Embodiment Practices

Yoga
Kripalu Yoga invites us to breath, relax, feel, watch and allow what is already here to arise and integrate we call the Body-Mind. Like James Joyce’s character Mr. Duffy who is described as “living a short distance from his body”, often we too create separateness arising from wanting things to be different which can physically manifest as stress, tension and unease.
Kripalu Yoga is Hoshiko’s go-to yoga practice and where he trained as a yoga teacher. Kripalu means “compassion” and all of the classes are designed to support “self-observation without judgment.” Often known for its gentle movements, calming breathing exercises, modifications, and emphasis on inquiry, Kripalu invites you to relax your mind and let go of tension in the body. Kripalu is all about being kind to yourself and going at your own pace. Imagine it like a peaceful flow for your body and mind.
Our classes are geared to support Zazen, the essential practice at every stage of Zen development. People engage with Zen Garland through the local Clear Lake Community for expert guidance on Kripalu Yoga and to explore your own unique relationship to yoga.
Aikido
The Japanese martial art of Aikido is generally more dynamic than yoga but aims to cultivate similar aspects of Body-Mind. Disillusioned by the horrors of World War, O’Sensei founded Aikido to embody a way of being that seeks harmony with all creation.
Many styles and teachers of Aikido exist today. Shinshin Toitso Aikido (Ki-Aikido) founded by Koichi Tohei Sensei created the Ki Society to spread the experience of mind and body oneness. Hoshiko is a student of Shinshin Toiso Aikido at the Shelton, CT dojo instructed by Head Instructor Buttiker Sensei of the Eastern Ki Federation. You can learn more about the Eastern Ki Federation on their website https://easternkifederation.org/index.html
