See Without Eyesight? Proprioception and Pratyahara Workshop with Luci Yamamoto

Sitting meditation is often done with eyes closed. Without eyesight, the brain is perhaps less distracted, more inwardly focused. In yoga asana, eyes are typically open, except in restoratives or perhaps long holds. But could closed eyes in other poses encourage new learning?

In this workshop, we’ll do various basic poses twice: first with eyes open, then with eyes closed. In dynamic poses, your proprioception—awareness of your body in space—will be challenged (in a good way). In stationary poses, eliminating eyesight could change your perspective, from external surroundings to internal self (body, breath, mind)—and introduce the fifth limb of yoga, pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses).

Note: Students will choose when to keep their own eyes closed. No blindfolds; keep safe!

2-4pm, March 14, 2026, $36

This workshop is part of my “Monthly Iyengar Yoga Tune-Up” series at Kitsilano Community Centre. Participants should have approximately one year of yoga experience and no major injuries. Props are available but, if possible, please bring your own mat, strap, blanket(s), and any particular items that you might need.

Register here with Kitsilano Community Centre.