What is Katonah Yoga®?
Ritual takes inspiration from Katonah Yoga®, weaving its principles of alignment, breathwork, and Taoist philosophy into our classes, Yoga Teacher Trainings, and community offerings. Many of our teachers draw inspiration from Katonah Yoga® in their classes, so we wanted to give you some insight into this transformative practice. But what exactly is Katonah Yoga®?
Image Credit: Katona Yoga Centre
While it’s hard to sum up quickly, Katonah Yoga® combines Hatha yoga with Chinese Taoist philosophy and geometric principles. Unlike many yoga styles that draw from Hinduism, Katonah Yoga® is shaped by Taoism, using rich metaphors and symbols to guide the practice.
Taoism teaches us three key concepts: the balance of yin and yang, the wisdom of natural patterns, and the idea that patterns repeat. Through this repetition, we gain new perspectives—just like a wave reshapes a rock over time. In Katonah Yoga®, the goal is to move from our automatic habits (our “first nature”) to a more intentional, evolved self (our “second nature”), and eventually, to a place where both conscious and unconscious actions are in harmony (our “third nature”).
While the postures in Katonah Yoga® are rooted in traditional Hatha, unique elements like origami-style folding, geometric alignment, and ancient numerology add depth and energy. This approach supports the body through structure, not just muscle power.
Real strength isn’t about force; it’s about creating a solid framework—mentally and physically. When you restructure your body, you naturally improve how your organs and glands function. The poses aren’t just stretches; they’re tools for setting up the conditions needed to experience the deeper magic of the practice.
Taoist principles in Katonah Yoga® help us understand the natural patterns in our lives and bodies. The relationship between yin and yang teaches us that opposites—like male and female—are necessary complements. Alone, we are one part of a whole, but together, we create something more. This balance is reflected everywhere in nature, from the sun and moon to the left and right sides of our own bodies. Finding the centre between these opposites creates balance and stability.
Off the mat, this idea of balancing opposites helps us improve relationships by learning how to give and receive in harmony. Yin and yang may seem like opposites, but the true power lies in their integration—finding the yin within the yang, and the yang within the yin.
The second principle we explore in Katonah Yoga® is the presence of patterns in nature. Everything from the tides to our sleep cycles follows a rhythm. Our bodies are no different. In yoga, our aim is to recognise and change the patterns that hold us back while nurturing new ones that help us thrive. As we change the patterns in our bodies, we naturally shift our minds as well.
The third principle is the power of repetition. By repeating poses and refining them each time, we unlock deeper insights. It’s through this repetition—done with awareness—that we install new habits, replacing old ones with more effective, mindful patterns.
On the mat, yoga becomes more than a series of poses. It becomes a practice for understanding and changing the patterns that shape our lives. Insight comes when we consciously repeat a pose, refining it with every breath. As you evolve through this process, you revolve, and eventually, this evolution sparks a revolution in how you see yourself. Through this revolution, revelation happens.
It’s tough to sum up Katonah Yoga® in just a few words, but the best way to understand it is to experience it for yourself.
About the Founder of Katonah Yoga®:
Nevine Michaan founded Katonah Yoga® after more than 40 years of practice and study. Her approach blends yoga, Taoism, and mathematics to create a unique and transformative practice. For more information on Nevine and Katonah Yoga®, visit katonahyoga.com.
