Sivananda World News: The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashrams

Om Namah Sivaya, Greetings from the Headquarters. Early December was the 4th and last week of the TTC. With the Grace of the Masters it all went very well. Guests, students, teachers, assistants, and supporting staff all enjoyed the energy of the Camp that grew to feel like home to many. The TTCs had their mantra initiation, which most had taken, while the rest of the Camp guests and staff went on a silent walk through the beautiful white trails. And as Marion transformed to Mirabai, Marc Antoine to Santosh, and Rim to Saraswati, people shared feeling deep transformations in their own selves beyond that of their names. The group graduated on Saturday the 10th of December, and 4 of them decided to stay at the Camp for a few weeks and one for a few months. The talent show was very lively, many performed songs, dances, and a final group song in which everyone participated, then gathered in one big group hug and a few tear drops. On that same evening we bid goodbye to Swami Rajeshwaranandaji who left with Nikhila to spend the night at the Centre then travel the next day, back to Rome, after the month of teaching the TTC. We had a visit of Prahlada, who came for two days to meet the staff and lead the morning Satsangs. His presence was inspiring as he shared words of encouragement about the Yoga practice and how to continue the Sadhana when back home. We went to the Sivananda Montreal Centre to celebrate Christmas party, which was fantastic! Nikhila and Gita had transformed every corner of the Centre into festive colors. Gita, with the help of Swami Rajeshwarananda and Karma Yogis prepared a delicious Mexican feast. Christmas Carols and a visit from Santa brought us to our childhood and family time. We all received Sivananda calendars and mugs, while the kids got to take a photo with Santa. Another snow storm appeared, turning the Camp into a white blank page, preparing us for a new chapter: The Upcoming Christmas Season. Staff spread in every direction to clean up the Camp after the departure of the TTC.

During mid-December we got to wear our warmest clothes as temperatures hit -35°C.

The calm Camp looked serene in its white drape. The Christmas trees arrived for the indoors and the spirit of Christmas filled the Camp. A few TTC participants decided to stay as Karma Yogis, and some got to teach their first classes already! It was inspiring, and the long term students coming from town complimented them for their aptitude. We went on a night silent walk as the following morning we were expecting a snow storm. We went through the forest to Lake Raymond, a walk that turned out to be pretty challenging with the frozen snow. By the lake, Ivan, a Karma Yogi from Russia played a flute – an enchanting moment we cherished dearly. One of the guests, Jennifer, has been with us for two weeks, and during one of the lectures, she shared with the new arriving guests the transformation she went through during her stay, and how she was inspired to read that even Swami Vishnu has experienced similar resistance at the beginning of his journey. By the second week, she was inspired to help out with the Camp work, and so she spent her last few days here working full time. Other guests expressed interest to learn more about meditation, and so we offered a meditation workshop, amongst the other usual activities. We had a morning Puja for the Masters and in the evening, we had the Satsang in Samadhi Estate. Bharata talked about Swami Vishnu’s later years, and how even in his suffering and seemingly challenging requests, he was teaching his disciples life lessons. Every evening, one staff members chanted Om Namo Narayanaya in the Krishna Temple before Satsang – a practice dear to us. On the Staff side, we finished the Subramanya Temple cleaning and started painting the back area in Krishna Temple. We started typing books that have been out of print, relaying the typing between a team of 10 people. So far we finished “The Yogi” and started with a series of documents and articles. We often hear Karma Yogis talk over dinner about inspiring passages they had typed that day. One Staff night we watched “Pele, The Birth of a Legend”, a moving story of talent, determination, and faith. May the Grace of God and the Gurus keep guiding us all on our journey in 2017. Om Shanti.

http://www.sivananda.org/camp

Namah Sivaya to all. Early December the Ashram energy settled down after November TTC. A number of students decided to stay back to continue improving their teaching skills under supervision. Regular special new teachers’ classes started with feedback back from more experienced teachers. Seven South India Yatris were initiated on Monday. They included people from around the world including Vishwakarma, USA, who did the Yatra twenty years ago. We wished them safe travels.

During mid-December, the initial few challenging days, the attendees of the Juice Fasting Pregram steadily progressed with their purification process, under guidance of Narayan and Krishnapriya. A new Yoga Vacation group got off to a good start with over one hundred guests, many of them returning from previous stays. May the Grace of God and the Masters keep us blessing all. Pranams to all the Sivananda Family as the New Year begins.

http://www.sivananda.org/neyyardam

Om Namo Narayanaya – Greetings from Uttar Kashi. For early December, although there are no programs at the Ashram, it wasn’t quiet. Improvement work continued. The new roof of the Bhagirathi building was completed and construction of two rooms on the top floor began. The Ganga dormitories were also under renovation. The old windows were replaced and some additional windows were being created to give more light and ventilation. Outside the compound, about 20 Nepalese workers were being supervised by the local authorities in the preparation of materials for repairing the Ashram retention wall, damaged by the heavy flooding in 2013. The weather was distinctly cooler and often the sun was only appearing for a few hours in the middle of the day.

During mid-December, despite the temperatures getting colder, the workers methodically continued with their various tasks around the Ashram. On the one hand, destruction was taking place with the old room being demolished next to the bridge tension ropes, whilst on the other hand, the new cement ceiling of the Bhagirathi dorm was being plastered. The carpenter was working on building new beds. The Ganga dorm floor tiling was completed. The plumbing repairs were taking place in various locations. The work on the compound retention walls continued in the hands of the local government. Held the regular medical camp, attended by Dr Chandok. The staff were occupied with general maintenance as well as their Sadhana. With Swamiji and Master’s blessings all goes smoothly in 2017. Pranams to all. Om.

http://www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi

Om Namo Narayanaya. For early December the TTC entered the 3rd week of their course schedule with their teaching skills put to practical test under the scrutiny of teachers. Anatomy and Physiology sessions commenced by Dr. Sharavanan giving a theoretical take on the physical aspects of yogic practices. Simple and informative slides kept them glued to the interactive sessions, intriguing them to ask questions. Staff Karma Yoga at 12 noon saw the staff cleaning and tidying up the backyard, giving it a more spacious look. Weeding and brooming followed by collection and disposal of wastes kept them occupied. A Day Off trip was organized to Rameshwaram, the one most eagerly awaited trips by all the students and staffs alike. After the Temple Dracaena and deviating from the routine, we went to a beach in the contiguity of Rameshwaram, Khushi Beach. The beach has a very beautiful shoreline, lined with pine trees. All the students seemed to be reliving their childhood by playing pranks and games by the sea side. We had a cultural night one Sunday, blessed by rendering of bhajans by the Erode group. The night was reverberating with the positive vibrations of their chanting, brought to a crescendo when the students were dancing in joy to express their emotions. We were thanking God for his blessings.

During mid-December our concluding week of TTC was switched over to silent mode reflecting the students’ focus on the upcoming exams. Bhagavad Gita classes concluded with Gita Arati with a special prasad distribution. The students did an overall revision of all the subjects, on the same day, to help them with exam preparation. On Friday Day Off, the students went out only for the sake of getting some change from their learning and revising sessions with the majority of them preferring to be left in the rejuvenating atmosphere of the Ashram. It seemed evident from their answer papers their hard work during the TTC was very well rewarded. Students were served a traditional south Indian feast complete with Payasam and varieties of Vada on plantain leaves which proved to be satiating to any gourmet’s taste. That day’s Satsang saw the students assembling with renewed energy levels as newly graduated teachers were ready to spread forth the ideologies and teachings of our Masters. This was followed by Talent Show where we were introduced to a jamming session by a wind instrument being played to the accompaniment of percussion, well applauded by all. Yoga vacationers continued with their schedule, savouring every second of their relaxed Ashram life. We bade farewell to Nagaraj ji and thanked him for all his enchanting teachings of Bhagavad Gita. We were thankful to the Almighty and our Masters for the successful completion of the course. We pray to our Masters, for their blessings and guidance all throughout. Peace and Pranams the Sivananda Family for the New Year.

www.sivananda.org/madurai

Om Namah Sivaya! For early December we saw some arrivals and departures at the Ranch. A new karma yogi, Nicolas from Uruguay arrived; Swami Paramananda returned from India and Srinivasan returned from Europe. After a month of managing the Ashram in Swami Paramananda’s absence, Gopi and Adam departed the Ashram. The 5-day Yoga Immersion course was attended by 3 eager participants. Swami Satyapremananda and Gopi gave the afternoon workshops, while asana classes were shared between all teaching staff. Swami Satyapremananda also went to New York city to give a Wednesday evening Satsang at the Centre. Four new guests arrived for the Introduction to Meditation program, led by Srinivasan and Swami Paramananda. Swami Paramananda also visited the Centre, to teach an advanced asana class and give the evening Satsang. Our weather was a mix of snow, sun, and rain, but did not prevent outdoor projects, such as the fitting of the new greenhouse doors after completion. All staff were well and enjoying the winter lighting and atmosphere.

During mid-December the staff were busy preparing the Ranch for Christmas. A beautiful tree was decorated in the hallway, outdoor lights were hung up around the grounds and Ambika paid great attention to indoor decoration detail. Srinivasan and Swami Paramananda traveled to the New York Centre to give an evening Satsang. We greeted 11 weekend guests for the “Karma Yoga: Love in Action” weekend, and one returning Karma Yogi, Narayana. Swami Satyapremananda led a Friday evening Satsang, introducing the intrigued guests to the ideals of selfless service. The following day, after a winter wonderland walk in the woods, the group of guests enthusiastically engaged in various cleaning activities around the Ashram. One guest even filled in the karma yoga application form. Srinivasan and 5 other staff attended the Christmas party at the New York Centre. Swami Paramananda taught the afternoon advanced asana class, the other karma yogis helped with food preparations and running errands. Srinivasan led an evening Satsang with Christmas carols. Santa Claus and two elves made a surprise appearance to distribute gifts. We wished everyone a peaceful Christmas of inspired service and joy to all! By the grace of Master and Swamiji, staff continued to maintain strong in their Sadhana. Sending pranams to all for 2017. Om.

Om Namah Sivaya. For early December Swami Sitaramananda-ji arrived to Vietnam for teaching programs in Dalat, Vietnam joined by Swami Narayanananda. Swami Dharmananda went to the Los Angeles Centre Holiday party while Sw Jnaneswariananda spent a weekend helping San Francisco Centre after arriving back from London. Sankari Chaitanya also went to Los Angeles Centre for a weekend. Staff worked on the year end donation campaign and the holiday drama, under the supervision of Swami Vasishtananda. Hara Mahadeva and Ananta Chaitanya met with lavender farmer, Ryan, as the Ashram was gearing towards the launching of the lavender farm on its Dhanvanthari adjacent land from which lavender products like Sivananda essential oils and hydrosol can come to be distributed to all. We will keep you updated. Swami Dharmananda led Bhagavad Gita workshops, reading from Chapter 13, The Field and the Knower of the Field, addressing our illusions about body/mind and emotions and understanding the nature of the Self. Ananta Chaitanya taught a weekend Stress Relief and Relaxation workshop, with focus on the 5 Points and 4 Paths of Yoga as practical techniques for reducing stress in daily life. Guests enjoyed the Ashram and the green landscape from all the rains. Sw Vasishtananda gave an inspired Satsang talking about how to understand the concept of God according to Yoga and how to live a life at ease.

During mid-December, after days of heavy rain, the Ashram saw cold mornings blanketing the meadows with white frost, creating a beautiful winter scene. Staff traveled to San Francisco Centre for the annual Christmas Party and feast with Sankari Chaitanya and students. Meanwhile at the Ashram, the Brahma Vidya Hall was decorated with beautiful Christmas tree, wreaths and lights in preparation for the Christmas celebration. Many guests visited the Ashram to enjoy the Ashram energy and practice, including a sweet group of Beginners for the 5-day course with Karuna Devi. The group also enjoyed a special hands on Proper Diet cooking workshop. A weekend Ayurveda Retreat, with Ambika, gave guests the opportunity to learn daily routines of Ayurveda, understand constitution and how to make healthy lifestyle choices. Ananta Chaitanya offered a workshop on Prana and Sw Dharmananda taught meditation. We all felt the grace of Master and Swamiji this month. Om Namah Sivaya to all Blessed Selves from the Yoga Farm.

http://www.sivananda.org/farm

Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves. For early December we started beautifully with the December TTC Inauguration. In their introduction we learned of all their great intentions for the month. We welcomed scholar Michael Hattwick, who shared his knowledge of the Jewish religion in a Satsang talk titled “The ABBA Tradition: Rediscovery, Reconciliation, Reunion”. We were delighted to welcome back Father William Meninger. He presented inspiring and humorous talks on “The Cloud of Unknowing and the Bhagavad Gita; A Comparison”, in which he skillfully drew parallels between the two scriptures. The priest conducted a Ganapati Vidya Homa mainly for the TTC students and teachers. Everybody was invited to offer ghee into the fire and flowers to the beautiful Yantra, which Krishnaji created the night before with many different colored powders. We welcomed Lama Karma Chutso, a Buddhist Nun. She offered multiple Satsangs on “Practicing Compassion for Yourself and Others”, in which she included the audience by teaching short exercises of how to cultivate compassion. We welcomed back Sundari (Nora Benian), who gave workshops on Restorative Yoga and healing. There was a wonderful Sri Gita Jayanthi Puja, celebrating the birthday of the Bhagavad Gita, in which we chanted all 18 chapters during the evening Satsang. An Essentials of Yoga 2 Course was taught by the staff of the Ashram, with guests and Karma Yogis participating.

During mid-December we started by watching a movie by popular film maker John Kastner, called “Not Criminally Responsible, Wedding Secrets”, which is a sequel to a movie he screened last year. We welcomed Lama Karma Chutso, who shared her practices of developing compassion to oneself and others. We watched the inspiring movie “In the Name of Peace”. Gregg Krech gave a Satsang and multiple workshops on the “Art of Self-Reflection”, based on his knowledge of Buddhism. We were happy to welcome back Steve Gorn and his musicians. They gave two beautiful performances of Indian classical music, playing the Bansuri and the Tablas. They continued with workshops, in which they shared their knowledge of classical Indian music and also involved the participants with some singing with flute and rhythm lessons. Zoe Weil gave two informative talks on “Becoming a Solutionary for a Better World and Meaningful Life”, in which she introduced the art of finding problems and solving them correctly.

Swami Brahmananda gave several Satsangs on the “Practice of Karma Yoga”, explaining the inner aspect of the practice in a humours and clear way. Parvati Chaitanya taught a beautiful “Essentials of Meditation” weekend course. May the blessings of Master and Swami ji be with all for the upcoming year. Om.

http://www.sivananda.org/nassau

Om Namah Sivaya. In the first week of December we still had Yoga programs in Mittersill near Salzburg. To experience the magic of the close by mountains even more we took some of the Yoga guests to a Gondola ride up to a nearby peak. A breathtaking panoramic view revealed the three thousanths of the “Hohe Tauern” in their pure  brilliance. Everyone appreciated the good mix of Yoga classes, meditations, spiritual lectures and hikes in untouched landscapes. For the last weekend in Mittersill mainly young guests joined. They appreciated the more demanding asana classes with detailed corrections. In the Satsangs we explained the working of the mind and the conditions for the development of greater mental strength and stamina. On Sunday noon we had a warmhearted farewell. We thanked the owner of the hotel Sonnberghof in Mittersill for their dedicated service towards the yoga vacationers and returned back to the Retreat House in Reith. After a nice get together with all staffs at the beginning of the week we focused on making the final preparations for the upcoming TTC and Christmas season. A group effort transformed the hall to a festive place full of color and light. By the end of the week the first guests arrived followed by the TTC group. The 22 souls from a wide array of backgrounds were very grateful to be here and settled nicely into the new daily schedule and the rhythms of the Seminar house. Now we are looking forward to the arrival of more guests and visiting staffs to spend a wonderful Christmas time together. Blessings and Peace to all of the Sivananda Family. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/tyrol

Om Namah Sivaya. Padmavati from Austria gave a nice program about “Yoga for senior citizen” at the beginning of the month. We had 3 special guests this last month, Cécile Dubois, a specialist in geobiology who spoke about the effects of mobile phones, electrical wires, computers, etc on the nervous system and Vincent Maréchal, a dynamic French Ayurveda practitioner who spoke about Ayurveda. Loic Sallet, a water specialist,  explain how to energize and purify water, using the latest technologies. He also explained the current situation about water, with all the toxins, chemicals, hormones, which pollutes it. The November teachers’ training course was a very harmonious and positive group, quite disciplined and respectful of the teachings. Omkari, a long time teacher from Paris, came for a week to teach the anatomy. The students put together a lovely and lively  talent show, funny and inspiring – some of the students had circus training and could do amazing physical feats,  like standing on the head and lifting the arms. By the grace of the Masters they all passed the exam. There was great joy and inspiration in the Ashram during the last few days of the course and especially during and after the graduation. As most of them are from France, many said they want to come back for Karma Yoga, ATTC and the further trainings courses. Alina, a very long time student of the Paris Centre and very talented musician, came for 2 evenings and shared her amazing talent for piano improvisation, making everyone participate and creating a magical atmosphere of joy and creativity. We are now focusing on the preparation for the Christmas program and look forward to receiving swamis and staff from the European Centres. Pranams to the Sivananda family worldwide at this time of year. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/orleans