Eddie Stern Workshop

Eddie Stern weekend workshop, Studland Dorset

Having gone to quite a few Astanga Yoga workshops over the years I am happy to find yet another very down to earth, approachable and kind yogi in Eddie Stern. He was softly spoken and encouraging during the Mysore-style practice every morning. The room was busy and bustling with a healthy mix of male and female yogis. I was happy to see so many men practising!

After lunch Eddie took us through some chanting, which he would later incorporate into a Puja ceremony (a prayer ritual to host, honour and worship deities). “Om gan ganapatye namah”, the vedic chant to Lord Ganesha is chanted 108 times. We all had it by the end!

http://youtu.be/iRNpLD4NfJE

The Puja ceremony was an entirely new experience for me. I was mesmerised by the precision and beauty of it, and it was a privilege to be included. Eddie has a consecrated Hindu Temple at his studio in New York with shrines to Ganesh, Radha, Krishna and Hanuman. He performs daily Pujas there.

Puja Ceremony

I had a great time meeting Eddie. I even got to do my first ever “selfie” with him. One thing he said has stuck with me and leaves me food for thought….. “It is easier to strengthen the body than to fix the mind”. Something to think about!

http://nyti.ms/19kdDRi