VIBE?

MICHAEL DURAND SCHABORT

Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, I have been teaching yoga worldwide since 2009. I was first introduced to the Ashtanga Yoga practice in 1999 and have since studied with some of the world’s most renowned teachers in the Krishnamacharya lineages, notably Richard Freeman, Michael Hamilton, Shimon Ben Avi and the late Sharath Jois in Mysore, India. Throughout my life, I have been deeply curious about the purpose of existence. With the assistance of spiritual practices, such as meditation, coupled with hatha yoga, self-inquiry, and now deeper explorations through the Western Mystery Schools of Hermeticism, I have come to recognise that the single most treasured discovery that illuminates the purpose of this existence is found between one and another. In other words, the relationship between all things, subject and object, and the catalysing alchemy that occurs when opposites meet in consciousness. I strongly believe that the practice of hatha vinyasa yoga can assist us in exploring a deeper, more intimate connection with ourselves and others as we effectively utilise opposing forces within us. A prime example is demonstrated in the opposing patterns of breath and how each opposite can be harnessed in different ways to change one's state of being. When one consciously breathes, one automatically becomes self-aware and present in the moment. The patterns expressed in the body via the incoming breath are opposite in expression to those of the outgoing breath, yet they are unified and inseparable as they both belong to one mechanism called breath. We can find this same principle mirrored in all of life. As in Life and death, sorrow and joy, masculine and feminine and so on. In practice, we develop a very intimate relationship with our bodies, physically and energetically. By being physically challenged, we are invited to be anchored in the present moment, where various principles of the universe can be observed. I am very glad for this influence in my life, however, it is in my opinion best not to fall into the trap of attachment to any particular practice style. Even though I am glad I studied the arts of Ashtanga traditionally in India, I am beginning to explore this subject now in a more progressive way. My understanding is that we have to approach each moment in time uniquely with a sense of readiness. What happens in India, for example, stays in Indian tradition, and what is happening here and now belongs to the time and place we are in; it is of the utmost importance that we are open to discover and experience an entirely fresh paradigm that relates to our current reality, culture and understanding. Every encounter and each individual must also be approached with a sense of fresh aliveness. There is an art to being alive that demands a level of openness few dare to embrace. It is my desire, when teaching and sharing alchemic arts, to uplift others. To share the understanding that we are all unique and therefore will always have a unique experience of the miracle at hand. I therefore like to encourage authenticity, free thinking, and openness. To explore the fabric of consciousness, such as what can often be experienced as love, unity, the entelechy and life's inexhaustible outpouring of creative brilliance.

Ashtanga Yoga

Often misunderstood as a very strong practice. The approach is key. This a brilliant method to incorporate into your daily routine.

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If you are interested in finding and creating your sanctuary and developing a yoga practice that can accompany you throughout your life please feel free to write to me and I will get back to you shortly.