Sivananda World News: The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres

Om Namah Sivaya. Early June saw a good start with classes and courses running well. Due to good weather, more and more classes took place outside on the garden platform. Students loved it. A Yoga 1 course and several higher courses started. Other courses ran well. One Saturday afternoon a very focused group of students joined in for a headstand workshop. The next day we had a small Open House. People were very interested and positive, with several registering for Yoga 1.

During mid-June classes and courses were well visited. The official event for the International Yoga Day was organized by the Indian Embassy in a park located close to the city Centre of Berlin. There was one asana class, presented together by 5 different Yoga organizations. Every school taught one part of the class following the common protocol of the Indian Government. International Academy of Traditional Yoga did the warm up exercises, Art of Living and Jivanmukti shared the Asanas and the Sivananda  was Pranayama. The class was concluded with Vedic chanting and a short guided meditation by the Isha Foundation. Despite different lineages of teaching and different teachers it could be felt that it is all Yoga and it came together to perfect oneness. The class was followed by a question and answer session for the participants and the end formed the release of nice orange balloons up in the air. We had an inspired group of dedicated Karma Yogis and teachers, supported with demonstrating pranayama, laying out mats and distributing flyers and our 5 point Sivananda magazine, which was a hit.
Back at the Centre, we did a special Satsang for the International Yoga Day with an inspiring lecture on Swami Sivananda and pictures about Swami Vishnudevananda’s peace missions. Students left happy and inspired. We welcomed Divya, new staff from Lithuania, who did the TTC in Poland last year and will stay with us for the next months. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/berlin

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June we met with nineteen teachers to finish up the planning for the activities on “International Yoga Day.” Karma yogis offered their help at the Centre with several tasks. We continued with the “Bhagavad Gita” study group.
The “Pranayama and Vital Energy” workshop, offered by Swami Dayananda, started with just a few students; as did “Yoga and the Back” by one of our professors. Many people new to the Centre attended the free trial class.

During mid-June we welcomed journalists from ESPN, The Sports Channel, to film some of the Centre’s activities and interview Swami Premanda and Swami Dayananda.
Both Swamis also gave a conference at a local university and showed them the most important asanas. We continued studying the “Bhagavad Gita.” We hosted a “Get to Know the Centre” day. Prem & Om to all.

http://www.sivananda.org/baires

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June the Centre had a quiet week, due to the 3-day Dragon Boat Festival. We focused our energy on reconnecting with TTC graduates, existing members and to promote Swami Pranavananda’s activities and TTC. We also spent quite some time compiling Swami Sitaramananda’s articles, translated into Chinese. May Guru’s grace bless the Centre to be grounded in Chengdu.

Mid-June was busy for us. We had more new faces coming to try our yoga classes. A few old students were able to join us more often because of the friendlier schedule. We offered an open house one Sunday. Centre staff focused on improving how to teach and promoting long term courses. May Guru’s grace bring classical Yoga to blossom on the land of China. Prem & Om to all.

http://www.sivanandayogachina.org

Om Namah Sivaya to all Blessed Selves from the Chennai Centre. In early June at the Centre we finished an evening beginners’ course with good progress and happy students. We were extremely happy to welcome Swami Govindananda ji, who stayed at the Centre, sharing his knowledge with our staff and students. Swamiji conducted open classes for few days, plus, a blissful Sunday Satsang, which was attended by many outside guests. We had a meeting with the Trust members, outside teachers and Centre staff to discuss and agree on the plan for the International Yoga Day. Preliminary program was made, finalized with the stamp of the final approval. The rest of activities in the Centre were carried out, as usual. All staff members performed their karma yoga duties, making sure the Centre operates efficiently and for the benefit of everyone. With the blessings of God and Masters, staff are well and wish you serenity and peace of mind.

IYD:
In the morning free yoga class jointly organized by Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre and East Coast Walkers Association in Kottivakkam beach at 6.00 AM to 7.00 AM.
In this free class more than 300 people were participated. At the same time in our yoga centre also we conducted some free yoga classes and video presentation. Programs were followed by, Morning 6.00 AM to 7.30 AM free regular class for all. More than 60 students were participated. After the yoga class, we provided breakfast at 8.00 AM to 9.00 AM. In breakfast, we served idly, pongal, sambar, chutney and herbal water. More than 100 people had breakfast. At 9.30 AM to 10.30 AM free ladies special class conducted. More than 75 students participated in this class. After the class we provided lunch at 11.00 AM. In lunch we served mixed fruit curd rice along with pickle and snacks. Above 75 people were had lunch. At 12.00 PM to 3.00 PM we gave yoga video presentation about Swami Sivananda and Swami Vishnudevananda’s life and other spiritual videos also. More than 15 people were watched videos. At 4.00 to 5.30 PM free open class for all. In this, more than 70 students were participated. At 5.30 to 6.30 PM free small introduction class. In this more than 80 students were participated. Right after we gave meditation, satsang and talk. The talk held by Mr. Selvanayagam about 4 paths of yoga and importance of yoga in our day to day life. More than 85 people attend the satsang. At 8.00 PM we provided dinner. In dinner, we served vegetable fried rice with gopi manchuri and sweets. More than 90 people had dinner. In this whole day more than 600 people participated in our yoga day celebration. Mean while media people also visited our centre. Our centre building was decorated beautifully by lights, rangoli and flowers. With the gurus blessing the program was successful. Om Shanti.

http://www.sivananda.org/madras

Om Namah Sivaya. At the Chicago Centre, a new Positive Thinking course started, as did a new Yoga 1 course, and Yoga 2 and 3 – all progressed well. Attendance for open classes was good, particularly in the mornings. The last day of Siddhi’s 6-month commitment arrived. She started her travels back to Finland. We were very grateful for her spirit, Sadhana and service at the Centre and hope to see her back again in the future. We wish her the continued grace and guidance of the Gurus, always. The weather for early June saw frequent shifts between high and low temperatures, with sunny days followed by rain.

During mid-June we felt Summer arriving, with hotter days alternating with occasionally pleasant and rainy days and with students and teachers starting to travel more. Yoga 1, 2, and 3 and Positive Thinking courses, as well as open classes, continued well, by the Grace of the Gurus. We took advantage of the summery weather to spend more time working in the garden, which featured marigolds, carrots, basil, turnips and different varieties of kale. Staff are well and send best wishes for a happy, healthy summer to all. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi.

http://www.sivananda.org/chicago

Om Namah Sivaya. After Open House on the 5^th Jun, we opened two new courses for beginners. These classes were taught by Mukunda and Radhika. After being assistants for some time, Radhika and Mukunda had their first opportunity to teach a beginners’ course. We had Yantra workshops, taught by Sivashakti. The students were very interested and focussed, including chanting while drawing and completing their own Mantra, with joy and peace. All other classes continued very well.

During mid-June, to celebrate the International day of Yoga, we had “Asana Outdoor” and special Satsang on Sunday Jun.19.2016. In the Satsang, we played video “Yoga Life and Self Transformation” to help students understanding more about the benefits of Sivananda Yoga and why they should practice yoga from now. They really enjoyed the presentation and learned something from these events. Also, we opened a new course for beginners, taught by Karma yogi, Vidya Devi. We also ran three courses for beginners with Yoga Kids, Prenatal Yoga and open classes. Everything was good, by the Grace of Gurus. Om Namah Sivaya.

https://sivanandayogavietnam.org

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June the Centre started with a new beginners’ course at 6am, with a good number of shining & enthusiastic students. Our regular open classes, kids classes and gentle classes continued well. We started a new weekend beginners course. We had peaceful Sunday Satsangs followed by prasad and dinner. Otherwise with guru’s grace and lord’s will, the Centre’s activities went very well.

During mid-June started with new beginners’ course at 10am & 6;30pm with good numbers of shining & enthusiastic students. We started a Meditation course, with good numbers of students. Our regular open classes, kids classes and gentle classes went well. We had public Satsang, followed by prasad and dinner.  One Sunday we had teacher’s meeting, talking on “how to correct students in basic Asana” plus, future planning for the Centre, attended by all our regular teachers. Otherwise, with Guru’s Grace and Lord’s will  the Centre’s activities continued in good shape. Our prayers to all. Om Namo Narayanaya. Pranams.

IYD:
On International Day of Yoga this year, it was festive mood all across the Yoga community, especially at the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dwarka Centre, New Delhi. The teachers felt that it was their special day to share and propagate the knowledge of this ancient art amongst people, making them aware of the need to bring the body, mind and spirit in rhythm of life living it the Yogic way. An attractive poster was designed for the occasion and the copies were pinned at the Information boards of many housing societies of Dwarka sub-city. The response was overwhelming and people from all age groups gathered to participate in the event. The special open Yoga session was organized in the Satsang Hall of the Centre, which was hugely appreciated by the participants. Some of them especially came forward to share their experience of the class. They commented that the Centre should organize such Yoga events more frequently. Post practice, a healthy sprout salad and a rejuvenating mineral drink was served to every one.

http://www.sivananda.org/dwarka

Om Namo Narayanaya. For early June, with the Grace of Gurus, we started a beginners’ course at 6.30 am with good number of students. The number of open class students reduced because of the summer vacation. All other activities continued normally.

With the Grace of Gurus mid June saw a second batch of Kids Summer Yoga Camp, with 25 children attending. We also started two beginners’ courses at 10 am and 6.30 pm, with good number of students. We prepared for the celebration of International Yoga Day on 21st June. We planned four different classes: Open Class, Introduction to Yoga, Gentle Yoga for Senior Citizens and Surya Namaskar, at the nearby park early morning at 5.30 am. We conducted an ” Introduction to Yoga ” workshop on the same day, covering Five Points of yoga in four public sectors – corporate. All other activities at the Centre went well. Om.

http://www.sivananda.org/delhi

Om Namah Sivaya, from Noida. During mid-June we started with two beginners courses at 6.30 am and 4 pm. All other classes ran well, with the Grace of Gurus. The number of students decreased because of summer vacations. There’s hope the numbers will increase in coming weeks. With the Blessings and Grace of our Beloved Masters, we send Pranams and our best wishes to all the Sivananda family.

http://www.sivananda.org.in/noida

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June the Geneva Centre started a Y2 and a Y2-Intensive course, with a nice group of students. The work on the Fall 2016 brochure started and a new slideshow for our webpage was completed. Another main focus was the preparation for the IYD. Mailings were sent out and we had a productive meeting with the staff from the Indian Mission Geneva and representatives of other organizations to coordinate our participation at the event at the United Nations.

During mid-June Staff and teachers supported the IYD at the United Nations Organization, which was organized by the Indian Embassy in Geneva. They appreciated the support from various yoga schools and did their very best to make this event a success. The atmosphere was peaceful and relaxed. The class took place indoors as the weather was unstable. The event ended with photo shoots in and around the UN-building. Everybody was happy to be there. Back at the Centre Mahadev taught a well-visited free yoga class for all levels, followed by a Satsang about Peace. A Y1 Intensive started, plus, we had a workshop about Yoga@Home with a nice group of students. The second Yoga Hall and the office were painted, looking fresh and sattvic. A slideshow was uploaded on our webpage showing pictures of the Centre. It had a very positive response. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/geneva

Om Namah Sivaya. During early June, after a very good Open House at the Centre, we started a Yoga One course, with 14 students and a Yoga Two course, with 10 students, taught by experienced teachers Priya and Sarada. One Sunday about 30 people came for two very successful workshops.  In the morning we had “Yoga for Back Pain” with Swami Pranavananda. It was inspiring to meet new students who were very happy to learn how the classical Yoga postures improve health. In the afternoon we had “Advanced Asanas”, taught by Krishnadas, a very enthusiastic Hatha Yogi, who taught in the Centre twice a week regularly for the last two years. We had a Yoga Two course with Dharmini and a Yoga One course with Daya. Some new teachers began teaching open classes.

During mid-June the staff, residents and teachers were busy preparing to visit the Indian Consulate for the International Yoga Day event. About 100 people came from the Sivananda Centre in Ho Chi Minh City (20 from TTC and 80 students). After several days of rehearsal, some of our teachers demonstrated asanas on stage.  At the Centre we celebrated IYD with a good turnout of 25 people for Satsang, 20 for the free asana class, and seven for the Planting and Prana workshops.  After Satsang we had a well-hidden birthday surprise celebration for Swami Pranavananda, complete with a very thoughtful slide show prepared by the staff.  We started a Kids’ Yoga course with 13 children, a Meditation course, and a Yoga Two course.  With Gurus’ Grace the staff and residents were all happy and working well together. We enjoyed the cooler weather as the rainy season has finally arrived!  Om Sri Maha Lakshmyai Namah! Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi.

Om Namah Sivaya. During mid-June we were happy to welcome Swami Kailasananda for a brief visit at the Centre for the TTC mantra initiation and a very well attended and most inspiring Satsang on ‘Yoga – Choosing the Positive Path’. The lead up to the International Yoga Day celebrations kept staff on their toes with the preparations for 3 different events. The series of 3-day events, in collaboration with the Indian High Commission, started with a public class in Pottersfield Park, a riverside green right next to Tower Bridge. The TTC progressed with the Kriya workshop, anatomy lectures and the advanced pranayama class. Salutations to all. Om Namah Sivaya.

http://www.sivananda.org/london

Om Namo Narayanaya! For early June we continued to improve the Centre’s facility and prepared for Swami Sitaramananda’s arrival 6/17. The library, Puja cabinets and dividing curtains were moved to create a spacious class room; the altar re-positioned to no longer at an angle. The second room, now called Krishna Room, was also freshly painted with new window treatment and plants. It is now a better functioning class room. A loft bed was installed in the office/storage room to create additional storage and space for staff when hosting special guests. Lighting was updated all through-out. Students and devotees supported the project with participation, donations and encouragements.
One Sunday afternoon we did the a Krishna Puja to initiate the room, as Krishna is the main deity of the new altar. The same evening at Satsang we did a Guru Puja. We prayed to Lord Krishna and the Gurus for their Divine Grace, to make the us, and the Centre, better instruments for the Teachings of Yoga to flow through.

During mid-June it was a very inspiring time at the Centre. Swami Sitaramananda visited and taught a meditation weekend immersion. For two full days we began with a 2-hour meditative yoga class, followed by lunch, prepared by staff and loving karma yogis. In the afternoons Swamiji taught four 2-hour workshops on Meditation. Topics included: What is meditation? Why meditate? How to meditate? Meditation and Mantras, Japa meditation, Jnana Yoga meditation: qualifications and preparation, obstacles and experiences in meditation. Students were very attentive and engaged. Everyone was extremely grateful for the teaching and benefited greatly. Swamiji also led Satsang that Sunday and Monday. Attendance throughout mid June was high, despite a heat wave in LA. The Centre was filled with spiritual energy and inspiration. It was 10 months since Swamiji’s last visit. She toured the Centre and gave instructions to continue facility improvements. We also had a staff meeting, with key karma yogis, about general directions and promotion for the Centre. Staff were well and are sending Pranams to all. May Grace of the Guru continue to shelter and guide us.

http://www.sivananda.org/la

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves! During early June the Summer arrived to Madrid with temperatures up to 35 degrees Celsius. Classes and courses continued as usual. Preparations for the International Yoga day started with several meetings with the Indian Embassy and active promotion of the events. The new brochure was sent to the graphic designer. Enrollments for TTC Spain arrived to the Centre. One Saturday a small Open House day took place, with some inscriptions afterwards.

During mid-June two beginners’ courses started with good attendance. We continued the search for a possible TTC 2017 location. The new brochure was sent to the printer. Gopala and three close teachers distributed over 700 brochures just before an event for yoga schools. The evening Satsangs were strong, with nice chanting and very inspired students. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/madrid

Om Namah Sivaya. During mid-June it was quite busy at the Centre with International Yoga Day preparations. We designed and printed quite nice invitations and invited all our students and well-wishers. The International Yoga Day celebrations were inaugurated by District Collector of Madurai. We conducted a Yoga class and talk in Sundaram Park nearby our Centre. An evening function was held in Madurai Meenakshi Ashram. An International Yoga Day special article was printed in the Hindu Times newspaper with our TTC picture and all other information about our IYD programs with an interview of our staff, Krishna (Unnikrishnan). We started a new morning beginners’ course. Everything else was fine, with Gurus Grace. Pranams to one and all from Madurai Centre. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi!!

IYD 2016:
The second International Day of Yoga on 21^st June was eventful with the fruition of elaborate preparations for its celebrations by Sivananda Centre and Ashram staff members. The program commenced with the Madurai Centre in association with Walkers Club organizing an early morning Yoga Asana session at ‘Sundaram Park’ for the local people who frequented the park for their exercise routine. All the guests and staff from Ashram also joined in to be a part of the program initiated by Sivananda Organization. The session was inaugurated by Dr. Narayanasamy, a trustee of Sivananda Ashram, who is also a well known public figure among the local masses. The function also had members of Walkers Club attending along with felicitation of some senior members of the club, sharing their experiences about benefits of regular exercise.

The asana class was attended by around 200 people, including Sivananda Centre students and Ashram guests, in the company of cool, gentle early morning breezes and chirping birds. This, in turn, paved way to attract the attention of people around who came enquiring about our organization and our teaching schedule. We also invited them to the evening program scheduled at Meenakshi Ashram.

At the Ashram in the evening, the celebrations culminated with programs attended by an exuberant group of people, including kids from neighbouring villages for whom we held free summer yoga classes and students of Vikram Nursing College. The function was presided over by Madurai District Collector, Sri. Veera Raghava Rao, Ex Deputy Collector Sri. Karuppaiya, Swami Swaroopananda from Madurai DLS, Dr. Narayanasamy and other honourable dignitaries adding grandeur to our celebrations. All the chief guests gave inspirational talks on Yoga and Healthy Lifestyle through Yogic practices.

We also had Yoga Asana demonstrations to the gathering along with enumeration of benefits associated with each asana. The audience was in awe of the multitude of benefits that could be derived by regular Yoga practice. We also awarded participation certificate to the kids, much to their delight. The program concluded with a dinner served to all the guests.

We wholeheartedly extend our thanks to all those who joined us in our cause to spread Yogic teachings of our Masters to the community and also stood by us for the successful conduction of International Day of Yoga celebrations.

http://www.sivananda.org/madurai

Om Namah Sivaya! For early June we started Beginners’ courses on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. We continued with the Elderly and Children’s Classes.
Thanks to God, the weather allows us to keep on promoting the activities for the International Yoga Day.

During mid-June we continued normally with regular, elderly and children classes. The beginners had their second class and the Intensive beginners’ course started on Fridays, with 8 students. We started the activities to celebrate the International Yoga Day with a Satsang. Thanks to God and Gurus, everything resulted perfectly. We offered a Yoga class followed by a Meditation on Sundays at 10:00 am. Om Shanti!!

http://www.sivananda.org/montevideo

Om Namah Sivaya from the Montreal Centre! During early June Summer finally dawned upon us in Quebec. Classes continued to become busier, due to the summer unlimited special pass for $100. It was a great offer and inspired students to make the most of the next 3 months! The Monday Yoga 1 course ended with 6 students continuing to Yoga 2. We started a Tuesday Yoga 2 course with 6 students. Around 20 students attended a lively Satsang, despite the warm weather outside. The summer brochure was sent for printing, after many last minute additions and changes. We started our summer class in the park on Saturday mornings, with 6 students. We expect more to join us in the coming weeks. A few changes were made to the class schedule, we removed the community class on Monday nights at 8pm due to low attendance and the 4:30pm advance class on Saturdays in order to give staff time to rest and prepare for the week ahead. With only one advance class a week we were able to focus and put more energy into the class. We already saw an increase in attendance. Swami Shivabhaktananda led Sunday night Satsang, giving a very inspiring talk on Prana. This was his last Satsang for the summer as he will be busy with the Ashram and various courses. We are always grateful for his support. In the early days of June we focussed on cleaning and preparing for an upcoming painting project. With many new karma yogis joining us we now have a detailed karma yoga list prepared that will keep all the karma yogis busy! The Centre continued to be full of energy, with the support of the karma yogis, teachers and students. We are every grateful for the grace of the Gurus.

During mid-June, with temperatures soaring, students were happy, smiling and giddy with delight that summer finally arrived. Surprisingly, despite the sunny weather, classes were busy! Students continued to sign for the 3 month summer pass, which gave them unlimited classes for just $100. Yoga 2 courses ended with 7 students. We began a Yoga 1 & 2 Intensive with 4 students. Yoga class at the park attracted a few new faces amongst the regulars. Students continued to come for the 11 am class on the weekends. We had a group of 5 karma yogis help paint the main hallway and stairways. The walls have all been painting white, bringing more light into the Centre except for one wall that has been painted bright orange. Students are quite happy with the colour scheme! One Saturday we did a deep cleaning of the Centre and prepared for the International Yoga Day celebrations. We had a nice program prepared for IYD, beginning with a walk to Mont Royal and Satsang at the park. Throughout the day students attended an Indian cooking workshop, a relaxation workshop and an introduction to positive thinking workshop. The morning yoga class was busy with around 24 students. Prahlada gave a special asana class, attended by 25 students. We had around 70 students for Satsang led by Prahlada on the ‘Spirit of Yoga’. Students were very happy with his talk as he pointed out few simple things that help clear the clutter in our minds. Satsang was followed by a delicious feast! We are very grateful to have the support of wonderful teachers, karma yogis and students that inspire us everyday, plus the guidance of Master and Swamiji. Pranams to all!

http://www.sivananda.org/montreal

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June Dr. Kamlesh left to Berlin after having finished a successful Ayurveda nutrition program. Our big Yoga and Music Festival started. On Sunday Swami Durgananda shared her long-time experience and practical wisdom in a lecture on the importance of Sadhana. She reminded us about the teachings of the Upanishads on the good and the pleasant paths and how yoga can help us to overcome tamas and rajas. One Saturday and Sunday we also offered two well-attended yoga teachers’ further training workshops with Swami Sivadasananda and Swami Keshavananda, as well as two asana workshops for students, both with Swami Narayanananda and Swami Keshavananda. The Yoga Festival days ended with wisdom teachings from the yoga scriptures and divine music. We started a course “Thought Power and Positive Thinking” with a very motivated group of students.

During mid-June was beautiful in the Centre with our big Yoga and Music Festival, themed, “The Essence of Yoga”. Many long-time students as well as many who are relatively new came and participated in the different workshops, classes and lectures. Swami Durgananda gave a very inspiring talk with the title “The Meditation Experience”. Swamiji reminded us that the practice of the Five Points of Yoga and a clear understanding that only meditation can ultimately can give us peace are absolutely necessary if we want to meditate. We continued with the yoga teachers’ further training workshops. We were especially happy that also many of the Centre’s teachers took part in all the workshops. Another highlight of the festival was a lecture and an asana-workshop, with Swami Sivadasananda, in which our big yoga hall was filled to the last place. The festival days ended with wisdom words from the scriptures and beautiful music. The Centre felt like a little Ashram with many karma yogis helping, some even staying for the whole festival at the Centre. Staff, residents and students want to thank the Acharyas for this wonderful week which brought a wave of prana and inspiration for everybody. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/munich

Om Namah Sivaya! For early June the Centre saw a steady stream of students in regular classes, plus, the conclusion of the Yoga 1 and Yoga 2 courses. One Saturday we had a well-attended headstand workshop with Shanti. We welcomed a new staff member Rukmini who came to the Centre after three months of karma yoga at the Bahamas Ashram to stay for six weeks. We also said goodbye to Sundari, who spent three months at the Centre. She went back to her home country of France. We were very grateful for all her dedicated service and wished her all the best. We offered a deaf yoga class, with Geeta. We had 8 students who also stayed for lunch after the class. We were blessed to welcome Swami Yatidharmananda to the Centre to lead Satsang. This was one stop on a tour Swamiji was making to pay tribute to his guru Swami Chidanandaji, a direct disciple of Swami Sivananda, on his 100th birthday anniversary. The house was packed and disciples of Swami Chidanandaji came from as far away as Louisiana to attend.

During mid-June students flowed through the Centre for regular classes as well as the courses for Positive Thinking, Yoga 1, Yoga 2, Deaf Yoga and the FIT students. Swami Satya Premananda arrived and led Satsang that night. Among other things, she spoke about the juxtaposition of fickleness and perseverance, took questions from the audience and even did a demonstration to show how energy moves through the body.
We promoted the 6/19 International Yoga Day event. We welcomed Srinivasan and Saraswati. For IYD we had many homemade treats and special decorations prepared for the occasion. Everybody on staff worked very hard. A steady stream of people came into the Centre for the event, including several new students and new yogis. Swami Paramananda arrived in time to teach a very well-attended advanced class that day. Srinivasan led Satsang and spoke about the importance of spreading yogic teachings and philosophy. We prepared for the 108 Sun Salutations Challenge on Sunday 6/26. Many students were excited about this event. All the Staff were well and send their pranams. Om.

http://www.sivananda.org/ny

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June the public transportation strikes in Paris and heavy rains continued. The flowers bloomed beautifully. Sivakami went back to the Orleans Ashram. We missed her classes, the delicious food she prepared, her sweetness, her chanting and her calm way of handling everything. That same day Mahadev arrived from London to stay until June 28th. He was of precious help, cooking, working in reception, cleaning, chanting and bringing a cheerful mood to the Centre. The Masters continued sending help. Radha came for almost a week. Shambhu enjoyed giving a mantra workshop, with a good group of students. Everyone was motivated with the International Yoga Day celebration. The good news of a big class in Trocadero by the Eiffel Tower brought a cheerful mood. The Centre was blessed with Swami Kailasananda’s presence. Swamiji led a meeting for the International Yoga Day and gave an inspiring Satsang on the topic of life from Bliss Divine. Swami Nityananda participated in a 3 day Sanskrit course. Swami Kailasananda gave a lecture on yoga at the Indian Embassy. She went back to Orleans, accompanied by the priest Yagneshwara, who passed by on his way back from London.

During mid-June we experienced a festive week with the preparations of the peace day on 19^th and International Yoga Day celebration on 20^th June. God blessed us with a beautiful and peaceful celebration for the IYD. The day started with an Aarati and the departure to the Trocadero place. Swami Kailasananda gave an inspiring and peaceful class by the Eiffel Tower with around 250 students. The class was accompanied by a sitar. Kailas did the asana demonstration on a little stage. The ambassador was in the first row. In the afternoon we continued the IYD Celebration at the Centre, with around 500 people visiting the Centre. Swami Kailasananda gave an inspiring lecture on the topic of Yoga. Then we had three big classes in a row and the chanting of Om Namo Narayanaya, led by Swami Gopalananda. The IYD finished with a Puja for Peace led by the priest, Yagneshwara Dixit. There was a cheerful mood all day long. The Masters sent many hands to support the Centre. The day before we had the celebration of the Peace Day. That day, the Masters Blessed the Centre with an inspiring Satsang, led by Swami Kailasananda. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/paris

Om Namah Sivaya from Brasil. Pranams to all the Sivananda family. Om.

http://www.sivananda.org/portoalegre

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed selves. For early June we started new courses, yoga 2 and 3 at the Rome Centre. The classes at the park were more popular, bringing new students to the Centre. Swami Sankarananda went to HQ to help with their high season for a few weeks.

During mid-June we had a nice celebration of the International Yoga Day with a yoga class at the park plus a picnic. Teachers and students brought friends and family to participate in the class. It was very joyful. The IYD special occasion gathered many yoga teachers from different cities near Rome. During the same evening we had special Satsang. Pranams to all from Roma. Om Shanti.

http://www.sivananda.org/rome

Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves. For early June a Yoga 1 course started at the Centre, as well as a two-session Yoga 1 Refresher course. A Meditation 1 course ended. Friday’s Gita class was taught by Swami Jnaneswariananda. Swamiji spoke on the Yoga of Relationships, with the ultimate message being that we are all one. A teachers’ class and meeting followed, including a potluck dinner. Swamiji taught a 3-hour yoga class one Sunday morning, followed by an Indian brunch for all. Sankari Chaitanya connected with fellow teachers at Passing the Flame at the Yoga Farm and began Sadhana Intensive.

During mid-June Swami Sankarananda visited and taught the Gita class one Friday evening. A very special dhrupad singer, Nirmalya Dey, performed one Saturday night. The audience was elevated by the caliber and eloquence of the concert. Sankari Chaitanya returned after 7 days of Sadhana Intensive at the Yoga Farm, in time to make final preparations for International Yoga Day. All is well at the Centre, by Guru’s Grace. Pranams to all from the new San Francisco Centre.

IYD 2016:
700-800 people were packed into the beautiful Grace Cathedral in San Francisco for a International Yoga Day Yoga class which ended with Swami Sitaramananda leading all in a resonating 7 Oms, then OM Shanti Peace prayers and Om Trayambhakams chanting in the church. Swami later continued with a lecture to 200 people attending in another hall in the church. The IYD was also celebrated all day at the SF SYVC with lectures, meditations and meals for all. It was a good day. Seeing all the young people lining up in every corner of the beautiful cathedral, wearing Yoga outfits and shorts (including the reverend) and doing Yoga asanas and meditation on the floor under harp music and nice spiritual songs. It was quite an amazing spectacle, testifying to the changes of our times.

http://www.sivananda.org/sanfrancisco

Om Namah Sivaya from Sao Paulo. During early June Ivana from Santa Catarina arrived to help with karma yoga. She helped with cooking, cleaning and diffusion. We tried to negotiate a decrease in the rent, for the San Pablo Centre. Because of Brazilian economic crisis all rents are falling.

During mid June the Centre’s staff and some teachers went to Paulista Avenue where the celebration of the International Yoga Day took place, organized by the Indian Cultural Centre. The celebration comprised of a Yoga class, presentations of music and dance. We distribute TTC and San Paulo Centre flyers.

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June all the permanent staff enjoyed an eventful and most auspicious week at the Yoga Retreat in the Bahamas. After arriving to the Ashram we started settling into the special birthday programs for Swami Swaroopananda’s birthday. A grand and inspiring initiation ceremony was held during the morning Satsang, during which Shankara Chaitanya was initiated to Sanyasa and was named Swami Shambhudevananda. Bhargavi & Pranava were initiated, along with seven other senior staff of the Ashram, into Brahmacharya. The event was most elevating and joyous. The rest of the day was dedicated for final preparations for the Birthday event that took place the day after. The Birthday celebration for Swami Swaroopananda was another great picture of joy and blessedness with a special Puja, many special guests, and a lot of love and presents, offered to Swamiji. We had another day in Paradise to rest before we traveled back to Israel and arrived just in time to host over 50 people for a Holiday feast and a vigil night of spiritual study for the Holiday of Shavuot. Amba Sri Devi and Shanti did wonderful and dedicated work in keeping the Centre functioning, plus, preparing all the food for the holiday feast and decorating the Centre so beautifully for our arrival.

After the exciting and inspiring week in the Yoga Retreat, we returned to the Tel Aviv Centre in mid-June. We were warmly welcomed by all the teachers, karma yogis and students who were so thrilled to see us back, newly initiated into Sannyasa and Brahmachaya. They were all receiving live updates of all the events via Facebook, creating a great deal of joy and excitement in the Centre. As for us, we had to focus our prana on intense promotion of upcoming events and courses, as we would be opening a new Yoga 1, two new courses of Yoga 3, a new Meditation course, an Advanced Meditation course, Advanced Positive Thinking course and an Advanced Positive Visualization workshop. We also promoted the International Yoga Day Event in collaboration with the Indian Embassy and Tel-Aviv municipality. We held the last lecture with Dr. Yochnan Grinshpon of the Hebrew University, on the subject of
“The Upanishds and Adi Shankarachrya”. We had a group of over 20 students who eagerly followed him through this program. All of them were waiting for the next series to start. The weekend was peacefully spent at the new Ashram in Matta, where a yoga retreat was held, focusing on the practice of Yoga Nidra. We had a perfect opportunity to rest, rebalance, practice and enjoy the peaceful nature. Pranams to all the Sivananda Family from the Tel Aviv Centre.

http://www.sivananda.org/telaviv

Om Namah Sivaya. During early June the rainy season settled in, usually, continuing for a full month. One Saturday, we offered “Vegan Thai Cooking” workshop, by Mirabai. 16 students attended the workshop and learned to make tasty Thai dishes without using any animal products. After the workshop, all staffs were invited to enjoy the meal, together with students. On a Sunday, we had a “Pelvis Adjustment Yoga” workshop, taught by Kuni, who had been teaching asana class in Tokyo Centre regularly before he moved to the western area of Japan, called Shikoku Island. His workshop was fully booked with 26 students. We welcomed Chandrika who came back from India. She planned to stay at the Centre about a week, then proceed to Fuji mountain.

During mid-June we welcomed many newcomers to the Centre. There was a free trial class one morning with 12 students attending. That afternoon, we had a briefing session of upcoming TTC and ATTC in Thailand, India and Vietnam. The first half of the session was free asana class and the second half was explanation of the courses. Narayani Noriko, the main translator for the courses both in Thailand and India came over to the Centre and taught the asana class then gave an outline of the courses. 20 students attended the session including 3 TTC graduates who were thinking about taking ATTC. Narayani and some students stayed after the briefing session to join Sunday Satsang as well. Om and Prem to all the Sivananda family. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi.

http://www.sivananda.jp

Om Namah Sivaya. During early June several new Yoga 1 and Yoga 2 courses started as many students committed to the practice during the summer. We had quite a few new teachers who started to assist different courses and open classes. They were eager to practice what they learned during their TTCs. Many students inquired about doing karma yoga at the Centre. It is always nice to see how those students who may have started the practice a year ago are now very connected to the Centre and immersed in the practice. Saraswati finished the Meditation course with all students very interested to come regularly for Satsangs as well as spend time in the Ashram during the summer.
Our little garden in front of the Centre started to bloom. Prahlad travelled to the Headquarters Ashram to teach the Sadhana Intensive course.

During mid-June we started an evening Yoga 1 course and morning Yoga 2 course. Our teacher Wendi led an outdoor yoga class in a large park close to the Centre and all government buildings to celebrate upcoming International Yoga Day. Staff and students walked silently to the park under the Sivananda Yoga Centre banner. Some passers-by decided to join the class, and then came back to the Centre after the event. One man said that he used to practice at the Centre but the life got busy and when he saw Sivananda sign he was very happy and joined the class. Lots of students joined the Satsang afterward and we talked about Swamiji’s vision of yoga and how wisely he integrated this ancient knowledge into all our lives. Lots of students came for the Friday and Sunday evening Satsangs. Pranams to all.

http://www.sivananda.org/toronto

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June a new batch commenced on Monday evenings. Students were introduced to the practice of Jala Neti and Sutra Neti in a Kriya Workshop. All other classes went well. Lalitha Sahasra Nama Pooja was conducted on Fridays.
Satsang was led by Rajesh.

With the blessings of God and revered Gurus we had started mid June with 2 new batches. A new batch for ladies was started on Mondays. Along with that we had also started a 6 day long Meditation course, which will definitely help those students to attain tranquility of the mind. There was a workshop on Surya Namaskar for the students, which helped them to improve their postures. Satsang was led by Sw. Govindananda ji. Pranams to all. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi.

http://www.sivananda.org/trivandrum

Om Namah Sivaya. For early June the Yoga and Music Festival found its blissful end and left a lingering energy of peace and sweetness all around. We would like to thank all visiting Swamis and Staff for their great support and especially Swami Durgananda and Swami Sivadasananda for infusing their experience and energy into the Centres’ activities and the staff. The Centre had a tent at an Open Air Yoga convention, held at the Burggarten, a beautiful park in Central Vienna. In spite of heavy showers of rain every now and then, lots of people participated and enjoyed the free yoga classes and vegan snacks and freebies, provided by the host of the convention. It was mainly a young audience, eager to practice. The Centre distributed lots of brochures and vouchers. Some participants of the convention showed up the very same day at the Centre to redeem their voucher and partake in the afternoon class.

During mid-June a Yoga 1 course started, also a Yoga 2 morning course, a Yoga 5, 46 and 85. Swami Shyamananda replaced Swami Bhagavatananda, who went back to Orleans. Our outside class came to end for the summer to start again in September. One Saturday we had a workshop for posture alignment and a back workshop. On the 20^th June we participated in the International Yoga Day in central Vienna, organized by the Indian Embassy. Gopi, one of our teachers went there to demonstrate the asanas on the podium. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/vienna

Om Namah Sivaya. In early June all courses and classes went on as usual. Well attended Satsangs covered different topics, with readings from Bliss Divine and Meditation & Mantras. We sent newsletters in different languages, advertising special programs during the retreat and TTC. Many teachers from different corners of Lithuania and also from Russia enrolled for the Teachers’ Weekend, with Swami Sivadasanada. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/vilnius