The practice I have developed for transforming grief from a painful experience into a conscious source of self-knowledge is a six-part sequence: breathing exercises, body movements, cleansing techniques, relaxation, mental reprogramming, and meditation.
We all need coping mechanisms, we all need treatments that soothe our restless minds, and our aching bodies. But above all, we need the knowledge that can be gained simply by basking in one's inner silence.
What this work offers is not a "retreat" from grief, nor a "release" from grief, but simply some relief from grief.

About Yoga for Grief Relief

Yoga for Grief Relief is a somatic psychotherapeutic process using Yoga techniques as somatic tools to address the physical, mental and spiritual symptoms of grief towards self re-identification following an important loss.

The main asana (physical posture) of the Yoga for Grief Relief practice is called the Windmill.

Symbolically, the windmill serves as an analogy for the process of transformation of grief into a new identity. The forces of the unknown—the wind—power the mechanisms of the windmill, just as the mystery of loss creates a churning in the depths of our own selves. As the windmill utilizes the sometimes wild and destructive force of wind energy to mechanically transform hard grains into edible flour, the techniques in this sadhana can transform our Selves, left vacant by loss but open to receiving the knowledge that exists within us. Just as the grain being pulverized results in a finer quality of flour, the yoga exercises shared here operate at a neurochemical level, improving our mood and strengthening our resolve in the face of insurmountable loss.

How we work together

Individual Sessions

Individual sessions offer a space for a more accurate self-reflection and an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the grieving process itself as it applies to each case.

Skype Session

Skype sessions are individual 60 or 90 minute sessions conducted through Skype, a software application that enables free video and voice one-to-one or group calls, instant messaging and file sharing with people from all over the world.

Retreats

Retreats offer individuals a safe environment to explore and share personal grief experience in a group context by establishing a ‘sacred container of confidentiality’ and clear rules of interaction amongst the attendees. The course work alternates general grief theory with experiential YGR individual and group work techniques that can help individuals move through the pain of loss to find release and relief. In addition to the 2 hour daily morning practices of the full YGR Sadhana (routine), specific techniques are added and their results explored throughout the day so each participant can fully benefit from the program.

Group Series

Sharing one’s own grief in a group that meets frequently offers crucial information about one’s personal ways of grieving as compared with others; combats the frequent ‘social isolation’ grievers suffer from, and enhances the educational aspects of grief counseling. Those going through individual sessions, often choose to participate in this series to gain exposure to the full program.

Calendar of events

Below is a list of upcoming seminars and events. To learn more or to register visit the website provided for each location. You can also call me directly at 415.258.2830 to register for a seminar. Visit the Contact Me page if you’d like to request a speaker for your own training program or event.

November 16, 2024Yoga Therapy Tools for Processing Sadness and Anger - Integral Yoga Institute San Francisco, CA.IYI_SF
November 23 Yoga Therapy for Grief Relief; Spiritual Practice to Nourish the Self - Integral Yoga Institute San Francisco, CA.IYI_SF
December 6 - 8, 2024Yoga for Grief Relief Retreat - In-person - YoloCares, Davis, CA YGR_Retreat
May 2 - 4,, 2025Yoga for Grief Relief for Yoga Therapists - Inner Peace Yoga Therapy Training, Virtual. Inner Peace Yoga Therapy
TBD, 2025YGR Professional Training - Module 1 YGR PT Level 1
TBD, 2025YGR Professional Training - Module 2YGR PT Level 1
TBD, 2025YGR Professional Training - Module 3YGR PT Level 1

Affiliations

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ADEC the Thanotology Association
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International Association of Yoga Therapists
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Bihar School of Yoga
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Indian Yoga Association
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AfterTalk

Professional training

Yoga’s methods and concepts can be applied by any professional, regardless of credo or theoretical work frame. This training is suitable for yoga therapists as well as Health and mental health care professionals interested in adding Yogic techniques to their existing toolbox. If you are a professional and are interested in learning how to integrate Antonio’s work into your existing practice, you can learn more by clicking on the button below. You may also call or connect with Antonio via the contact form below.

GRIEF In THE MEDIA

Grief is often not spoken about, yet it occurs permanently. Read about current grief issues

Payment

Pay for an individual session, a group series, a retreat or a professional training.

Contact me

Be in touch, ask me a question or share your thoughts. You can also call me directly at 415.258.2830, or just send an email to antonio@yogaforgriefrelief.com.