practice. The dynamics of this yin and yang relationship is imperative for all serious yogic students to understand, if one is to reach the heights available on the path of yoga.
The Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali – beyond the 8 limbs
What is the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā, and how is it the foundation for physical practice?
The seven schools of yoga
Āsana practice with a higher purpose – how to make your yoga practice more spiritual
What is mental yoga, and why is it the core of yoga practice?