Practical philosophy

Slide from teacher training course

Slide from teacher training course

Yoga is about our relationship with everything. It has evolved over thousands of years, from seated meditation to sequenced postures. Practices traditionally involve concentration and connection, stilling the mind while developing strength and flexibility.

The ultimate goal is transcendent. Originally, this meant freedom from rebirth. Practitioners today have other priorities. Although ancient texts are still inspiring, some of their teachings might need reinterpreting.

Combining scholarly knowledge with practical insight, Daniel makes modern sense of timeless wisdom. His experience includes an MA in Traditions of Yoga and Meditation (from SOAS in London), and fifteen years of study with senior teachers round the world.

He teaches online for the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, on teacher trainings and in workshops. He also works with private students.

Inquire about studies

Courses

ONLINE

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Philosophy of Yoga
Philosophy of Yoga

Daniel’s next online course for the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies begins on 13 January. There are seven weekly lessons on yoga philosophy, with supplementary reading, a forum for discussion and an optional essay at the end of the course. Including all materials, it costs £95 (or $120). Enrol via the OCHS website, which has more details.

A Brief History of Yoga
A Brief History of Yoga

In the past 2,500 years, yoga has evolved from a way of transcending the world to a multi-billion-dollar industry. But where did it come from and what was it for? A Brief History of Yoga is a four-week course that puts practice in context, presenting an overview of how it developed. Accessible and fun, it explores common themes in yogic teachings, and the extent of their relevance today.

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Roots of Yoga
Roots of Yoga

It was an honour to be part of this discussion with two of the foremost scholars on yoga, James Mallinson and Mark Singleton, reflecting on the work behind their book Roots of Yoga, which was published this year. The conversation took place in the members' room at the New York Society Library, and was filmed. An audio recording is available for download.

Classes

Photo by Beth McDougall

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.

About Daniel

Photo by Beth McDougall

Photo by Beth McDougall

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How I Found Yoga
How I Found Yoga

In some ways, my first yoga class was dull. I didn’t spontaneously levitate; nor were we asked to try, let alone fail, to wrap our knees behind our heads and lie down. Instead, we lined up on what felt like carpet underlay, in a room that resembled my junior school assembly hall. Back then, I was unemployed and depressed. The practice helped quieten my mind and freed up space for new ideas. Attending classes stopped me smoking too much dope. I felt re-energised, and eager to return. Many years later, I'm still learning.

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