Michael Stone is a psychotherapist in private practice, lecturer, yoga teacher and authour. He co-leads the Centre of Gravity Sangha, a community of Yoga & Buddhist practitioners in Toronto and travels internationally, teaching in academic, yoga studio and conference settings. Michael offers courses and retreat that focus on integrating yoga postures, breathing practices, meditation and textual study. His research and teaching explore the intersection of committed spiritual practice and social action.

Michael also teaches courses and workshops to clinicians (doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, palliative care workers, psychotherapists) that integrate Buddhist teachings and meditation practices with contemporary approaches to clinical work. He runs the well respected Leading Edge Mindfulness for Clinicians Course in Toronto as well as training retreats.

Michael's academic background includes studies in psychology, psychoanalysis, philosophy and comparative religion. He teaches yoga in the tradition of Krishnamacharya and his principal teacher is Richard Freeman. He has studied Ashtanga, Iyengar and other forms of hatha yoga in depth as well as sanskrit and Indian philosophy.

Michael's forthcoming books are:

"The Inner Tradition of Yoga: A Guide to Yoga Philosophy for Contemporary Practitioners." with a foreword by Richard Freeman. (Boston: Shambhala Publications, 2008). This will be published in Canada by random House Canada.

"Yoga Engaged: Taking Spiritual Practice into the World." book, forthcoming

"The Two Darts: A Comprehensive Approach to Pain as taught by the Buddha." book, forthcoming

"Yoga & Buddhism: An Ongoing Dialogue." book, forthcoming. With contributing authours: Richard Freeman, mary Taylor, Chip Hartranft, sara Powers, Frank Jude Boccio, Roshi Pat Enkyo O'hara, Jean Byrne, Christopher Chapple and others.