Main techniques of the Advanced Yoga Practices (AYP) system
The main practices of AYP have been selected to produce an effective set of tools, leading to a balanced purification of the subtle nervous system, the cultivation of inner silence and bliss, and to the experience of freedom and liberation (moksha).
Deep Meditation
Deep Meditation is the cornerstone of the AYP system. Through meditation we cultivate peace, inner silence, bliss and samadhi. Meditation is the most important practice in yoga, as it provides a powerful foundation for everything else.
The practice uses a universal mantra, which means in can be practiced by anyone, anywhere. It is an effortless practice and can be taken up by beginners or more experienced practitioners.
Mantras carry a vibration, which has a particular effect in the purification of the energetic channels and centres (chakras) of the body.
Spinal Breathing Pranayama
Spinal Breathing Pranayama is one of the most effective forms of pranayama available today. Through the practice, we are able to purify the subtle nervous system, bringing our whole experience into one of ecstasy.
The practice works directly in the central channel (sushumna), purifying the whole body in a balanced way.
Mudras and Bandhas
Mudras and bandhas are used in the practice to enliven the flow of prana upwards in the body. They greatly increase the rate of purification of the subtle nervous system.
The mudras and bandhas include:
Asana
Asana practice is used in the Advanced Yoga Practices system, mostly as preparation for sitting practices.
Various postures are used to help to give flexibility to the body and to activate the energetic channels (nadis) and centres (chakras) in the body. By using asanas before our sitting practices, we are able to enter the sitting practices in a more energetically activated condition, making all the practices more effective.
Bhakti
Bhakti, or spiritual desire, is the essential ingredient for all yoga. Without it we cannot make any progress on the path. Keeping the flame of bhakti alive is really the most important practice of all.
Samyama: The cultivation of siddhis
Samyama is used to cultivate the ability to release objects of the mind into inner silence.
It is a powerful practice which leads to the ability to live life in a state of freedom and to be able to move inner silence out into the world in powerful ways.
Self-inquiry (jnana yoga)
Self-inquiry practices are used in the AYP system once a sufficient degree of inner silence has become established.
It is the exploration into our own true nature, leading to Self-realization and liberation (moksha).
