European Network

 

Experience the teachings of Canada’s Yasodhara Ashram in Europe

[lead]Swami Sukhananda Saraswati – originally from Britain – brings Yasodhara Ashram’s teachings to Europe. She travels widely to offer inspiring workshops, retreats and satsangs. Whether working with small or large groups, her workshops guide students to bring forward their inner wisdom and find the strength to apply their insights in practical ways.[/lead]

ABOUT YASODHARA ASHRAM

For over 50 years Yasodhara Ashram in British Columbia, Canada has offered a wide range of programs year-round, helping people to evolve and lead fulfilling lives. Our new Temple of Light is a symbol of peace, hope and unity – open to all. We are also a residential community where we practice living what we teach – values like relaxation, clarity, sustainability, self-nurture and compassion – learning to take Yoga of the mat and into all aspects of our lives.

Swami Sivananda Radha, the founder of Yasodhara Ashram, was a pioneer in the development of yoga in the West. Her approach is distinguished by her unique ability to make the full depth of India’s ancient traditions accessible and relevant in daily life. She is the author of classic books on yoga including Kundalini Yoga for the West and Hatha Yoga: The Hidden Language.

ABOUT SWAMI SUKHANANDA SARASWATI

Swami Sukhananda first met Swami Radha in 1988 and was deeply moved by her experience. She has been icing and teaching yoga at Yasodhara Ashram and in Europe ever since. She is continually inspired by yoga and by witnessing its transformative effects.

Initiated at Yasodhara Ashram and long-time devotee of Swami Radha, Swami Sukhananda is a senior teacher and resident of the Ashram. After spending many years running successful Yasodhara Yoga Centres in England and offering workshops around the US, Canada and a number of European countries, she now travels back to Europe annually to offer tours. Swami Sukhananda was formerly an adviser on sustainability and environmental issues. Her articles about Swami Radha’s work have appeared in British and North American yoga magazines. Her in-depth experience and light approach support people in accessing their inner wisdom.

Swami Sukhananda welcomes inquiries and opportunities to tailor workshops for different groups and occasions.

AN OVERVIEW OF OFFERINGS

Workshops can range from 2-6 hours to a few days. Each workshop can have a specific focus; all are based on the foundation of yogic practices such as breath, relaxation, asanas, visualization, mantra, written reflection, movement or drawing.

See yasodhara.org for a description of our practices, the eight limbs of Yasodhara Yoga:

1. Karma Yoga
2. Reflection
3. Hidden Language Hatha Yoga
4. The Divine Light Invocation
5. Mantra Yoga
6. Kundalini Yoga
7. Dream Yoga
8. Sacred Dance

Specific titles and descriptions can be developed to suit your group’s needs and interests.

Sample Offering

Following is an example of a Friday, Saturday and Sunday weekend of offerings:

Friday evening, 1.5-hour presentation/discussion:
Introduction to Yasodhara Ashram and Light
Join Swami Sukhananda for an engaging introduction to Canada’s oldest yoga ashram – and the new Temple of Light, a sacred space for peace, hope and unity – open to all. Learn more about the resiliency and commitment that keeps the Ashram current and relevant in today’s world. You will also practice the Divine Light Invocation, a standing meditation that combines the body, breath and mind in a positive practice that can change your life.

Saturday morning 2.5-hour workshop:
Still the Mind through Movement: Hidden Language Hatha Yoga
The Hidden Language of Hatha Yoga takes your asana practice to a different level, beyond a series of physical exercises, to quiet the mind. In this gentle and meditative approach, by reflecting with symbolism and visualization, the ‘hidden’ messages of each asana are subtly revealed.

Saturday afternoon 3-hour workshop:
Dreams Workshop
The yogic method of working with dreams emphasizes independence and understanding yourself. Dreams are personal creations and as you study them, you learn the language of your unconscious. Making your own discoveries is a joyful process that gives you the courage to go on. By finding answers within, you gain self-confidence.

Sunday 6-hour workshop:
Kundalini Yoga – Energy, Choice and Awareness
The powers of the mind are awesome. We evolve spiritually through our efforts to understand the power that keeps us alive, that makes our minds work. Tap into the wisdom of this ancient system and find how to work with it in your daily life. Investigate your mind and consciousness by asking important questions, studying the symbolism of the chakras, practicing reflection, meditation, mantra and more.

Or consider a week-end retreat focused on a single theme. The following is one example:

Transitions
Experience how yoga can support you in times of ending and beginning, change and transition. Transitions are an invigorating and challenging time. In this course you will explore your past experiences of transition and identify what choices you want to make now. By working with reflective tools such as writing, drawing, and spiritual practices to help you prepare for change, you can access strength during transition and clarify options for your next steps. Each morning could start with Hidden Language Hatha Yoga.

Satsang
Meaning “in the company of the wise,” this is a familiar practice for anyone who has spent time at an ashram. Chant yoga mantras and meditate together, be inspired by a short talk. Everyone is welcome. 45 minutes to one hour.

See other possible workshop titles and themes at (Europe link); possibly also YAS Outreach

PRICING

Details are worked out on an individual basis. The aim is to recoup Swami Sukhananda’s travel and accommodation costs. Any additional funds and donations help support the Yasodhara Yoga European Network and Yasodhara Ashram initiatives.

TO INQUIRE

Contact: Swami Sukhananda at sukhananda@yasodhara.org.
Learn more about Swami Sukhananda’s 2017/18 tour and workshop opportunities.