Practical philosophy
Slide from teacher training course
Yoga is about our relationship with everything. It's evolved over thousands of years, from seated meditation to sequenced postures. Most forms of practice develop concentration and connection, quietening the mind while building strength and flexibility.
Physical benefits aren't the ultimate objective. Originally, yogis strove for freedom from rebirth. Most practitioners today have different aims. We might get inspired by ancient texts, but their teachings don't always apply to the 21st century, unless reinterpreted.
Daniel blends scholarly knowledge with practical insight to make modern sense of timeless wisdom. His experience includes an MA in Traditions of Yoga and Meditation (from SOAS in London), and a dozen years of study with senior teachers round the world.
In addition to regular classes, he teaches courses on yoga philosophy for the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, and to teachers in training.
Latest
COURSES
A Brief History of Yoga
Daniel will be teaching live online, for four consecutive Sundays from 18 March. This course puts modern yoga into context, exploring where it comes from and what it is for. The cost for eight hours of interactive lectures is $127. Find out more and sign up here.
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Philosophy of Yoga
Daniel's next course for the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies starts on 22 April. There are seven weekly lessons, with additional reading and an optional essay. Including all materials, it costs £95 (or $120). Enrol via the OCHS website, which has more details.
Classes
Photo by Beth McDougall
Daniel's approach is dynamic and playfully challenging, combining Iyengar-style tips on technique with Ashtanga Vinyasa's breath-led flow.
Sequences vary to explore different postures. Some basic pranayama (yogic breathing) is also included, along with sitting in silence and extended relaxation.
All classes are general level. Beginners are welcome.
Schedule
Daniel is travelling at the moment. Regular classes will resume when he returns.
One-to-one
Everyone can benefit from customised guidance on their practice. Private classes can also be shared with friends or colleagues (the hourly charge remains the same). To schedule a session at home, at work or a studio, contact Daniel.
FAQ
Ganesha, "remover of obstacles"
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Comfortable, close-fitting clothes. Shorts or leggings and a vest or t-shirt are ideal.
DO I NEED OTHER KIT?
All equipment, including mats, is provided. You can bring your own if you prefer.
CAN I EAT BEFORE class?
It's good to leave two to three hours after eating meals. Less is OK if you have a light snack.
WHAT IF I’M PREGNANT / HAVE MEDICAL ISSUES?
Please contact Daniel to discuss this.
ANYTHING ELSE?
Let Daniel know before class if you have any injuries, or your period (when strong abdominal twists and inversions aren't advised). Please also let him know if you’d prefer not to be adjusted in postures.
IS YOGA RELIGIOUS?
Not unless you want it to be. The practice itself is non-dogmatic. It stills the mind to reduce confusion and distress. Focusing on postures helps achieve this. Other systems use symbols as meditative objects, including images of deities. In the end, what counts is practice, not belief.
About Daniel
Photo by Beth McDougall