Meet Chase Connolly

Teaching for 16 years has naturally culminated in a synthesis of movement techniques and perspectives focused on the philosophical and theological context of classical yoga. Chase’s passion for blending functional and therapeutic approaches of Katonah Yoga makes his classes empowering and affirming.

What drew you to Katonah Yoga?

The poetic expression of laws of Great Nature expressed in a fluid and relatable manner is truly what piqued my interest. What kept me around is how good my body felt after each practice.

Is there a piece of theory that has most resonated with you?

The foundations, which give a systemic lens through which to look at a posture and truly find functional stability and fluidity. This not only allows us to do a pose well, but eventually to focus on the aim of Yoga: entraining the body and mind in contemplation of Reality/divinity/meditation in every moment.

How have you brought the theory of Katonah Yoga into your daily life? Any specific scenarios you want to share?

The theories referenced within Katonah Yoga came to life for me in a substantial way when I started to study their roots. Once I really grasped the context where these concepts originated, and why they're relevant to us now is when I began to see the patterns in everything. We're in a long line of humans trying to assign words to the indescribable majesty and terror of Life.

When you're not practicing or teaching yoga, what do you enjoy doing?

Gardening, learning herbalism and ecology, reading Indic philosophy & theology.

Any tips for practitioners new to Katonah Yoga?

Stay open to simply playing with new techniques and ideas. They may be confronting, mentally or physically, but nothing we're doing is absolute... There is always another angle or perspective to explore. The more ways you know how to enter the house of embodiment, the more powerful you become.

Join Chase Connolly on Saturday, February 17th 10:00-11:15am as part of our Katonah Master Series.