4th Annual Grand Valley Yoga Fest

Welcome to "The Mystical Heart of Yoga - Universal Love and Compassion Across Traditions", an
experiential discussion designed to illuminate the profound connection between mystical traditions and
the essence of yoga. This session is a poetic transcendental journey through the intertwined paths of
ancient yoga and the mystical wisdom of diverse spiritual traditions, all while nurturing the profound
qualities of love and compassion within the heart of each participant.

As the petals of understanding unfold, we will weave together the vibrant threads of mystical practices
from around the world, showcasing how the heart of yoga is deeply entwined with the universal pursuit
of love and transcendental wholeness.

We will delve into the esoteric teachings of Sufism, where the dance of the whirling dervishes
exemplifies the soul's ecstatic union with the divine; explore the Bhakti tradition of India, with its
devotional songs echoing the heart's eternal yearning for spiritual connection; and touch upon the
compassionate teachings of Early Christian mystics like Saint Francis of Assisi, who saw the divine sparkle
in all of creation. From the practice of metta or loving-kindness meditation in the Buddhist tradition to
the deep, heart-opening postures in Hatha Yoga, participants will gain insights into how these practices
help dissolve the illusion of separation, fostering a sense of unity with the divine and all of creation.

Participants will be invited to engage in brief, meditative journey, allowing them to personally
experience the soothing balm of universal love and compassion.

Ideal for anyone seeking to deepen their yoga practice through the power of love, or for those wishing
to expand their understanding of spiritual interconnectedness, this class will cultivate a sense of
profound connection and universal love. This discussion promises to be not just an educational
experience, but a profound invitation into the soul of mysticism, where every breath and moment is an
embrace of the divine.