2026 Oct 3rd: Outer Work for Inner Peace with Cindy Dollar
Outer Work for Inner Peace: Exploring the Kleshas with Cindy Dollar
Saturday, October 3rd • 1-3 pm
Join us in-person for this special event!
Sliding scale $45-60
What if the habits keeping you stuck aren’t really “you”? Unpack the kleshas—Patanjali’s five root causes of suffering—and discover how avidya, our foundational misperception, shapes everything from self-talk to relationships. A philosophy-forward workshop for all levels.
This workshop-style class invites students into the heart of yoga philosophy through an exploration of the kleshas, the five afflictions described in The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali as the root causes of human suffering. Together we’ll trace how avidya (ignorance or misperception), asmita (ego-identification), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of death/clinging to life) shape the patterns of thought and reaction that keep us bound to old habits. We’ll explore how each klesha shows up in daily life—in our relationships, our self-talk, our reactions to change—making ancient philosophy feel immediate and personally relevant.
Special attention will be given to avidya, which Patanjali identifies as the root from which the other four kleshas grow. We’ll discuss how avidya isn’t a simple lack of knowledge, but a fundamental misperception of mistaking the personality self as “who we are” and not recognizing our True Self or Essential Nature. Through guided exercises and discussion, students will consider where in their own lives they might be operating from misperception/fluctuations of the mind rather than from clarity. Yoga teaches us how to recognize this misperception early and to maintain steadiness as we respond to the fluctuations rather than be carried away by them.
Class will unfold with a short meditation, an overview of the kleshas, and some discussion about them as a group. The main teaching is on avidya, the klesha from which all others originate. We’ll have a short asana practice about midway in the class to reenergize body and mind, and end with an extended meditation practice designed to cultivate viveka (discernment)—the clear-seeing that Patanjali offers as the antidote to avidya. Journaling prompts will be offered throughout for those who wish to reflect in writing.
Knowledgeable and approachable, Cindy creates a safe environment in which she guides students to explore yoga’s benefits, as expressed in The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali.
Class Details
This class is suitable for all levels, including those with little or no asana experience, as the physical component is minimal.
It’s especially well-suited for students who want to deepen their understanding of yogic philosophy, explore the “why” behind the practice, and connect the mat to their broader inner life. Please come with an open mind, a journal if you’d like one, and a willingness to sit with some big questions.
Attendance capped at 18 participants.
About Cindy
Cindy has been helping people live more flexible and balanced lives since 1985 and is a certified Iyengar yoga instructor. She teaches in Weaverville and leads workshops throughout the Southeast. Cindy has been voted one of the Best Yoga Teachers in Western NC several times.
Join us for any or all of these interconnected sessions—reserve your spot below!
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