Imagine having a conversation where every word counts, where the buzz of everyday life fades into the background, leaving room for 'real things' to flourish. This is what it feels like to dive into the world of Judith Hanson Lasater—55 years into her yoga journey, she still teaches us how to truly be present in every moment.
We were lucky enough to spend some time with Judith Hanson Lasater and the Yogacampus community at a free taster event for Judith’s upcoming course Beyond Presence: Ripening into Consciousness. With over 55 years of teaching, Judith shared her wisdom on this topic, illuminating presence as the true "doorway" to deeper consciousness and connection.
Judith stressed that presence is not just a practice confined to the yoga mat, but an essential skill to cultivate in our daily lives. "Presence is best practised in daily life, the off the mat part of our practice," she explained.
Judith reminded us that presence isn’t just about sitting quietly in meditation; it's an active part of every moment of our lives.
Whether facing difficulties or simple inconveniences, Judith encouraged turning towards these moments as opportunities to anchor into the present moment
The irony, as Judith points out, is that "the present moment is the only thing that truly exists." Yet we so often get caught up ruminating on the past or worrying about the future. By fully inhabiting the here and now, Judith revealed how presence can reduce our own suffering and shift the collective consciousness around us:
"When we shift to moments of that presence, and we're not suffering. We don't create suffering in the world," Judith shared.
This idea of presence as a gateway to greater peace and compassion was a central theme in her insights.Perhaps most surprisingly, Judith emphasised that presence requires no great effort on our part. "Presence is right here. Present. Divinity isn't over there. Divinity is here. This is it. There's nowhere to go."
With this understanding, presence becomes accessible in a matter of moments, allowing us to tap into our deepest wisdom and connection. As Judith so eloquently put it, "Be the piece you want for the world...be what it is, live who you really are. And that changes everything. It changes everything. It shifts the universe."
Through the cultivation of presence, each of us holds the power to transform not only our own experience, but the consciousness of the world around us.
The Essence of Presence
"Presence is the doorway to understanding and experiencing our true consciousness," she explains, emphasising that this state of being requires no effort—it's about being deeply rooted in the now.
Living Yoga Beyond the Mat
Judith’s teachings on presence remind us that yoga is much more than asana—it's a tool for living. It's about how we handle challenges, interact with others, and stay connected to ourselves in the chaos of daily life. Her philosophy invites us to integrate the principles of yoga into every aspect of our existence, making every challenge a chance to grow and every moment an opportunity to practice.
This year is significant as it marks Judith’s 20th year with Yogacampus and potentially her last year teaching in London. Celebrate this milestone at her workshop "Beyond Presence: Ripening into Consciousness" at The Hellenic Centre in London. This immersive experience is a unique opportunity to explore yoga's physical, mental, emotional, philosophical, and spiritual dimensions under Judith's guidance.
A pivotal component of this workshop is the focus on restorative yoga practices, particularly savasana. Judith explains the profound impact of these practices, noting, "Restorative yoga, like savasana, teaches us the felt sense of letting go—not just the concept, but the actual experience deep within our nervous system." This approach helps participants understand and embody relaxation at a profound level, ensuring the practice transcends the boundaries of the mat.
Judith highlights the communal influence of individual practice, especially through savasana: "Savasana is a gift you give not only to yourself but to everyone around you. When you are soft and present, it resonates, making others feel more relaxed and aware." This ripple effect underscores the dual benefit of the practice, enhancing the well-being of the individual and fostering a more mindful community.
Why this Workshop is a can't-miss event
This isn't just another yoga workshop or yoga training. It's a chance to engage with one of the most respected voices in yoga today, in an intimate setting. Participants will explore deep rest through restorative yoga, expand their breathwork, and delve into meditative practices that open the door to inner tranquility and clarity.
Hear from those transformed by Judith’s Teachings
Students like Hannah P., who have worked with Judith for over a decade, share their transformative experiences: "The impact she has had on my teaching, my practice, and my students is profound. She is inspiring, engaging, and truly transformative."
Join us for a Transformative Journey
Spaces are limited, and the chance to learn from Judith in such an intimate setting is rare. This workshop is an invaluable opportunity for any dedicated yoga practitioner or teacher looking to deepen their practice and teaching.
For more details and to secure your spot, please visit the course link on the Yogacampus website.
