Centered Yoga Advanced Teacher Training Courses
Classical Philosophy & the Breath:
Course Introduction by Dr. Paul D
What to expect on a typical day during this training.
Dr. Paul D explains the Pathways to becoming a registered 500 hour Yoga Teacher with Centered Yoga at Samahita Retreat
Where exactly 'is' the third eye? It may not be quite as you think. Paul Explains.
Arielle Nash introduces upcoming Advanced TT course coming up at Samahita Retreat July 2023
Practice Janu Sirsasana - more than just a forward bend. Find the symmetry in the asymmetry while supporting deep in the core of the body. Watch now with Daniel
Once pre nauli has been established it's time to learn central nauli and the churning. Here Paul Dallaghan explains while Gill Breetzke and Daniel Stringer demonstrate the stages.
Marichyasana A - Why would you do this pose? Is it just awkward or can it give some benefits, even if you only do the basic version, sitting up on a block? Take your time with it and you can begin to create space and support in the pelvis to lower back. Slowly, daily, bit-by-bit.
Paul demonstrates a simple technique to release the neck. Also known as Brahma Mudra
How much do you really understand about the origins of Hathayoga? Paul gives a quick lesson on Hathayoga's developmental period. Watch now
Gill Breetzke teaches side plank (vashistasana) in 1 Minute. A great pose for improving strength along the lateral lines and improving stability of the shoulder girdle. Watch, learn then practice.
Paul explains the traditional practice of Bhramari (the bee). Watch and practice in 1 minute hmmmmmm.
In similar good news, Thailand fully reopens its quarantine-free travel process on February 1st. This means its Test&Go program is available on the ThaiPass website from February 1st on.
What this means is you can fly into Bangkok or Samui, do a PCR test the first night, then free to travel and stay wherever after that. So if you land in Bangkok then it’s easy to fly from Bangkok to Samui, the next morning. If you fly into Samui direct then after night one you are free to travel on Samui.
Either way, it is easy to get to Samahita.
Latest update on travel to Samui as announced on January 11th, 2022:
You can travel to Samui WITHOUT any quarantine on the SAMUI SANDBOX program.
Does Yoga mean Union? In some sense it does as a literal translation of the word "Yoga" but this is not necessarily the case in relation to yoga as a we understand it now. Learn more and watch this video with Paul.
Learn the key points for Salutation A in 1 minute with Gill and Daniel - Just give yourself a little more time to practice!
The first in a series of 1 Minute Yoga Explained videos. Paul answers the pertinent question "What is Yoga?"
Looking for a simple CORE routine? Daniel teaches a simple dish in 1 minute. Watch then practice.
Where does gratitude fit into your practice? How to cultivate gratitude in a contemplative meditation with Paul
Learn Sitali Pranayama - A breathing technique using a rolled tongue to induce a cooling anti inflammatory effect.
How to incorporate guidance, or asking for help, in your contemplative meditation with Paul
Yoga at its core means the connection with that which does not change, with pure consciousness, with everything that is beyond what you perceive or cognize, with the ‘other’, with the ‘not this’, with what is truly internal, with what some call one’s true nature, with what others call the Divine.
Lower back pain? Try this sequence of postures to strengthen and support your spine. Please note, this is just a quick demonstration of the postures for reference. The actual practice requires time, effort and intelligence to take effect.
1 Minute Yoga - Shakes. Try this energy circulation practice to get moving in the morning.
Paul teaches a simple breathing technique to get you started in breathwork and pranayama.
What are the best yoga techniques for your face? Paul teaches the Lion and Tongue Lock (Simha Mudra & Jiva Bandha)
Learn the key points for Downward Facing Dog with Paul and Sarah in 1 minute
Paul teaches how to go deeper within and process deeper blockages with self-compassion.
Paul teaches how to reach your arms up and dive forwards during a sun salutation without hurting your hamstrings and lower back.
Paul gives a positive message for the years ahead and teaches a practice to help us move on and let go of events of the previous year.
Paul presents the contemplative meditation of forgiveness. If we don't forgive we can't let go & if we don't let go nothing changes.
Pranayama & Ayurveda and the importance of practicing with a teacher
Where does gratitude fit into your practice? How to cultivate gratitude in a contemplative meditation with Paul Dallaghan.
Paul discusses the purpose and value of conducting scientific research into yoga practices.
Bujapidasana, Kurmasana & Garba Pindasana not the easiest set of postures & transitions. Paul takes the challenge
1 Minute Yoga - Four women demonstrate four different stages of Nauli. Whatever your level watch this to learn how to move through the different levels of nauli
Paul was asked about his yoga journey and how that led to opening Samahita almost 20 years ago.
Sri O. P. Tiwari explains how the nose should be held correctly for pranayama practice and explains the origins of this in the traditional hatha yoga texts.
1 Minute Yoga - How to sit with Paul Dallaghan. Many people find the discomfort of sitting with cross legs an obstacle before getting started with meditation or breath practices. This video demonstrates how to sit on a chair, or raised surface, for meditation and to further develop that into a cross legged sitting posture.
Paul Dallaghan talks about some key events from his life in yoga.
Lead us from darkness into light - or is that from light into darkness? Expect the unexpected.
Paul teaches a simple standing sequence perfect for readjusting our spine and relieving discomfort in the lower back.
What are the benefits of pranayama? Sri O. P. Tiwari explains briefly how pranayama allows us to see reality for what it is and not as it appears.
Learn Pre Nauli and Central Nauli.
Paul Dallaghan explains how to breath, use the diaphragmatic lift and how to use the abs for central nauli.
Central Nauli and Nauli churning explained clearly by Paul Dallaghan with Gill Breetzke and Daniel Stringer.
Feel Love Experience Joy! - What does it really mean to practice Yoga? Here, Paul Dallaghan offers his humble reflections and insight into the true nature and purpose of practice. Originally shot just over 8 years ago with music and voice of Daphne Tse. Recut by Gray Bashew this video still has the impact of the original.
What is Pre Nauli and how does it work? Watch Paul Dallaghan demo and explain in 1 min then give it a try.
CORE: Learn variations of the DISH
Daniel Stringer teaches fundamental core techniques building up to variations of the dish. Follow the full video to get it right without straining your lower back or neck.
Paul talks about the importance of having personal space, practice and making the most of challenging times for growth.
Are you ready for the next challenge? Work your core with these consecutive, timed core exercises with Paul. Give it a try and share with us. Good Luck! #YOGICORECHALLENGE
At Samahita we stand firmly against racism and discrimination of any kind. We offer this 20 minute meditation for being in the heart and to spread healing love to a world that is suffering right now. An active heart support of solidarity, and against needless
prejudiced violence, in the US and beyond.
Richard Freeman explains and chants shanti mantra Pūrṇamadaḥ Pūrṇamidaṃ from the Isa Upanishad. Originally filmed live at Samahita Retreat
Samahita Live - Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor talk about the nature and value of thinking in spiritual tradition. Watch to the end to see Richard Freemans 70th Birthday Surprise.
Have you tried the one armed handstand challenge? It may be difficult to master but follow these steps with Daniel to get started, keep practicing and surprise yourself? Be careful with your wrists, don't force it. Take rest when needed. Good Luck!
Paul is Alone at Samahita. Will he make it through the international Covid 19 lockdown or will delusion, hallucinations and insanity overcome him?
If you know our Chef well, she is always making new creations. This wonderful falafel recipe is very yummy. You should try! Using sprouted mung beans instead allows for the falafels to stay extra moist and also gives the dish more protein.We hope you enjoy. Please tag us and send in your photos of your creations! We’d love to see!
Paul Interviews Richard & Mary on the Samahita Couch. Light hearted debate with some deep reflection. Expect the unexpected from 2 special unannounced guests!
Richard Freeman explains and chants verses from the Aparoksanubhuti. Learn the truth of Mula Bandha, it may not be as expected.
Trivia question: How many vertebrae does the human spine have? You may say 5 but some people have 6, including Paul Dallaghan.
If you're looking for something to help ease back pain or simply want to improve strength and mobility of your spine then watch this.
Have you tried the Yogi Burpee Challenge?
Watch Paul and the team show you how it's done then give it a go and tag #yogiburpeechallenge
Paul Answers questions on Yoga, Pranayama and Life
Originally streamed live from Samahita on 17 April 2020
Interview with Paul Dallaghan:
What to do if You're stressed out and on edge.
recorded at Samahita Retreat during Covid 19 lockdown
Richard Freeman Chanting from the Hatha Pradipika streamed live today at Samahita. @freemantayloryoga
..
suṣhumṇāyai kuṇḍalinyai sudhāyai chandra-janmane |
manonmanyai namastubhyaṃ mahā-śaktyai chid-ātmane || 64 ||
.
Salutations to Thee, O Suṣumnâ, to Thee O Kuṇḍalinî, to Thee O Sudhâ, born of Chandra, to Thee O Manomnanî! to Thee O great power, energy and the intelligent spirit.
.
Hatha Pradipika
सुष्हुम्णायै कुण्डलिन्यै सुधायै छन्द्र-जन्मने |
मनोन्मन्यै नमस्तुभ्यं महा-शक्त्यै छिद-आत्मने || ६४ ||
Keep up your home practice with the Samahita Team. Learn Warrior 1, 2 & 3 and transitions for your Vinyasa Yoga Practice. Smooth transitions plus handstand press.
These are challenging times for all - individuals and business alike. Paul Dallaghan talks about Samahita Retreat in "stealth mode" and the community of staff we support and depend on.
Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor's Samahita Live event “Leaning into the Curve; Grounded, Compassionate and Clear in the Midst of it All” Originally streamed live on April 3rd, 2020
Overcoming Fear
Paul Dallaghan guides us through a contemplative meditation to help overcome fear
Contemplative Meditation with Paul Dallaghan
Get Centered with Contemplative Meditation with Paul Dallaghan. Listen and be guided through Gratitude, Forgiveness, Compassion and more.
Find a comfortable place to lie down for a relaxing 10 minute body scan tonight with our teacher @Sarah Pierroz and some beautiful music by the Icelandic beauty @Arnbjörg Kristín Konráðsdóttir, sharing her version of the Prayer for Wellbeing.
ॐ सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः
सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः ।
सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु
मा कश्चिद्दुःखभाग्भवेत् ।
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥
Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
Sarve Santu Niraamayaah |
Sarve Bhadraanni Pashyantu
Maa Kashcid-Duhkha-Bhaag-Bhavet |
Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih ||
Om, may all be happy,
May all be free from illness.
May all see what is auspicious,
May no one suffer.
Om Peace, Peace, Peace.
Downward Facing Dog - the one posture you are guaranteed to practice, and teach, in a yoga class. Get started, or refreshed, with this video for some tips on practicing and helping others with assists.
How to breathe is rudimentary to life yet a faculty that tends to deteriorate as life goes on. We breathe all the time but our functionality of that breath process, in many people today, is inefficient and impaired, which leads to a host of other physical and mental issues as well as its effect on the aging process. Watch this video to learn the essentials.
Learn to make popular Thai classic Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad) with Chef Nui at Samahita Retreat. A delicious tangy and spicy raw food salad with peanuts. Want to learn more? This recipe and others are in the Samahita Cookbook. Watch this video and other recipes here.
Many people wish for a long and healthy life and for those who make an effort to achieve it would probably begin with getting more exercise and eating a healthier diet. That will definitely make a difference but the question remains, what works and why?
Our signature program YogaCoreCycle combines all practices available at Samahita but is it fun? Paul mentions how there needs to be a sense of lightness and fun to what we do especially if we are to keep it up for years to come.
Full of life and atmosphere with music, dance and great food here at Samahita during the Christmas and New Year Retreat. Watch this for a taste and make sure you book early for next year.
Are you still trying to get rid of that back pain? Ara Hwang shows us some massage techniques using the palms, thumbs, elbows and knees guaranteed to give immediate relief. Find a friend or treat your partner to some relief (or visit Samahita and get the full massage)
Beach fires are a regular feature of Samahita life. This week we were lucky to have Daphne Tse singing and Matthew Cohen for Qi Gong and story telling. This video captures the mood of the evening with the delightful voice of Daphne. Watch Now
The Centered Yoga Apprenticeship is becoming a popular choice for our TT graduates to spend extra time at Samahita and build on what they've learnt in the foundation course. Tony Fossani shares his experience and describes how he developed new skills and confidence in teaching plus what it's like spending an extra month by the beach.
In his familiar witty and friendly way Paul talks about what to expect on the Christmas and New Year retreat. It's more than just a holiday on the beach (but that's still an option!) Video by Sarah Pierroz Watch Now
Christmas & New Years Retreat a is a special time at Samahita with live performance from acclaimed musicians Bibi McGill and John De Kadt. Not to mention the great food, great people and everything else Samahita has to offer. Watch these performances again and come back for the 2019-2020 retreat.
Neck pain is extremely common especially in today’s world of phones and screens. Well, help is at hand. We caught up with Ara and Gill by the pool to learn some great techniques to help relive neck tension. Watch now and try with a friend.
Neck pain is extremely common especially in today's world of phones and screens. Well, help is at hand. We caught up with Ara and Gill by the pool to learn some great techniques to help relive neck tension. Watch now and try with a friend.
The spine, shoulders, neck and sub-occipital muscles will all get the attention they deserve. Techniques include effleurage, pinching, thumb pressing, forearm rolling, stretching and more.
Samahita has always been committed to sustainability and actively supporting the local environment. Here are a few ways we put this into practice with our staff and guests taking part. Watch Now
Samahita continues to offer innovative and unique programs. Learn more about our exciting new Brain Health Upgrade Program in this new video. Stemming from the P.H.D studies of Paul Dallaghan, BHU is designed to optimize the functioning of your most important bodily organ through a combination Light Therapy, Audio Visual Entrainment, EEG biofeedback meditation and optimized nutrition all with one-on-one guidance and support. How healthy is your brain? See this video now.
"Divine being, have mercy on me. Come, reside in my heart. Without you, I feel an emptiness. Fill up my hollow entity with love."
Prabhujee Daya Karo, performed beautifully by Hiroyuki Matsuhisa, Gillian Breetzke & Eela Dubey during Classical Pranayama Training with Sri O. P. Tiwari August 2019
Samahita Founder, Yogi, Scientist and all round fun guy Paul Dallaghan introduces himself. For those who haven't met him or know him all too well this video is still a must see.
Chef Nui prepares new Samahita dish warm broccoli salad with kale, lime & tamari almonds. Watch this video for full recipe and instructions here.
Explore the natural beauty at the heart of Samahita. Our glorious spaces where we practice, gather, dine and sleep. The immediate natural environment on the beach and venturing further afield to temples, waterfalls and remote islands.
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Is a method of training in intensive short bursts to improve cardiac output and muscular power. The exercises are repeated continuously for 30 seconds followed by 15 seconds rest. It is a great way to improve your physical fitness within a shorter time span. We've put together this workout video on our beach to get you started.
Sri O. P. Tiwari gives a simple and clear explanation of the purpose of pranayama and its relationship with the mind. It is through breath control that the negative effects of the mind can be overcome.
Everyone has their own unique experience on the Centered Yoga 200hr Teacher Training. Emilia talks about her challenges and growth during the May 2019 course
If you're asking the question what is breathwork? Watch this. Paul gives a concise answer in this video from his perspective in relation to research and tradition.
Sri. O. P. Tiwari and Paul Dallaghan discuss ongoing scientific research into the practices of yoga and pranayama. Paul explains the vision and motives of conducting this research and how it relates to peoples lives
Lineage and Parampara
Paul Dallaghan introduces his teacher Sri O. P. Tiwari. Tiwariji talks about how he was introduced to his teacher Swami Kuvalayananda and the scientific work he undertook with a fundamental belief that yoga has a message for humanity in body, mind and soul. See video
“Why do Yoga Research?”, an interview with Paul Dallaghan, is excerpt from “Looking In”: a documentary into a Yoga Scientific Research Study”, by Sarah Pierroz.
In January 2019 Paul Dallaghan designed and undertook one of the most comprehensive controlled research projects on yoga to date, carried out at the original center for yoga research since 1924, Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavla, India.
YogaCoreCycle offers a complete holistic approach for your mind and body. Your health, fitness, and overall wellbeing are supported through a broad spectrum of physical activity, breathwork and mindful meditation practices in a dedicated and natural environment with life-giving delicious food.
Are you ready to take your Yoga Education to the next level? Arielle Nash introduces her 100 hour Advanced Anatomy Teacher Training for yoga teachers and movement specialists. This course forms part of the Centered Yoga 500 hour Yoga Teacher Training at Samahita Retreat,
Gill was born in South Africa, and has lived abroad in the UK, Ireland and Asia. She began her international teaching career, working in Inner city London schools, supporting children from challenging backgrounds, then on to Dublin and Yangon. Koh Samui is now her home where she combines her love of yoga and music in this unique transformational place.
Green Soup is a staple on the Samahita buffet. Usually eaten by Detox guests but great for anyone who needs a good dose of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. High in Chlorella, containing all essential amino acids. Cook at Home and enjoy.
If you're staying at Samahita take this weekly complementary boat trip to Koh Taan. Enjoy snorkelling and take a break at this lovely tropical island. Appreciate the full depth and beauty of the Gulf of Thailand.
Have you really seen and appreciated the tropical environment of Koh Samui? Ara and Daniel took a trip to a Hin Laad waterfall on Koh Samui to enjoy nature and practice this awesome mobility and strength flow sequence.
When I think about the origin story of “Centered Yoga”, I remember a time in New York where yoga was not as widely practiced. I was making my way through university working as a trainer in Crunch Fitness gym before and after a long day of classes and it was one of my clients who I think saw how stressed I was and recommended I take Paul’s class. She kept reminding me and finally I gave it a go.
Samahita Guest Jason talks about what he discovered at Samahita and why he'll keep coming back!
This video introduces the Centered Yoga Pranayama training. This practice of pranayama is part of a living tradition. Paul has learnt the full practice in a special one-to-one capacity over the past 20 years with Tiwariji
5 exercises to strengthen your glutes with Alexandra, our health coach & personal trainer here at Samahita. Strengthening your glutes is vital, as the muscles work along with your core in almost any exercise that involves the extension of the hip. Strong glutes can also help prevent knee and lower back pain.
Dr. Al Scopp talks about his early years discovering yoga and being one of the first students to practice with Swami Satchidananda in New York, working at a pioneering neurology lab at Duke university in the 70’s and conducting some of the earliest experiments into biofeedback including testing Swami Satchidananda’s brainwaves and, more recently, conducts anti-aging seminars for medical professionals.
Time to hit the Samahita beach and work your upper body and core. So Diawpradit demonstrates his short but challenging routine. No equipment required, just bring some determination.
Introducing the Samahita teaching team. So Diawpradit was born and raised in Koh Phanghan, Thailand. He has been at Samahita since 2009 and enjoys helping others reach their fitness goals. His vast experience in fitness and free-weight training, body weight resistance training, TRX, kettlebells, and passion for sports, such as Muay Thai, Football and running, will help you have a enjoyable and challenging session. See Video
Nabs Hadi sings his poem On the Path of Spiritual Love at Samahita Retreat new years eve party 2018-19. Sang in Kurdish.
Improve Core Stability and Hip Mobility with this Flow Sequence
with Ara Hwang
The power of thought - Paul Dallaghan responds to a question of whether our thoughts influence others without delving into new age interpretations
Introducing the Samahita Teachng Team - Daniel Stringer
Introducing the Samahta teaching team. Meet Sarah Pierroz, a teacher with many talents who has travelled far and wide. A longtime student of Paul Dallaghan and Sri. O. P. Tiwari she contributes to Samahita's YogaCoreCycle program.
Tiwariji explains that enthusiasm from inside based on understanding helps lead us to success in yoga.
Paul discusses how our practice should support and benefit us as we age and not merely something that we do as a chore. We should be prepared to change our approach so that the practice moves with us as we age.
Dave was there, always present: dinners shared, music, stories, laughter, precious full moon fires on the beach…slowly rebuilding my trust in the goodness of the human heart.
It's interesting to look back and reflect on the defining part that some people subtly and naturally play in our lives.
Sri O. P. Tiwari explains how it is not a matter of saying one food is bad and another good but how we differentiate between food that supports practice and food that does not support it as described in the Hatha Pradipika.
Watch Rachel Brice and her group perform Tribal Belly Dance during the retreat "Sahara Dance - The Art of Belly Dance"
Sri O. P. Tiwari explains the difference between attachment and dependency and the differences between friendship and compassion.
Watch this video to get an inside view of the Centered Yoga 200 hour Teacher Training. Filmed in-situ with messages from the teaching team and students and a close look at what is on offer here at Samahita!
Watch all that Samahita has to offer. This incredible video by the very talented Gray Bashew imbues the full meaning and feeling of the Samahita experience. We invite you to take another look to remind yourselves, and share with others, just what it is that keeps us all coming back.
Nabs Hadi and Gray Bashew perform a unique blend of human beats and Sanskrit / Arabesque chants during the Samahita 15th year anniversary celebrations.
Back in the Day 2008 at Yoga Thailand Neil Barker demonstrates the safest method to assist Supta Kurmasana. Often performed dangerously and over forced. Get it right with this video.
Paul Dallaghan gives a 10 minute exercise for proper breathing with guidance on using the abdomen and diaphragm correctly.
Got a Fitball but don't know what to do with it? Samahita fitness instructor Kuhn So demonstrates a Core focused Fitball routine including safe crunches, leg lifts and pikes (half handstand)
From the Archives 2012: Sri O. P. Tiwari sharing insights and Yoga philosophy discussing Unity in Diversity and the basic purpose of Yoga.
Feeling stuck and robotic in your Sun Salutations? Watch this video with our Yoga Teacher Ara Hwang to improve your mobility and try some new moves to help with difficult transitions such as chaturanga to upward dog and jumping back / forwards.
From the Archives: O. P. Tiwari explains the difference between Ahimsa (non-violence) and Love
Back in 2012, after almost 20 years of doing asana practice, Paul caught a moment to condense together a mix of asanas across levels with certain transitions. It is more of an artistic display of what the body can do without being competitively strained.
Video Archive.
June 2010
Paul explains Sutra Neti with the aid of a skeleton detailing the anatomy and process of this kriya.
Although you may only have two or three main meals in a day, there is a good chance you wander off for a snack, coffee or tea at other times. If you think about those snacks, they provide more of a mental break and social purpose than any blood glucose need. (Which is good news seeing as most snacks aren’t that healthy!)
A couple of things should happen when you practice asana. You should enjoy it, as it can both challenge and reward you, and it should support you, and not wear you down. Depending where you are at in practice, it can help cultivate an overall integrated experience on the level of breath and mind.
