sivananda ashram yoga retreat bahamas

Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat Bahamas

U NIT Y I N DI V ERSITY

SERV

E LOVE MEDITATE REALIZE

Expand your horizons2012 2013

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Dear Friends,

I am sending you blessings from the beautiful and peaceful Paradise Island in the Bahamas, and I invite you to join us for another season of learning, expansion and joy. My Guru, Swami Vishnudevananda, arrived here 45 years ago and immediately felt the strong spiritual currents and healing vibrations that surround this land. He turned it into a yoga ashram in order to help as many people as possible and to serve humanity in the best possible way. He left his body 19 years ago, and since then we have been trying our level best to continue his mission.

What exactly was his mission? When he came to the West, he felt that he had to teach yoga and vedanta to individuals in order to help them to heal on all levels and to progress on their spiritual path. However, following his 1969 grand vision, there was a shift in his mission. He felt that there was something fundamentally difficult with the karmic situation of mankind and due to his great compassion and love for humanity he was determined to do something about it. He saw planet Earth engulfed by fire and people trying to escape. It was clear to him that there was nowhere to escape and that the only solution to this situation was to break down barriers and to unite.

So, the focus of his mission shifted toward breaking barriers, both literally and symbolically. He broke physical barriers by flying over war zones; he broke religious, cultural, and racial barriers by bringing together leaders from various religions and people from diverse cultures; he invited scientists to bridge gaps between science and spirituality; he gathered speakers with diverse backgrounds including healers, psychics, army generals, and political leaders, to name a few. He welcomed everyone, he embraced them all. He foresaw a time of great transformation, in which humanity will have to face the fact that if we do not learn to live together then we may all die together.

I believe that this time, the time to learn to live together, is upon us. I believe that there is never a better time than now for us to make vigorous efforts to break barriers, just like Swami Vishnudevananda did.

I invite you to join this mission. I welcome you to visit the ashram and experience the multiplicity of names, forms, shapes, religions, and cultures. Through this multiplicity we eventually discover the underlying unity; we bathe in the love and Grace of God as we celebrate the unity in our diversity; we realize our oneness with the entire creation, with God, with the Guru, and with our own essential nature, which is nothing but absolute peace, joy, and bliss.

Om Shanti, Om PeaceSwami SwaroopanandaDirector

Breaking BarriersA Message from Swami Swaroopananda

2 sivanandabahamas.org

Table of Contents 4 Our Teachers

5 Welcome to the Ashram

6 About the Ashram

8 The Well-Being Center

9 The Yoga Vacation Program

10 Yoga Teacher Training Course

12 Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Course

14 Programs with Swami Swaroopananda

16 Foundation Yoga Courses

18 Calendar of Events

100 Residential Study Programs

102 Professional Accreditation

103 Plan Your Visit

104 Registration and Rates

106 Program Guide

111 Online Community

table of contents 3

Swami Sivananda (1887–1963)

One of the great saints of modern times, Swami Sivananda is the inspiration behind the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers. Following a brilliant career as a medical doctor, Swami Sivananda renounced worldly life and established the Sivananda Ashram and Divine Life Society in Rishikesh, India. Swami Sivananda became one of the most prolific yoga teachers who have

ever lived. Although he rarely left Rishikesh, Swami Sivananda’s teachings spread quickly worldwide. He is the author of over 300 books, and his teachings continue to deeply touch and transform the lives of many. Swami Vishnudevananda (1927–1993)

Swami Vishnudevananda, a world authority on yoga, trained under Swami Sivananda in all aspects of yoga for ten years. In 1957, Swami Sivananda sent Swami Vishnudevananda to spread the teachings of yoga in the west. Swami Vishnudevananda founded and directed the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers and created the first Yoga Teacher Training Course in order to

empower individuals to be ambassadors of peace through Swami Sivananda’s yoga teachings. He was a tireless campaigner for world peace, a master of Hatha Yoga and Raja Yoga, and author of the now classic books The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga and Meditation and Mantras.

Our Teachers


Welcome to the AshramLocated on Paradise Island, one of the finest beaches in the world and just across the bay from Nassau, the ashram is a true oasis of calm and natural beauty, and offers a unique combination of a traditional ashram and a modern yoga retreat. Visit us by yourself, come with a friend, or bring your whole family—our staff will welcome you and be happy to assist you settle into your stay with us.

3 Ways to Visit the Ashram

YVP Yoga Vacation Program

C Course

Join the CommunityJoin the Residential Study Program and become part of the ashram community. Live a spiritual life, meet like-minded people from all over the world, and experience the joy of selfless service. See pages 100-101 for details.

Learn, Train, Get CertifiedExpand your knowledge, gain new skills, and get certified. Choose a training that is right for you from our wide variety of courses and professional trainings to deepen your practice as a yoga teacher, healer, counselor, or yoga practitioner. Many of our courses are approved for Yoga Alliance credits and/or Continuing Education Units (CEUs). See page 102 for professional accreditation information. Look for programs marked C on our Calendar of Events for courses; programs marked PT for professional trainings and CEU for programs approved for Continuing Education Units.

Take a VacationRest, relax, and recharge. The Yoga Vacation Program offers the perfect balance between activities and leisure time. Enjoy daily yoga classes and silent meditation sessions. Expand your horizons with mid-day workshops and inspiring evening talks. Treat yourself to a healing session or a private yoga class. In between the activities you will have time to rest, reflect, and enjoy some quality time alone or with others. Offered year-round, you are welcome to take a Yoga Vacation at any time and stay for as long as you wish. For the daily schedule, see page 9. For a list of speakers and events, look for the programs marked YVP on the Calendar of Events.

PT Professional Training

CEU Continuing Education Units welcome to the ashram 5

About the AshramThe ashram provides you with an optimal environment for your spiritual growth, healing, and relaxation. Experience the full benefits of a physical, mental, and spiritual transformation as you retreat from the stressors and distractions of your life to discover a healthier, more relaxed you.

The Ashram SettingPractice yoga on spacious platforms located amongst the swaying palms of the garden, or facing the clear blue water of the Caribbean. Take a break on the white sand beach or enjoy the shade of the ashram’s tropical gardens. Relax amidst colorful flowers that bloom throughout the gardens and the beautiful bird songs that fill the air.

The TempleThe ashram’s main temple is an inviting semi open-air structure built on a spot rich with spiritual energies. Two additional temples elevate the ashram’s spiritual vibration, both with grace and beauty. Several daily pujas (rituals) are conducted either by our Tantric priest from India or by the ashram’s senior staff.


AccommodationsPleasant and simple lodgings include a choice of rooms overlooking the ocean, or comfortable garden cabins. We offer a variety of accommodation options, ranging from self-pitched tents to luxurious beachfront suites, allowing you to spend your time with us in the way that is optimal for you. See pages 104-105 for accommodation options and rates. Visit our website for further details about our accommodations accompanied by photographs.

MealsEnjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious vegetarian meals made with loving care according to yogic dietary principles for a healthy and calm body and mind. Savor the flavor of freshly baked bread, homemade granola, and breakfast spreads. Nourish your body with hearty soups and bean, lentil, and vegetable dishes. Make your own salad with our raw vegetables buffet, and relax with the daily herbal tea. Have your meal in the company of other yogis and vacationers by the ocean, in the garden, or in the dining area.

Boutique, Bookstore, and Health HutIn the cozy, welcoming Boutique, Bookstore, and Health Hut, you can find an inspiring reading selection and music, including a wide variety of spiritual books and CDs. You can also get your favorite yoga equipment or souvenirs, including something special from our new line of organic cotton t-shirts, traditional attire and accessories brought from India. Share a snack with some friends or take a private break and delight yourself with a selection of natural products, freshly squeezed juices, and a variety of freshly baked delights from the health hut. The boutique is open on a regular schedule from December to June and on a smaller scale during the rest of the year.

Stay in Touch While Away Free wireless Internet is available throughout most of the ashram grounds. A Skype phone is also available (a Skype account and balance are required, and it is suggested that you set one up online prior to your arrival). Cellular coverage (via the local Bahamian carrier) is available as well.

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The Well-Being CenterTake time between workshops and yoga classes to enjoy nurturing and healing treatments and consultations with our skilled practitioners. The services of the Well-Being Center include:

PanchakarmaPanchakarma is the traditional ayurvedic method to cleanse, balance, and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. Following your initial consultation, an experienced ayurvedic practitioner will customize a series of daily personalized treatments and practices for you, and offer you follow-up practices to use at home for rejuvenation and continued balance.

Therapeutic MassageTherapeutic massage supports general health, increases circulation, releases stress, and enhances the immune system. It can relieve muscle strain, aches, and pains. Experienced therapists in energy and bodywork modalities will customize the massage for you to have a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Thai Yoga MassageThai Yoga Massage is a bodywork treatment that relieves muscular tension, improves circulation, boosts the immune system, and balances the body energetically so to facilitate mind-body integration.

We recommend scheduling treatments in advance in order to secure the date. For more information, please visit our website or contact Lalita Devi, the Well-Being Center Director, at [email protected].

Ayurvedic Consultation Ayurveda, a sister science of yoga, is an ancient system of holistic living that teaches us how to balance our daily life with our unique physical and mental constitution. An ayurvedic consultation is a two-hour meeting with an ayurvedic practitioner who will explore your unique constitution, evaluate the signs and causes of actual or potential imbalances, and design a treatment plan specifically for you.

Ayurveda Body TreatmentsBliss Therapy consists of abhyanga (a balancing warm oil body massage), followed by shirodhara (streaming of warm oil over the forehead and scalp) or nasya (a facial using gentle heat and application of oil to the nasal passages), bhasti (localized retention of oil), and ayurvedic facials.


The Yoga Vacation ProgramThe Yoga Vacation Program was designed by Swami Vishnudevananda to ensure that real relaxation and rejuvenation are achieved on all levels: body, mind, and soul.

Based on five simple principles—exercise, breathing, relaxation, healthy diet, and positive thinking & meditation—the Yoga Vacation Program offers you the ideal way to take a real break from your everyday life. Whether you are new to yoga or a well-established practitioner, the Yoga Vacation Program will get you back in balance. You will return home peaceful, energized, and better able to joyfully carry on your daily routine.

All Yoga Vacation Programs are open to all guests—look for programs marked YVP in the Calendar of Events pages. See pages 104–105 for rates.

The Daily ScheduleMorningStart the day at 6 a.m. with the serenity of early morning meditation, joyful chanting, and a spiritual talk. Energize your body while preserving the meditative mood with an 8 a.m. yoga class. Brunch will await you at 10 a.m.

Midday Create your own optimal afternoon schedule. Take an experiential workshop, attend a lecture, or enjoy a healing art session.* Relax on the beach, take a swim, or enjoy a snorkeling experience. Have a snack break in the Health Hut, meet new and old friends, or read a book in the garden.

AfternoonStart the third part of the day with a 4 p.m. yoga class and feel your body achieve its maximum flexibility. Observe as your breath gets calmer and your mind clearer in the serenity of your afternoon practice. Dinner will await you after the class. Take an early evening walk on the beach and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

EveningJoin the evening satsang at 8 p.m. and let the company of positive, like-minded persons uplift you. Meditate, chant, and enjoy a lecture by a world-renowned presenter, devotional music or dance performance. Go to sleep feeling fulfilled and inspired.* Healing art sessions are available at additional cost.

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Yoga Teacher Training Course (200-hOuR CERTIFICATION)

The Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Course (TTC) is a profound learning experience that will transform you on all levels. Drawing from the teachings of an ancient lineage while integrating modern aspects of the practice of yoga, the TTC offers a unique opportunity for immersion in an authentic and comprehensive study of all aspects of the yogic practice. In addition to providing teacher trainees with an in-depth knowledge and practice of classic yoga, Swami Vishnudevananda, who created the TTC as part of his global peace initiative, structured it in such a way that it will offer a unique opportunity for each trainee to undergo personal transformation and find inner peace. Thus, the TTC empowers graduates to become peaceful and self-controlled leaders and citizens of the world. You too can become a yogi, a teacher, and a leader. The TTC is open to anyone with a sincere desire for knowledge and personal growth. It fulfills the requirements for the RYT-200 certification by the Yoga Alliance. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are also available to graduates of the TTC.

Dates:

December 4–31 January 4–31February 3–March 2March 5–April 1 April 4–May 1May 5–June 1


Curriculum• Learn how to competently and confidently

teach a 2-hour Sivananda Yoga class; gain versatile teaching skills including teaching beginners, intermediate, and advanced classes; explore different techniques to teach children, the elderly, and prenatal yoga.

• Find greater flexibility and comfort in your practice of asanas (postures); discover how to energize the body and calm the mind through the practice of pranayama (breathing); maintain physical and mental purity through the practice of kriyas (cleansing); learn how to nourish your body and make your body and mind fit for the practice of yoga with classes on yogic diet and nutrition; study the mechanics and innumerable benefits of the practice of yoga on the body and mind through a focused study of human anatomy and physiology.

• Learn meditation techniques and theory; enhance your concentration abilities and learn to dive deep within and find peace in silence.

• Open your heart and find your true voice through the practice of chanting; connect with the Divine and your higher Self through the repetition of mantras.

• Become part of the ashram community and purify your heart and mind through Karma Yoga (the practice of selfless service).

• Immerse yourself in the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita; discover your true nature and be inspired to develop a steady and joyous yoga practice through the study of ancient yogic texts; gain a precious understanding of the inner workings of your mind through yoga philosophy and psychology.

Testimonials “Best experience I have ever had! I have grown not only intellectually but spiritually as well. I highly recommend Sivananda TTC!” —Joy Higgans

“Thank you for everything. It was a wonderful TTC course. My journey has deepened spiritually, emotionally, physically, and mentally. Sivananda TTC offered everything I resonated with. It was a privilege to be a part of this lineage.” —Patti Saar

“I really enjoyed the program and I don’t want to leave. This feels like home to me.” —Josh Mosely

PracticalitiesCourse Books: The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga by Swami Vishnudevananda and the Bhagavad Gita with commentary by Swami Sivananda. These books are available for purchase at our boutique and at Sivananda centers worldwide.

Course Fee: Tent Space: $2,400 (please bring your own tent) Dormitory or Tent Hut: $3,290Please contact our reception office for single or double accommodation options and prices.

For registration process, a detailed curriculum, information about the daily schedule, arrival and departure, and other useful information, please visit our website. For all other inquiries, please contact our reception office.

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Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Course (500-hOuR CERTIFICATION)

January 4–31

Designed to deepen and expand the knowledge and practice of certified yoga teachers, the Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Course (ATTC) is a four-week immersion into advanced yogic practices. Whether you are an active yoga teacher or a certified yoga teacher who would like to strengthen your own practice, the ATTC offers the ideal training for you. Through in-depth work, both physically and mentally, the ATTC will provide you with valuable tools to advance your physical practice, take your Self study (Swadhyaya) to the next level, and create a distinguished teaching practice. Once you establish your practice on a firmer and broader base, your advanced teaching skills and teaching confidence will naturally flow and manifest as an increase in teaching opportunities.


Curriculum• Hatha Yoga: advanced variations and

prolonged holding of the asanas (postures); advanced pranayama (breathing), mudras (energy seals), and bandhas (energy locks).

• Jnana Yoga: Study of Vedanta philosophy, including study of Jnana Yoga theory and vedantic meditation techniques.

• Sanskrit: Sanskrit alphabet and correct pronunciation and spelling of mantras and hymns.

• Raja Yoga: An in-depth study of Patanjali Yoga Sutras.

• Bhakti Yoga: The nine modes of Bhakti and the five attitudes (Bhavas) of devotion.

• Karma Yoga: Karma Yoga as an inner attitude of selfless service.

PracticalitiesBook: Meditation and Mantras by Swami Vishnudevananda (available for purchase at our boutique and in all Sivananda centers worldwide).

Course Fee: See TTC course fees on page 11. Students registering simultaneously for the TTC and the ATTC (500 hour Yoga Alliance Certification) will receive a 10% discount on the total tuition for both courses.

PrerequisiteGraduation from the Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Course or Integral Yoga Teacher Training Course (Please contact our reception if you are a graduate from another teacher training program.)

For registration, a detailed curriculum, information about the daily schedule and other useful information, visit our website. For all other inquiries, please contact us by e-mail or phone.

The ATTC is taught by senior staff members of the Sivananda organization, who are highly experienced practitioners and teachers. It fulfills the requirements for the Yoga Alliance RYT-500 certification.

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Programs with Swami Swaroopananda

C March 29–April 8

Advanced Bhagavad Gita Course Tuition: $490. Add 12 nights’ accommodation

The Bhagavad Gita is a superb exposition of the synthesis of all paths of Yoga. Its teachings are filled with deep philosophy and practical advice for all life situations. It offers a source of help for human beings to solve the ever-present problems of birth and death: pain, suffering, fear, bondage, love, and hate. Swami Swaroopananda will take us into the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, continuing the teachings from last year’s course and starting instruction from chapter seven. Students who did not participate in last year’s course are welcome to attend and are advised to read chapters one through six of the Bhagavad Gita with Swami Sivananda’s commentary.

C April 24–May 4

Advanced Raja Yoga Course Tuition: $490. Add 12 nights’ accommodation

Join us as Swami Swaroopananda takes us on a journey of exploring the Royal Path to Enlightenment, the path of Raja Yoga. Focusing on the “Kaivalya Pada,” the fourth and final chapter of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali Maharishi, Swami Swaroopananda will inspire and grant knowledge to lead us through the last stage of the Raja Yoga path, in which the practitioner attains final liberation and, free from attachments and sorrows, basks in the inner light of the Self. Participation in courses I–III is not a prerequisite for taking this course.


Questions and Answers on Yoga and Spiritual Life YVP

Join us for an evening of Q&A with Swami Swaroopananda. Ask anything you ever wanted to know about yoga practice, philosophy and the spiritual path. The answers are steeped in rare wisdom and deep understanding of the teachings and practice of yoga. Swami Swaroopananda is renowned for his clear, concise, and complete answers. While presented in simple terms, his answers are illuminating and hold within them vast knowledge. He dispels doubts and fears, clears troubled minds, and inspires the listeners to strive and advance on the spiritual path and become better citizens of the world.

Dates:

December 28January 29February 25March 31April 21May 27

Swami Swaroopananda is a senior disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda. A practicing yogi from a very young age, Swami Swaroopananda has dedicated his life to the practice and teaching of yoga. He taught in Yoga Teacher Training Courses around the world and is currently teaching advanced yoga philosophy courses and lectures internationally. He is the director of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat and the Acharya

for the Sivananda centers and ashrams on the West Coast of the United States, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. He is a member of the board of directors of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers.

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Foundation Yoga CoursesStart and Establish Your Practice Taught by senior yoga teachers and staff members of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat.

C Yoga for BeginnersTuition: $220. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

Embark on your journey into the practice of yoga and start your practice in the ideal setting of the ashram. This course follows the Five Points of Yoga created by Swami Vishnudevananda for health and inner peace: proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking and meditation. Through immersion into the basics of yoga and extensive guided practice and theory studies, you will build your yoga practice on a solid foundation that will be sure to give you a stable and joyous practice to last a lifetime.

Course Dates:November 5–9December 3–7January 9–13February 1–5February 25–March 1May 12–16

C Intermediate YogaTuition: $220. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

Ready to take your yoga practice to the next level? Under the guidance of our experienced teachers, you will enjoy the perfect opportunity to expand and advance your practice, establishing it on a broader base. Explore variations on the 12 basic postures, and learn advanced yoga asanas. Get a practical and theoretical introduction to meditation, positive thinking, ayurveda and yogic diet.

Course Dates:November 10–14December 8–12January 14–18March 12–16May 17–21June 8–12


C Advanced YogaTuition: $220. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

Develop a more precise and focused asana practice. Learn more variations, and deepen your knowledge of yoga philosophy and lifestyle. Discover the joy and tranquility that follow a practice of steady and comfortable postures. This course is tailored for people of intermediate level who would like to expand and diversify their practice of postures and breathing exercises (pranayama).

Course Dates:December 13–17March 18–22June 14–18

C Introduction to MeditationTuition: $220. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

Embark on a journey into your inner self, and come in touch with the source of knowledge and strength that lies within you. Learn concentration and meditation techniques and take your first steps towards attaining a calm and blissful

mind. We will practice sitting postures, deep relaxation, breathing exercises, concentration, and methods of introducing positive suggestions in the subconscious mind. An introduction to the philosophy and psychology of the practice of meditation will complement the experiential practice, and grant you the inspiration and inner strength required in order to persist in and develop your practice of meditation, both at the ashram and at home.

Course Dates:November 15–19December 18–22January 20–24June 19–23

C Beginners Yoga Weekend RetreatTuition: $160. Add 4 nights’ accommodation.

Take your first steps in the practice of yoga and living a yogic lifestyle within the supportive and nurturing environment of the ashram. Learn the basic Sivananda asana sequence, breathing exercises, and get an introduction to mantra chanting. Gain tools to continue your practice at

home, and become inspired to embark on a spiritual journey in the path of yoga.

Course Dates:November 30–December 2February 22–24June 28–30

C Positive ThinkingTuition: $220. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

Discover simple, practical tools for entertaining positive and creative thoughts that contribute to vibrant health and a peaceful, joyful mind. Exploring thoughts and their nature and how they create your reality, you will learn how to identify the habitual negative thought patterns that prevent you from fulfilling your highest potential. By applying practical methods of self-inquiry, imagery, and positive affirmations, you will acquire tools for cultivating a higher state of mind that will result in a more harmonious, peaceful, and successful life.

Course Dates:November 20–24March 1–5May 23–27June 24–28

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NovemberYVP November 1– 4

Healing Your Relationship with FoodSasha Loring In a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, learn a range of methods for changing unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors regarding food. From the ground of mindfulness, attentional training, and self-kindness, this workshop focuses on gaining insight into unhealthy habitual patterns and building the psychological resources needed for change.

Sasha Loring, MEd, LCSW, has studied with teachers in the Tibetan Buddhist and Vipassana meditation traditions and has been a yoga practitioner for over 30 years. She developed and taught mindful eating

programs for Duke Medical Center and leads mindfulness retreats nationwide. She is the author of Eating with Fierce Kindness: A Mindful and Compassionate Guide to Losing Weight. www.sashaloring.com

YVP November 4–7

Meeting our Well-being with AyurvedaArjun DasExperience the wisdom and beauty of ayurveda from a practical and contemplative perspective. Immerse in the essential topics of building a healthy lifestyle by living life as an act of celebration. Learn about your mind-body type and engage yourself in recovering your well-being and vitality through detoxification and rejuvenation.

Arjun Das is the director and founder of TriGuna Institute in Brazil and a yoga teacher. He is a researcher in medical astrology, studying local herbs and their connection with vedic astrology for health and meditation. Arjun

Das was recognized with the Vagbhata Award for Excellence in Ayurvedic Teaching in 2009 by the North American Ayurvedic Association. He offers ayurvedic trainings internationally.

C November 5–9

Yoga for BeginnersSee page 16 for details.


November 7–10YVP Living a Divine LifeSwami BrahmanandaLearn how to become the architect of your own fate and the master of your own destiny. Explore core spiritual values for living a Divine life, summarized by Swami Sivananda as “Serve, love, give, purify, meditate; adapt, adjust, accommodate; be good, do good, be kind; practice self-restraint, equanimity, self-reliance; do what you believe in and believe in what you do; be practical; realize thyself ”. Tap into the magazine of power and vast ocean of knowledge within you and be free.

Swami Brahmananda is the manager of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat and senior staff of the Sivananda organization. A long-time practitioner of yoga, he regularly teaches yoga philosophy and

meditation for the Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Courses as well as Meditation Immersion courses. He is a much-loved, inspiring, and knowledgeable teacher.

YVP November 9–11

Align Your Spine, Align Your MindMichael PyfromA healthy spine is key to looking and feeling your best. Proper care of your spine will enable you to maintain an optimal flow of energy throughout your body, keeping your body and mind in balance. Learn simple techniques to loosen and release your spine as well as how to use movement and breath to achieve a healthy back and internal harmony.

Michael Pyfrom, DC, is a chiropractic doctor and Sivananda Yoga teacher. In his chiropractic clinic in Nassau, Bahamas, Dr. Pyfrom integrates the ancient wisdom of yoga with modern science

and the concepts of chiropractic medicine as an integrative approach. He practices in accordance with his belief that the purpose of our physical body is to express our divinity through service. www.familyislandchiropractic.com

C November 10–14

Intermediate YogaSee page 16 for details.

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YVP November 11–15

Meditation, Breathing, and Holistic HealingDennis CherninLearn how the practice of Raja Yoga and knowledge of the subtle body can be used to understand and treat various illnesses such as heart disease, arthritis, asthma, and emotional problems. Through the system of Raja Yoga we will explore tools and practices to improve health habits and diet by using yoga postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. We will also explore the chakra system—the subtle energy centers within the body—to help us understand how illnesses occur and how they can be treated.

Dennis Chernin, MD, MPH, is a holistic physician who has taught yogic meditation and breathing techniques for over 30 years. His publications include How to Meditate Using Chakras, Mantras, and Breath and

The Complete Homeopathic Resource for Common Illnesses.


The Yoga of DevotionPracticing Bhakti YogaSwami Brahmananda

Bhakti Yoga, known as the Yoga of Devotion or the Yoga of Divine love, is the shortest way to attaining lasting bliss. Immersing themselves in stories of the Lord, chanting His name, praying and worshiping,

the devotees gradually develop great love and surrender at the feet of the Lord, where they find endless joy and true freedom from worldly misery. Join us for a celebration of the Divine glories, open your heart and find peace.

Swami Brahmananda: See biography on page 19.

C November 15–19

Introduction to MeditationSee page 17 for details.



The Cause of DiseaseAn Overview of Traditional Chinese MedicineCairo Rocha According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are internal factors (such as emotions) and external factors (such as environment, diet, trauma, and weather conditions) that can cause stagnation of our vital force. This stagnation generates health imbalances. Learn how Traditional Chinese Medicine can support your journey back to health and harmony.

Cairo Rocha, OMD, PhD, has been teaching and practicing acupuncture and co-related natural healing therapies for more than 25 years. He holds a PhD degree in Natural Sciences, a PhD in Therapeutic Counseling, and

a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (OMD) degree. He is the author of Anger Goes Up, Fear Goes Down—Emotions and the Hidden Link and Mudras: Healing with Vibrant Hands. www.cairorocha.com


Yoga Therapy for Stress ReductionNora Benian (Sundari)Learn how to relieve tension, stress, and stagnant energy and work through injuries, chronic pain, and restlessness by working with acupressure points and massaging main energy lines (meridians, sen lines, or prana nadis). Moving through specifically selected yogic postures, incorporating breathing exercises, and following ayurvedic and Thai Yoga massage principles, you will practice freeing the flow of the precious life force and feel vital and serene.

Nora Benian (Sundari), DIHom, RP Counselor, is a Sivananda Yoga teacher, yoga therapist, and Thai Yoga Massage practitioner. She prescribes yogic practices along with counseling techniques to build strength,

open energy channels, increase life force, and bring persons back into alignment.


Thanksgiving Celebration and Family ProgramDiscover the Joy in GratitudeSwami Brahmananda and ArjunaCelebrate Thanksgiving in the joyous company of like-minded people. Immerse yourself in the blissful mood of gratitude. Learn how to cultivate the feelings of gratitude and appreciation that are the essence of this holiday. This program will include a vegetarian Thanksgiving feast prepared by Arjuna, a professional vegetarian chef, as well as silent walks on the beach, sunrise meditations, yoga classes, and a variety of workshops. You will return home uplifted and energized in body, heart, and soul.


Arjuna is a direct disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda and the director of the Sivananda-affiliated Yoga Center in Gatineau, Quebec. He has been a professional vegetarian cook for 25 years and has been teaching family yoga programs in Sivananda centers and ashrams for many years. Arjuna’s approach is dynamic, personal, and inspiring, and includes many instructive stories from his time spent with Swami Vishnudevananda. www.yoga-aylmer.com

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November 25–December 1

Sivananda Yoga Teachers Renewal ProgramSwami Brahmananda, Shyam, and MohiniA Karma Yoga-based program. Participants pay half the rate on tent or dormitory accommodations (see pages 104-105). No tuition fee applies.

Join other Sivananda-trained teachers and reestablish connection with the Sivananda tradition and enjoy the ashram environment. The renewal program gives you the opportunity to strengthen your practice and learn how to address various challenges in your teaching while in the ashram’s supportive environment. Enjoy workshops, yoga classes, spiritual guidance, and the joy of Karma Yoga (3 hours daily). Learn how to start your own Sivananda-affiliated yoga center. Return home refreshed with new tools for your practice and your teaching.



Step Out of StressUltimate Self-Care RetreatSusan LordDiscover who you would be without the pressures of your daily life. Learn how to identify and transform stressors that deplete your energy, and cultivate the courage and will power needed to make positive life changes. Discover how awareness and mindful living can enhance your resilience, prevent and heal stress related illnesses, and offer a creative and meaningful approach to living your life. Learn how to use yoga, meditation, self-inquiry, and other practical mind, body, and spirit tools to transform stressful thought and behavior patterns into a deeply rewarding and sustainable lifestyle.

Susan Lord, MD, is a holistic medicine consultant specializing in mind-body approaches, energy medicine, functional medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling. She leads retreats and provides consultations at

the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health. She has a private practice where she works with individuals and groups. www.drsusanlord.com

C November 20–24

Positive ThinkingSee page 17 for details.

Shyam and Mohini are the founders and directors of the Yoga Warehouse, an affiliated Sivananda Yoga center in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Highly experienced practitioners and charismatic teachers, Shyam and Mohini are also instructors in the Sivananda Teacher Training Courses. www.theyogawarehouse.com


YVP November 29–December 3

The Middle TheoryA Guide to BalanceDeshon Fox Balance is the ultimate universal law that governs both the physical and spiritual realities. True balance begins at the level of perception. What we perceive determines how we behave towards others and ourselves, how we react to challenges in our lives, and how we progress physically and spiritually. Deshon Fox will share powerful insights on how to achieve greater balance in all areas of life and how to become an instrument of balance.

Deshon Fox, MSc, is a journalist and the author of The Middle Theory: A Guide to Balance, which was written over a period of 9 years. During such period he went on several international journeys as well

as on a spiritual journey, bringing him to the realization that true balance leads to happiness and personal fulfillment, and also brings us together to create a peaceful and prosperous world. www.themiddletheory.com


Music is MedicineCultivating Inner Peace & Manifesting Abundance with MusicMartin Klabunde and Wing Man Rita LawJoin us as we utilize the ancient technology of music to discover and explore the sacred realms of the soul and to embrace our authentic self. We will create sacred space to release old messages, purify and rejuvenate our spirit, and manifest divine abundance in our life. Together we will connect with our potential to heal and thrive in a new paradigm of pure intention, clarity and synchronicity.

Martin Klabunde (above) is an author, a speaker, an international musician, and the founder of Collective Awakening, a music and well-being organization in Tucson, Arizona. His mission is to harness the power of music to transform, expand, and uplift our consciousness. He is a professional musician and one of a handful of certified professors of the djembe, with over 20 years of teaching and performing.

Wing Man Rita Law, PhD, (above) is a psychologist and musician. She plays a variety of instruments including the bass adungu (bowl harp from Uganda), the akogo (thumb piano from Uganda), and the djembe. She also leads group affirmation and loving kindness meditation sessions and co-facilitates workshops and retreats nationwide. www.collectiveawakening.us

C November 30–December 2

Beginners Yoga Weekend RetreatSee page 17 for details.

November 2012 23

DecemberPT December 1–9

Ayurveda Body Treatments Certification CourseLalita Devi Tuition: $890. Add 10 nights’ accommodation

A wonderful opportunity to learn the techniques of ayurveda body treatments with the ashram’s Well-Being Center Director. Learn how to offer the traditional oil massage (abhyanga), pouring of oil over the forehead (shirodhara), the introduction of oil into the nasal passages (nasya), and gentle heat therapy (svedana). Such treatments provide deep detoxification and rejuvenation helping to achieve ultimate balance for the body, mind, and spirit. The course is designed for massage therapists, ayurvedic practitioners, yoga teachers, and all others who have an interest in ayurveda body treatments. Optional: Two hands-on practical experience days in ayurveda body treatments (December 10 and 11). Tuition: $50/day plus accommodation.

Lalita Devi, Clinical Ayurveda Specialist (CAS), is a graduate of the California College of Ayurveda and a Sivananda Yoga teacher. She is the Director of the Well-Being Center at the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat.

YVP December 2–4

Karma YogaLove in ActionSwami Brahmananda

Karma Yoga is the one yoga where failure is impossible; the outcome of the practice of Karma Yoga is always success in gaining spiritual progress. By forgetting yourself and thinking about others and serving others

with a selfless and loving attitude, your heart and mind will purify and you will discover new depths of love and joy within yourself. Join us for an introduction to the practice of Karma Yoga, and discover a powerful tonic to sadness, an aching heart, and depression.



YVP December 2–6

Restorative Yoga and Healing Therapies Nora Benian (Sundari)

Learn how to restore yourself regularly to take on another day with less pain, a more positive outlook, strength, and vigor. Explore restorative prop use, self-healing techniques, releasing acupressure points, breathing

exercises, meditation, and visualization. This program is perfect for those wishing to learn how to relieve stress and tension as well as those working through injuries, chronic pain, and restlessness.

Nora Benian (Sundari): See biography on page 21.

C December 3–7


C December 4–31

Yoga Teacher Training Course See pages 10-11 for details.

YVP December 5–9

Healing Chronic PainThe Mind-Body SyndromePaul EpsteinExplore the nature of pain, which is an integral part of our lives. Learn how to relate to pain mindfully and compassionately, with unconditional presence. Acquire tools to avoid the development of feelings of resentment and anger towards pain. Together, we will explore the mind-body connection and how biography can become biology. By employing skillful means and practicing understanding, intention, and effort, we will embark on a healing journey as we work through old conditioned patterns to unlearn our pain.

Paul Epstein, ND, is a naturopathic physician, mind-body therapist, mindfulness meditation and yoga teacher. Focusing on behavioral medicine, stress, and lifestyle counseling, Dr. Epstein lectures

and presents workshops throughout the United States. www.drpaulepstein.com

December 2012 25

YVP December 8–11

The Practice of Yoga in a Christian ContextPutting on the Mind of ChristFather Joseph MitchellExplore the development of consciousness from a Christian perspective. Drawing on the contemplative tradition, we will focus on the inner dimension of Jesus’ teachings and a practical application of the timeless truths within the Christian revelation. St. Paul described this as “putting on the mind of Christ” and Jesus called it “discovering the Kingdom of Heaven within.” This program is designed to help participants learn the basic symbol system and mystical tradition within Christianity in order to better teach and practice yoga in a Christian context.

Father Joseph Mitchell, CP, is the executive director of the Earth & Spirit Center in Louisville, Kentucky. He is a Catholic priest and member of the Passionist religious order. Fr. Mitchell holds a

graduate degree in Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness. He presents meditation courses, retreats on Christian spirituality, workshops in the new cosmology, and religious environmental programs. www.earthandspiritcenter.org

C December 8–12

Intermediate Yoga See page 16 for details.

YVP December 10–16

Yoga Therapy and Self Thai Massage Nora Benian (Sundari)

Learn how to relieve tension, stress and stagnant energy in your acupressure points and massage main energy lines to free the flow of life force. In this healing and restoring workshop, you will be moving

slowly through specially selected yogic postures, incorporating breathing exercises and following ayurvedic and Thai Yoga Massage principles. Perfect for those wishing to learn how to relieve their own tension as well as those working through injuries, chronic pain and restlessness.

Nora Benian (Sundari): See biography on page 21.



MoGo (Most Good)Live Your Values, Achieve Global ChangeZoe WeilWhen we make choices in our lives that do the most good and the least harm—weather it be to ourselves, to other people, to animals, or to the environment—we help bring about inner and outer peace. Learn how to make a profound difference in the world and make your life more meaningful and joyful by doing the most good in the face of a challenging reality. This program will offer you a path toward living a life that is more deeply aligned with your deepest values; help you access your talents and vision; and give you tools to chart a course toward your personal and planetary goals.

Zoe Weil is the president of the Institute for Humane Education, a program that works to create a more just, healthy, and humane world for all people, animals, and the environment through education. Zoe is the author of

six books including Most Good, Least Harm and Above All, Be Kind. She created the first graduate and certificate programs in humane education in the US and speaks regularly across North America. www.HumaneEducation.org

PT CEU December 11–16

Thai Yoga MassageLevel 1Kam Thye ChowTuition: $525. Add 7 nights’ accommodation

Thai Yoga Massage, an ancient yoga therapy, combines yoga postures with touch technique. It promotes deep relaxation and healing, improves circulation, boosts the immune system, and balances the body energetically,

thus facilitating mind-body integration. As a therapeutic practice, Thai Yoga Massage is a dynamic form of yoga for the practitioner as well as the recipient, enhancing one’s sense of alignment, posture, and health. This course provides a strong foundation in the key elements of Thai Yoga Massage and prepares students to perform a full 90-minute customized Thai Yoga Massage session. It is suitable for all, including yoga practitioners and teachers.

Kam Thye Chow: See biography on page 58.

C December 13–17

Advanced YogaSee page 17 for details.

December 2012 27


Kirtan with RaganiRagani Join Ragani and her band in this participatory, cross-cultural musical experience and heartfelt journey into the world of kirtan. With inspired stories of her days with her Guru, Swami Rama, Ragani offers unique insights and inspirations into the world of yoga. Experience the powerful renewing and transformational energies of ancient chants, which serve to connect us to the ever-present and Eternal Being that lies within us all. Open your heart to the Divine through repeating His name.

Ragani is an award-winning artist who leads Milwaukee’s Kirtan with Ragani, the largest independent and ongoing kirtan scene in the United States. At age eight, Ragani met the famous yoga master,

Swami Rama, who personally trained her in yoga sciences, meditation, and Eastern music. Ragani has been featured on FOX and NBC affiliates as well as in numerous international publications. www.raganiworld.com


Vitality MattersYoga and Life EnhancementDale BuegelLearn practical tips on diet, exercise, and energy work. Explore the causes of specific physical ailments, the mind-body connection, memory, and the unconscious mind and personality from both Western and yogic perspectives. With medical and psychology training, in addition to many years of experience in yoga, Dr. Dale Buegel will guide us through an examination of the many applications of yoga practices for the healing and balancing of the body and the mind.

Dale Buegel, MD, is known for teaching the fine points for mastery of yoga postures, breathing techniques and meditation. With over 35 years’ experience in teaching yoga disciplines, he integrates

his extensive training in medicine, bodywork disciplines, and energetic medicine into yoga practice in a unique teaching style.


The Healing Power of Hatha YogaLaurier-Pierre DesjardinsDiscover the secrets of the functional anatomy of Hatha Yoga. Learn what happens in your body physically and energetically when you practice yoga postures. Explore the biomechanics of the postures and how to increase your strength, flexibility, and vital energy through yoga practice.

Laurier-Pierre Desjardins, DO, is a Professor of Osteopathy and an experienced Kriya Yogi. He is a popular international teacher of the functional anatomy of Hatha Yoga and the biomechanics of asana (yoga

posture) and pranayama (breathing techniques). He is the author of Principles of Yoga Therapy, which is published in both French and English.

C December 18–22

Introduction to MeditationSee details on page 17.



Meditation, Healing and Inner PeaceTom Spector (Kumar)Do you suffer from stress, fear, pain, worry, anxiety, anger, or guilt? Do you want to learn how to relax and live a calmer, more efficient life? Discover the causes of suffering and learn specific techniques to attenuate its effects. We will explore two types of meditation and learn simple, effective techniques that will serve you in your daily life and throughout your spiritual journey. The program is suitable for all levels of practitioners.

Tom Spector (Kumar) studied with Ram Das and other meditation teachers. He is the co-founder of Hatha House, a yoga studio in Durham, North Carolina, and teaches meditation and healing

workshops internationally. Tom is known for his special ability to reach individuals and help them to immediately experience the benefits of meditation and healing. www.hathahouse.com


Healing Trauma through Deep RelaxationMolly Asebey-Birkholm (Madhavi)Learn how to transform the most challenging experiences of your life into powerful vehicles for healing and self-transformation. Using restorative breathing, asana, and iRest Yoga Nidra guided meditation techniques, we will explore the ways in which deep relaxation can reconnect you with your true nature, help you heal from the effects of trauma, and find the inner meaning that each situation in life presents.

Molly Asebey-Birkholm (Madhavi) is a Sivananda Yoga teacher (RYT-500) and a certified Integrative Restoration (iRest) instructor. She is the founder of the affiliated Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center in Key

Biscayne, Florida. She worked at the Department of Veterans Affairs where she conducted clinical research measuring the effects of iRest Yoga Nidra on veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). yogacenterkb.com

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YVP December 27, 2012–January 3, 2013

Family Holiday ProgramTara Rachel Jones (Omkari), Sandrine Remy (Sanatani)Material fee in the amount of $70 applies for this program in addition to Yoga Vacation and Accommodation rates.

Take time to practice yoga and to rejuvenate yourself while your children enjoy the ashram community with other children. There will be special yoga classes, chanting, crafts, karma yoga, and lots of games and fun. The program offers a flexible yet predictable schedule for the children allowing them to bond, be creative, and participate in ashram life.

Tara Rachel Jones (Omkari), MEd, RCYT, is a Sivananda Yoga teacher (RYT-500) and a Montessori teacher. She has worked professionally with children since 1989. Omkari has developed her approach to children’s yoga under the guidance of Yashoda (Sarabess Forster), a senior disciple to Swami Vishnudevananda. She is the author of It’s Time for Yoga.

Sandrine Remi (Sanatani) is a Sivananda Yoga teacher. She specializes in teaching yoga to children and feels that part of her life mission is to bring the gift of yoga to children. Sanatani has been teaching in kids camps and family programs in different Sivananda ashrams. She brings her joyful and playful spirit into each class, making the practice of yoga a fun experience for the children.

Nathan Katz, PhD, is Bhagwan Mahavir Professor of Jain Studies, Professor of Religious Studies, and Director of the Program in the Study of Spirituality at Florida International

University. Arguably the world’s leading authority on Indian Jewish communities, he is a pioneer in the field of Indo-Judaic Studies. His books include Spiritual Journey Home: Eastern Mysticism to the Western Wall, Who Are the Jews of India? and 13 others. www.indojudaic.com

Rabbi Rami Shapiro, PhD, DD, has been a congregational rabbi for 20 years and studied with Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, the founder of the Jewish Renewal movement. He is a Professor of Religious

Studies at Middle Tennessee State University and an award-winning author, poet, essayist, and educator. www.rabbirami.blogspot.com

Jan Willis, PhD, is a Professor of Religion at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut. She has studied with Tibetan Buddhists and has taught courses in Buddhism for 39 years. In December 2000,

Time magazine named Dr. Willis one of six “spiritual innovators for the new millennium”. She is the author of Dreaming Me: Black, Baptist and Buddhist, One Woman’s Spiritual Journey and several other books.

Swami Swaroopananda is a senior disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda. A practicing yogi from a very young age, Swami Swaroopananda has dedicated his life to the practice and teaching of yoga. He has

taught in Yoga Teacher Training Courses around the world and is currently teaching advanced yoga philosophy courses and lectures internationally. He is the director of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat and the Acharya for the Sivananda centers and ashrams on the West Coast of the United States, the Middle East, and the Bahamas. He is a member of the board of directors of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers.

Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron has practiced the Buddha’s teachings for more than 35 years. She was ordained as a nun in the Tibetan tradition in 1977 and has studied extensively with His Holiness the Dalai Lama,

Tsenzhab Serkhong Rinpoche, Zöpa Rinpoche, and Lama Thubten Yeshe among other Tibetan masters. With a clear, practical, and humorous style, she teaches Buddhist philosophy and meditation worldwide. Her numerous books, published in several languages, include Open Heart, Clear Mind; Buddhism for Beginners; Taming the Mind; How to Free Your Mind: Tara the Liberator; and Guided Meditations on the Stages of the Path. www.thubtenchodron.org


YVP December 22, 2012—January 1, 2013

Christmas and New Year Symposium and Celebration

Unity in Diversity and the Interconnectedness of LifeAccording to yoga philosophy, the one God or Ultimate Reality manifests as a multiplicity of names, forms, shapes, and colors. “Unity” and “diversity” are one and the same and their essence is our own essence: pure existence, pure consciousness, and pure bliss. Join us for a gathering of spiritual leaders, mystics, and musicians from the world’s major spiritual traditions and have a direct glimpse of this truth. Bathe in their wisdom, love and compassion. Expand your horizons and discover unlimited joy and freedom by breaking artificial barriers and celebrating the underlying unity in our diversity.

Beverly Little Thunder is a Standing Rock Lakota woman and has led Sweat Lodge ceremonies since she was in her early 20s. She is the founder of Kunsi Keya Tamakoce, a retreat center in Vermont which hosts

many ceremonies each year. She travels and shares her tradition and stories all over the Americas. A grandmother and great grandmother, she has recently retired from her work as a nurse and is now focusing full-time on her role of spiritual advisor and guide. www.kunsikeya.org

Krishnan Namboodiri is a Tantric priest from South India. He is trained in the classical tradition of mantras (sacred sounds), pujas (prayer ceremonies), homas (fire rituals), and yantras (sacred geometric

designs). He will perform several special rituals during the symposium.

Latif Bolat specializes in Sufi music and the ancient Turkish mystical-devotional music genre. Creating an intimate, storytelling atmosphere, he explains Turkish folk and mystical music and its

sociopolitical and cultural elements. www.latifbolat.com

Gaura Vani started studying sacred music in Vrindavan, India, at the age of six. Today he shares the magic he received and performs extensively with his kirtan ensemble, As Kindred Spirits, throughout the world. His albums include Ten Million Moons and Nectar of Devotion. www.gauravani.com

James Finley, PhD, clinical psychologist, lived as a monk at the cloistered Trappist monastery of the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky where the world-renowned monk and author, Thomas Merton, was

his spiritual director. Dr. Finley leads retreats and workshops throughout the United States and Canada. He is the author of Merton’s Palace of Nowhere, The Contemplative Heart, and Christian Meditation: Experiencing the Presence of God. www.contemplativeway.org

Inderjit Nilu Kaur, PhD, has studied Sikh philosophy and Sikh Kirtan since early childhood. She has reflected deeply on the shabad as taught in the Guru Granth Sahib (the main scripture of the Sikh

religion) and its path of truth, love, and equality. She has given talks at universities, community forums, and youth retreats and has published in magazines and scholarly journals. Dr. Inderjit holds a PhD in economics and is currently in the PhD program in ethnomusicology at UC Berkeley.

Peter Rogen has, over the past five years, devoted himself to the study of Rumi’s poetry and thought. He has given more than 125 dramatic presentational readings of Rumi’s work, accompanied with historic and

anecdotal commentary on Rumi’s life and times. Rogen has presented Rumi’s poetry at many venues, inspiring the audience to dive deeper into the wisdom and beauty of Rumi’s works. www.poetryofrumi.

YVP December 31, 2012–January 3, 2013

Mantra Revolution Chanting the Divine Name

Gaura VaniJoin Gaura Vani and his ensemble, As Kindred Spirits, for a celebration of Divine music and love. Soar on the wings of kirtan to new heights of devotion. Through chanting the Lord’s name in the company of fellow practitioners, your heart will open to the Divine and you will feel elated and blissful.

Gaura Vani: See biography above. 31

JanuaryC January 1–3

Beyond TTCTeaching and Practicing Sivananda Yoga in the WorldShyam and MohiniTuition: $200. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Build on the transformative practices you have learned in the TTC, and become an ambassador of inner and outer peace. Enjoy special yoga class each day, and get useful tips on how to maintain your sadhana outside of the ashram, to teach classical Hatha Yoga in non-Sivananda settings, and how to open and operate an affiliated Sivananda Yoga center.

Shyam and Mohini: See biography on page 22.

January 4–31

Advanced Yoga Teacher TrainingSee pages 12-13 for details.

January 4–31


YVP January 3–8

The Yoga of SleepSacred & Scientific Practices to Heal SleeplessnessRubin Naiman Deep, refreshing sleep is the cornerstone of well-being and an essential foundation of spiritual practice. Research has linked sleep problems and dream loss to depression, obesity, and other serious illnesses. Through engaging discussion as well as experiential practices, learn how to address insomnia and improve the quality of your sleep based on an integrative body, mind, and spirit approach to sleep and dreams.

Rubin Naiman, PhD, is a psychologist, an internationally recognized expert in integrative and holistic approaches to sleep and dreams and clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Arizona’s

Center for Integrative Medicine. He is the author of Healing Night: The Science and Spirit of Sleeping, Dreaming and Awakening, and the audio programs The Yoga of Sleep, To Sleep Tonight, and others. www.drnaiman.com


January, 2013 33

ThetaHealing® Programs with Vianna and Guy Stibal

January 2013 33

C January 7–8

The Planes of ExistenceViana StibalTuition: $800. Add 3 nights’ accommodation.

ThetaHealing Planes of Existence taught exclusively by Vianna Stibal, creator of ThetaHealing, is going to be offered for the first time at the ashram. This class is only open for ThetaHealing Masters/ Certificate of Science and is a prerequisite to DNA 4. More information about this class will be available soon on www.thetahealing.com.

Vianna Stibal pioneered and refined the healing method now known as ThetaHealing based on her experience in curing herself from lymphatic cancer in 1995 after the universe revealed this technique to her. She has

since gone on to heal thousands of others and to teach many more. She and her many students now teach this technique world-wide. She is the author of five books: Go Up and Seek God; Go Up and Work with God; ThetaHealing; ThetaHealing Advanced: All That Is; and Diseases and Disorders. www.thetahealing.com

Guy Stibal, Vianna’s husband, is a senior ThetaHealing practitioner and teacher. He has been Vianna’s partner on the ThetaHealing journey and has been involved with developing ThetaHealing trainings,

publishing Vianna’s books and manuals and training individuals all over the world in the art and science of ThetaHealing.

YVP January 3

The Healing Power of the MindVianna StibalThe theta state of mind is a state of very deep relaxation, almost trancelike. ThetaHealing practitioners go into a meditative state and channel healing energy, employing one of the most effective and life-changing forms of healing. ThetaHealing is a method of meditation and prayer that utilizes the fundamental creative life energy of the universe in order to change limiting conscious and subconscious beliefs, to read what is going on inside the human body, and perform physical and emotional healing. A loving, inspiring, and compassionate speaker and teacher, Vianna will share her knowledge and the amazing personal healing story.

PT January 4–6

ThetaHealing Basic DNA TrainingGuy StibalTuition: $500. Add 4 nights’ accommodation.

Basic DNA training introduces ThetaHealing techniques and focuses on activating the 12 strands of DNA within each participant. The heart of this class is the practice of techniques that allow you to change life patterns held in place by core, genetic, historic and soul beliefs, either self-inflicted or externally imposed. You will learn to identify your own beliefs as well as to practice pulling them for others. This practice can quickly reveal systems of belief, showing the body how to replace limiting beliefs or feelings with positive ones. Graduates will become practitioners of ThetaHealing (ThetaHealers).

YVP January 6–8

Yantra PaintingTransformation through Sacred FormImmerse yourself in the joy of sacred painting. Learn how to paint yantras, or sacred geometric patterns, which have been used for ages by vedic astrologers in order to help balance, give strength, and calm the energies of the karmic cycles represented in one’s vedic astrological chart. Chanting the bija (seed) mantra while painting these sacred designs, you will be guided to choose your own yantra and connect with the power inherent in sacred geometry.

YVP January 9–11

Chakra ImmersionPainting, Chanting, and Understanding Sacred CentersDiscover the imagery of the chakras (psychic energy centers) as the stage upon which the interaction between higher consciousness and desire get played out. Experience these subtle centers of transformation, coming from the Tantric tradition, through painting and visualization. Learn the imagery, colors, elements, deities, and mantras associated with each chakra.

YVP January 5–31

Foundations of Raja YogaSrinivasanRaja Yoga, the kingly path of yoga, embodies techniques of thought control, allowing the aspirant to unfold the Divinity within. Focusing on the yamas (prohibitions) and niyamas (observations), Srinivasan will take us on an in-depth journey into the theory and practice of Raja Yoga. The program will include morning talks during some of the days in the month of January.

Srinivasan: See biography on page 44.

Divine CreativitySacred Art Programs with Mavis Gewant

C January 12–14

Painting Planet MandalasTuition: $290. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

According to Indian astrology, the energy released by the orbiting planets affects our lives and can be directed and harnessed to improve our well-being. Mandalas, or sacred circular energy patterns, reflect our inner nature. By working with specific colors and mantras, this meditative painting practice will connect you to the deeper energies of the planets, creating more harmony, peace, and energy in your life. You will also enjoy a basic overview of Indian numerology.

Mavis Gewant is a disciple of the great Tantric Master, Sri Harish Johari. She is an artist who specializes in the ancient techniques of yantra, deity, chakra, and mandala painting. She teaches sacred art courses

in the US and internationally. www.sacredmotherarts.com


C January 6–15

New Year’s Detoxification and Juice Fasting Program Manu Dawson, Sita Chaitanya, and Grace Van BerkumTuition: $490. Add 11 nights’ accommodation

Start the new year by rejuvenating and revitalizing your body, mind, and spirit through detoxification. Juice fasting is the fastest and safest way to eliminate toxins from the body. It allows the body to stay slim, healthy, vital, and overcome negative eating patterns. The program begins gradually with a few days of raw food, followed by fruit and vegetable juice fasting, and ends with a raw food diet for the last days of the program. Detoxifying herbs and supplements will serve to support throughout the fast. You will also enjoy customized yoga classes and special lectures on nutrition.

Manu Dawson is a nutritional consultant at the Integral Yoga Natural Apothecary in New York. He is a radio show host and dynamic teacher of yogic diet and nutrition. He leads workshops

on cleansing, fasting, and detoxification. www.integralYoganaturalfoods.com

Sita Chaitanya is a direct disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda and a senior staff of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat. She has over 25 years of experience teaching yoga and Yoga Teacher Training

Courses. She directs fasting retreats and has wide experience in supporting individuals on this transformative journey.

Grace Van Berkum is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, certified personal trainer, and Sivananda Yoga teacher. She is passionate about increasing vitality and preventing disease through balanced eating,

exercise, and yoga. She offers Gracious Living Yoga Adventure Retreats in Nicaragua where she teaches her guidelines for healthy living. www.gracevanberkum.com

C January 9–13


YVP January 8–13

Mind and its MysteriesThe Effects of Yoga Practice on the Human MindAmarananda BhairavanExplore the metaphysical mechanism that underlies the theory of karma, reincarnation, and human embodiment. Grounding upon the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Bhairavan will draw upon a wide range of Hindu theological works to lay out a detailed schema of the cosmology of the human mind and the profoundly benedictory affects that deep yoga practice has on a practitioner’s mind. Through explanations of specific metaphysical mechanics of karmic operation and their control through specific yoga practices, Bhairavan will also describe how yogis or yoginis of the 21st century can be poised as vital guides to many fellow beings.

Amarananda Bhairavan® was initiated into Kali worship as a boy in India, and trained by his teachers in related mystic practices as well as preparation and specific uses of herbal energy oils, which he uses in his yoga

and healing practices. He travels internationally conducting lectures and seminars on yoga and healing, and uses his in-depth training and insight to assist serious yoga practitioners to move beyond karmic limitations and into deep sadhana. He is the author of Kali’s Odiyya and Medicine of Light.

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YVP January 9–14

Yoga for the 50+Gloria McCartney (Radha)Yoga is an effective practice and therapy for all ages and all health conditions. The many benefits yoga has to offer to persons over the age of 50 have made it increasingly more popular within that age group. Learn how a revitalizing yoga practice can benefit you, including increased mobility and enhanced flexibility. Learn how to alleviate sleep disorders, Arthritis symptoms, anxiety, or chronic pain through a safe and healing yoga practice. Join us for this practical workshop and discover how yoga can benefit you.

Gloria McCartney (Radha) is Sivananda Yoga teacher (RYT 200 since 1977 and RYT 500 since 1978). Spiritual and spirited, Radha offers over 35 years of teaching experience in the US, Canada, India, and

Bahamas. Her classes have been described as, “yoga that puts your head in the clouds but keeps your feet on the ground.”

C January 14–18


YVP January 14

Ayyappa PujaKrishnan Namboodiri

Lord Ayyappa, the presiding supreme deity of Sabari Hills, was born out of the union between Mohini (incarnation of Lord Vishnu) and Lord Siva. Worshipping Lord Ayyappa is said to bring contentment and

spiritual advancement. Join us for a celebration of Lord Ayyappa with a puja conducted by the ashram’s priest, Krishnan Namboodiri.

Krishnan Namboodiri: See biography on page 31.

YVP January 11–15

Creating a Yoga LifestyleSilvia San Miguel (Surya)Develop a personalized yogic lifestyle that suits your own daily schedule, and transform your outlook on work, family, and life in general. Learn how to accommodate a period of meditation when starting your day, adapt your diet, and to take care of yourself physically and mentally by practicing asanas (yoga postures). Recharge yourself through practicing proper relaxation, learn to detect stress and to avoid it by applying a few simple breathing techniques, and learn to develop a positive thinking mind that lasts all day long.

Silvia San Miguel (Surya) is an educator and a certified Sivananda Yoga teacher with diversified teaching experience at Sivananda ashrams worldwide and at her own yoga studio in Mallorca, Spain. Over

the course of 15 years, she has participated in numerous intensive meditation retreats. Surya knew Swami Vishnudevananda during the last five years of his life.


YVP January 15–20

On the Wings of Ecstasy Interfaith Devotional Singing Festival

Juan De la Sierra, PhD, is a virtuoso guitarist, composer, and music educator who has delighted audiences worldwide for over four decades. His musical offerings of the devotional music of the

Sepharadim, the Spanish Jews so intimately interwoven with that of the Arab peoples, embody the spirit of convivencia, or the art of diverse cultures and religions living side by side in peace and with mutual respect. www.musicofspain.net

Amir Vahab is a celebrated and distinguished composer and vocalists of Sufi and folk music. He sings in many different languages with a unique mystical style. The virtuosos of Amir weave fiery instrumentals

and songs of the ancient land of the Middle East that include Persian, Turkish, Azeri, and beyond. As an instrumentalist, he plays and teaches the tar, setar, tanbour, saz, oud, ney, daf, and zarb. www.tanbour.org

Bada Haridas has studied and performed Indian devotional music for the past 36 years, including Indian classical music and raga, Bengali bhajana, mridanga, and harmonium. He has produced numerous

recordings of Vaisnava songs and poetry. He travels internationally, performing kirtan as well as presenting seminars on Vaisnava songs and devotional practices. www.badahari.com

Devotional singing is a prevalent practice in all religions and spiritual traditions. Join us as we continue to break barriers and celebrate Unity in Diversity, this time through music and chant. Experience the joy of music with performers from various traditions, religions and cultures.

Lama Karma Chötso has been a Buddhist nun in the Kagyu lineage for the past 25 years. Her main teachers are His Eminence T’ai Situ Rinpoche and Lama Norlha Rinpoche. Lama Karma Chötso has been the Resident

Teacher of Kagyu Shedrup Chöling Dharma Center in El Portal, Florida for 16 years. In addition to meditation, she lectures and teaches, paints, writes music, takes students on pilgrimage, and sings traditional songs of realization. www.kagyu-sfla.org

Ken Whiteley has been called a roots music master. With dynamic energy and a spirit of inclusion, he has lead gospel singing concerts for people from all walks of life right across North America. He has

recorded numerous CDs which feature his award winning original material, heartfelt vocals, and instrumental virtuosity. www.kenwhiteley.com

“When several people join together and practice Sankirtan [chanting the Lord’s name], a huge spiritual current, or Mahashakti, is generated. This purifies the

heart of the aspirants and elevates them to the sublime heights of Divine ecstasy.”

—Swami Sivananda, Essence of Yoga

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PT January 18–24

The Yoga of Sound and Voice TrainingTuition: $590. Add 8 nights’ accommodation

A precious opportunity to experience the transformative power of sound and music with two renowned scholars and clinicians. Join us and explore various dimensions of healing with sound: the scientific, the yogic, the creative, and the shamanic. Such practices promote a state of euphoria, which then leads to enhanced wellness and greater possibility for accomplishment and success in all aspects of life. The course combines master classes, lectures, devotional chanting sessions, clinics, movement, and music making. It is not necessary to be a musician to take this course.

C January 17–19

Gracious Living Vegan Nutrition RetreatGrace Van Berkum Tuition: $290. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Through experiential workshops, we will create several menus composed of tasty, sattvic, and energizing vegan dishes, including main courses, side dishes, dressings, and scrumptious desserts. You will also be introduced to the compassionate principles of vegan nutrition and learn creative ways to increase fiber intake and stabilize blood sugar which is conducive to alkalinizing and nourishing the body. All foods prepared will be wheat-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free.

Grace Van Berkum: See biography on page 35.

Yoga of Sound and Voice Trainings with John Beaulieu and Silvia Nakkach

John Beaulieu, ND, PhD, is a composer, sound healer, counseling psychologist, board certified naturopathic physician, and Polarity practitioner. He is a world leader in the use of integrative energy medicine for healing and well-being. Dr. Beaulieu is a Professor of Integrative Health Studies at CIIS University and the founder of BioSonic Enterprises, Ltd., a company dedicated to tuning the world. He is the author of

Human Tuning, Music and Sound In The Healing Arts, Bellevue Memoirs, and Polarity Therapy. He has released six CDs including Calendula: A Suite For Pythagorean Tuning Forks. www.biosonics.com

Silvia Nakkach: See biography on page 39.

January 25–26

Advanced Yoga of Sound and the VoiceA PracticumTuition: $150. Add 3 nights’ accommodation.

Integrate, present, and have your sound healing skills evaluated in order to achieve a new level of excellence in your practices. This practicum is an empowering way to integrate sound into your current healing practice as well as gain professional sound healing experience and explore career options within professional settings. Previous courses with the instructors are recommended; new students would be able to participate upon instructor’s approval.


YVP January 20–25

Prayer as a Path to BlissAn Interfaith SymposiumPrayer is the foremost practice in all religions. An invocation and a mighty spiritual force, it will elevate your soul and fill you with the Lord’s blessings. Prayer will lighten your heart, instill peace in your mind, strengthen, and purify. Join us as leading teachers and practitioners explore the mighty power of prayer and lead you on the path of devotion.

Rabbi Ted Falcon, PhD, founded two meditative synagogues in the US. An ordained Rabbi, holding a doctorate in Psychology, Rabbi Ted focuses on universal Jewish spiritual teachings, and has been active in interfaith work his entire career. His work bridges spirituality and psychology, and his books include Judaism For Dummies and A Journey of Awakening: Kabbalistic Meditations on the Tree of Life and others. www.rabbitedfalcon.com

Jamal Rahman is co-founder and Muslim Sufi minister at the Interfaith Community Sanctuary in Seattle and adjunct faculty at Seattle University. Imam Jamal is a spiritual counselor who has a passion for interfaith work and travels internationally, presenting spiritual teachings at retreats and workshops. His books include The Fragrance of Faith: The Enlightened Heart of Islam, Spiritual Gems of Islam, and others. www.jamalrahman.com

Heinz Nussbaumer, formerly the Press Secretary of the President of Austria, is a prominent Austrian journalist and the author of a number of books on inter-religion dialog. For nearly 20 years he had been Editor-in-Chief of the influential Austrian newspaper Kurier. Since 2003, Heinz Nussbaumer has been issuing Die Furche magazine. He is the author of Der Moench in Mir [The Monk Inside Me], dedicated to his pilgrimage to Holy Mount Athos.

Dr. Joe Dispenza, DC, is a neuroscientist, chiropractor, author, and lecturer. Over the last ten years, Dr. Dispenza has lectured worldwide, educating people about the role and function of the human brain and how to re-program their thinking through scientifically proven neuro-physiologic principles. He is the author of Evolve Your Brain: The Science of Changing Your Mind, which has since been released a DVD by the same name. His most recent book Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One is an Amazon.com bestseller. www.drjoedispenza.com

Silvia Nakkach, MA, MMT, has cultivated a voice that transports the listeners into the heart of devotion. She is an award-winning composer and voice-culturist, author, former psychotherapist, and a pioneer in the field of sound, consciousness, and music shamanism. She is the founding director of Vox Mundi School of the Voice, an international project devoted to teaching and preserving sacred music traditions with schools throughout the world. She has created and is in the faculty of the Sound, Voice, Music Healing Certificate at the California Institute of Integral Studies. www.voxmundiproject.com

Swami Brahmananda is the manager of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat and a senior staff of the Sivananda organization. A long-time practitioner of Yoga, he regularly teaches Yoga philosophy and meditation for the Sivananda Teachers’ Training Courses as well as Meditation Immersion courses. He is a much-loved, inspiring and knowledgeable teacher.

January 2013 39

C January 20–24


YVP January 25–29

Healing Your Emotional BodySilvia San Miguel (Surya)

Learn how to transform negative thoughts and emotions lodged in the physical body that have resulted in dis-ease and suffering. Explore the possibility of breaking free from your past and from old

emotional patterns. Discover how your various emotional states condition your breathing and how to properly apply the science of pranayama to reshape your emotional well-being. Based on the teachings of Swami Sivananda, we will study the causes and remedies for emotions such as sadness, resentment, anger, jealousy, and grief.

Silvia San Miguel (Surya): See biography on page 36.

YVP January 25–27

Breaking the Habit of Being YourselfJoe Dispenza

You are not doomed by your genes and hardwired to be a certain way for the rest of your life. A new science is emerging that empowers all human beings to create the reality that they choose. In this

workshop, renowned author, speaker, researcher, and chiropractor Dr. Dispenza shares insights from the fields of quantum physics, neuroscience, brain chemistry, biology, and genetics to show you what is truly possible. Not only will you be given the necessary knowledge to change any aspect of yourself, you will also be taught the step by step tools to apply what you learn so to make measurable changes in any area of your life. Dr. Dispenza demystifies ancient understandings and bridges the gap between science and spirituality. Through his powerful workshops and lectures, thousands of people in 25 different countries have learned to use these principles to change from the inside out. Once you break the habit of being yourself and truly change your mind, your life will never be the same!

Dr. Joe Dispenza: See biography on page 39.


PT CEU January 27–February 1

Polarity Therapy and Five Element Bodywork TrainingTuition: $590. Add 7 nights’ accommodation

Become a certified Polarity Wellness® therapist. Learn how to work with life energy using bodywork sessions, polarity yoga, and sound to balance each of the five elements: ether, air, fire, water, and earth. Emphasis will be given to the application of five element knowledge in daily life through an understanding of modern stress science and polarity therapy. This course offers valuable training either as a stand-alone practice or as a complement to existing massage, yoga, nursing, counseling, physical therapy, and medicine practices.

Healing Arts Courseswith John Beaulieu, Andreas Ledermann, and Brigitta Raimann

PT January 27–February 1

Energy Healing Clinic for Healing Arts PractitionersTuition: $590. Add 7 nights’ accommodation

During this clinic, Polarity Therapy Five Element Evaluation is used to create sessions and integrate multiple energy healing methods including touch modalities, verbal guidance/counseling, nutrition, sound, color, crystals, movement, and aura work. The evaluation process and therapeutic interventions are explained to the whole group creating a feedback loop connecting and deepening a practitioner’s knowledge of theory, evaluation, and clinical applications. This training is open to all healing arts practitioners interested in learning integrative energy approaches to healing. The experience of the clinic will deepen your clinical knowledge, increase your confidence, and contribute to your life and personal healing process.

John Beaulieu, ND, PhD: See biography on page 38.

Andreas Ledermann is a Naturopath and Polarity Therapy Instructor. He is the author of Polarity Therapy and numerous articles on natural healing. He has been teaching Polarity Therapy, Energy Medicine, and Creative Art Therapy for over 30 years. Andreas specializes in bringing alternative medicine to hospital settings through his pioneering work with Swiss nurses. He is co-founder of the School of Holistic Naturopathy S.H.N. in Zug and an expert on Traditional European Naturopathy. www.andreasledermann.ch

Brigitta Raimann is a Naturopath, Social Education Teacher, and Polarity Therapist. She practices and teaches an integrated approach to bodywork, dream work, process-oriented psychology, yoga, dietetics, and meditation based on Polarity Therapy principles. She has 20 years experience as a therapist and teacher and is a pioneer of natural health and healing arts for women. She is the cofounder of the School of Holistic Naturopathy S.H.N. and of the Holistic Arts GmbH in Zug, Switzerland. www.brigittaraimann.ch

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YVP January 29

Questions and Answers on Yoga and Spiritual LifeSwami SwaroopanandaSee page 15 for details.

Yoga, Poetry and Creative WritingPrograms with Jeffrey Davis

C January 29–February 2

Yoga as MuseCreative Writing CourseJeffrey DavisTuition: $450. Add 6 nights’ accommodation

Develop your own Yoga As Muse practice to take home. Distractions, busyness, fear, self-criticism, and lack of compassion threaten to keep the muse away. Yoga As Muse integrates yoga’s tools into a creative writing process that leads to authentic heart-centered writing. Through unique exercises, discussions, mini-lectures, short readings of professional writings, and optional read-aloud sessions, you will experience how yoga helps you develop confidence, versatility, and authenticity on the mat and on the page.

YVP January 27–28

Sacred Poetry & Songs of Longing for the BelovedJeffrey Davis and Steve GornFor centuries, vibrations of sacred poetry, sacred music, and the yoga of deep listening (Nada Yoga) have been gateways to exploring spiritual yearnings and to awakening hearts. Jeffrey Davis and Steve Gorn will lead us in a discovery of how poets seek union with the Beloved, and will guide our own exploration of longing.

Jeffrey Davis is author of two poetry collections and the first book that studies in-depth how yoga can conduce creative writing, The Journey from the Center to the Page: Yoga Philosophies & Practices As Muse for Authentic Writing. He

is a student of Sri T.K.V. Desikachar. He lectures and works with scholars, creatives, and New York Times best-selling authors around the world to apply the art and science of purposeful creativity. www.trackingwonder.com

Steve Gorn is featured on the 2011 Grammy-winning recording, Miho: Journey to the Mountain, and the Academy Award-winning documentary film, Born into Brothels. He has performed Indian classical music and new American

music on the bansuri bamboo flute in concerts and festivals internationally. His gurus are the late bansuri master, Sri Gour Goswami, and Pandit Raghunath Seth. www.stevegorn.com


FebruaryYVP January 30–February 2

Yoga @ HomeGloria McCartney (Radha)

Infuse joy and tranquility to your life by integrating the five points of yoga into your daily routine. Learn how to create your own sacred space at home; discover how you can fit breathing and posture

exercises into any daily schedule; transform your experience of life through positive thinking and reach higher levels of concentration and efficiency through the practice of meditation; recharge through proper rest; and enjoy the nourishment and rich flavors of the yogic cuisine. Join us and acquire valuable and practical tools for the home practice that is suitable for you.

Gloria McCartney (Radha): See biography on page 36.

YVP February 1–3

Awakening KindnessFinding Joy through Compassion for OthersNawang Khechog

One of the marvels of being human is that we can choose to nurture and cultivate kindness, compassion, and love. Nawang Khechog’s book, Awakening Kindness, is an effort to awaken others to the understanding

that, as a source of lasting happiness and joy, kindness and compassion are among the principal things that make our lives meaningful. In this weekend retreat, Nawang will draw on his 20 years experience of presenting his kindness workshop to teach the many ways we can enrich our lives by simply being kind to each other and ourselves. This program will include observing days of kindness, meditation, chanting, in-depth teaching, and the universal dance of kindness.

Nawang Khechog: See biography on page 44.C February 1–5


February 2013 43

Nawang Khechog is a Grammy nominee and one of Tibet’s foremost world music composers and musicians. He is also one of the first Tibetan musicians to be able to break into the international world music

scene with his original and authentic musical compositions. Nawang was a monk for 11 years and studied Buddhist philosophy and meditation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama as well as many other Tibetan masters. www.nawangkhechog.com

Dr. Elaine Valdov, a representative to the United Nations, is a peace and human rights activist, conflict resolution specialist, and the founder of Yoga Peace Ambassadors and Yogis

Without Borders. Dr. Valdov has held multiple NGO positions at the United Nations, including Chair of the Executive Committee of Non-Governmental Organizations Affiliated with the United Nations DPI. She is currently a practicing psychotherapist and a professional coach focusing on “finding your role in creating a culture for peace.”

YVP February 1–8

Yoga for Peace Symposium Changing the World from the Inside Out

Following Swami Vishnudevananda’s mission of promoting inner and outer peace, we are delighted to host the sixth Yoga for Peace Symposium. Featuring world-renowned speakers who have dedicated their lives to promoting peace among people and nations, inner peace and sustainability we invite you to join us for this gathering and get inspired to become engaged in changing the world from the inside out.

Srinivasan is a senior disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda and a practicing yogi for over 35 years. He is a member of the board of directors of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers. Srinivasan is

the director of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Ranch and the Acharya for the Sivananda Yoga centers and ashrams in the eastern region of the US. He teaches in the Yoga Teacher Training Course and the Advanced Teacher Training Course and offers other various programs throughout North America. www.sivananda.org/ranch/

Dena Merriam is the founder of the Global Peace Initiative of Women (GPIW), an organization chaired by a multi-faith group of women spiritual leaders. Her work at GPIW has been devoted to creating a

global platform for female religious and spiritual leaders, and to engage the Hindu and Buddhist leadership more actively on the world stage. She has been a student of Paramahansa Yogananda and the great texts of the vedic tradition for over 35 years and is also a practitioner of Kriya Yoga meditation. www.gpiw.org


C February 1–7

Yoga Peace Ambassadors CourseElaine Valdov Tuition: $350. Add 8 nights’ accommodation

Become a peace leader in local, national, and international communities. Learn about the humanitarian challenges the world is facing and how you can join the effort of promoting the eight United Nations millennium goals: eradicating poverty and hunger, providing education for all, empowering women and gender equality, providing health care for all, combating diseases, developing a global partnership for development, decreasing childhood mortality, protecting the environment and others. In the process you will develop a broad vision of the global community.

Elaine Valdov: See biography on page 44.

YVP February 1–8

Yoga for Peace Symposium Changing the World from the Inside Out

Becky Wilson, the co-founder of Midwest Permaculture, earned her Permaculture Design Certificate in 2007, and then in 2011 she earned her Permaculture Teaching Certificate from Rosemary

Morrow, a respected scientist, agriculturalist, and elder in the permaculture world. Becky has served as the Stelle Community Association Manager for 18 years and served as the Community Association Board President for eight years. www.midwestpermaculture.com

Amy Weintraub, MFA, E-RYT 500, director of the LifeForce Yoga Healing Institute and author of the bestselling Yoga for Depression and the recently published Yoga Skills for Therapists. She has been a pioneer

in the field of yoga and mental health for over 20 years. She trains health and Yoga professionals at notable international venues and offers workshops for everyday practitioners. She is involved in ongoing research on the effects of yoga on mood, and has produced an award-winning library of evidence-based Yoga and meditation CDs and DVDs for mood management. www.yogafordepression.com

Davod Azad is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and vocalist from Azerbaijan. He is a master of Iranian Classical music, Azeri folk music, Ancient Persian music, and Persian Sufi music, specifically influenced by

the music of the Ghajar period in Persian history, a pure form undiluted by western styles. He travels around the world, singing for peace and love between nations and people. www.davodazad.com

Swami Omkarananda is the director of the Sivananda Yoga Center in Los Angeles and has over 20 years of experience in teaching yoga and meditation. She earned her certification in Permaculture Design

and Advanced Permaculture from Mid-West Permaculture. In Los Angeles she has established a permaculture garden at the staff house, and the yoga center is a designated Green Yoga Studio. Swami Omkarananda is passionate about bringing yoga, sustainability, and the environment together.

Bill Wilson has become nationally recognized as a top permaculture instructor. Bill has lived for over three decades in the sustainably oriented community of Stelle, Illinois, which gives him a deep insight

into what it really takes to create permanent-cultures and authentic community. He and his wife Becky are creating a permaculture oasis surrounding their traditional suburban home. www.midwestpermaculture.com

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C February 1–4

Advanced Asana CourseSylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)Tuition: $190. Add 5 nights’ accommodation

An opportunity to learn intricate advanced asanas and receive the guidance which will assist you to turn such postures into a steady and comfortable practice. In order to allow longer and steadier holding of the postures, visualization, meditation and positive thinking will also be taught and practiced.

Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati): is a life-long dancer who found yoga while searching for a body-mind practice that also provided spiritual guidance. She is known for her resourcefulness and her

ability to assist students in improving their inner attentiveness. A highly experienced teacher, Saraswati is an instructor in the Sivananda Teacher Training Courses. www.sylvieboisclair.com

YVP February 3–9

Deeper into the Five Points of YogaArjuna

Learn how to maximize energy and health by bringing yoga into your daily life. This in-depth exploration is based on Swami Vishnudevananda’s guidance on the five points of yoga: proper exercise, proper

breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and meditation and positive thinking. Discover how proper practice and the yogic vegetarian diet can invigorate your life. Combine theory with practice to increase your vitality with yogic postures and breathing techniques. Manage stress and calm the mind through proper relaxation, positive thinking, and meditation.

Arjuna: See biography on page 21.

C February 3–5

Positive Thinking for Inner TransformationSwami OmkaranandaTuition: $200. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Yoga teaches us that happiness is our true nature and yet we struggle with stress and negativity in our busy, fast-paced lives. This program will explore the power of thoughts: how to be in the present, how

to turn negative feelings and thoughts to positive feelings, and how to manage stress and respond positively to challenges. Yoga psychology and philosophy have a wealth of techniques and information that can help us cope with our negative thoughts and emotions.

Swami Omkarananda: See biography on page 45.

February 3–March 2



February 2013 47

PT February 5–15

Permaculture Design Certificate CourseBill Wilson, Becky Wilson, and Swami OmkaranandaTuition: $995. Add 12 nights’ accommodation

C February 6–9

Fine Tune your Postures Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)Tuition: $190. Add 5 nights’ accommodation.

Tailored for experienced yoga practitioners, this course offers a special opportunity to fine tune and expand your practice and reach better alignment in your postures. It offers an opportunity to let go of bad

habits that may have been acquired through years of practice or to recharge your practice and adapt it to the reality of natural and unavoidable changes in your body.

Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati): See biography on page 46.

This is the world recognized 72-hour Permaculture Design Certificate Course. This course will deliver the foundational educational experience for understanding permaculture design and will also grant all involved the unique opportunity to experience it within the context of a practicing yoga community. People from a wide spectrum of experience and knowledge will benefit from learning how to develop sustainable, abundant, and integrated ways of living that work with Nature, harvesting Her natural abundance in only sustainable ways.

Bill Wilson, Becky Wilson and Swami Omkarananda: See biography on page 45.

PT CEU February 7–11

Yoga for Mood ManagementLifeForce Yoga® Practitioner TrainingPart A–ExperientialAmy WeintraubTuition: $450. Add 6 nights’ accommodation

Learn an evidence-based yoga protocol to help students and clients focus, relax, and have greater access to feeling states. This program interweaves ancient yogic wisdom with current findings in neurobiology.

Yoga teachers and mental-health professionals will learn strategies appropriate for a clinical setting that can safely release chronically held physical tension and repressed emotions. While learning yogic techniques to help clients manage their moods and increase self-efficacy, you will also be practicing tools for self-care.

YVP February 8–11

Introduction to Dreamwork for Spiritual PracticeRodger Kamenetz

Learn to think in images, the language of dreams. We will explore the topics of dreams in the West from Genesis to Jung, interpretation vs. revelation, the case of the disappearing dream, the gifts of the dream for spiritual practitioners, and the dynamics of dream world from archetypes to past lives. You will be introduced to the stage dreamwork process and will have a chance to discuss

and work your own dreams through “string work”, where dreams are acted out by participants.

Rodger Kamenetz is an award-winning poet, author, and teacher. He is the author of The Jew in the Lotus, the story of rabbis making a holy pilgrimage through India to meet with the Dalai Lama and 9 other books. After retiring from Louisiana State University as a Distinguished Professor of English and Religious Studies, Dr. Kamenetz has devoted himself to working with persons who seek spiritual direction through their dreams. www.kamenetz.com

Amy Weintraub: See biography on page 45.

Amy Weintraub will be assisted by Rose Kress, RYT-500, a LifeForce Yoga Educator and Mentor and a Functional Yoga Therapist; and Kathy Shafer, PhD, LCSW, E-500-RYT, a psychotherapist, educator, and LifeForce Yoga Practitioner who is nationally known for her work with addictions.


February 2013 49

PT CEU February 10–16

Cardiac Yoga Teacher Training ProgramMala CunninghamTuition: $790. Add 8 nights’ accommodation

This comprehensive training program is designed to educate and train yoga instructors and medical personnel to work with cardiac patients and their support network. Learn to adapt the basic concepts of yoga and meditation to the special needs of cardiac patients. Study topics include anatomy and physiology of the heart, stress, and the psycho-social factors of heart disease, adaptation of yoga postures, how to design cardiac yoga classes, principles and philosophies of mind-body medicine and yoga, and meditation as a mechanism for healing.

Mala Cunningham, PhD, is an author and educator on mind-body medicine and health psychology. She is the president of Positive Health Solutions and the founder of the renowned training program Cardiac

Medical Yoga. She lectures internationally and is an authority in health and business psychology, sleep enhancement, stress management, and medical yoga. She has taught and practiced yoga and meditation for over 35 years. www.cardiacyoga.com

YVP February 10–16

Practical SpiritualityLife and Teachings of Swami VishnudevanandaArjuna

Learn the relevance and benefits of yoga philosophy in daily modern life. Drawing from his rich personal experiences, Arjuna will offer techniques for translating the theories of yoga philosophy into practical

tools for everyday life. Talks will include many instructive stories from Arjuna’s times with Swami Vishnudevananda.



Philosophy of Hatha YogaAlan Wiuker (Krishna)

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the philosophy and practice of Hatha Yoga. This ancient yoga, believed to be imparted to humanity by Lord Siva, offers much more than its most commonly

practiced form, the asanas (postures). It offers complete knowledge and practices to control the life force and prepare the body and mind to the practice of meditation. Discover how, through continuous practice of Hatha Yoga, you can enjoy immense physical and mental benefits, ranging from a flexible body and serene mind, to defying old age.


Great Women of the MahabharataHridayananda das Goswami and Karnamrita Dasi

Much of what we know about yoga and the civilization that created it comes from the sacred epic Mahabharata, a text that includes the beloved Bhagavad Gita. Within the Mahabharata, many of the most impressive characters are great women, including Kunti, Draupadi, Radharani, and many others. Their intelligence, power, beauty, and devotion have inspired the greatest spiritual seekers for thousands of years. By studying their lives, we acquire invaluable wisdom and practical guidance to successfully integrate Bhakti Yoga, the practice of pure love, into our lives. Lectures will be accompanied by the chanting of world leading kirtan singer Karnamrita Dasi.

Hridayananda das Goswami is widely recognized as one of the most senior and beloved spiritual leaders of the Vaishnava movement. In the past 40 years, he has founded and developed spiritual centers throughout North and South America, as well as parts of Europe. With a doctorate from Harvard University in Sanskrit and Indian Studies, he has taught and lectured worldwide and has published scholarly articles. He is currently working on a project to present the great epic, the Mahabharata, as a three-part historical novel. www.Acharyadeva.com

Karnamrita Dasi is one of the world’s leading kirtan singers as well as the first female Westerner to be classically trained in this sacred art. She spent nearly a decade in India being classically trained as a vocalist and immersed in kirtan (devotional music) since birth. Having toured for the last eight years, Karnamrita performs and teaches at hundreds of venues worldwide. She has won numerous awards including “Best Album of the Year” and “Best Song of the Year” for her acclaimed album DASI: Prayers by Women. www.karnamrita.com

Alan Wiuker (Krishna) is a direct disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda. He is the main Hatha Yoga instructor in many Yoga Teacher Training Courses and has an in-depth knowledge of Raja Yoga, and Vedanta philosophy. He is a certified jyotish consultant and tutor by the American College of Vedic Astrology in the US and certified and approved tutor by CVA (Council of Vedic astrology) with the titles “Jyotish Visharada” and “Jyotish Kovid”. www.9graha.com


C CEU February 15–17

Guided Imagery and Creative VisualizationAwareness Adventures for the Body, Mind, and SpiritJulie LuskTuition: $290. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Experience the potency of guided imagery and creative visualization, a powerful mind-body-spirit technique that everyone can apply. Through this practice you will reach states of deep relaxation, activate your natural capacity to heal, promote the eradication of undesired behavior patterns, reveal the power of your intuition, and unlock your highest potential. Together we will practice several types of guided imagery within the context of the seven major chakras (energy centers) and the five koshas (sheaths). We will also explore personal experiences and understand scientific principles relevant to our practice.

Julie Lusk, MEd, is the president of Wholesome Resources and the author of 30 Scripts for Relaxation, Imagery and Inner Healing, Yoga Meditations, Mind-Body Mastery, and numerous

guided imagery and meditation CDs. She leads workshops on stress management, wellness, yoga, meditation, and guided imagery. www.wholesomeresources.com

C February 16–20

Sound, Healing & ConsciousnessZacciah BlackburnTuition: $425. Add 6 nights’ accommodation

Sound is the vibrational nature of creation as well as our human structure, from our energetic (subtle) bodies to our physiological and sub-atomic form. Explore the nature of authentic healing, and experience how esoteric sound practices enable you to realize heightened states of wellness. Drawing from contemporary and ancient wisdom and methodologies, students will use the voice and simple instruments to enhance awareness and learn how to integrate sound into personal and professional practices. No musical talent or prior experience is necessary.

Zacciah Blackburn, PhD, is a gifted and intuitive teacher and sound healer trained in classical healing, shamanic traditions, and sacred sound cultures. He teaches internationally. He is Director of Education

at the International Sound Healing Network and co-founder and Director of the World Sound Healing and All One Now Network, both organizations working for global peace. www.thecenteroflight.net

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Explore the Bahamas, Explore Yourself!Arjuna

Join us for a week of outings, games, and fun activities combined with a yoga vacation for families and individuals. We will visit historical places in the Bahamas and, weather permitting, go on a snorkeling

trip (some of the trips might incur additional costs). Special family yoga classes will be added to the ashram’s standard schedule. Come and enjoy the beauty and rich heritage of Nassau!


C February 18–22

Transform Stress into Awakened LivingRelax, Reflect, RevitalizeJulie LuskTuition: $320. Add 6 nights’ accommodation

Maximize your energy and health by transforming tension and stress using practical mind-body tools that really work. Learn how to avoid getting overwhelmed and to stop suffering from insomnia,

headaches, sickness, worry, and the mental and emotional pain related to stress. Whether you are in the midst of stress or want to be ready for the next cycle of stress, this program will give you the practical formula to transform pressures into awakened living.

Julie Lusk, MEd: See biography on page 51.

C February 17–21

Meditation Immersion CourseSwami BrahmanandaTuition: $350. Add 7 nights’ accommodation

To achieve lasting happiness and absolute peace we must first know how to calm the mind, focus, and eventually to transcend the mind. By turning the mind inward we can deepen our concentration and attain a

state of meditation. Whether you wish to deepen and improve your meditation practice, or are new to meditation, you will learn about the nature of the mind and how to develop concentration and inner stability. You will be guided in basic meditation techniques and inspired to establish a daily meditation practice.




Karma YogaThe Path of Right ActionJeffrey ArmstrongExplore the concepts of karma, dharma and swadharma. Discover how Karma Yoga or the path of selfless service can lead to overcoming fear and depression and eventually to reconnecting with our True Nature or the Supreme Soul. Learn about swadharma—the specific duty that one has to fulfill in this life time–and how to find out what that duty is. By understanding the law of karma and its operation in our life, we can eventually transcend karma and be liberated from the wheel of birth and death.

Jeffrey Armstrong is a scholar of the Eastern teachings and has been studying and practicing Vedanta, Vedic Astrology, Raja Yoga, Tantra, and mantra practices for the past 40 years, having been

initiated by Masters of these traditions. He is a member of the American Council of Vedic Astrology. He is the author of The Spiritual Teachings of the Avatar, Karma: The Ancient Science of Cause & Effect, and many others. www.jeffreyarmstrong.com

C February 21–March 2

Advanced Hatha Yoga RetreatAlan Wiuker (Krishna)Tuition: $350. Add 11 nights’ accommodation

Hatha Yoga is described by the Masters as a means to attain Raja Yoga, or the experience of deep meditation, inner silence, and realization of the Self. This immersion retreat is focused on intense spiritual

practice (sadhana), with guided and personal practice on advanced asanas and pranayamas, Japa, and meditation. This course is open to all yoga teachers and advanced practitioners. Give yourself the opportunity to recharge, deepen your personal practice, and enhance your inner meditative and spiritual experience.

Alan Wiuker (Krishna): See biography on page 50.

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The Yoga of Chant RetreatKrishna DasNourish your heart, inspire your mind, and uplift your spirit in this retreat of chant, music, and devotion with chanting virtuoso Krishna Das. Sharing his heart through music and chanting is the basis of Krishna Das’ spiritual work. In his concerts and workshops, he uses the power and joy of chanting to lead his audiences beautifully into the inner heart space. There will be evening kirtan concerts and afternoon workshops with chanting, musical accompaniment, and teachings on Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of devotion.

Krishna Das is one of the foremost devotional singers in the world. He is a disciple of Neem Karoli Baba and has been chanting on a regular basis in yoga centers all over the world. He has taught

with Ram Dass and sung for many saints and yogis in the US and in India. Over the years, Krishna Das has made numerous pilgrimages throughout India, meeting teachers and saints of many spiritual traditions on his quest to open and purify his heart. His CDs include Pilgrim Heart, Greatest Hits of the Kali Yuga, Door of Faith, Live on Earth, Breath of the Heart, and many more. He is also the author of Chants of a Lifetime. www.krishnadas.com

YVP February 24–March 2

Beginners Yoga Immersion WeekArjuna

Immerse yourself in the basics of yoga and gain a strong foundation for your practice. Receive a step-by-step introduction to yogic postures and breathing exercises. Discover how proper relaxation,

meditation, positive thinking and a balanced diet will support your yoga practices and a healthy lifestyle. Get the most from yoga classes and meditation at the ashram and at home with the solid understanding that you will gain during this week.



Karma, Reincarnation, and Vedic AstrologyAlan Wiuker (Krishna)

What are the consequences of our actions? How is the course of each of our births determined? Through an exploration of the connection between karma, destiny and reincarnation you will learn

how to reduce future misery and reach a brighter future. Through teaching about vedic astrology, you will also learn how ancient vedic knowledge can help you to better understand your life circumstances and the best course of action for you.

Alan Wiuker (Krishna): See biography on page 50.

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YVP February 25


YVP February 26–March 1

Life after LifeRaymond Moody

Dr. Raymond Moody will bring to this program his 40 plus years of working in the field of grief, near–death, and shared death experiences, as well as profound spiritual experiences of the dying

and their loved ones. Learn to recognize the predictable physical and psychological manifestations of grief and comprehend grief as a complex process with medical, psychological, and spiritual implications. Explore common features reported by people who have had near-death and shared death experiences as well as other profound spiritual experiences, and be able to appreciate their clinical implications.

Raymond Moody, MD, PhD, is a globally renowned psychiatrist and best-selling author. He has written 11 books to date, with several more currently in process. His critically acclaimed book, Life After Life, has sold over 13 million copies worldwide. In this book about near-death experiences, he coined this term and inspired a rapidly growing field of scientific exploration. www.lifeafterlife.com

C February 26–28

Sacred ArtExpress Divine InspirationSita ChaitanyaTuition: $320 (materials included). Add 4 nights’ accommodation

The universal language of sacred art, inspired by the beauty of creation, has evolved throughout human history and is used for spiritual practice and healing. Learn how to express divine inspiration with simple

methods of drawing, painting, and chanting. Expand your creative horizons with a step-by-step study of basic techniques using a compass, a ruler, a brush, and paint, while cultivating the skills of observation and perseverance.

Sita Chaitanya: See biography on page 35.

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MarchYVP March 1–3

What is Nirvana and how Do We Get ThereGeshe Michael RoachThe word “nirvana” brings up many different ideas. Is it some strange place where we are happy all the time, without a care for the problems of the rest of the world? In this program, we will explore what nirvana really is, and practical ways of getting there. We will learn about the theory and practice of nirvana based on the ancient teachings. We will see that nirvana is actually a very engaged state of being, where we are in total happiness but serving the world at the same time.

Geshe Michael Roach is the first American to have been awarded the degree of Geshe, or Master of Buddhism, after more than 20 years of study in Tibetan monasteries. He has used this training to become a prominent international teacher, businessman, philanthropist, author, educator, public speaker, textual scholar, and

musician. His book, The Diamond Cutter, has become a global bestseller in 20 languages. He is the founder of the Asian Classics Institute, Diamond Mountain University, and many other institutions. www.geshemichaelroach.com

C March 1–5



YVP March 1–3

Family Yoga VacationMira Binzen

Join Mira Binzen of Global Family Yoga for a relaxing, inspiring, and joyful family experience. You will find plenty of time to connect with nature, the local culture, and with yourself, and you will return home restored, refreshed, and inspired. Families will participate in a typical yoga vacation, following the ashram’s schedule while enjoying a true vacation. Activities include art, games, and exploring nature.

Mira Binzen is a Sivananda Yoga teacher (RYT-500) and a yoga therapist. She holds a degree in child psychology and is the founder of Global Family Yoga, an organization that focuses on child development through yoga. She is a highly experienced yoga for children teacher who brings joy and enthusiasm to her practice and teaching. www.globalfamilyyoga.org

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PT CEU March 3–22

Thai Yoga MassageYoga Therapy Practitioner Program Levels I, II, and III Kam Thye Chow and Mariana Mosca (Mirabai)Tuition: Each one of Level I, Level II or Level III only $525. Add 7 nights’ accommodation. Any two levels: $940; add 14 nights’ accommodation. Level I, II & III together: $1,400; add 21 nights’ accommodation.

Kam Thye Chow pioneered a methodology that combines Thai Yoga Massage with its yogic and ayurvedic roots. He founded the Lotus Palm School in Montreal and teaches around the world. He is the

bestselling author of many books, including Thai Yoga Massage and Thai Yoga Therapy for Your Body Type: An Ayurvedic Tradition. He teaches with skill, humor, and an ever-present sense of loving-kindness. www.lotuspalm.com

Mariana Mosca (Mirabai) was raised in a family of Sivananda Yoga practitioners and has been committed to yoga her entire life. She views Thai Yoga Massage as a natural extension of her yoga practice. Under

Kam Thye Chow’s tutelage, Mirabai has taught throughout North and South America.

Thai Yoga Massage is an ancient yoga therapy which combines yoga postures with touch technique. It promotes deep relaxation and healing, improves circulation, boosts the immune system, balances the body energetically, and facilitates mind-body integration. As a therapeutic practice, Thai Yoga Massage is a dynamic form of yoga for the practitioner as well as the recipient, enhancing one’s sense of alignment, posture, and health. Gain a strong foundation in the key elements of Thai Yoga Massage and learn how to perform a full 90-minute customized Thai Yoga Massage session (or an expanded 2-hour Thai Yoga Massage session in Level II).

Level III will introduce you to the fundamentals of ayurveda, the ancient Indian healing system and sister science to yoga. This class will serve to bridge Thai Yoga Massage with its historical roots in ayurveda. Learn practical methods of applying ayurvedic knowledge to deepen the therapeutic quality of your practice and also a new 60 minute Thai Yoga Massage session, customized according to the recipient’s body-type (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha).

Level I: March 3–8 Level II: March 10–15 Level III: March 17–22


C March 4–6

Introduction to Teaching Yoga to ChildrenMira BinzenTuition: $320. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Share your love of yoga with children and families! Based on current child development principles, learn how to turn the ancient science of yoga into fun, appealing, age appropriate stuff kids love. You will acquire many

tools and techniques to bring the benefits of yoga to children as well as a deeper understanding of yoga. Previous yoga experience is helpful but not required.

Mira Binzen: See biography on page 57.

C March 4–7

Healing through Mystical Qigong Tuition: $390. Add 5 nights’ accommodation

Based on simple yet powerful techniques, Pan Gu Shen Gong (PGSG) uses the power of the universe for healing oneself and others. Learn the three major aspects of the PGSG system, including:

• TheMovingForm,designedtopromotehealththrough strengthening of the life-force.

• TheHealingSkill,teachingtheskilltoprovide healing treatments to others.

• TheNon-MovingForm,designedtostrengthenthe nervous system and intuitive ability.

There will also be a special class on developing spiritual vision.

YVP March 3–4

Introduction to Mystical QigongMaster Ou will share his own personal story of his encounter with PanGu and the Pan Gu Shen Gong healing method that was revealed to him. He will explain the basic concepts of this healing method and will share from his own healing journey as well as amazing healing stories of his patients and students.

Master Ou Wen Wei created the Pan Gu Shengong (PGSG) in order to enable practitioners to absorb the life force of the

universe and to temper and improve their own life force and immune systems. PGSG has successfully treated many patients with ailments such as cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, rheumatoid, apoplexy, lupus and others. Master Ou is the author of seven books including The Path of Life and Pan Gu Mystical Qigong. www.pangushengong.org

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March 5–April 1

Yoga Teacher Training CourseSee pages 10-11 for details.

YVP March 4–8

Yoga to Ease an Aching Back Catherine Gillies (Kumari)A healthy back means a healthy, strong, and supple body. This back care program offers relief for acute and chronic back conditions, various means to maintain a strong back and posture, and preventative practices. Enjoy a daily modified Hatha Yoga class that introduces to you specific back care exercises, and teaches you how to modify the basic yoga postures to relieve and support the healing of various conditions. In addition, a daily workshop will highlight the principles and attitudes that support healing.

Catherine Gillies (Kumari) is a direct disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda. She has been teaching Sivananda Yoga for nearly 30 years. She is founding director of Affiliated Sivananda Yoga Center in

Gatineau, Quebec, where she currently offers specialized services in yoga therapy and healing. www.yoga-aylmer.com

YVP March 5–9

Classical Indian Music & Dance Festival


G.S. Sachdev is recognized worldwide as a master of the bansuri (North Indian flute). He is one of the premier performers on this traditional instrument. His pure and classical approach instills tranquility and carries

listeners beyond the mind into deep meditation. www.gssachdev.com

Swapan Chaudhuri is considered one of the top masters of tabla in the world. He is the Director of Percussion at Ali Akbar College of Music in San Rafael, California. He developed his skill through

years of accompanying Ali Akbar Khan and other leading musicians of India. www.swapanchaudhuri.com

Alam Khan is the son of the legendary sarod maestro, Ali Akbar Khan. He has toured worldwide attracting praise and attention from legendary musical icons. Alam continues to follow his father’s wishes

as a teacher of advanced instrumental and vocal classes at the Ali Akbar College of Music and has dedicated his life to preserving, performing and teaching this music to the world. www.alamkhan.com

Nandkishor Muley is a leading santur performer. He studied with Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, which led to his current esteem as a principal figure in Indian music. Nandkishor has been accredited with German

Grammy Award, the famous “Surmani” award, and others. He travels widely to different parts of world for his musical performances. www.santoormagic.com

Classical Indian Music & Dance Festival

Join us for an elevating experience of inspirational and meditative music concerts and dance performances as accomplished performers of classical Indian music and dance come together to share with us their musical mastery. Allow the music to generate harmony and kindle love and hope in your heart.

Krishnasri Putrevu is the founder-director of Sri Kalamandir Dance Academy. She has trained in the Indian classical Odissi dance in Orissa, India, under the tutelage of Guru Nabakishore Mishra.

She has delivered many award winning performances worldwide and has won significant critical acclaim.

Jayanti Sahasrabuddhe is one of the leading disciples of renowned vocalist Smt Veena Sahasrabuddhe. She has performed in more than 150 concerts across India, North America, and Europe, and she

has won many awards including the National Scholarship of Music by the government of India and Ganavardhan, Pune. Jayanti’s presentation of ragas and her soulful bhajans are highly acclaimed and her meditative, soulful voice is said to transform her audiences.

Nittin Mita is one of the most accomplished and distinctive tabla players of his generation, with a reputation for technical virtuosity, spontaneity, clarity of tone, and sensitivity to melodic nuances. He has performed

on tabla with some of India’s most celebrated classical musicians. He maintains a busy schedule of performances and tabla workshops, traveling throughout internationally. www.nitinmitta.com

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C March 7–11


YVP March 10

Maha Sivaratri Krishnan Namboodiri

Maha Sivaratri, the night of Lord Siva, is one of the most sacred nights on the yogic calendar. We will celebrate this auspicious night with homas and pujas (traditional ceremonies) conducted throughout the

night by Krishnan Namboodiri, the ashram’s priest. Senior staff of the ashram will lead us in continuous Siva chants from dusk until dawn, following which we will all gather in the morning to enjoy a variety of prasad (food offerings).

Krishnan Namboodiri: See biography on page 31.

C March 8–10

Share the Practice of Yoga Nidra with ChildrenMira BinzenTuition: $320. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Learn and practice techniques for sharing Yoga Nidra with children through stories, art, and games. Through this anxiety-reducing practice of relaxation, meditation and visualization, children will

develop the ability to induce a sense of deep relaxation to help clear the mind, re-pattern thoughts and memories, and reduce anxiety. When kids are less stressed, they learn better too. Through the practice of Yoga Nidra, you can help children expand their imagination and place them in an inner space of calm, helping to eliminate negative behavioral patterns.

Mira Binzen: See biography on page 57.


YVP March 11–16

Godly GossipSwami Atmananda

Join us for a series of talks on how to experience God in this life, both outside and inside yourself. Discover that God’s presence is not limited to the transcendental realm or the heavens, but rather it is here

and now wherever you are, at all times.

Swami Atmandanda is one of the few living direct disciples of Swami Sivananda. He is a simple Swami who resides in the US, practicing and teaching yoga and vedanta philosophy.

YVP March 13–18

Yoga for Calming Panic and AnxietyCatherine Gillies (Kumari)

Regain the power to shift out of states of fear and anxiety and learn straightforward and practical ways to immediately calm and anchor yourself anywhere. These positive actions will

allow you to take charge of your own life and become a happier person. We will draw upon yoga practices including specific exercises and breathing, deep relaxation methods, and right attitude teachings. As part of this program you will enjoy a daily modified Hatha Yoga class as well as a daily workshop.

Catherine Gillies (Kumari): See biography on page 60.

C March 12–16


YVP March 15–16

The Yoga of Sound Russill PaulAllow the sacred power of sound to bring you fully alive during two days of high-energy chanting and devotional bliss. Through mantra recitation and ecstatic kirtan you will experience the transformative power of sound on the core of your being. Russill Paul will be accompanied by The Bhakti Boys, a duo of devotional musicians from Pennsylvania, who play traditional Indian percussion instruments. Together they will create a compelling kirtan experience that you will never want to end.

Russill Paul is considered a leading authority in the sonic applications of yoga. He trained in India as monk and yogi as well as Sanskrit chanting and Indian music. Russill is the author of The Yoga of Sound: Tapping the Hidden Power of Music and Chant and the producer of several best-selling yoga chant albums including Shakti: Tantric Embrace. He now directs his own spirituality programs online through his Yogic Mystery School and leads an annual chanting pilgrimage and retreat to India. www.russillpaul.com

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PT CEU March 13–16

Yoga Nidra and Self HealingThe Practice of Conscious Deep Relaxation Tuition: $425. Add 5 nights’ accommodation

Yoga Nidra is the art of conscious deep relaxation where you can experience the flow of prana (life force) in your body. In this course you will learn to identify and release blockages to the flow of prana. In addition to being a course in relaxation, it is a course in healing as you acquire or restore the proper flow of prana through the physical, subtle, and causal bodies. The end result is the healing of the body and mind and the expansion of consciousness. During this course students will experience Yoga Nidra and learn how to teach it to others.

PT CEU March 18–29

Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Certification CourseTuition: $995. Add 13 nights’ accommodation

Learn how to teach individualized and group yoga programs based on the nature of the student’s ayurvedic constitution and imbalance. This course emphasizes the energetics of each asana and each form of pranayama. Using pose and breath you will learn how to balance the mind and body’s subtle physical energies, facilitating healing for the student. You will also be introduced to Yoga Nidra and ayurvedic nutrition in the healing process. As an ayurvedic yoga therapist, you will be able to work independently, holding classes in studios, or work as a part of an integrative team in a healing center. This professional training program is excellent for yoga teachers of all traditions and practitioners of healing arts.

Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy Programs with Dr. Marc halpern

Marc Halpern (Siva), DC, CAS, PKS, is a Sivananda Yoga teacher and one of the most respected teachers of ayurvedic medicine in the United States. Founder and president of the California College of Ayurveda and co-founder of the

National Ayurvedic Medical Association and the California Association of Ayurvedic Medicine, Dr. Halpern has been instrumental in bringing ayurvedic medicine to the West. He is the author of two textbooks, and the recent book, Healing Your Life: Lessons on the Path of Ayurveda. Dr. Halpern is an advisor to ayurvedic journals in India and the United States and a recipient of the Best Ayurvedic Physician award. Dr. Halpern’s background as a Chiropractor and Yoga teacher and his post-graduate certification in holistic medicine have given him a broad and unique understanding of the path of Self-healing. www.ayurvedacollege.com


YVP March 17–21

Neuroscience & SpiritualityGod, the Brain, and Ultimate Reality

Daniel Drubach, MD, specialized in Neurology, Psychiatry, and Neurorehabilitation. He is currently a member of the Behavioral Neurology Division at Mayo Clinic. He has

written extensively on the neuroscience of music, meditation, language, and religion. Dr. Drubach has also published several articles discussing how the application of newly discovered neuroscience concepts can help us answer some of man’s existential questions about free choice, empathy for another living being, mystical experiences, amongst others. He is the author of The Brain Explained.

Stephen Kaplan, PhD, is a Professor at Manhattan College focusing on Hindu and Buddhist thought with a special interest in comparative psychological and philosophical studies. In 2002, Dr. Kaplan received a Science

and Religion Course Award from the Center for Theology and Natural Sciences for the design and implementation of Mind, Brain, and the Search for the Self. He studied the connection between contemporary neuroscience and the philosophy of advaita vedanta. His most recent book is Different Paths, Different Summits: A Model for Religious Pluralism.

Nathan Katz, PhD, is Bhagwan Mahavir Professor of Jain Studies, Professor of Religious Studies, and Director of the Study of Spirituality program at Florida International

University. Arguably the world’s leading authority on Indian Jewish communities, he is a pioneer in the field of Indo-Judaic Studies. His books include Spiritual Journey Home: Eastern Mysticism to the Western Wall, Who Are the Jews of India? and 13 others. www.indojudaic.com

James H. Austin, a clinical neurologist, researcher, and Zen practitioner for more than three decades, is Professor Emeritus of Neurology at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and Visiting Professor of

Neurology at the University of Florida College of Medicine. He is the author of Zen and the Brain; Chase, Chance, and Creativity: The Lucky Art of Novelty; Zen-Brain Reflections; Selfless Insight, and many others. zenandthebrain.weebly.com

Explore the meeting point between contemporary brain research and the philosophies and practices of the major world religions and spiritual traditions. Discover evidence of the positive effects of spiritual practices on the brain and its activities. Learn how such practices promote health and well being and prevent brain-related diseases, especially those relating to old age. Learn of fascinating developments in contemporary brain science regarding the validity of the separation between subject and object, the notion of individuality and doership versus the philosophy of oneness, unity of consciousness, and the interconnectedness of life.

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C March 18–22


YVP March 22–24

Keys to WisdomAwakening Beauty, Wholeness, and ProsperityBrook Medicine EagleThe time has come for each of us to become Earth magicians—to enter circles using powerful spiritual technologies in order to become new human beings. This experiential gathering will focus on awakening the vital, useful, and truly joyful natural essence of our true self. Together we will dance, sing, chant, drum, pray, be still, meet allies, sit in circles, and tune ourselves to Mother Nature.

Brooke Medicine Eagle is an intertribal metis (mixed-blood) teacher, healer, singer, sacred ecologist, visionary ceremonial leader, and catalyst for change. Raised on the Crow Reservation in Montana,

she has supplemented her learning from many native traditions with Feldenkrais work, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and Thought Field Therapy. She is the author of Buffalo Woman Comes Singing and The Last Ghost Dance and is the founder of FlowerSong Project, which promotes a sustainable beauty path upon Mother Earth. www.medicineeagle.com

YVP March 19–23

Yoga for Seniors RetreatSlowing Down the PaceCatherine Gillies (Kumari)

Enjoy morning yoga classes for seniors, including chair yoga, back care, and joint care, as well as an introduction to the principles of appropriate practice and lifestyle (including balance, strength, and fall

prevention, and others). Afternoon yoga class, softening the edges (60+), will offer an adapted Hatha Yoga practice. Learn how to modify the basic postures of the Sivananda Yoga class to meet the needs of a maturing body. Appropriate attitudes are fostered to facilitate an increasing surrender of desires and attachments to the material realm and an enhanced connection to the inner voice of Spirit.



PT March 23–28

Visual Yoga Teacher TrainingTeaching Yoga to the Hard of HearingLila LollingTuition: $350. Add 7 nights’ accommodation.

Gain tools to serve the hard of hearing, deaf, and visually-based community members. With about 28 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the US alone, this training is a valuable resource for any yoga teacher. Learn a variety of visual techniques to suit hard of hearing senior citizens, deaf yogins, or people with autism or apraxia. Explore the deaf and hard of hearing cultures, American Sign Language (ASL), natural gesturing, and a variety of other subjects related to the visual method of teaching yoga.

Lila Lolling is a Sivananda Yoga teacher and certified sign language interpreter. She is the founder of the Deaf Yoga Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of yoga

to the deaf and hard of hearing community members, and the producer of Deaf Yoga for Beginners DVD. She has been an integral part in the translation of classical yoga texts into American Sign Language (ASL).

YVP March 24–27

Yoga to Heal an Aching HeartCatherine Gillies (Kumari)Transform depression, grief, trauma, and anxiety. Learn how to honor your life experiences by working in sacred space to heal wounded aspects and to embrace learning. Enjoy a deeply nurturing retreat to reconnect with your own Self in a supported environment. The program will include adapted Hatha Yoga classes and workshops on a daily basis to experience healing.


C March 24–28


See page 52 for details.

March 2013 67

Swami Swaroopananda is a senior disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda. A practicing yogi from a very young age, Swami Swaroopananda has dedicated his life to the practice and teaching of yoga. He has

taught in Yoga Teacher Training Courses around the world and is currently teaching advanced yoga philosophy courses and lectures internationally. He is the director of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat and the Acharya for the Sivananda centers and ashrams on the West Coast of the United States, the Middle East, and the Bahamas. He is a member of the board of directors of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers.

Stephen Sinatra, MD, is a highly respected and sought-after cardiologist and the founder of the New England Heart Center. He advocates combining conventional medical treatments for heart

disease with complementary nutritional, anti-aging, and psychological therapies. Dr. Sinatra’s expertise is grounded in more than 30 years of clinical practice, research, and study that three times has earned him the American Medical Association’s Physician Recognition Award. Dr. Sinatra has authored fourteen books, numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, medical textbook chapters, and currently writes a monthly national newsletter entitled Heart, Health & Nutrition.www.heartmdinstitute.com

Easter and Passover Symposium and Celebration

Swami Sivananda taught that health is a positive state. It is not simply negation of disease. It is our birthright, and is as natural as being born. Join us for an exploration of healing methods under various traditions, and learn how to experience radiant health and vitality.

Joyce Hawkes, PhD, is a biophysicist and cell-biologist who was honored with a National Achievement Award for her work. Following a near-death experience in 1984, Dr. Hawkes changed careers and embarked

on extensive exploration of indigenous spiritual and healing traditions, which she incorporated in her first book Cell-Level Healing: The Bridge from Soul to Cell. Dr. Hawkes is the founder of Healing Arts Associates and maintains a private practice in Seattle. www.celllevelhealing.com

Claudia Welch is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine and a practitioner of ayurvedic medicine. She lectures on oriental and ayurvedic medicines internationally. Her new book Balance Your Hormones,

Balance Your Life is a look at women’s health that offers combined perspective from Western science, ayurveda, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She has served on the teaching faculty of The Ayurvedic Institute, Southwest Acupuncture College, Acupractice Seminars, and the Kripalu School of Ayurveda. www.drclaudiawelch.com

Timothy McCall, MD, is a board-certified internist and the Medical Editor of Yoga Journal. A yoga practitioner since 1995, Dr. McCall travels regularly to India to research yoga, yoga therapy

and ayurveda, and to study with a traditional ayurvedic Vaidhya (doctor) in Kerala, and a Tantric master in Bangalore. Since 2000, his main focus has been investigating the therapeutic aspects of yoga, as well as the scientific explanations of yoga’s effects. Dr. McCall lectures internationally and is the author of Yoga as Medicine: The Yogic Prescription for Health and Healing. www.drmccall.com

YVP March 24–April 1


Yoga and Sacred

Marc Halpern DC, CAS, PKS, is a Sivananda Yoga teacher and one of the most respected teachers of ayurvedic medicine in the United States. Founder and president of the California College of Ayurveda

and co-founder of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association and the California Association of Ayurvedic medicine, Dr. Halpern has been instrumental in bringing ayurvedic medicine to the West. He is the author of two textbooks, and the recent book, Healing Your Life: Lessons on the Path of Ayurveda, an advisor to ayurvedic journals in India and the US, and a recipient of the “Best Ayurvedic Physician” award. www.ayurvedacollege.com

Adhi Moonien Two Owls is a traditionally trained Shaman and healer. Her formal background is in fine art painting and sculpture. She also studied Sacred Geometry, Egyptian Biogeometry,

Radiesthesia (vibrational dowsing), Medical Radiesthesia, and Map Dowsing for water and minerals. Adhi is inspired by Theoretical Physics, Quantum Physics, Tibetan Buddhism, meditation techniques, Qigong, and Chinese Medicine. Adhi facilitates workshops on a variety of creative and spiritual subjects. www.thenewglobalshaman.com

Marilyn Rossner, PhD, is the co-founder of the International Institute of Integral Human Sciences, and founder-president of The Spiritual Science Fellowship of Canada. She is a retired professor of special care

counseling, children’s behavior therapist, and one of the world’s most gifted intuitives.

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YVP March 24–April 1

Easter and Passover Family Program Tara Rachel Jones (Omkari) and Sandrine Remy (Sanatani)Celebrate Passover and Easter with your family in Paradise. Children will enjoy a wide range of activities including short introductory asana classes designed specifically for children, chanting, crafts, Karma Yoga, and lots of games and fun. They will learn about the stories of Passover and Easter, along with stories from the yogic scriptures that provide similar teachings. Parents will enjoy free time to practice and rest.

YVP March 31

Easter Sunrise ServiceSwami Swaroopananda and Bishop Trevor WilliamsonCelebrate a beautiful Easter morning with us in Paradise! Listen to traditional stories and receive messages of hope and faith from Swami Swaroopananda and Bishop Trevor Williamson.

YVP March 25

Passover Seder CelebrationSwami SwaroopanandaJoin us for a traditional celebration of the Passover Seder. Enjoy a delicious vegetarian feast, reading the Haggada, joyous chanting of the Passover chants, and teachings from Swami Swaroopananda on the main historical and spiritual aspects of Passover.

Tara Rachel Jones (Omkari): See biography on page 29.

Sandrine Remy (Sanatani): See biography on page 29.

healing


Advanced Bhagavad Gita Course Swami Swaroopananda Tuition: $490. Add 12 nights’ accommodation

Swami Swaroopananda will take us on a journey into the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, covering chapters 7 and 8.

See page 14 for details. YVP March 31



Ayurvedic Nutrition: The Art of Conscious EatingMarisa Laursen (Sri Devi)Tuition: $475. Add 6 nights’ accommodation

Embark on a personal journey to understand what type of diet is right for you. You will learn all of the fundamental principles of ayurveda and how to use food as a source of health and healing in your life. You will also learn that health is based not only on what you eat but also on how you eat. By taking our meals together, we will practice healthy eating habits which will promote better digestion and health.

Marisa Laursen (Sri Devi), CAS, AYT, is a graduate and senior member of the faculty of the California College of Ayurveda. She is a certified Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist, Pancha Karma Specialist, and

Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist. She has an active clinical practice in Chino, California, and is a member of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association.


healing Programs with Narayan Jyoti

YVP April 2–3

Healing Your Heart Through ChantingKirtan, or singing the Lord’s names and glories, opens the heart and uplifts the spirit. Chanting in a spiritual company will lighten the heaviest heart, and carry you to realms of joy and freedom. Join us for a chanting celebration that will uplift your spirit and take your sorrow away.

Narayan Jyoti (Ron Paz) is a Sivananda Yoga teacher and senior student of Vianna Stibal, Creator of ThetaHealing. He teaches ThetaHealing courses and gives private healing sessions internationally. Narayan Jyoti is also a gifted devotional singer, recording artist and kirtan leader whose music draws from the different spiritual traditions of the world. His CD Doors of My Heart was sold internationally. He produced On the Wings of Devotion, a live Kirtan CD of the Sivananda tradition and is currently working on his 3rd album.

PT March 31–April 3

ThetaHealing Basic DNA TrainingTuition: $500. Add 5 nights’ accommodation.

See page 33 for course description.

PT April 4–April 6

ThetaHealing Advanced DNA TrainingTuition: $500. Add 4 nights’ accommodation.

This training expands on the teachings offered in the Basic DNA Training to encompass an in-depth understanding of the Seven Planes of Existence that surround us. Students will learn how to clear old resentments, vows, and commitments that hold them back. Prerequisite: Basic DNA Training.

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AprilYVP April 2–5

Living a Life that MattersRoshi Bernie Glassman and Roshi Eve Myonen MarkoHow do we live a meaningful life? In their own special and engaging way, Roshi Bernie Glassman and Roshi Eve Myonen Marko will share their experiences of living the life of a homeless person during street retreats and other social activism projects, such as the Bearing Witness project. Through spiritual teachings, personal stories, and a good dose of humor, these two distinguished and

charismatic spiritual leaders will inspire you to take action and make your life matter to you and to others.

Roshi Bernie Glassman, PhD, is a world-renowned pioneer in the American Zen movement. He is a spiritual leader, author, and businessman. He teaches at the Maezumi Institute and the Harvard Divinity School and is the founder of Zen Peacemakers. www.zenpeacemakers.org

Roshi Eve Myonen Marko is a founding teacher of the Zen Peacemaker Order and resident teacher at the Montague Farm Zendo. She co-founded Peacemaker Circle International and has written and edited numerous articles about Zen Peacemakers. www.mfzendo.org

April 4–May 1



YVP April 6–9

One LoveThe Interspiritual QuestMirabai StarrExplore the heart of the monotheistic faiths. Learn how during times of strife we can apply the mystical and social justice teachings that unify us all. Through inspiring readings, brief contemplative practice, and lively discussion, we will mine the jewels of love that lie beneath the surface of the world’s spiritual paths. This program is about reaching beyond an intellectual approach to inter-religious dialog and toward an immersion in the experiences that transform us.

Mirabai Starr teaches Philosophy and World Religions and lectures on contemplative practice and inter-spiritual dialog. She is the editor and writer of the 6-volume series, Devotions, Prayers & Living

Wisdom, and the author of God of Love: A Guide to the Heart of Judaism, Christianity and Islam and the poetry collection, Mother of God Similar to Fire (in collaboration with iconographer, William Hart McNichols).

YVP April 7–8

Becoming a Peace LeaderElaine Valdov

Global events unfolding day in and day out make peace and social responsibility more relevant than ever. As the challenges faced by the global community grow, the need for capable and motivated peace

leaders is becoming more and more pressing. Join us as Dr. Elaine Valdov shares her vast experience in conducting peace missions worldwide and inspires us to become better global citizens and agents of global change.


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YVP April 8–14

Bhakti YogaTeachings on the Path of Devotion from the Srimad Bhagavata PuranaEdwin Bryant The Srimad Bhagavata Purana, literally “the Beautiful Legend of God,” is dedicated exclusively to the various modes of Bhakti, the path of devotion. It portrays the accounts of Lord Vishnu’s incarnations and activities, and the lives and practices of the most famous yogi exemplars. All the teachings of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita are to be found in these narratives, along with so much more, embodied in the form of charming and delightful tales that capture the heart and mind.

Edwin Bryant, PhD, is a Professor of Indic languages and cultures. He teaches Hinduism at Rutgers University. He has published six books on vedic history, yoga, and the Krishna tradition among which is Krishna: The Beautiful Legend of God. www.edwinbryant.org

YVP April 9–11

Yoga and PermacultureVedic Ecology in Practice Swami Omkarananda

Permaculture reminds us to re-connect with the natural world, of which we are an inseparable part. In this program we will demystify permaculture by explaining the three core values and the 12 principles of

permaculture. We will review the vedic teachings which remind us of the need for reverence for nature and discover how we can apply the teachings of Patanjali Yoga Sutras and express them through the practice of permaculture in our daily lives.

Swami Omkarananda: See biography on page 45.

C April 9–13

Introduction to Sivananda YogaLevel ISylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)Tuition $220. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

The purpose of this course is to introduce those who are first time visitors to a Sivananda Ashram to the daily routine, the basic practices and the philosophy of yoga as taught by Swami Sivananda. This yoga was

brought to the West by one of Swami Sivananda’s foremost disciples, Swami Vishnudevananda, who condensed the teachings into the Five Points of Yoga: proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking and meditation. Through the study of such teachings, you will gain access to the wisdom of an ancient lineage, and experience the transformative power of the practice.



C April 9–15

Yogis Without BordersTraining for Activist Yoga TeachersElaine Valdov, Satyadev and NirmalaTuition: $350. Add 8 nights’ accommodation

Learn how to combine yoga with leadership abilities in order to help build and take part in significant humanitarian efforts, all while taking yoga out into the world! Seize this profound opportunity to be of service to humanity throughout the world, offering the gift of selfless service to those in need. Yogis Without Borders inspires and empowers individuals to become “activists of the heart,” in conscious service to humanity. Together we will bridge the ancient practice of yoga with leadership skills in order to help create and take part in humanitarian movements throughout the world.

Dr. Elaine Valdov: See biography on page 44.

Satyadev and Nirmala are Sivananda Yoga teachers (RYT- 500), and the directors of Atman Yoga, an affiliated Sivananda Yoga Center in Colombia, through which they organize Yoga for Peace initiatives. They are graduates of Dr. Elaine Valdov’s Yoga Peace Ambassadors Course and are the founders of the Yoga for Peace movement in Medellin, Colombia, once known as one of the most violent cities of the world. www.atman-yoga.org

C April 14–16

Chair Yoga TrainingStacie Dooreck (Saraswati)Tuition: $290. Add 4 nights’ accommodation.

Learn how to make yoga accessible to seniors, those with disabilities or limited mobility, the chronically ill, Alzheimer patients, pre and post surgery patients, and those recovering from injuries. Acquire tools to offer modified yoga postures in chairs, chair modifications in mixed level classes (standing and sitting), private Chair Yoga sessions, breathing, chanting, and meditation in chairs. Corporate Yoga will be introduced as well. Learn the business and marketing of Chair Yoga to start your own classes at senior or community centers, hospitals, health clubs, corporations, non-profits, and more. The course is open to all yoga teachers as well as those who would like to learn Chair Yoga modifications for their own practice.

Stacie Dooreck (Saraswati) is a Sivananda Yoga teacher, Gentle Integral Yoga Certified and a Kundalini yoga and prenatal certified instructor. She has been creating new chair yoga programs for senior

homes, hospitals and corporations. Saraswati was featured most recently on CBS Ch. 4 News Health Watch as “breathing new life into South Florida seniors” for her Chair Yoga classes. www.sunlightchairyoga.com

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YVP April 14–19

Meditation as a Path to EnlightenmentAn Interfaith Symposium

Swami Sitaramananda is the Director of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm in Grass Valley, California, and a direct disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda. She has many years of experience

teaching meditation, Yoga philosophy, and positive thinking all over the world. www.sivanandayogafarm.org

Rabbi Alan Brill is the Cooperman/Ross Endowed Professor in honor of Sister Rose Thering at Seton Hall University. He is the author of Thinking God: The Mysticism of Rabbi Zadok of Lublin, Judaism

and Other Religions: Model of Understanding and Judaism and World Religions. He specializes in Contemporary Jewish meditation, Interfaith, and Jewish Mysticism.

Judith Simmer-Brown, PhD, is Professor of Religious Studies at Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado. She has been a practicing Buddhist for over 40 years, and serves as an Acharya in the lineage of Chögyam

Trungpa, Rinpoche of Shambhala International. She lectures and writes on Tibetan Buddhism, American Buddhism, women and Buddhism, and inter-religious dialogue. Her books include: Benedict’s Dharma: Buddhists Comment on the Rule of St. Benedict (with Patrick Henry), Dakini’s Warm Breath: The Feminine Principle in Tibetan Buddhism, and Meditation and the Classroom: Contemplative Pedagogy in the Religious Studies Classroom.

Tulku Sherdor is the executive director of Blazing Wisdom Institute. He has studied Buddhist philosophy and practiced meditation intensively since 1981. He is a heart disciple of the crazy wisdom master

Orgyen Kusum Lingpa, and an enthroned reincarnate Lama at a major monastery in Tibet. Tulku presides over the annual Buddhist Prayer Festival for World Peace and teaches extensively internationally. www.blazingwisdom.org

Sheik Abdul Haqq is the national director of the Naqshandi Haqqani Sufi Order of America. He is a disciple of the famous Sufi master, Shaykh Nazim Adil Al-Haqqani from Cyprus. He travels all over the

world teaching Sufism and Islamic mysticism in universities, churches, synagogues, temples, and spiritual centers of diverse faiths.

The practice of meditation is prescribed as part of the spiritual practice under all major religions and spiritual traditions. Join us and learn from prominent spiritual leaders from Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism and Sufism about the theory and practice of meditation. Gain knowledge and skills for deepening your own meditation practice and for developing a calm and peaceful mind.

“Meditation kills all pains, sufferings, the three kinds of Taapas (fevers) and the five Kleshas (sorrows). Meditation gives the vision of unity.

…Meditation is an aeroplane that helps the aspirant to soar high in the realms of eternal bliss and everlasting peace.”

—Swami Sivananda, Essence of Yoga


PT CEU April 14–23

Yoga of Recovery Certificate Course for CounselorsSwami Sitaramananda, Catherine O’Neill (Durga) and Kailash Chaitanya Tuition: $750. Add 11 nights’ accommodation

The program is designed for yoga teachers and health professionals who work with persons recovering from addiction, and for people with personal histories or family members with histories of addiction. It combines ayurveda and yoga with traditional recovery tools to offer a holistic approach to addiction and self-destructive behaviors. Counselors will gain tools and a comprehensive approach to achieve wellness, emotional sobriety, and sustained spiritual development using ayurveda and yoga as extension therapies to any 12-step work. Yoga teachers will also be qualified to teach yoga to people in recovery from any addiction.

C April 25–May 1

Yoga of Recovery RetreatCatherine O’Neill (Durga)Tuition: $450. Add 8 nights’ accommodation

This program draws parallels between the ancient wisdom of yoga, ayurveda, and the daily practical tools used by members of 12-step programs. It offers supportive tools for overcoming self-destructive and addictive tendencies. You will enjoy daily meditation sessions, talks on yoga as it relates to the 12-step program (especially the 11th step), yoga classes, ayurveda workshops, and a daily open 12-step meeting.

YVP May 2–4

Beyond AddictionOvercoming Compulsive Behaviors and CravingsCatherine O’Neill (Durga)Learn how to recognize addiction, the different types of addictions, compulsive behaviors, craving and clinging, and how we view addiction in ourselves and others. Explore the similarities between the eight limbs yoga and the 12 steps programs. Find out how to overcome compulsive behaviors and cravings. Discover the light beyond the darkness of addiction. Experience the effects of sense-therapies and other yoga and ayurveda techniques for recovery and well being.

Yoga of Recovery Programs

Swami Sitaramananda: See biography on page 76.

Catherine O’Neill (Durga) is a clinical ayurveda and pancha-karma specialist, trained at the California College of Ayurveda and in India. She has been involved with the 12-Step Fellowship for over seven years and teaches recovery programs internationally. www.yogaofrecovery.com

Kailash Chaitanya is a gentle teacher of Yoga and Meditation, and the assistant director at the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm. He is a highly experienced teacher of Hatha Yoga, meditation and Self Knowledge.

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C April 16–20

Introduction to Sivananda YogaLevel IISylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)Tuition: $220. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

Immerse yourself in the Sivananda Yoga Practice. Under the guidance of Saraswati, a highly experienced teacher, perfect your basic yogic postures and breathing exercises.

Explore variations on the twelve basic postures and learn advanced yoga asanas. Ground your practice and give it a deeper meaning by becoming familiar with the core of yogic philosophy and yogic scriptures, including the four paths of yoga: Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga and Jnana Yoga.


YVP April 19–21

Kirtan and the Bhakti MandalaHealing through Chant David Newman (Durga Das) and MiraJoin us for a blissful weekend exploring the healing power of kirtan and the ageless teachings of Bhakti Yoga (the Yoga of Devotion). David Newman (Durga Das) and Mira will guide us on an inspirational journey into the wisdom of the heart and the joys of devotional chanting.

David Newman (Durga Das) is a kirtan chant artist, sacred singer-songwriter, and a practitioner and educator of Bhakti Yoga. His CDs include Lotus Feet: A Kirtan Revolution, Soul Freedom, Leap of Grace: The Hanuman Chalisa, Love Peace Chant, Into the Bliss, and his most recent, To Be Home. www.davidnewmanmusic.com

Mira is a vocalist, musician, and poetess. She has recorded on many well known chanting CDs, sharing her vocals talents on cajon, kartals, and kaimini. In 2006 Mira released her debut album entitled A Living Prayer. sacredcymbals.com

C April 17–26

Self Inquiry and SilenceGuided Study and Practice of VedantaSwami SitaramanandaTuition: $490. Add 11 nights’ accommodation

Through the practice of vedantic Self-enquiry, you can figure out your areas of misunderstanding, misperception and illusion in your life and make better choices, which will help you become more aware, peaceful, happy, and free. Participants will study the Vivekachudamani of Adi Sankaracharya, the powerful text about the nature of the Self and the Not-Self. Swami Sitaramananda will comment and guide you on how to reflect upon the meanings and realize the truth of the teaching in your own lives. This course is ideal for people who have already been introduced to the basics of yoga and meditation. Besides the focused hours of study and dialogue, participants will practice mauna (silence), keep a spiritual diary, and take yoga classes and satsangs.



YVP April 21


YVP April 22–24

How Yoga HealsRichard Panico

Explore the healing qualities of the various practices of yoga from the scientific perspective. In his very engaging and full of humor lecture style, Dr. Panico will illustrate how yoga, when practiced as a comprehensive

system, including meditation, chanting, asanas, and others, brings about a multitude of physical and emotional benefits. You will gain precious theoretical knowledge, as well as simple, yet powerful practices for better physical and emotional balance.

Richard Panico, MD, is a psychiatrist, an internal medicine expert and a yogi who specializes in the integration of yoga and medicine. He founded and directed of the Athens Regional Mind Body Institute where he treated patients and directed research and training on the integration of yoga into Western medicine.

C April 21–30

Spring Detoxification and Juice Fasting ProgramManu Dawson, Sita Chaitanya, and Grace Van BerkumTuition: $490. Add 11 nights’ accommodation

Spring is an excellent time to detoxify—start your spring cleaning with cleaning yourself. See page 35 for details.

YVP April 21–23

The Yoga of RelationshipsSwami Sitaramananda

Swami Sitaramananda will give lectures and workshops on the Yoga of Relationships and will shed light on the most fascinating and difficult topic of human relationships and love. The theories and

practices of Bhakti Yoga (the Yoga of Devotion) will be presented during this course. If you have had emotional disillusions and relationship disappointments, and want to find true fulfillment and wisdom, then this is the program for you.Swami Sitaramananda: See biography on page 76.

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YVP April 22–26

Yoga for Home PracticeSylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)

Learn how to combine yoga with your daily routine and find peace, lasting happiness, and calmness. Explore Swami Sivananda’s 20 Spiritual Instructions which will give you a firm foundation for a steady

spiritual routine, and become better equipped to cope with the complex demands of modern life.


YVP April 25–29

Deeper into Yogic WisdomTeachings from the UpanishadsPaul SherbowDiscover the gems of yogic wisdom brought in the Upanishads. The program will focus on significant verses in the Isa or Isavasya Upanisad and the Katha Upanisad, illuminated by the traditional Sanskrit commentaries of the great vedantic schools of Sankara, Ramanuja, and Madhva, as well as reference to the Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavata Purana, the Yoga-sutra, and other classic spiritual texts of India.

Paul Sherbow is on the faculty of the Religion Department at Rutgers University where he lectures on Hinduism and Hindu philosophy. He also teaches yoga philosophy workshops for teacher training

courses internationally. Paul has been a life-long practitioner of yoga and lived for many years in ashrams in the West and in India, learning Sanskrit and editing several classic Sanskrit scriptural texts.

C April 24–May 4

Advanced Raja Yoga CourseSwami SwaroopanandaTuition: $490. Add 12 nights’ accommodation

Join us as Swami Swaroopananda takes us on a journey of exploring the Royal Path to Enlightenment, the path of Raja Yoga.


YVP April 23–27

Yoga Therapy Week Rev. Manjula Spears

Learn the therapeutic applications of yoga practice and how yoga can be used to heal from different health conditions. Explore specific yoga therapy techniques for healing back pain, joint

aches, and others. This program benefits both beginning and advanced yoga practitioners, as well as yoga teachers who wish to incorporate yoga therapy into their teaching.

Rev. Manjula Spears is a principal trainer in yoga teacher trainings for Integral Yoga and has been on the faculty for the University of Georgia and Piedmont College. She teaches yoga therapy internationally.


YVP April 29–May 2

Awakening BhaktiChanting Retreat Jai Uttal and Daniel PaulLearn to chant and tune your voice and heart to that which is sacred. Ride on the wings of kirtan to feel whole and to feel free. Jai Uttal, accompanied by Daniel Paul, will invoke a space of prayer and heartfelt expression through music and chant. Discover how, with just a little understanding of music and rhythm and a lot of self-acceptance, we all can sing and share our hearts with others. The practice of chanting itself can become our teacher, guiding us home.

Jai Uttal is a pioneer and inspiration to many in the world of kirtan music. He is a sacred music composer, recording artist, multi-instrumentalist, and ecstatic vocalist. Having traveled

extensively in India, Bhakti Yoga became his personal path. Jai has been leading kirtan around the world for more than 30 years, creating a safe environment for people to open their hearts and voices. His many albums include Beggars and Saints, Siva Station, the Grammy-nominated Mondo Rama, and his latest release, Kirtan Kids. www.jaiuttal.com

Daniel Paul is a tabla player and vocalist. He earned his degree in the classical music of India from the Ali Akbar College of Music. He is Jai Uttal’s principal accompanist. www.tabladaniel.com

C April 26–28

Meditation Intensive WeekendSwami SitaramanandaTuition: $200. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Move to another level in your yoga practice by understanding the connection between prana, mind, emotions, and body and establish yourself in the fundamental techniques of classical yogic meditation.

Identify personal obstacles to the transcendental state of bliss that meditation promises through self examination, introspection, and dialogue with teachers. Learn to be free from the mind’s ups and downs, both by working with the mind and by detaching from it. Improve concentration and prepare your mind for a positive and successful life.


YVP April 27–29

Perfect Your Balance PosturesSylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)Balancing postures can be a source of great relaxation once perfected, yet many find them challenging to master as they require refined technique. Learn how to reach a steady and comfortable asana when practicing balance postures. Individual adjustments, exploration of postures’ anatomy, guided imagery, and positive reinforcement techniques will be used to deepen your sense of balance. In the process, you will also develop better concentration and will power.


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C May 2–4

Gracious Living Raw Food RetreatGrace Van BerkumTuition: $290. Add 4 nights’ accommodation

Increase live foods to feel more alive! Together we will prepare and enjoy delicious raw soups, salad dressings, patés, dips, entrées, and desserts. We will discuss the ways in which raw foods affect your body, mind,

and spirit, promoting good health, increasing energy levels, boosting metabolism, and making your attitude towards life more joyful and positive. Gain a fresh and natural approach to eating and take home a recipe book that will help you maintain your raw foods practice after the course. All foods prepared will be wheat-free, gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy-free and soy-free.


MayPT May 2–11

Yoga for Grief Relief Professional Training CourseLevel 1 Antonio SausysTuition: $1200. Add 11 nights’ accommodation

Learn about the physical symptoms of grief, their psycho-neuro-immunological basis and a set of simple yoga exercises to address them while aiding the psychological transformation of grief into a resource for personal growth. This training is suitable for yoga teachers, health care professionals and those interested in deepening their knowledge of how yoga can aid the grieving process.

Antonio Sausys, BA, MA, CMT, is a somatic psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience combining psychotherapy and yoga. He teaches Yoga for Grief Relief internationally. He has founded

and is producing the International Yoga Therapy Conference and is a TV host for “YogiViews”. www.yogaforgriefrelief.com


YVP May 3–5

Vedantic PsychologyHow the Mind WorksBrahmachari Shankar

According to the teachings of yoga and vedanta, the origin of suffering is in the mind. By controlling and eventually transcending the mind we can free ourselves from suffering and attain eternal peace and everlasting happiness. Learn about the structure of the mind, discover the power of thoughts and explore ways to turn the mind from a foe to a friend. Join us

for a weekend of teachings which will inspire you to rise higher and find infinite knowledge and bliss.

Brahmachari Shankar is a senior staff member of the ashram. He spent about three years in India with Swami Chaitanyananda, a senior disciple of Swami Sivananda. Well versed in the Scriptures and fluent in Sanskrit, Brahmachari Shankar teaches the Bhagavad Gita classes in the Sivananda Teacher Training Course and frequently gives talks on yoga philosophy and practice.

YVP May 4–7

Coming to JoyFrom the World Religions and NeuroscienceHana MattMost of the world’s spiritual traditions have evolved the same 18 practices. These practices create bliss in us, and recently, scientific research in the field of neuroscience has proved that those methods also lead to a state of joy. Focusing on those 18 methods as they are described in neuroscience, yoga, and Kabbalah, and through interactive classes, we will directly experience these methods together and receive materials that will enable us to take them home, integrate them into our daily lives and share them with others.

Hana Matt has been teaching World Religions and Spirituality at graduate schools nationwide for over 20 years. She has compiled 8 extensive readers in each of the world’s spiritual traditions,

which she uses as textbooks for her courses. She is the author of the forthcoming book Spiritual Direction In Each of The World Religions.

PT May 3–9

Yoga for the Special ChildBasic TrainingKathy RandolphTuition: $895. Add 8 nights’ accommodation.

Learn an innovative style of yoga designed specifically for babies and children with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, microcephaly, autism, ADD (attention deficit disorder), and other developmental and

learning disabilities. Explore practical techniques of Yoga for the Special Child and acquire tools for working with children with special needs. This course is open to all yoga practitioners, to certified yoga instructors from all traditions, and to professionals working with children with special needs (school teachers, sports instructors, pediatric practitioners, and others) who have an established yoga practice.

Kathy Randolph is the co-founder of The Yoga Center in Reno, Nevada, created to facilitate Yoga for the Special Child. She specializes in scleroderma, and presents at Scleroderma Foundation conferences around the US. www.theyogacenterreno.com

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how Did the universe Begin?God, Creation and the Big Bang

May 5–June 1

Yoga Teacher Training CourseSee pages 10-11 for details.

Howard A. Smith, PhD, is a Senior Astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, and a Lecturer in the Harvard University Department of Astronomy. He travels, lectures, and teaches

widely on the topic of science and religion, taking as his primary examples cosmology, modern physics, and the perspectives of Judaism, with an emphasis on Kabbalah and mystical thought. He is the author of a widely acclaimed book Let There Be Light: Modern Cosmology and Kabbalah: A New Conversation Between Science and Religion. www.lettherebelightbook.com

Rev. Heng Sure, PhD, was ordained in the Mahayana tradition of Chinese Buddhism with the late Chan Master Hsuan Hua. In 1977 he commenced a “Three Steps, One Bow” pilgrimage for world

peace, traveling up the California coast from South Pasadena to Ukiah, covering a distance of 800 miles in two years and six months. During that time, and for three years following, he observed a vow of complete silence. Rev. Sure currently serves as Director of the Berkeley Buddhist Monastery. He lectures internationally on human values in the hi-tech world, eating a harmless, plant-based diet, and translating Buddhist music into the West.

Swami Medhananda Puri is a senior monk in the Kailash Ashram in Rishikesh, India. His knowledge of Hindu scriptures and his ability to explain vedantic topics in a lucid, humorous way, make

him a gifted vedanta teacher and one of the most respected spiritual teachers in India.

Daniel Matt, PhD, is one of the world’s leading authorities on Kabbalah, the Jewish mystical tradition. He is currently engaged in an immense project of translating and annotating the Zohar, the

masterpiece of the Kabbalah. He is the author of The Essential Kabbalah and God and the Big Bang: Discovering Harmony between Science and Spirituality.

Ever since humans began to gaze at the sky, they have wondered how the world began. Traditional religions and modern science offer different explanations about the origin of the cosmos. In this symposium we will explore both spiritual and scientific approaches to this profound topic, and we will search for harmony between the religious and scientific perspectives.

YVP May 5–9


YVP May 10–13

Sacred SoundsA Weekend of Classical Indian Music and DanceExperience the power of music as a form of yoga. Classical Indian music is intended to purify the heart and carry the listener, on the wings of sound and rhythm, to a state of devotional ecstasy. Join us for this weekend of classical Indian music and dance and discover this ancient way of attaining bliss.

C May 8–12

Yoga for Peak Performance in Sports and LifeGrace Van Berkum, and Randy Smith Tuition: $500. Add 6 nights’ accommodation


Randi Smith, RYT-200, is a certified black belt martial artist and former Kung Fu school owner. She is passionate about empowering her students to lift their limitations and reach their greatest potential on and off the practice mat. Randi brings strength and grace to her practice and patience and process to her students. www.iamhappyhealthyandfit.com

Learn how yogic postures, breathing technique, relaxation, proper nutrition, positive thinking, meditation, and visualization can improve your game, both physically and mentally, making you stronger and sharper. Increase your flexibility and gain strength, stability, balance, power, efficient breathing, and physical and mental endurance. Learn how to reduce recovery time and the risk of injury. Enjoy a special class on optimal nutrition for athletes. We will also discuss energy centers in the body and how to release blockages to move and live with more freedom.

Suba Ramesh Parmar is an award-winning dancer of the South Indian Bharatanatyam dance style. She is known for grace and dynamism in her expression and movement. She is the Artistic Director of

the Shubanjali School of Performing Arts. She performs regularly at Sivananda Yoga Centers together with her gifted daughter, Madhu Parmar. www.shubanjali.org

Shyam Kane has been a tabla player for over 30 years. He trained under the guidance and supervision of great tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain and performed worldwide. He has accompanied such

great artists as Ustad Ali Akbar Khan and Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia.

Anupama Bhagwat is a sitarist who has performed internationally to critical acclaim. She is a leading disciple of the world-renowned Pandit Shri Bimalendu Mukherjee. Her sensitivity and erudition

have taken her to the highest echelons of the modern genre, while allowing her to remain true to tradition. www.anupama.org

Sanhita Nandi is an outstanding exponent of Kirana gayaki. Sanhita’s resplendent voice and depth of musical acumen brought her early recognition. Sanhita is rapidly getting the acclaim she deserves

as a brilliant performer with intellectual depth. She has been invited to perform at all major festivals in India and US. www.sanhitanandi.com

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PT May 10–19

Ayurveda and Yoga Wellness Advisor CertificationLalita Devi and the Well-Being Center StaffTuition: $590. Add 11 nights’ accommodation

Deepen your knowledge of the use of yoga and ayurvedic lifestyle principles. In this program designed for yoga teachers, ayurveda practitioners, and healthcare professionals, you will learn how to advise

your students and clients regarding effective ayurvedic and yogic daily routines, including body-mind care, diet, and yoga practices. Topics include: history and philosophy of ayurveda; the three great qualities (maha guna); five elements (maha bhutu); ten pairs of qualities (guna) and three doshas; tissue formation (dhatu) and channels of flow (srota); digestion (agni), toxin formation (ama) and waste elimination (mala); ayurvedic and yogic psychology; the disease process and its treatment with daily practices (dinacharya); ayurvedic and yogic nutrition; color therapy; aromatherapy; and yoga postures and breathing techniques.

Lalita Devi: See biography on page 24.

C May 12–16


YVP May 10–12

Foundations of VedantaSwami Medhananda Puri“Vedanta is the Moksha-Sastra or the Science of Emancipation.... It reveals the majesty of man in his essential nature.... The message of Vedanta is fearlessness, soul-force and unity of consciousness.”

–Swami Sivananda, Bliss Divine

Join us for an exploration of the principles of vedanta which will give you a deeper insight into the philosophy and practices through which you can transcend from the mundane to the Divine.

Swami Medhananda Puri is a senior monk in the Kailash Ashram in Rishikesh, India. His knowledge of Hindu scriptures, and his ability to explain vedantic topics in a lucid, humorous way, make him a gifted Vedanta teacher and one of the most respected spiritual teachers in India.


C May 17–21


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YVP May 13–17

Cultivating Non-AttachmentTeachings from the Bhaja GovindamSwami Shantananda

“O deluded minded friend, chant Govinda, worship Govinda, love Govinda,” thus Adi Shankaracharya opens the Bhaja Govindam, which has become India’s most known bhajan (devotional song). In

this beautiful scripture Adi Shankaracharya encourages us to leave behind worldly desires and attachments and immerse ourselves in worship and association with saints until we attain God Realization. Join us for an in-depth exploration of this precious scripture, become inspired to deepen your spiritual practice and strive for the realization of Truth.

Swami Shantananda, a disciple of Swami Chinmayananda, has dedicated his life to mission work and vedantic teachings. He is presently the resident Acharya of Chinmaya Mission centers in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. His lectures are filled with wonderful insights into life. People respond instantly to his wisdom and affectionate nature. www.chinmayamission.org

YVP May 17–21

Bhakti Yoga RetreatRadhanath Swami, Gaura Vani and As Kindred Spirits

“Listening to the stories of the Lord, thinking on Him day and night are both sure remedies for the misery called the cycle of birth and death.” (Srimad Bhagavatam). Join us as Radhanath Swami will lead us on the path of Bhakti, the Yoga of Devotion, and, in his unique and captivating way, bring to life stories of the passtimes of the Lord and His Avataras (Divine incarnations). Through the study of such Divine plays and passtimes, Divine love will spring in your heart, and you will find true peace and happiness. The lectures will be accompanied by the heart opening chanting of Gaura Vani and As Kindred Spirits.

Radhanath Swami is an inspiring story teller and enthusiastic kirtan leader. He teaches devotional wisdom around the world. He resides in Mumbai, India, where he is actively involved with

humanitarian activities. He is the author of The Journey Home: Autobiography of an American Swami. www.radhanathswami.com

Gaura Vani: See biography on page 31.

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C May 23–26

Yoga and Food Cleansing RetreatGrace Van BerkumTuition: $350. Add 5 nights’ accommodation.

This 4-day cleanse is designed to detox the body in a gentle way with no feeling of deprivation. We will be using delicious natural whole foods, juices, smoothies and herbal teas, all combined with yoga, lectures,

and relaxation. You will be guided along your detox journey and receive a menu ensuring that the dishes offer enzymes, fiber, and antioxidants to initiate a cleansing process and facilitate metabolic toxin removal. Along the way you will experience the recalibration of your taste buds and appetite, and will start the digestion healing process.


YVP May 22–23

Vedanta in Daily LifeSwami Medhananda Puri

Vedanta points to one’s identity with the rest of humanity. Rightly understood and acted upon, it leads to the experience of oneness with all existence. Practicing vedanta in daily life means feeling

oneness with other beings, performing duties without attachment and being filled with joy. This practice does not necessitate substantial changes in one’s life circumstances, but it requires a change of vision. Discover the beauty of the gospel of vedanta as explained by a gifted Vedanta teacher and one of the most respected spiritual teachers in India.

Swami Medhananda Puri: See biography on page 86.


C CEU May 24–26

Guided Imagery and Creative VisualizationAwareness Adventures for the Body, Mind, and SpiritJulie LuskSee page 51 for further details.

YVP May 24–26

Release Toxic Molecules of Emotion through Perfecting DigestionJohn Douillard

Learn about the intelligence of the gut (the “second brain”) and how the digestive tract, which produces 95% of the body’s serotonin, is designed to manage stress. Ancient ayurvedic texts teach us

that stress tolerance can be increased through strengthening the digestive system. Join us as we explore ayurvedic wisdom on how to balance the mind and protect the body from the ravages of stress by healing the gut. Discover how to increase your digestive strength and heal your digestive system to achieve optimal absorption of nutrients and rid your body of accumulated toxins.

John Douillard practices ayurveda and chiropractic at the Lifespa Panchakarma Retreat Center in Boulder, Colorado. Since receiving his training in India he has written numerous books on ayurveda and natural health. Each week he publishes a free video newsletter where he proves the wisdom of ayurveda with today’s modern science. www.lifespa.com

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C May 24–26

Sacred ArtExpress Divine InspirationSita ChaitanyaSee page 55 for further details.

Leadership and Peace Programs YVP May 24–26

Becoming a Peace LeaderElaine Valdov See page 73 for details.

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Global Young Leaders ForumElaine Valdov and Andrew CunninghamTuition: $350. Add 9 nights’ accommodation.

Deepen, explore and create values that will provide you with a framework for building a life of meaning, purpose, and joy, while facing significant life journey challenges. This program offers the unique opportunity to meet other like-minded young persons who are stepping forward to make a difference in the world, and to develop leadership skills for turning your ideas into action and learning from leading practitioners in the field. The program is open to persons between the ages of 18 to 26.

YVP May 24–26

Introduction to Adaptive YogaKrishna DasIn this experiential workshop, adaptations to the Sivananda yoga class (12 basic postures) will be offered, to make the practice available to students with limiting physical conditions due to sickness, injury, obesity and others. You will enjoy such modified practice and personal guidance which will make yoga more accessible and beneficial to you.

Krishna Das, BPT, is a senior staff member of the ashram and has been a Sivananda Yoga teacher (RYT-500) and practitioner for over 15 years. He taught yoga in seniors’ homes and

gentle yoga in various settings. He teaches in the Yoga Teacher Training Course and is known for his personal attention to each student.


Andrew Cunningham is a Marshall Scholar at Oxford University, pursuing his Doctorate in Comparative International Education. Before coming to Oxford, Andrew co-founded the Women’s Institute for Secondary Education and Research (WISER)—an all girls’ secondary boarding school in Muhuru Bay, Kenya. He is currently a research intern with UNICEF-Kenya and advises various education initiatives in Cameroon, Tanzania, and South Africa. www.wisergirls.org


YVP May 26–29

Christian Models of Contemplation and MeditationFather William MeningerThe journey to union with God is the journey to contemplation. Each mystic has his or her own way on a journey they all have in common. Christian contemplative meditation has been practiced for 2,000 years and, guided by the Holy Spirit, its practitioners have become the cutting edge in the evolution of the reality of the Risen Christ in the world. From Origin to Augustine to Aquinas to John of the Cross to Thomas Merton, great mystics have left us in their writings the rich fruits of their experiences of union with God. We can follow them and even add our own wisdom to their spiritual pathway.

Father William Meninger, OCSO, one of the founders of the Centering Prayer movement, has been teaching contemplative prayer since 1974. Based at St. Benedict’s Monastery

in Snowmass, Colorado, he is the author of many books, including The Loving Search for God: Contemplative Prayer and The Cloud of Unknowing and the Process of Forgiveness. www.contemplativeprayer.net C May 27–31

Adaptive Yoga TrainingKrishna DasTuition: $350. Add 7 nights’ accommodation.

Yoga is a powerful tool for promoting healing processes of the body. With the proper adaptations, the practice can become more available and pleasant to persons with various physical limitations. Learn how to offer adapted postures, based on a broader understanding of the bio-mechanics of each posture of the classic Sivananda class. In the process you will get to better know the bio-mechanics of your own body, and through this personal experience, you will develop better abilities to identify and accommodate limitations in the practice of others.

Krishna Das: See biography on page 90.

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YVP May 28–June 1

Devotional ChantsAn Interfaith FestivalSinging the Lord’s name and his glories is a sure way for finding your spiritual heart and the true happiness, which is your birthright. Join us for a celebration of unity in diversity through chanting in praise of the Divine.

Robert Micha’el Esformes, ordained as Hazzan (Cantor) by the venerable Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi in the lineage of Jewish Renewal, has served as prayer leader, concert performer, counselor, educator,

and teacher of meditation for many years. He has performed and taught at congregations, retreat centers, concert venues, and colleges throughout the US, and his international engagements have taken him (on four occasions) as far across the globe as Australia and New Zealand. Micha’el brings to his teaching and performing not only a rich voice and soulful presence, but also a broad experience in the mystical path and a love of ecumenical conversation.

Bishop Trevor Williamson serves as the Founding and Senior Pastor of the Trinity Full Baptist Church in Nassau, Bahamas. A highly charismatic speaker, he infuses joy and devotion in the hearts of the listeners.

Atmarama Dasa is a devotional singer and composer of sacred music. For the past 25 years he has been residing in Vrindavan, India, the holy dham of Lord Krishna. His unique style and sincere desire to share his

spiritual understanding creates an atmosphere of profound spiritual vibration. Through his ecstatic kirtan everyone can relish the mood of transcendental joy and bliss. His CDs include On the way to Krishna, Radha Govinda, and many others. www.atmaramadasa.org

Siamak Nasr is an Iranian sitar player, singer, music composer, and instructor residing in Canada. He has studied music and singing under instructions of many important music masters in Iran and India. In

2009, Siamak formed a music group called Sufi – Yogi that is inspired by Persian classical music and Indian (Bajan). He is presently writing an extensive instructional book in French-English on playing the sitar technique. www.nasrmusic.com

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YVP June 2–4

Songs of the BelovedAtmarama Dasa

Join us for a beautiful devotional singing and jubilant kirtan experience with Atmarama Dasa. Prepare to be uplifted and deeply moved through music made to praise and glorify the Divine. Revel in

the bliss and pure ecstasy that Atmarama Dasa’s music arouses in the hearts of all.

Atmarama Dasa: See biography on page 92.

C June 2–6

Integrative NutritionManu DawsonTuition: $350. Add 6 nights’ accommodation.

Explore effective methods for facing common medical and nutrition challenges. Topics will include the role of cholesterol and biochemical factors in cardiovascular health; yogic and functional medical

methods of analyzing and treating depression and anxiety; nutrients needed to aid in addiction recovery and what factors cause these nutrients to be depleted; hidden factors in one’s challenge to lose weight and why so many people have “temporarily” failed; how to develop effective strategies for fat reduction and others. We will discuss the causes of these conditions and the scientifically valid and historical approaches to prevention as well as complimentary and functional treatment protocols.

Manu Dawson: See biography on page 35.

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C June 7–9

Preventing Diabetes with Yoga and NutritionManu DawsonTuition: $290. Add 4 nights’ accommodation.

Discover strategies to prevent diabetes and complimentary approaches to safely support diabetes medical treatment*. Learn about the nature of metabolic issues that often accompany diabetes and

explore nutrition strategies and meal-planning for addressing such issues. We will also discuss obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney disease. In addition, participants will enjoy diabetes-friendly vegetarian meals as well as daily yoga classes in the supportive environment of the ashram.

*All diagnosed diabetes patients should receive medical clearance from their physician.

Manu Dawson: See biography on page 35.

YVP June 3–8

The Practice of Guru Bhakti YogaSwami Brahmananda

The Guru is the link between the spiritual aspirant and the Absolute Reality. With endless compassion, the Guru carries the aspirant from worldliness to Divinity. The aspirant should approach the Guru with

humility, ask proper questions, and serve the Guru whole heartedly, cultivating faith, love and devotion towards the Guru. Join us for a series of inspiring talks about Gurus, disciples and the practices of devotion towards the Guru.


C June 3–7

Introduction to Sivananda YogaLevel ISylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)See page 74 for details.


YVP June 7–9

Energy Applied to HealthCairo Rocha

The program will explore the ancient Chinese Medicine’s concept of Qi or vital energy as the hidden link connecting the physical, mental and emotional aspects of the body.

Cairo Rocha: See biography on page 21.

YVP June 14–16

Healing the Light BodyExploring Shamanic MedicineTheodore TsavoussisExplore the Shamanic body-mind medicine. Learn how to shed your past and its worn out stories, break free from the grip of fear and unfavorable heritages, and drop your limiting roles and beliefs and discover the original wounds that derailed your destiny. Bring balance to mind, body, and soul and walk through life as a fully conscious being, bringing light, peace, and beauty to everyone around you.

Theodore Tsavoussis earned a professional certification in energy medicine under the Four Winds–Healing the Light Body program. He traveled to the Amazon and the Andes where he worked with indigenous

Shaman in numerous sacred sites including Machu Picchu. He is currently a Reiki Master practicing energy medicine in Nassau.

YVP June 10–14

Create Your Sacred SpaceIntroduction to Vastu ShastraOlga Mandodari Sokolova (Narayani)Vastu Shastra is a 10,000-year-old Indian practice of designing and constructing buildings to influence peace and prosperity in the form of design. Learn the basic concept of the ancient Vastu Shastra, or the workings of the Divine Space and the Absolute Time manifesting into Matter. Explore the direct link between the energies of the Cosmos, Earth, the home, and the human form, and acquire tools to apply the principles of Vastu Shastra when designing your living environment.

Olga Mandodari Sokolova, MS, certified Vastu Shastra consultant, studied at the International Institute of Mayonic Science & Technology in Chennai, India, under Dr. V. Sthapati Ganapati, a

well-known traditional architect of Southern India who relied on Vastu principles in his projects. She earned her MS degree in Civil Engineering from the Architectural University of St. Petersburg, Russia.

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C June 14–18


C June 24–27


YVP June 20–23

Depression and AnxietyYogic Perspective and RemediesSenior Staff of the Yoga RetreatDepression and anxiety can hold you back or become a precious turning point in your life’s journey. They can become your teacher, inviting you to change your perspective on life. Yoga ignites such a shift in perspective. Join us and acquire yogic wisdom related to depression and anxiety and get a better understanding on the workings of the mind. You will also be taught specific asanas and breathing practices, dietary guidelines, and other yogic techniques to ease and relieve depression and anxiety.

The Program will be presented by Senior Staff of the Yoga Retreat.

C June 19–23


YVP June 17–21

Yoga and Aromatherapy to Relieve Stress, Anxiety and DepressionAira Guevara (Rukmini)Learn how to use powerful and healing essential oils to promote relaxation, calm the mind, and release blockages. During hands-on sessions consisting of theory and practice, you will learn easy and simple techniques that can be practiced at home, work, or any time needed. You will learn the traditional inhalation of the oil, how to make a spray and simple home uses (baths, massage oils, simple diffusing techniques). Participants will make their own aromatherapy eye pillow and will sample essential oils for each condition. Each workshop ends with a deep relaxation session.

Aira Guevara (Rukmini) is a Sivananda Yoga teacher with a special interest in integrating the healing power of essential oils with the practice of yoga to counteract stress, anxiety, and depression. She has dedicated

over a decade to study and practice the effects and benefits of aromatherapy, devising a synergistic method that she shares in workshops in the US, with remarkable healing results.


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YVP June 28–30

Yoga for the SpineBack Awareness WorkshopMichael Pyfrom

The spine has a key role in the preservation of good health and youthful look and feeling. By taking proper care of your spine you will be able to maintain an optimal flow of energy throughout your body, keeping

both your body and mind in good balance. In this program you will learn the connection between the spine, the mind, and the spiritual path; how to use movement and breathing for achieving balance and harmony, and several simple techniques to loosen and release your spine and re-balance and renew your body and mind.

Michael Pyfrom: See biography on page 19.

YVP June 24–28

The Power of AsanasUncovering the Effects on Your Body, Mind and SpiritMaria Fernanda Tresslar (Parvati)Using the Sivananda asana practice (with variations), we will explore how each asana provides a portal to healing the body, mind and spirit. Each area of the body holds onto certain emotions and memories, and these attachments can lead to pain and illness in the body. Learn where in the body we hold emotions and how to bring consciousness to your practice. Daily topics include: grounding and finding balance; releasing the past and grief; opening your heart, and integrating body, mind, and spirit for a balanced life. Understand how the chakras relate to the asanas. Experience the depths of the poses on all levels. Join us and uncover new joy in your practice!

Maria Fernanda Tresslar (Parvati) is a Sivananda Yoga teacher (RYT-500) and a graduate from Miami Yogashala, Green Monkey Yoga studios and the Pilates Physical Mind Institute. Parvati was a

competitive gymnast for 13 years and a member of the Colombian national gymnastics team. She has also danced for various modern and contemporary dance companies both in Colombia and in the US.

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JulyJuly 1–4Liberate Your Voice, Liberate Your HeartThe Joy of Kirtan

July 4–7Independence Day SpecialCultivate Inner Freedom Through the Art of Positive Thinking

July 3–7 CIntroduction to Meditation

July 8–11Discover Your True PotentialThe Art of Concentration

July 12–14The Science of Life–Introduction to Ayurveda

July 14Swami Sivananda Mahasamadhi

July 15–18Building Your Home Practice

July 19–21In Giving That We ReceiveKarma Yoga Immersion

July 22Guru Purnima

July 22–25Taste Absolute ConsciousnessThe Wisdom of the Upanishads

July 25–29 CYoga for Beginners

July 26–28Overcome Depression and Anxiety Through Yoga

July 29–August 1Make Peace with Your MindThe Conquest of Anger

AugustAugust 2–4Free Your Heart, Relieve Your MindThe Art of Forgiveness

August 5–8The Science of MeditationIntroduction to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

August 8–12 CPositive Thinking

August 9–11Touching DivinityStudy the Lives of Saints

Summer/Fall 2013Program Preview

See our website for further details


August 12–15Energize, Rejuvenate, RelaxThe Practice of Pranayama

August 16–18The Joy of Vegetarian Cooking

August 19–22Hatha Yoga SpecialAdvanced Asana Retreat

August 23–25Understanding Life ForceStudying the Chakras

August 26–29Winning the Battle of LifeTeachings from the Bhagavad Gita

August 28Krishna Jayanti

August 29–September 2 CYoga for Beginners

August 30–September 2Labor Day Special–Learn the Inner Workings of Your Mind: Introduction to Meditation

SeptemberSeptember 3–5Inner Peace for Outer PeaceCultivating Non-Violence

September 3–7 CIntermediate Yoga

September 4Rosh Ha’shanaCelebrate the Jewish New Year

September 6–8Creating a New Starting PointIntroduction to Positive Thinking

September 9Swami Sivananda’s Birthday

September 9–12Depression and AnxietyYogic Perspective and Remedies

September 13–15Nourish Your Body, Purify Your MindIntroduction to the Yogic Nutrition

September 16–19The Magical PlayTeachings from the Srimad Bhagavatam

September 20–22Hatha Yoga SpecialBalance Postures Weekend

September 23–26Dive Deep WithinIntroduction to Meditation

September 27–29Cultivate Supreme LoveCultivate the Divine Name

September 30–October 4Recharge, Relax and RejoiceProper Relaxation Practices

OctoberOctober 5–13NavaratriCelebrate the Nine Nights of the Divine Mother

October 5–9 CYoga for Beginners

October 10–14 CIntroduction to Meditation

October 11–14Columbus Day Weekend SpecialTranscend Depression and Anxiety through Yoga

October 15–17Repeating the Divine NameMantra Immersion

October 18–20Yoga Meets You Where You AreGentle Yoga Weekend

October 21–24Reaching Communion with GodPrayer as a Spiritual Practice

October 25–27Purify Your Mind, Open Your HeartKarma Yoga Weekend

October 28–31Find Your Inner BalanceCultivate Dispassion

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Residential Study Programs“Karma Yoga, or the practice of selfless service, is the best preparation for the practice of meditation. Without purifying the heart and the mind from selfishness and other negative emotions, success in meditation is not possible. The ashram is the best setting for such a practice. Serving others with joy, in the company of other spiritual practitioners, is a safe way to practice Karma Yoga and eventually attain success in meditation and enjoy the bliss of the spiritual life.”

—Swami Swaroopananda

The Practice of Karma YogaOpen your heart to divine love and discover the bliss of selfless service. Karma Yoga (selfless service) is the path of action. Find the joy in acting from the purest motivation of service for others and doing your best to carry on your assigned duty. Through this process you will develop a stronger sense of discipline and willpower, purify your heart, and march forward along the path in your spiritual evolution. Make the time to experience living as part of a community of like-minded people, and be guided by the ashram’s senior staff on your quest for self-improvement. In your free time you can enjoy the ashram’s beautiful white sand beach, and participate in a variety of ashram programs.


Residential Study Programs

Karma Yoga ProgramParticipants in this program contribute five hours of selfless service a day and enjoy the various programs that are offered in the ashram during satsangs (meditation, chanting, and lecture), as well as some of the afternoon workshops. The daily schedule includes mandatory attendance at morning and evening satsangs (meditation, chanting and lecture) as well as one yoga class. Spiritual guidance and advice is provided by the ashram’s senior staff.

One-month minimum commitment is required. Cost: $899 per month. This price includes accommodations*, meals, yoga classes, and participation in some of the Yoga Vacation Programs (see calendar of events).

* From mid November–mid June: Tent accommodations only (please bring your own tent); from mid June–mid November: Accommodations will be in dormitories (hotel tax will apply).

Advanced Karma Yoga ProgramJoin us for a full immersion in the ashram life. This program is suitable for yoga teachers and those interested in making a deeper commitment to a spiritual life. Prior interview with the ashram manager is required. The minimum length of stay under this program is three months. No tuition fee applies. For application forms and additional information, please contact us by e-mail or phone.

“The karma yoga program was beautiful, challenging and educational. I will always cherish the friendships I made and the important lessons I learned.”

—Mahadevi (Kim)

“The Yoga Retreat’s Karma Yoga program opened my eyes to a few simple truths, chief amongst them that at the core of my Being is a deep source of love and Self-acceptance. I would recommend the program to anyone seeking to know themselves better.”

—Hari, United States

“Serving as a Karma Yogi at Sivananda Bahamas was wonderfully transformative. The worries and cares of my daily life melted away as I immersed myself in service, to be replaced by a lasting, permeating sense of peace... And I am still smiling!”

—Durga, United States

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Professional Accreditation and Continuing Education

Yoga Alliance AccreditationThe Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat is a Yoga Alliance-Registered Yoga School. The Yoga Teacher Training Course and Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Course fulfill the requirements for the Yoga Alliance 200-hour and 500-hour certification, respectively. Other certification courses fulfill the Yoga Alliance requirements for Continuing Education Units and may be used as credit towards RYT-500 accreditation. Please visit our website for more information.

Open International University for Alternative MedicineThe Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat is affiliated with The Open International University via the International Institute for Integral Human Sciences in Montreal, Canada. By graduating from the Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Course or any other certification course at the Yoga Retreat, you can earn credits towards Bachelor (BTC) and Master (MTC) degrees in Therapeutic Counseling, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Therapeutic Counseling.

Continuing Education Units (CEU) We offer Continuing Education Units (CEU) in a variety of our courses to healthcare and mental healthcare professionals, in addition to various other professional fields. Please check with your state board of licensure or professional association to determine if a particular program meets its continuing education requirements. Look for the CEU symbol in the Calendar of Events, and look for updates on our website for CEUs approved for additional courses.* A $20 charge applies for each CEu certificate.


Plan Your Visit

Arrival and DepartureStudents in all courses are advised to arrive at least one day before the first day of the course and depart at least one day after the course ends. Courses generally begin in the morning of the first day and end in the evening of the last day. You are welcome to arrive earlier or extend your stay to enjoy the Yoga Vacation Program or another course.

Guests in the Yoga Vacation Program may arrive and depart at any time, and can attend a whole program or any part of it.

Room check-in time: 3 p.m. Room check-out time: 11 a.m.

What to BringRecommended items include: casual comfortable clothes, modest clothes (covered legs and shoulders) for meditation and satsangs, yoga mat (you may also buy one at the boutique or rent one at reception), meditation cushion, meditation shawl, toiletries, slip-on sandals, clothing for warm days and cool mornings and evenings, rainwear, flashlight, insect repellent, alarm clock, beach towel, bathing suit, and snorkeling equipment. For tent space only, please bring tent, towels and bedding.

How to Get HereFly to Nassau International Airport. Please contact your local Bahamian Consulate to inquire whether you need a visa to enter the Bahamas.

At the airport: Take a taxi to our dock at Elizabeth on Bay Marketplace and Marina. The ashram’s boat will take you to the ashram, which is about a five-minute ride from the dock. You are welcome to consult with reception about the boat schedule prior to arrival. If you arrive during early morning or late night, call us using a pay phone at 363-2902 to let us know that you are on your way, and our boat will wait for you at the dock. Please visit our website for further arrival information.

Helpful RemindersIn order to maintain proper ashram atmosphere, attendance at two daily satsangs and yoga classes is expected. Non-vegetarian food, eggs, drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are not permitted on the premises. We also recommend maintaining silence from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily to ensure a pleasant night’s sleep. There are no safety deposit boxes available at the ashram.

Any program may be canceled at any time with or without notice. Some courses are subject to minimum registration. The ashram will not be held liable for any cancellations or other changes in the program. Please consult our website or reception office for program updates prior to registration for any program.

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Choose your Program Yoga Vacation Course Karma Yoga Program

Choose your Accommodation Option Select your lodging. (see options below)

Register Today Register online at sivanandabahamas.org or Call us at 866-446-5934 or 242-363-2902.

Our reservationists are available to answer any questions.

Book an Appointment at the Well-Being Center Enhance your stay with body treatments or ayurveda consultations.

Call us to book a session before you arrive to guarantee availability.

Accommodation RatesAccommodation rates include two full meals a day (brunch and dinner.) The rates below are per person, per night and are listed in US dollars.

Winter Season: November 20, 2012–May 31, 2013

Room Type 1–6 Nights 7–13 Nights 14–20 Nights 21 Nights or more

Tent Space 69 64 61 58Tent Hut 79 74 70 67Dormitory (3 or 4 beds) 84 78 74 71Garden View Double 94 88 83 79Beachfront Double 105 97 91 87Single Room 112 104 98 93Bay View Double with Private Bathroom 116 108 101 96Beachfront Deluxe with Two Double Beds & Private Bathroom 127 117 111 106

To guarantee your reservation, the following deposits are required: $100 for Yoga Vacation and Residential Study Programs; $300 for TTC and ATTC; $150 for all other courses. Deposit amounts are per-person. The balance is due upon arrival.

Program RatesYoga Vacation Add the following amount to the accommodation rate Program Rate (Unless otherwise stated under program’s description.) November 20, 2012–May 31, 2013 $29 per person per night

June 1–November 19, 2013 $15 per person per night

Course Rate Add applicable tuition fee (see Calendar of Events) to accommodation rate.

TTC, ATTC, and These programs’ rates include accommodation and tuition fees. Residential Study Please see the corresponding program page for details.Program Rate

Registration and RatesHow to Register

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Payment and CancellationPayment Methods We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, travelers checks, cash (uS dollars) and uS certified bank drafts to the name Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat. We do not accept personal checks. All deposits and payments in uS dollars only.

Cancellation Policy You may cancel your reservation by calling our reception office prior to your arrival date.

Summer Season: June 1–November 19, 2013

Room Type 1–6 Nights 7–13 Nights 14–20 Nights 21 Nights or more

Dormitory (3 or 4 beds) 73 67 63 60Garden View Double 84 78 73 69Beachfront Double 94 87 82 78Single Room 101 93 88 84Bay View Double with Private Bathroom 106 98 92 88Beachfront Deluxe with Two Double Beds & Private Bathroom 116 108 101 96

• Refunds* are available: up to 30 days prior to the scheduled arrival date—

subject to deduction of processing fee**. 30 days or fewer prior to the scheduled arrival date—

subject to deduction of the deposit.• Credit Notes*** Apply to cancellation following arrival

date. Credit notes will not be issued for the deposit. Any amount in excess of the deposit may be credited as follows:

• Yoga Vacation Reservation: A credit note will be issued in an amount equal to the amount paid for the cancelled portion of your original reservation.

• Teacher Training Course/Advanced Teacher Train-ing Course: A credit note will be issued in an amount equal to the amount paid for the canceled portion of the course.

• Other Courses: A credit note will be issued in an amount equal to the unused accommodation fees only. No credit or refunds will be given for the tuition amount.

* Refunds will be given solely by way of crediting the credit card used for the applicable payment.

** Processing fee in the amount of uS $50 per person will be due in conjunction with any cancellation, in addition to any amount due.

*** Credit notes are valid for two years from the date of issue. Credit Notes can be used for booking a Yoga Vacation, a course, or a daily program in the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, Nassau, Bahamas only (specifically excluding boutique purchases and Well-Being Center services). Credit notes are personal and nontransferable.

No refund or credit notes will be available if you attend a program and are dissatisfied with its presentation or content, or due to dissatisfaction with the ashram’s schedule or accommodation layout.

Day Visitors Day visitors are welcome. The Yoga Vacation day rate is $45. Please call or visit our website for drop-in pricing of daily activities.

Tuition Discounts for Senior Citizens Senior citizens 65 years old and over receive 10% discount on course tuition.

Multiple Courses Tuition Discounts 2 courses: 5% discount; 3 courses: 10% discount; 4 courses: 15% discount; 5 courses and more: 20% discount. All discounts are on the aggregate tuition costs of the courses. Tuition discounts apply if you register for two or more courses simultaneously and pay in full upon arrival for all such courses.

Children RatesUnder Age 5 FreeAge 5–12 50% discount on

accommodation rates. Yoga Vacation Program fees do not apply (unless otherwise indicated.)

From Age 12 Standard rates will apply

Special Rates and Discounts Group Accommodation Discounts10% discount for groups of 10 or more 15% discount for a group of 20 people or more Group discounts apply only for accommodation rates and only if all members of the group register and pay together as a group for the same time period.

Age will be measured at the time of arrival. Only one type of discount may be taken.Tuition discounts do not apply to Ayurveda Body Treatments Course.

Double Room for Single Use From June 1–December 15, 2013, all double rooms are offered for single use at 85% of the double full occupancy price.

A 10% hotel tax applies to all rooms. Energy surcharge of $10 per person per night for air-conditioning applies to rooms. Accommodation rates do not include course tuition or Yoga Vacation Program fee. All prices and discounts are subject to change without notice.

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Program Guide

Yoga Teacher TrainingYoga Teacher Trainings Course ..........................10

Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Course ..........12

Sivananda Yoga Teacher Renewal Program ....... 22

Foundation Yoga CoursesYoga for Beginners Course .................................16

Intermediate Yoga Course ..................................16

Advanced Yoga Course .......................................17

Positive Thinking Course ...................................17

Introduction to Meditation ................................17

Beginners Yoga Weekend Retreat .......................17

Introduction to Sivananda Yoga: Level I ..... 74, 94 Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)

Introduction to Sivananda Yoga: Level 2 ........... 78 Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)

Yoga and Everyday LivingCreating a Yogic Lifestyle .................................. 36 Surya

Yoga @ Home .................................................... 43 Gloria McCartney (Radha)

Deeper Into the Five Points of Yoga ..................46 Arjuna

Yoga for Home Practice ..................................... 80 Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)

Practical Spiritualiy: Life and Teachings of Swami Vishnudevananda .............................. 49 Arjuna

Beginners Yoga Immersion Week ...................... 54 Arjuna

Ayurveda, Lifestyle & NutritionHealing Your Relationship with Food ................18 Sasha Loring

Meeting Our Well-Being with Ayurveda ...........18 Arjun Das

Ayurveda Body Treatments Certification Course .......................................... 24 Lalita Devi

New Year’s Detoxification and Juice Fasting Program ........................................ 35 Manu Dawson, Sita Chaitanya, Grace Van Berkum

Gracious Living Vegan Nutrition Retreat ..........38 Grace Van Berkum

Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Certification Course ..64 Marc Halpern

Ayurvedic Nutrition: The Art of Conscious Eating .............................70 Marisa Laursen (Sri Devi)

Spring Detoxification and Juice Fasting Program ....................................... 79 Manu Dawson, Sita Chaitanya, Grace Van Berkum

Gracious Living Raw Food Retreat ................... 82 Grace Van Berkum

Ayurveda and Yoga Wellness Advisor Certification Course .......................................... 86 Lalita Devi

Yoga and Food Cleansing Retreat ..................... 88 Grace Van Berkum

Release Toxic Molecules of Emotion Through Perfecting Digestion ........................... 89 John Douillard

Integrative Nutrition ......................................... 93 Manu Dawson

Preventing Diabetes with Yoga and Nutrition ... 94 Manu Dawson


Family ProgramsThanksgiving Celebration and Family Program: Discover the Joy in Gratitude .............21 Swami Brahmananda and Arjuna

Family Holiday Program ................................... 29 Rachel Jones (Omkari), Sandrine Remi (Sanatani)

Explore the Bahamas, Explore Yourself ..............52 Arjuna

Family Yoga Vacation ........................................ 57 Mira Binzen

Easter and Passover Family Program .................69 Rachel Jones (Omkari), Sandrine Remi (Sanatani)

Holidays & Traditional CeremoniesThanksgiving Celebration and Family Program: Discover the Joy in Gratitude .............................21 Swami Brahmananda and Arjuna

Christmas and New Year Symposium ............... 30

Ayyappa Puja ..................................................... 36 Krishnan Namboodri

Maha Sivaratri ................................................... 62 Krishnan Namboodri

Passover Seder Celebration ................................69 Swami Swaroopananda

Easter Sunrise Service ........................................69 Swami Swaroopananda, Bishop Trevor Williamson

Meditation & Yoga PhilosophyAdvanced Bhagavad Gita Course .......................14 Swami Swaroopananda

Advanced Raja Yoga Course ...............................14 Swami Swaroopananda

Introduction to Meditation Course ....................17

Living a Divine Life ............................................19 Swami Brahmananda

Meditation, Breathing and Holistic Healing.....20 Dennis Chernin

The Yoga of Devotion: Practicing Bhakti Yoga ..20 Swami Brahmananda

Karma Yoga: Love in Action ............................. 24 Swami Brahmananda

Meditation, Healing and Inner Peace................ 29 Tom Spector (Kumar)

Foundations of Raja Yoga .................................. 29 Srinivasan

Philosophy of Hatha Yoga: Teachings from the Hatha Yoga Pradipika .................................. 50 Alan Wiuker (Krishna)

Great Women of the Mahabharata .................... 50 Hridayananda Das Goswami, Karnamrita Dasi

Meditation Immersion Course ............... 52, 67, 88 Swami Brahmananda

The Practice of Karma Yoga ...............................53 Jeffrey Armstrong

What is Nirvana and How Do We Get There ... 56 Geshe Michael Roach

Godly Gossip ..................................................... 63 Swami Atmananda

Bhakti Yoga: Teachings on the Path of Devotion from the Srimad Bhagavata Purana ... 74 Edwin Bryant

Meditation as a Path to Enlightenment: An Interfaith Symposium .................................. 76

Self Inquiry and Silence: Guided Study and Practice of Vedanta .............. 78 Swami Sitaramananda

Deeper into Yogic Wisdom: Teachings from the Upanishads ........................ 80 Paul Sherbow

Meditation Intensive Weekend Course ..............81 Swami Sitaramananda

Vedantic Psychology: How the Mind Works .....83 Brahmachari Shankar

Foundations of Vedanta .................................... 86 Swami Medhananda Puri

Cultivating Non-Attachment: Teachings from the Bhaja Govindam ................ 87 Swami Shantananda

Bhakti Yoga Retreat ........................................... 87 Radhanath Swami, Gaura Vani and As Kindred Spirits

Vedanta in Daily Life ........................................ 88 Swami Medhananda Puri

The Practice of Guru Bhakti Yoga ..................... 94 Swami Brahmananda

The Practice of Guru Bhakti Yoga ..................... 94 Swami Brahmananda

program guide 107

Sacred Art, Sound & CreativityMusic is Medicine: Cultivating Inner Peace and Manifesting Abundance with Music ...........23 Martin Klabunde and Rita Law

Kirtan with Ragani ........................................... 28 Ragani

Mantra Revolution: Chanting the Divine Name ................................ 31 Gaura Vani and As Kindred Spirits

Yantra Painting: Transformation Through Sacred Form .............. 34 Mavis Gewant

Chakra Immersion: Painting, Chanting and Understanding Sacred Centers .......................... 34 Mavis Gewant

Painting Planet Mandalas ................................. 34 Mavis Gewant

On the Wings of Ecstasy: Interfaith Devotional Singing Festival .............. 37

Yoga of Sound and Voice Training .....................38 John Beaulieu, Silvia Nakkach

Advanced Yoga of Sound and Voice: A Practicum ........................................................38 John Beaulieu, Silvia Nakkach

Sacred Poetry and Songs of Longing for the Beloved................................................... 42 Jeffrey Davis, Steve Gorn

Yoga as Muse: Creative Writing Course ............ 42 Jeffrey Davis

The Yoga of Chant Retreat ................................ 54 Krishna Das

Sacred Art: Express Divine Inspiration ........ 55, 90 Sita Chaitanya

Classical Indian Music and Dance Festival ........61

The Yoga of Sound ............................................. 63 Russill Paul, Bhakti Boys

Healing Your Heart Through Kirtan .................71 Narayan Jyoti

Kirtan and the Bhakti Mandala: Healing Through Chant .................................................. 78 David Newman (Durga Das) and Mira

Awakening Bhakti: Chanting Retreat ................81 Jai Uttal & Daniel Paul

Sacred Sounds: A Weekend of Classical Indian Music and Dance ...............................................85

Devotional Chant: An Interfaith Festival ......... 92

Songs of the Beloved .......................................... 93 Atmarama Dasa

Self Discovery, Science & SpiritualityPositive Thinking Course ...................................17

Step Out of Stress: Ultimate Self-Care Retreat ..22 Susan Lord

The Middle Theory: A Guide To Balance ...........23 Deshon Fox

Healing Chronic Pain: The Mind-Body Syndrome .................................25 Paul Epstein

The Practice of Yoga in a Christian Context: Putting on the Mind of Christ .......................... 26 Fr. Joseph Mitchell

The Yoga of Sleep: Sacred and Scientific Practices to Heal Sleeplessness ...........................................32 Rubin Naiman

Mind and Its Mysteries: The Effects of Yoga Practice on the Human Mind ............................35 Amarananda Bhairavan

Prayer as a Path to Bliss: An Interfaith Symposium .................................. 39

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself ................40 Joe Dispenza

Awakening Kindness: Finding Joy through Compassion for Others .... 43 Nawang Khechog

Positive Thinking for Inner Transformation .....46 Swami Omkarananda

Introduction to Dreamwork for Spiritual Practice .......................................... 48 Rodger Kamenetz

Guided Imagery and Creative Visualization .51, 89 Julie Lusk

Transform Stress into Awakened Living: Relax, Reflect, Revitalize ....................................52 Julie Lusk

Karma, Reincarnation and Vedic Astrology ...... 54 Alan Wiuker (Krishna)

Life After Life ..................................................... 55 Raymond Moody


Neuroscience and Spirituality ........................... 65

Keys to Wisdom: Awakening Beauty, Wholeness, and Prosperity ................................66 Brook Medicine Eagle

One Love: The Interspiritual Quest ................... 73 Mirabai Starr

Yoga of Recovery Certification for Counselors ..77 Swami Sitaramananda, Catherine O’Neill (Durga), Kailash Chaitanya

Self Inquiry and Silence: Guided Study and Practice of Vedanta .............. 78 Swami Sitaramananda

The Yoga of Relationships.................................. 79 Swami Sitaramananda

Yoga of Recovery Retreat ................................... 77 Catherine O’Neill (Durga)

Beyond Addiction: Overcoming Compulsive Behaviors and Cravings ..................................... 77 Catherine O’Neill (Durga)

Coming to Joy: From the World Religions and Neuroscience .....83 Hana Matt

How Did the Universe Begin? God, Creation and the Big Bang ....................... 84

Christian Models of Contemplation and Meditation ...................................................91 Father William Meninger

Specialized Yoga ProgramsYoga Therapy for Stress Reduction .....................21 Nora Benian (Sundari)

Restorative Yoga and Healing Therapies ............25 Nora Benian (Sundari)

Yoga Therapy and Self-Thai Massage ................. 26 Nora Benian (Sundari)

Vitality Matters: Yoga and Life Enhancement .. 28 Dale Buegel

The Healing Power of Hatha Yoga .................... 28 Laurier Pierre Desjardins

Healing Trauma Through Deep Relaxation ...... 29 Molly Asebey-Birkholm (Madhavi)

Yoga for the 50+ ................................................. 36 Gloria McCartney (Radha)

Creating a Yogic Lifestyle .................................. 36 Surya

Healing the Emotional Body.............................40 Surya

Fine Tune Your Postures .................................... 47 Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)

Yoga to Ease an Aching Back.............................60 Catherine Gillies (Kumari)

Yoga for Calming Panic and Anxiety ................ 63 Catherine Gillies (Kumari)

Yoga for Seniors Retreat: Slowing Down the Pace .....................................66 Catherine Gillies (Kumari)

Yoga to Heal an Aching Heart ..........................67 Catherine Gillies (Kumari)

How Yoga Heals ................................................ 79 Richard Panico, MD

Yoga Therapy Week ........................................... 80 Rev. Manjula Spears

Perfect Your Balance Postures ............................81 Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)

Introduction to Adaptive Yoga ..........................90 Krishna Das

Create Your Sacred Space: Introduction to Vastu Shastra ........................... 95 Olga Mandodari (Narayani)

Yoga and Aromatherapy to Relieve Stress, Anxiety and Depression ....................................96 Aira Guevara (Rukmini)

Depression and Anxiety: Yogic Perspective and Remedies ........................96

The Power of Asanas: Uncovering the Effects on Your Body, Mind and Spirit..............97 Maria Fernanda Tresslar (Parvati)

Yoga for the Spine: Back Awareness Workshops............................... 97 Michael Pyfrom

Specialized Yoga TrainingsBeyond TTC: Teaching and Practicing Sivananda Yoga in the World .............................32 Shyam and Mohini

Advanced Asana Course ....................................46 Sylvie Boisclair (Saraswati)

Yoga for Mood Management: LifeForce Yoga Practitioner Training, Part A–Experiential ....... 48 Amy Weintraub

program guide 109

Cardiac Yoga Teachers’ Training Course .......... 49 Mala Cunningham

Advanced Hatha Yoga Retreat ............................53 Alan Wiuker (Krishna)

Introduction to Teaching Yoga to Children .......59 Mira Binzen

Share the Practice of Yoga Nidra with Children .................................................... 62 Mira Binzen

Yoga Nidra and Self Healing: The Practice of Conscious Deep Relaxation ......64 Marc Halpern

Visual Yoga Teacher Training: Teaching Yoga to the Hard of Hearing..............67 Lila Lolling

Chair Yoga Training ...........................................75 Stacie Dooreck (Saraswati)

Yoga for Grief Relief Professional Training Course–Level 1 .................................................. 82 Antonio Sausys

Yoga for the Special Child ..................................83 Kathy Randolph

Yoga for Peak Performance in Sports and Life....85 Grace Van Berkum, Randi Smith

Adaptive Yoga Training ......................................91 Krishna Das

Social Activism & EnvironmentMoGo (Most Good): Live Your Values, Achieve Global Change ..................................... 27 Zoe Weil

Yoga for Peace Symposium: Changing the World from the Inside Out .........44

Yoga Peace Ambassadors Course ........................45 Elaine Valdov

Permaculture Design Certification Course ....... 47 Bill and Becky Wilson, Swami Omkarananda

Living a Life That Matters ................................. 72 Roshi Bernie Glassman, Roshi Eve Myonen Marko

Becoming a Peace Leader ............................ 73, 90 Elaine Valdov

Yoga & Permaculture: Vedic Ecology in Practice .................................. 74 Swami Omkarananda

Yogis Without Borders .......................................75 Elaine Valdov

Global Young Leaders Forum ............................90 Elaine Valdov, Andrew Cunningham

The Healing ArtsAlign Your Spine, Align Your Mind ...................19 Michael Pyfrom

The Cause of Disease: An Overview of Traditional Chinese Medicine ........................21 Cairo Rocha

Thai Yoga Massage 1 .......................................... 27 Kam Thye Chow

The Healing Power of the Mind .........................33 Vianna Stibal

ThetaHealing Basic DNA Training ....................33 Guy Stibal

The Planes of Existence ......................................33 Vianna Stibal

Energy Healing Clinic for Healing Arts Practitioners ................................. 41 John Beaulieu, Andreas and Brigitta Lederman

Polarity Therapy and 5 Element Body Work ..... 41 John Beaulieu, Andreas and Brigitta Lederman

Sound, Healing & Consciousness ...................... 51 Zacciah Blackburn

Introduction to Mystical Qigong .......................59 Master Ou Wen Wei

Thai Yoga Massage I, II and III ..........................58 Kam Thye Chow

Healing Through Mystical Qigong ....................59 Master Ou Wen Wei

Easter and Passover Symposium: Yoga and Sacred Healing ................................... 68

ThetaHealing Basic DNA Training ....................71 Narayan Jyoti

ThetaHealing Advanced DNA Training ............71 Narayan Jyoti

Energy applied to Health................................... 95 Cairo Rocha

Healing the Light Body: Exploring Shamanic Medicine .......................... 95 Theodore Tsavoussis


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