Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

• Nutan Sanghani
• Email: nutan.sanghani@pcc.edu
• Office Hours: By appointment only. Please email to schedule a meeting.

I'm so glad that you're interested in the origins and practice of yoga. Yoga is deeply rooted in ancient Indian traditions. The systematic practice of yoga as we know it today developed over thousands of years, with significant advancements occurring during the classical period (500 BCE to 800 CE).

In these classes, along with yoga poses, Sun Salutation, Moon Salutation, pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation, I also focus on teaching Sanskrit mantras, the seven chakras, mudras (hand gestures), and the five elements associated with the fingers. These are integral components of holistic yoga and meditation traditions, each contributing to overall well-being and spiritual growth. I share my knowledge and passion for healthy living through mindfulness practices, movement, and community.

Sanskrit mantras, when chanted, can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and foster inner peace. The seven chakras system is believed to balance the energy centers in the body, potentially enhancing overall well-being. Mudras, or hand gestures, are thought to influence energy flow, sharpen focus, and promote specific health benefits.

Yoga poses (asanas) improve flexibility, strength, and posture while benefiting joint and cardiovascular health. Sequences like Sun Salutation can enhance cardiovascular function, strengthen muscles, and increase flexibility. Moon Salutation is a calming yoga sequence performed in the evening that focuses on hip-opening and flowing movements to promote relaxation, inner peace, and a connection to the lunar cycle. Pranayama techniques improve lung capacity, reduce stress, and contribute to overall well-being. Regular meditation practice can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression while enhancing focus and emotional balance.