Sivananda World News: The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashrams

Om Namah Sivaya, Greetings from the Headquarters. Early August, reflected just how the summer has been running… like a marathon, and this month felt like the last mile. Everyone pulled forces to offer a good experience for the families who spent the annual Family Week with us. Children’s laughter filled the Camp, parents chasing their children as the children chased butterflies, frogs, and other children… Parents were happy to leave their children in good company while they followed a full two hour class – a dream not many parents with young children get to live. Arjuna, Omkara, Kundalini, Durga Devi and Satya did a great job as kids and parents joyfully noted before leaving. We celebrated Kanti Devi’s birthday, who expectedly with her motherly ways, went around to make sure every body received a piece of cake before she would accept to have hers. As one marathon ended, new ones started: Twenty enthusiastic teens joined the Teen Camp. This year, they were assigned projects, headed by Vyasa, so they get to learn some construction techniques and feel at ease using tools. Teaching Yoga for Kids and Teens training, led by Saraswati, took place over one weekend. Yet another beautiful group of participants left joyfully hoping to be back soon. The annual Ayurveda Wellness Course, with Dr Bhat, started with keen participants learning how to live ayurvedically. While she was here we celebrated Dr Bhat’s birthday. Surya gave a course entitled “De-stress 101”. Guests were very pleased to learn how to better manage their emotions and integrate Sadhana into their lives. On departure of the families from Family week it marked the time where we move back to the Krishna Temple from the Yoga Hall for Satsangs. During the ATTC initiation Kanti Devi’s address welcomed participants to the course, mentioning its importance in one’s life and Sadhana practice. An Ayurveda Massage Certification course was also initiated, led by Dr. Vishnu.

Mid-August saw the colourful Ashram gardens fully decorating the area. The scent of flowers filled the air, the sun rays filtered through the trees in the morning, and the clouds in the evening. Most asana classes took place outdoors.  “If there’s weather in Heaven, this would be it” a guest happily exclaimed. To make things better, bansuri and a sitar tunes heightened our spirits as Hasu Patel and G.S. Sachdev played what seemed like a divine music. Mandodari fascinated all with Vaastu Shastra knowledge. Her passion alone was inspiring. She explained many facets of the culture that we take for granted: The architecture, the count of 8, the colors, etc. The ATTC program continued with increased Pranayama practice, increased intensity and deeper stretches. The group is focused and calm with their faces glowing. Students appreciated the natural surroundings of Samadhi Estates, finding it conducive to the ATTC practice and learning. Squirrels, deers, ground hogs occasionally visit the classes bringing a smile to the group. The theme of Ayurveda continued to be a big highlight this month: The Ayurvedic Nutrition and cooking certification course with Dr Sonal Bhatt continued. Students learned the fundamental principles of Ayurveda and Ayurvedic nutrition. The course was balanced with both theory and practical hands on skills on Ayurvedic cooking preparing Tridoshic recipes: grains and moongbeans, vegetabes, seeds, and nuts. The smell attracted staff and guests who tried to sneak in and get a tasting. The Ayurveda and Yoga Wellness Counsellor Certification course, also with Dr Sonal hBatt, continued as well. Students learned the fundamentals of Ayurveda with some ancient examination techniques, how they can help family, friends, and clients to protect and maintain their health with Ayurvedic lifestyle. Also in Ayurveda, 5 people continued the Panchakarma Detoxification. In the Ayurveda Massage Therapy Course, with Dr Vishnu, Gopan, Veena, and Sandhya, the students learned about the 3 Doshas, the basic principles of Ayurveda, made hot bundle treatments, and finally were ready to give massage to their clients. The Yoga Camp staff received the chance for a massage as the Ayurveda students needed models to practice on – a well deserved treat that brought a large smile on staff faces. Radha gracefully accompanies the guests on their journey, offering afternoon Q&A sessions. She finds it inspiring that people are coming to the sessions with deeper quests, asking for information about the significance of the rituals, deities, practice, and accepting the information. The guests enjoyed an informal introduction to the Yoga Camp through a walk in the trails. Some guests shared experiencing a deep deblockage after an asana class. They expressed enjoying having different teachers’ perspectives into the practice. We have seen some remarkable transformations in a couple of people who came with obvious physical difficulties and have found a release and comfort in their own bodies. The kitchen continued to delight all as different cooks add their touch: Lebanese Fattoush and Hummus with Sita, and Indian Potato and eggplant Sabji, Hasu Patel, Uni and Tejas, and of course Ben’s special Tofu meals. Construction projects continued at the Camp and in the Temple, with Vyasa, Shankara and teams. Other projects include brochure designing with Sita & Ruben; housekeeping, with a great trio of Samyukta, Trijana, and Kalyani and reception duties, with Emanuelle and team. The Camp enjoyed great energy as the staff flowed coherently together. We thank the Grace of the Gurus and Pray it Keeps flowing through all. May the Grace of Masters continue to bless all. Om Shanti. Om + Prem.

http://www.sivananda.org/camp

Namah Sivaya to all. During early August, Nataraj ji was happy to return to the Ashram after one week absence. He attended the World Yoga Festival, near Reading UK, plus took advantage of the opportunity to visit his family in the UK. Suresh ji and Anoop ji returned after one month stay at the Yoga Camp assisting TTC and Kids Camp. We also welcomed Swami Janardhanananda ji from Uttarkashi, staying with us for one month. We look forward to his input for Satsangs, YV lectures and generally guiding and inspiring the staff. Staff and guests were invited by Swami Tattvarupananda ji to attend the 10th anniversary of the Janaka Janani Krupa Gurukulam which accommodates about 30 boys. Everyone appreciated the positive effect on the boys’ lives. Megha ji left the Ashram after coming to assist the Kids Camp and Ashram for three and a half months.

During mid-August we started with celebrating India’s Independence day. The staff sang the National anthem after the morning Satsang and some patriotic songs in the evening Satsang. Swami Janardhanananda ji shared some insights about India and her spiritual wealth during the Satsang. Also we concluded the month long chanting of Ramayana with a Puja, Arati and distribution of prasad in the Rama Hall. The Ashram staff and guests worked hard for the preparation of Krishna Jayanti with deep cleaning and painting of the Temple and the halls, among other things. We had some passing rain which gave some respite from heat. We welcomed Sakshi who joined us as full-time staff. She will be with us for 6 months. Nataraj ji and Kalayani ji travelled to Japan on a teaching tour. Om. Pranams.

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Om Namo Narayanaya – Greetings from Uttar Kashi. During early August, the mid-way point of the current TTC passed by smoothly. The students appreciated the Ganapathy Homa in the first week and the Mrtyunjaya Homa mid course.  Despite heavy rain, spirits remain high with the students preparing conscientiously for teaching their first classes.

During mid-August the TTC A&P classes finished and the teaching practice groups were successfully concluded. The weather was very rainy but the students don’t mind being inspired by the depth of the Yoga philosophy. They particularly enjoyed the Lalitha Sahasranama Puja. With Swamiji and Master’s blessings, staff and teachers are also doing well. Om.

http://www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi

Om Namo Narayanaya. During early August, we began as a start to the high season with an increase in the number of guests of variety of cultures. Staff were involved in group karma yoga, focusing different areas in the Ashram. We worked on outdoor space, which can occasionally be used for lecture classes and other activities. Talent Show was full of energy and laughter as everyone took part in a team game. All the guests and staff showcased their talents and participated in a group performance. Saju went to Madurai Centre to help out for a couple of days due to staff shortage there. Vignes left for his hometown. We thanked him for his efforts and dedication. We welcomed Ishwaraji at the Ashram for few days. The rest of Ashram activities continued quietly within the usual schedule.

For mid-August we celebrated India’s Independence day with great splendour. After morning Satsang, we did flag hoisting with shower of flowers followed by distribution of sweets to the guests. We also had payasam, the sweet porridge, prepared to be served during brunch. A Yoga Vacation schedule commenced with a new batch of guests. They found themselves enjoying the scenic beauty and serenity of Ashram surroundings, getting on with the routine Ashram life. The weather was quite pleasant with sun and rainy clouds playing hide and seek with each other, tricking us in deciding who the winner might be. Talent Show saw all the guests coming up on stage for displaying their talents with mostly singing, in which the entire audience was engrossed. The final performance had all the guests and staffs joining in for a group dance, much to the merriment of guests. We are praying for the health and well being of all. May our Gurus blessings and guidance grace all lives. Om Shanti. Pranams to all.

www.sivananda.org/madurai

Om Namah Sivaya! Early August saw the final week for the ATTC. The review classes took place. The Ashram was very quiet and not a student in sight, as they were all off studying for the final exam.  The exam went very well and afterward, students gathered together for brunch in the main building.  Preparations for the graduation feast were started early in the day. Staff did a beautiful job decorating and setting up for the evening celebrations.  The day after graduation, both Swami Brahmananda and Swami Satyapremananda and Shyam and Mohini, departed the Ashram, back to their respective homes, after helping teach the ATTC.  Swami Hridyananda arrived for a week to lead a guest program on Thought Power and Yoga Immersion. We offered a “Hiking and Yoga” weekend with many guests joining us for a 5 mile hike in the majestic state park, Lake Minnewaska. We had an early breakfast for the hikers and started out before the morning asana class was finished.  By starting early we were able to return early, in time for the guests to unwind in the sauna and still catch the 4 pm asana class.  There were a total of 23 participants, including 4 staff members. A good time was had by all!

For mid-August the Youth Yoga Retreat had their talent show. The youth had a small but sweet graduation ceremony in the Krishna Temple with Swami Paramananda.  The next day was a big clean-up day to be ready to greet the 54 guests for Family Week. Radha headed to the Chicago Centre where she will cover the daily management of the Centre for Swami Satyapremananda, while Swamiji goes to the Yoga Camp and teach in the TTC Refresher Course. Omkari and Eka Jyoti led the Family Week participants in an orientation, jumping right in with asana classes and organized activities.  We also offered a “Yoga and Biking” weekend, led by long time karma yogi, Arjuna (Steve Miller), who happened to also be here with his young family for family week. Arjuna took the 9 participants on a beautiful ride in the magnificent Catskill mountains.  Even though the Ashram was full to capacity, there still remained a sense of calm and serenity, very typical to the Ranch environment. Swami Paramananda went into NYC with Dr. Kamlesh, where Swamiji taught the 4pm advanced class and Dr. Kamlesh gave the evening Satsang.  By the grace of Master and Swamiji, staff are handling the influx of guest very well and continued to maintain strong in their Sadhana, sending pranams to all. May the Blessings of Master and Swamiji grace all of our lives. Om.

Om Namah Sivaya. During early August, the Yoga Farm was blessed with the visit of Swami Swaroopananda, Swami PremaSwaroopananda, Rukmini Chaitanya, Jnaneswari Chaitanya and staff Kumari for their visit to the Yoga Farm for the past month. As Swamiji and party departed we wished them safe travels. Meanwhile the Ashram staff had the opportunity for staff training, with workshops dedicated to teaching and practice, which included Satsang and Guru; teachings on Four Paths of Yoga; Introduction to Hatha Yoga Pradipika; and inspiring Sadhana teachings from Swami Sivananda. Staff also participated on an overnight retreat to Mt. Shasta to have Satsang at the home of Radha, a Sivananda teacher.  The Krishna Temple wall project was near completion and the OM 1 and 2 cabins construction continued. The Ashram garden flourished with fresh melons, tomatoes, kale, squash, and fruits from the orchards.

For mid-August we are blessed to have Srinivasan visiting, with Saraswati, on their travels through California. Srinivasan-ji gave a beautiful Satsang on family dharma and the Four Aims of Life which was greatly appreciated by all, especially our Family Campers. The Yoga of Recovery course graduated. It was a transformational experience for all. The group appreciated the deep Yoga and Ayurveda teaching and its application to the challenges of the addictive mind and its behaviors. We thanked Durga Leela for her dynamic teaching and selfless attention to the students. Durga then taught the 5-day “Foundations of Ayurveda” course. The 4-day Family Camp was in full swing, led by Tara and her husband, Ananda. This year we had 13 families participating with childrens’ Yoga classes, morning hikes, arts and crafts, daily pond swimming and a beautiful trip to the Yuba river. We thank Bharata Surya for his teaching the 5-day “Marma Points” course, focusing on the fundamental knowledge of Marma for self-healing and healing others. Many students attending were massage therapists and Yoga teachers, seeking to broaden their skills in health and healing. Staff and karma yogis are very active with projects around the Ashram: the Krishna Temple wall project is nearly completed; the new Ganesha Shrine project commencing, to create new house for Sri Ganesha; OM Cabins 1 and 2 are moving forward. We all felt the grace of Master and Swamiji. Om Namah Sivaya to all Blessed Selves from the Yoga Farm.

http://www.sivananda.org/farm

Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves. During early August, we welcomed back the Ashram’s manager Swami Brahmananda after his 4-week-stay at the Ranch in New York, where he was teaching in the ATTC. The next day we bid farewell to Swami Hridyananda, who traveled to the Ranch in New York State. We were very grateful for her stay throughout this year and for the many teachings she gave. We will welcome her back towards the winter, towards the high season. Many of the TTCs left and the Ashram pace slowed down little by little, settling into the summer season. We also bid farewell to Narayan Jyoti. He enriched the Ashram with his devotional chants and his Theta Healing Course. We welcomed back Parvati (Maria Fernanda Tresslar), who regularly assists in the TTCs. She gave workshops on the Power of Asanas and how to go deeper into the Asana practice. We enjoyed many Satsangs, given by the Senior Staff of the Ashram, on the topic of the Five Points of Yoga by Swami Vishnudevananda.

For mid-August the overall topic for lectures was “Teachings by Swami Sivananda”. Krishna Chaitanya read the inspiring article “How God came into My Life” by Swami Sivananda. Swami Brahmananda continued with Swami Sivananda’s teachings on God. He read and elaborated on the very beautiful chapter on God, in the Bliss Divine, by Swami Sivananda. Narayani Chaitanya presented Swami Sivananda’s teachings in poems, which were written by him. The topic was resumed by Sivakami, who read inspiring stories from a biography of Swami Sivananda. Last but certainly not least, Parvati Chaitanya went over Swami Sivananda’s “20 Important Spiritual Instructions” and gave us some practical tips based on them. We welcomed Dr. Susan Lord, who gave 2 evening Satsangs and 4 noon workshops on the topic “From Stress to Resilience”. As a medical doctor she was able to show the western scientific approach as well as the yogic approach. The guests and Karma Yogis followed her lectures with great interest. We offered teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, given by Swami Brahmananda. An inspiring and practical “Essentials of Yoga 1 Course” was taught by Krishna Chaitanya from the 17th until the 21st. The participants gained some knowledge about the foundation of Yoga – the 5 Points of Yoga – and received many practical tips of how to continue their practice. Om Shanti from all the staff in Nassau.

http://www.sivananda.org/nassau

Om Namah Sivaya. The month of August was rich in inspiring and informative programmes. The TTC came to a good start and the students joyfully engaged themselves in the studies and were taking an active part in all aspects of Ashram life. A group of close students came for the Further Training course with Prema on the Major Asana Cycles including the many details of asanas, asana sequences and perception of ones’ body. Over 50 students arrived on the first Friday of the month for the Yoga of the Heart course with Nischala Joy Devi and Bhaskara. In a comprehensive 9-day intensive course the participants were led in to an integral experience which enhanced both their teaching skills and their own practice remarkably. Our guest of honour Sri Venugopal Goswami, the acharyas and the accompanying musicians arrived on the 13^th of August for the conduction of the Bhagavata Saptaha. The seven days of “Eastern wisdom melodies” again brought the deep, inspiring yogic knowledge imbedded in joyful stories and singing to an attentive and thankful audience. For a prolonged weekend Swami Sivadasananda gave elevating asana-and pranayama workshops. Headstand and Scorpion were practiced in detail as well as the step-by-step activation of the respiratory system in the pranayama sessions. Swami Keshavananda gave a 3-days “Further training for Yoga Teachers” on Yoga Body Work, including a detailed study of the muscular system, postural alignment and prerequisites for a deep relaxation. The vacationers experienced the magnificent Kitzbühel mountains by joining the hikes through the marvelous surroundings. Swami Jyothirmayananda gave well received lectures on Raja yoga and the mysteries of the mind. For the first time we could offer this year a “Yoga and Music Summer School” with Shankara Schneider – who conducted various much appreciated Kirtan sessions and gave personal guidance on playing the Indian harmonium. OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/tyrol

Om Namah Sivaya. In August we were blessed with the visit of Swami Durgananda, Swami Sivadasananda and many other European Swamis and staff. Swami Durgananda gave very inspiring lectures and Swami Sivadasananda gave very much appreciated Asana workshops and Satsangs. The staff received personal guidance from Swami Durgananda. We also celebrated the Temple week with grand Pujas to all the deities. On the 11^th of August we celebrated the birthday of Swami Durgananda with a powerful Homa, presents and cake at the Temple. It was beautifully conducted by our priests and we are very happy to share the energy of Swami Durgananda’s birthday, her devotion to Swamiji and her joyful presence. The Bhagavata Saptaha brought a beautiful atmosphere of bhakti, sweetness and high prana to the Ashram. The TTC (55 students) went well and we also hosted a Sadhana Intensive (35 students). Many of them did the Sadhana Intensive before, as some of them are coming for the third or fourth time and one for the 7^th time! OM.

http://www.sivananda.org/orleans