Vision Statement
First Principles will be a center for committed learning where one can develop and broaden their practice of yoga both within themselves and within their community. Three classes will be offered: Slow (Restorative), Flow (Vinyasa-based), and Learn (Workshop-style classes, where poses and concepts are examined in greater depth)- and each person chooses which class they need to best serve their daily, weekly and monthly practice. The level of self-reflection and dedication to learning required by such a structure will enable students to move further into the various aspects of what a full expression of yoga can be. Through experiencing intuitively, beyond the poses, the movement of yoga, each student will be encouraged to find their teacher within and to develop a personal, learning relationship with that teacher. The resulting awareness will be carried forth into the community through direct teaching (in other studios and institutions) and in the more subtle ways of a committed practice (personal daily interactions, self-care, parenting etc.).
First Principles will be a non-profit organization, funded by student donations. Awareness as to the meaning of donation, contribution and sponsorship within the context of practice, teaching, learning, and community service will be emphasized and explained through an introductory class. First Principles will also regularly sponsor a small number of dedicated students and teachers for advanced studies in a subject and with a teacher whom they feel will help them further their experience of yoga. The cost of these trainings will be divided 50/50 between First Principles and the applicant. Eligibility and acceptance for these trainings will be determined by an application form, letter of intent, recommendations, interview and a review by the Sponsoring Committee. In addition, teachers who have excelled at mastering the various aspects of a complete yoga practice will be sponsored to visit and present on a regular basis. These workshops will focus on asana, meditation, and pranayama as well as other fields that reflect the core teachings of yoga (eg. non-violent communication, eco-Buddhism, etc.).
First Principles’ vision is to effectively reduce the boundaries between studio and community. Its aim is to become a resource for the yoga community at large and to broaden the scope of how yoga is culturally understood through continually returning to the wholeness of practice, teaching, and learning. By gently challenging people to honestly assess how they are managing their energy and using their skills and talents, each person will be able to decide what kind of support they need to continue their exploration of yoga as an integral practice. First Principles’ purpose is to help each person remember, in their own way, that yoga, at its core, is always a movement from wholeness; and to recognize that they, and their community, are inseparable from the principle values represented by the teachings of yoga.