Awaken: A Weekend Immersion in Yoga

by Jessica Jewell

"When one learns that which is worth learning, there is bliss." — Vidura in The Mahabharata

Most of us begin yoga through asana. We learn to move in sync with the breath and we feel the alchemy of yoking breath and body together. It is a wonderful practice, and it's an entry into something more.

You see, yoga has a philosophical framework that makes the practice so much more interesting and valuable. After 27 years of practice I am still learning, still finding new layers, and I am longing to share more of what I know with people who are looking for both information and companionship.

There is something special about being in the company of others who are on the path, looking for ways to become kinder and more compassionate, and sharing the ups and downs of life itself. Talking together deepens our understanding of what can be complex ideas in ways that solitary study cannot. This weekend is meant to be a friendly, inspiring, and community building experience.

The philosophical framework of yoga begins with Sankhya — sometimes referred to as the metaphysics of yoga — a map of experience that guides us from the super subtle to the physical. It provides a way to understand who we are, why we're here, and what's going on. Almost daily I find myself thinking about Sankhya as a way to understand my experiences, both mundane and sublime. It is one of the most useful things I know.

In addition to learning the fundamentals of Sankhya, we'll explore the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Written in the 4th–5th century C.E., it is one of the most influential texts in contemporary yoga. The Sutras describe the mind with great clarity — how we think, what we think about, and how our thoughts can cause suffering. And, with equal clarity, the Sutras describe how to relate to the mind and reduce suffering. Spoiler alert: it's yoga practice.

Here is how the weekend will unfold:

Friday Evening | 7–9 p.m. We begin with a two-hour introduction to Sankhya — the metaphysics of yoga and the philosophical foundation of the entire practice.

Saturday Morning | 9–10:30 a.m. or 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Join one of my regular Saturday morning classes —a Level 2 class or a beginner-friendly back care class, included in your registration.

Saturday Afternoon | 1–5 p.m. We'll discuss the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by first exploring the vrittis and kleshas — how the mind works and how it can cause us to suffer. Then we'll dive into the solution: the eight limbs, or practices, of yoga.

Sunday | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Our final session begins with a yoga practice and then continues the exploration and discussion of the eight limbs of yoga.

This weekend might be for you if:

• You've been practicing yoga and want to understand it more deeply

• You're curious about yoga beyond the physical practice

• You're considering teacher training but not ready to commit

• You're seeking a spiritual framework for understanding life

• You love learning in community, in conversation, with room for questions

• 
  

Awaken: A Weekend Immersion in Yoga May 15–17, 2026 | Sliding scale: $160–$220