Yoga is not like an ordinary physical exercise routine that you practice for one or two hours a day. It is a comprehensive way of life that gives a high level of importance to dharmic values and principles.
—Amma

Yoga and Vedanta Retreat

The Yoga and Vedanta Retreat is primarily based on the teachings of our beloved Amma Satguru Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi.

“Advaita (non-duality) is the state in which there is only One. It is the state in which you spontaneously see everyone as being the same as Self. It is not something you talk about; it is a state to be experienced. ”

Amma

Who Can Attend?

  • Designed for anyone interested in Indian philosophy and spirituality.
  • Basic knowledge from a traditional exposition of Vedanta.

Focus

  • Introduction to Advaita Vedanta is based on the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya and Amma through a series of lectures.
  • Amma’s approach to Vedanta as a practical tool.
  • To offer some practical Vedantic tools which help spur a student’s spiritual growth leading to higher assimilation of Self-Knowledge (Atma-Jnana).

Workshop Specifics

  • 5 Asana Classes.
  • 2 Talks each day on the Basics of Vedanta with time for Question & Answer.
  • Discussion of selected Vedantic Bhajana(devotional songs).
  • Vedic Chanting Sessions.
  • Meditation Sessions each day.

Retreat Features

Most of us don’t know ourselves. We live on the surface of who we are—male/female, what we like,     what we don’t like… We think we are our personality, but much more than that. We are pure Spirit. Vedanta is a way to know ourselves and provides practical steps to uncover this inner Self or pure Consciousness.

 

Handout

Handouts on the basics of Vedanta.

Veronika from Russia/France

“A very interesting and complete retreat combining philosophy with asana practice. Highly recommended. Thank you. Om Namah Shivaya!” – Veronika, Age 32

Vera from Finland

“Very nice. In the West, too much emphasis is put merely on the asanas. We need more retreats of this kind that include the philosophy. I loved the way the teacher introduced Vedanta through practical examples. Fascinating.” – Vera, Age 41

Janette from England.

“Interesting, informative, engaging, fun, thought-provoking and inspiring. A great foundation for further study. I really enjoyed it. I loved Vedanta being taught with asana. I gained real insight into how the mind and ego can be impediments to true knowledge. Great teacher!” – Janette, Age 52

Raquel from Spain

“I found the whole course interesting. I didn’t know anything about Vedanta, so this was a good introduction. The teacher had a lot of knowledge and experience. The asanas were executed in a new way for me that was creative and profound. Shobana didn’t get hung up on trivial alignment or postural corrections. Instead, during asana practice, she expounded on Vedanta! This was awesome and inspiring. I’ll bring that back to my mat! Thanks again for such an amazing course.” – Raquel, Age 35

Nirmal from Belgium

“The talks gave me better understanding of Vedanta, and especially how to relate it to Yoga. It was inspiring to hear these Vedanta lessons during the asanas. It made me understand how attentive one needs to be to live the principles of Vedanta even in a 90-minute asana class.

I felt so light after that last asana session. I would love to delve more deeply into the subtle aspects of Vedanta.” – Nirmal, Age 62

Madhurima from Canada

“I really enjoyed everything. The teachings were thorough and entertaining (chewable and witty); the yoga classes were excellent, and I very much appreciated the balance between asanas and theory. Shobana is amazing and excellent.” – Madhurima, Age 44