Kookaburra Yoga

An integrated system of Hatha & Raja Yoga to restore balance and harmony to the body, mind and soul
"Salutation to Siva, who expounded the knowledge of Hatha Yoga,​which like a staircase leads the aspirant to the high pinnacled Raja Yoga" Svatmarama, Hatha Yoga Pradipika (composed 15-16th century)

Traditional teachings, modern approach

Kookaburra Yoga's integrated system of Hatha and Raja Yoga ensures the practices are holistic and beneficial on every level of being. The five key areas of holsitic Hatha Yoga which integrate with the 8 ‘limbs’ of Raja Yoga are included in all classes, courses and programs.

These include mindful, intelligent movement [asana], supportive breathwork [pranayama], relaxation [pratyahara], meditation [dharana, dhyana], and yogic diet, lifestyle and ethics [yama, niyama] - all of which are linked and made meaningful through mindfulness [bhava].

Kookaburra Yoga's classes at Kookaburra Creek Yoga School and on our retreat programs are informed by both the traditional teachings and modern approaches ensuring they are relevant, accessible and safe for all levels of practitioners. 

In this system, the practices taught are of 4 types which align with and bring into focus the values and characteristics of the four paths of Traditional Yoga thereby leading us towards an integrated and true experience of yoga. The 4 types of asanas can be characterised by: those which bring inner quiet; those which bring focus and body awareness; those which bring humility and detachment; and those which increase confidence and vitality.

Hatha Yoga classes are often the starting point for many people who may eventually enquire into the more meaningful and spiritual paths of yoga.  ​

The contemporary class

Yoga has evolved to be relevant to a discerning and contemporary audience. Whereas in the past the focus of yoga was transcendence of the limitations of the body and mind for spiritual aspirations, the goal of the modern yogi is generally more therapeutic - to be well, to be happy, to be healthy, to be at peace. And for others the goal may be aesthetic - to be beautiful, to be slim and supple, to be strong, to achieve perfection in the practice. 'Styles' of yoga have evolved to suit the different goals, aspirations of practitioners.

Regardless of the style of yoga shared or the aspirations of the practitioners, yoga is deeply enriching and a means of finding wellbeing, steadiness, and happiness.

We offer a variety of these styles at Kookaburra Creek to ensure there are classes suitable for everyone!

The 4 Paths of Traditional Yoga 

Traditional Yoga is a holistic system for the body, mind and soul comprised of four paths which, when integrated, bring balance and harmony to our intellect, heart, body and mind - leading us towards a deep experience of our true, blissful, divine nature. There are five Yogas 

Karma Yoga is the Path of Action. Actions done with attitude of service without attachment to result. Frees us from negativity and selfishness.

Bhakti Yoga is the Path of Devotion. We see the divine in all of creation. Prayer, ritual, kirtan and loving kindness. A positive way to channel emotions and cultivate acceptance.

Raja Yoga is the ‘Royal’ Path. Comprehensive method to control mind, body and breath (but mainly the mind). Meditation is the key to mindful, self-aware evolution of the human soul through the stages of life. 

​Hatha Yoga is the Path of Purification. Physical and mental disciplines and purification practices to bring lightness, health and longevity to the body, and calmness to the mind. Prepares the practitioner for the 'higher' and more subtle yogas. No traditionally considered a path of yoga on its own, but a preparation for Raja Yoga.

Jnana Yoga is the Path of Wisdom. Study and self-enquiry. Study of yogic texts andalso of your own self. Develops intellect and ability to discern truth from untruth.

Other Yoga traditions practiced and taught at Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre are Mano Yoga, Yin Yoga, Nada Yoga and Kundalini Tantra.