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EVENT DESCRIPTIONS
LECTURES
What Is Tantra Yoga?
This classic presentation reflects on the significance of the sexual energy from an evolutionary standpoint; the importance of conservation and cultivation of this energy along the path of personal and spiritual growth, through a process of sublimation. The issue of celibacy in spirituality is raised and the Tantric path is outlined as an alternative. Some esoteric methods applied in Tantra Yoga for conservation of the sexual energy are unveiled. To complete the picture, the Tantric path and Tantric sexuality are outlined and discussed in different aspects such as healing, energizing, sexual therapy, and the cultivation of the sexual energy and the orgasmic state. Additional topics include yin, yang, and their union as a form of spiritual realization, cultivation of higher forms of relationships, and accomplishment through love relationships. This is an excellent introduction to the Tantra Workshop.
Shambhala, the Guardian of the Planet
Among the most fascinating spiritual topics, this lecture confronts us with amazing truths and facts. Swami Vivekananda Saraswati analyzes historical, metaphysical, and traditional information supporting the concept of Shambhala, the intangible, invisible spiritual center of this planet that offers spiritual guidance to our planet, and carefully analyzes its ramifications. Methods of contacting Shambhala in a Yogic or spiritual way are introduced.
Quantum Mechanics and the Link between Matter and Consciousness
This lecture explores the link between modern knowledge and the power of consciousness, between physics and quantum mechanics and the way yogis view the Universe. This presentation is a synthesis of the views of yogis and scientists, which gives a fascinating understanding of the power of consciousness and of the continuity of space and time into the oneness of Consciousness.
The Prayer of the Heart and Jesus
The prayer of the heart is an esoteric, Hesychast method of prayer. It is part Mantra Yoga (the Yoga of resonance with sound), part pranayama (the practice of breath rhythm), part Bhakti Yoga (the Yoga of devotion), and it is where Christian esotericism meets Yoga and other spiritual practices - the Gnostic part of Christianity. Please join us for this special lecture of introduction and aspiration.
The Meaning of Life According to Spiritual and Metaphysical Principles
This practical presentation systematically approaches the fundamental question of life, the human spirit, the fate of the soul, and the evolution of the human being. It analyzes these fascinating topics from a metaphysical/spiritual standpoint and attempts to shed more light on this intriguing topic. It also serves as an introduction to a more comprehensive treatment of these topics which is offered separately, through the Metaphysical Workshop. A variety of exemplifications such as spiritual exercises and meditations will be given alongside the theoretical expose.
Jesus in the Eyes of Yoga
Some great yogis in India, through their spiritual quest, managed to reach a genuine spiritual communion with Jesus, thus perceiving the spirit of Jesus directly. Swami Vivekananda, coming from an environment that enabled him to explore the depths of esoteric Christianity while at the same time training in the Yogic tradition, introduces a fascinating image of Jesus. Light is shed on the teachings of Jesus through a viewpoint of rationalized spiritualism.
MORNING WORKSHOPS
The Five Bodies of Man
The human being, the microcosm in cosmic correspondence with the Macrocosm, is a complex structure comprising physical, etheric, astral, mental, and causal bodies. Swami Vivekananda explores and reveals in depth and fascinating detail the manifestation and practical applications of the five bodies.
Yoga, the Connection to Spirit
A concise yet deep presentation of Yoga, its metaphysical and practical applications and quintessentially spiritual nature. This is a perfect opportunity to learn about the fundamental principles behind Yoga, to go far beyond the commonly accepted yet superficial view of Yoga as some form of fitness or gymnastics. Swami Vivekananda discusses this multifaceted and multidimensional spiritual tradition and demonstrates the mechanism of the connection to Spirit and bringing spirituality into daily life.
WORKSHOPS
This weekend workshop is dedicated to the study of the Tantric vision of female spiritual seekers in the 21st century. Together with blocks of theory, practical training for the individual will be presented in an eloquent and scientific manner.
The syllabus for this course includes the following subjects: chakras and their correspondence with universal energies; the esoteric understanding of sexual energy and its sublimation and transmutation; kundalini; the Tantric understanding of femininity; the law of polarity and its application to human relationships, sexuality, and sensuality; the Yogic outlook on menstruation and its sublimation; birth control in the Tantric understanding; the in-depth study of pregnancy and related issues. Examples are methods to determine the sex of your child and preparatory practices of the Yoga tradition for the couple both before and during pregnancy.
This workshop is taught by Mihaiela Pentiuc and requires no prerequisites and printed supplemental material will be provided to participants. The workshop is open to women only. The counterpart of this workshop is Vira Training.
Real men are hard to find nowadays. But they can be made.
In the Tantric tradition “Vira” is a term used to describe the model male typology for the Tantric practitioner.
It refers to the perfect masculine, manly, and heroic characteristics. According to the tradition, Vira characteristics are very difficult to develop in today’s world, because the dominant typology is the inferior, or “Pashu,” typology.
Hence this workshop is for those who are interested in developing the Vira characteristics necessary for the perfection of Tantric practice. It is reserved for men only, and this factor alone will amplify masculinity.
Techniques will be given and practiced to develop the masculine energy, especially from the standpoint of the Tantric tradition. It contains theory, meditation, and practical exercises.
The counterpart of this workshop is the Complete Femininity Workshop.
PARAPSYCHOLOGY 1: CLAIRVOYANCE AND ASTRAL PROJECTION
The Yogis of India and Tibet have a rich lore of knowledge concerning the astral body and the astral universe. This workshop expands on this study, exploring two main topics in depth:
• clairvoyance (seeing beyond the normal);
• astral projection (travel in the astral body, as well as lucid dreaming).
The term "parapsychology" is generally credited as being the scientific study of the paranormal or of extraordinary phenomena. Here at Agama we are very interested in the powers of the mind and of the subtle energies of nature, so this workshop similarly is a study of what is known and understood scientifically, relying on rational understanding.
We will outline the best methods known in Yoga for practicing and training in these two exceptional fields of study.
Swami Vivekananda Saraswati explores the evolutionary power of the sexual energy in this 18-hour course, and how to harness it for self-development through the secrets of Tantra. This is a unique opportunity to discover the path of spiritual eroticism in a supremely practical manner, and to begin a cultivation and mastery of your own ecstatic potential. No nudity; for individuals and couples. Lectures, initiations, meditations, Hatha Yoga.
Tantra 1 presents the esoteric Tantric teachings in a coherent and practical style, well adapted to Western audiences, yet preserving the authenticity and richness of the original teachings. The Tantric wisdom is presented in conjunction with additional relevant information from Yoga, Chinese Taoism, Tibetan Buddhism, alchemy, and Middle Eastern Imsak. The oral presentations are supplemented by printed material, exemplifications, meditations, and initiations (energy inductions), plus videos on relevant topics whenever possible. Please note that there are no explicit presentations or nudity, whatsoever. The curriculum includes the following topics:
• the fundamental ideas of Tantra and different Tantric paths (e.g. red, white, and black Tantra)
• transfiguration and the divine aspect of Tantra
• male/female polarity
• modern Sexology
• the difference and separation between orgasm and ejaculation
• analysis of the curves of pleasure and methods of retention/control of the sexual energy
• the different forms of orgasm
• Hatha Yoga relevant to the Tantric practice
• study of the Tantric sexual union
• sexual continence
• transmutation and sublimation of the sexual energy
• different forms of orgasm
• healing and medical aspects of Tantra
• specific forms of training for men and women
• the Tantric sexual union
• natural aphrodisiacs and their application
• vitality enhancement
• attaining higher forms of consciousness
• cosmic forces
• the mystery of Kundalini
• the Tantra mantra combination.
Tantra 1 is consecrated mostly to theory, training, and practical issues for the individual. Tantra 2 follows with more in-depth treatments and covering mostly couple-practice issues.
The Tantra 2 Workshop builds on the foundations established in Tantra 1. This workshop explores the depths of Tantric lovemaking, and covers the following issues:
• teachings from the Kama Sutra (postures, erogenous zones, techniques, principles of pleasure)
• methods for enhancing virility and removing frigidity
• reshaping parts of the body (including the genitals)
• the specific Tantric postures of lovemaking
• birth control, fertility, and maternity in Tantra
• oral sex and its Tantric techniques
• collective eroticism
• love vs. possessiveness
• sexual freedom and social taboos
• astrology and Tantra
• transfiguration, and
• alchemy.
The intense teachings of Tantra 2 reach a profound spiritual level of sexuality intended for the victory of the couple relationship. To participate in Tantra 2, you need not first study Tantra 1, as the workshops cover different material. However, one builds upon the other and both are eventually recommended.
Why do we practice spirituality? The vertical approach to total balance. Talks, initiations, meditations, practice, Hatha Yoga.
Swami Vivekananda has observed that many people today don't understand what spirituality is or the true nature of spiritual practice. Even some people who are doing spiritual work, Yoga for example, don't even understand why and what the real purpose of it is. Metaphysics is the forgotten element of spiritual life. It represents the vertical dimension of spirituality addressing the fate of the human soul. Within today's New Age environment, a fascination with occult science, magic, and Shamanism leads people horizontally through life without a genuine spiritual basis. Metaphysics leads us to a practice which defines our position in the Universe, why we are here. It is the main motivator in spiritual practice, without which there is no drive, and we miss the big picture.
The Metaphysical Weekend is a spiritual eye-opener, an excellent introduction to anyone who might be interested in anything spiritual. It is meant to be a motivator, to provide aspiration, to highlight the existential condition, to give a meaning to and ground for true spiritual practice. It can change your life, opening a new door in your world. The hope is that participants will gain the right motivation for spirituality, the basis to start a practice with the right understanding, and for the right cause.
What the weekend entails: The workshop includes observations on excerpts from some traditional texts, significant fragments of Yoga and metaphysics, which describe very clearly the fundamental issues for the human soul, those of existence, of life. Extensive commentary is given on issues such as reincarnation, parallel universes, evolution, liberation, karma, using practical examples and illustrations, such as simple methods of meditation, methods of Yoga, and all kinds of other spiritual techniques intended to create an opening, to demonstrate, and to teach. The workshop incorporates music meditation, voidness meditation from Tibetan Buddhist Yoga, asanas (Yoga postures), wisdom from Gnostic Christianity, teachings from Tantra Yoga, readings from Paramahamsa Yogananda, and Swami Vivekananda's own materials.
This is an experimental, experiential introduction to spiritual practices. We invite you to join us for this inspiring Workshop of spiritual discovery!
THE ART OF DYING: TIBETAN BARDO THODOL
An enlightened approach to death and dying. Explore the Tibetan Bardo Thodol rites and training. Lectures, initiations, meditations, practice, Hatha Yoga. This workshop could be the first in the world to address a very important gap in modern times: the spiritual preparation for death, one of life’s greatest passages. Today, especially with the secularization of daily life, we are witnessing an appalling carelessness about the phenomenon of death, as well as a deep spiritual ignorance about its meaning, which is illustrated most often by the cloud of taboo and embarrassment surrounding the subject. The contrast between our great attention to birth – a new child benefiting from both the assistance of its mother and qualified medical personnel or midwives in an air of celebration – and our cold, medical treatment of the dying is reason enough to highlight the need for this workshop.
The Art of Dying intends to change this focus, not only to teach an understanding of the process of death using the Bardo Thodol, the centuries-practiced Tibetan manual of dying, but also to provide training to pass to the other side in a spiritual manner and to help others go through this process. Yogis consider that dying is a very important process from the standpoint of one’s spiritual evolution and future destiny. Therefore, we accept that we will first learn the process of death, and consequently we will train for it so that when it arrives, we are prepared to look it in the eye and make the best of it, spiritually, beneficially. Hence, the first purpose of the course is to train individuals to eliminate fears, to identify and recognize the process of death, to do away with misunderstandings, and to be given Yogic training to prepare for death during this lifetime using methods both from Indian and Tibetan Yoga. Aside from this, the course has the ambitious goal to train people not only to deal with their own death – mastering the tools offered, and producing effects energetically to assist in their own deaths – but at the same time to learn to help loved ones die more easily, more happily, more consciously, and with more dignity. It is envisioned that the course may inspire students toward an interest or vocation in a new spiritual era of hospice care. Thus, people who perhaps did not train at all spiritually in life may be helped to a more spiritual fate. The course will use physical methods from Yoga, breathing technology, mantras, secret Tantric meditations, Tibetan techniques, methods from parapsychology, as well as a wide array of other resources, such as shamanic processes.