‘At least for now, nothing more than an integral approach will do’. ~ Dustin DiPerna & Ken Wilber
The word integral can be understood in many ways. Integral implies a non-dual worldview, an integral worldview. It recognises the multi-dimensional nature of reality. It implies an emphasis in teaching and learning for the development of the whole person, integrally. It also implies an approach to teaching and supporting learning that embraces the multi-facets of existence as the same unified whole.
An integral approach views the body, mind and soul, science and spirituality, the self and the other, the sacred and the profane, as multi-facets of the same unified whole. This worldview is non-dual.
An integral approach is to take seriously that which various cultures have to teach about personal growth and human flourishing that lead to the evolution of human consciousness. This approach attempts to find the point at which these teachings meet and so it teaches, practices and lives by that very comprehensive, open and culturally-responsive system. An integral approach teaches to view ourselves, others and the world in relation to us in more all-embracing, universalist and inclusive ways.
Over the past several decades, there has been more convergence of systems and models of personal growth and human flourishing and human consciousness—from shamans to sages to philosophers to scientists—that distil philosophies and practices as essential elements for unlocking and facilitating human evolution of consciousness. Developing one’s personal practice accelerates personal growth and human flourishing. This in turn leads to the development of higher, broader and deeper ways of being. This approach is universalist and honours the teachings of all yogic and other traditions. Some of the most effective of the teachings, enriched with current scientific contributions and integral theory, form the basis of the system of Integral Yoga (physical, energetic, mental and spiritual). Integral Yoga of the Dharma Ananda tradition fuses Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Dhyana Yoga and relaxation with a Taoist twist for working the physical body, energetic body and the mind. It is open and creative practice that offers both an accessible introduction to integral yogic practices as well as advanced philosophical and experiential teachings in wisdom (Prajna Yoga) and compassion (Karma Yoga and Karuna Yoga) for students navigating the processes of awakening.
Some integral practices offered and combined within sessions, classes, teacher training courses and workshops at The Art of Integral Being® include various forms of breath work, and body work, the practice of meditation, sacred sound and creative practices. However, more often than not, an integral approach combines most or all practices within one session, class or workshop.
Please note that an integral approach is more profound as a formal practice and so it requires a critical analytical framework and teacher-student dialogues for making-sense of the experiential dimension of one’s integral practices.
LEARN MORE
California Institute for Integral Studies
Integral Life
Integral World
Integral Education: A Brief Introduction
What is Integral Yoga?
What is Integration?
See Also
500-hour Teacher Training Programme in Integral Yoga Studies®