Sivananda News July 1, 2011 - Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres and ...

"Identify yourself with the all-pervading Self. Lead the life of oneness and unity." - Sri Swami Sivananda

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
News
Sivananda Yoga FAQ
Hatha Yoga Tips
Yoga Sanskrit Glossary
Raja Yoga
Vegetarian Cuisine
Upcoming Events

International News - Ashrams
Yoga Camp Ashram, Canada
Dhanwanthari Ashram, India
Kutir Ashram, India
Chateau du Yoga Ashram, France
Yoga Farm Ashram, USA
Yoga Ranch Ashram, USA
Yoga Retreat Ashram, Bahamas
Retreat House Ashram, Austria
Meenakshi Ashram, India

International News - Centres
Berlin, Germany
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Chennai, India
Chicago, USA
Dwarka, Delhi, India
Nataraja, Delhi, India
Geneva, Switzerland
London, England
Los Angeles, USA
Madrid, Spain
Madurai, India
Milano, Italy
Montevideo, Uruguay
Montreal, Canada
Munich, Germany
New York, USA
Paris, France
Rome, Italy
San Francisco, USA
Tel Aviv, Israel
Toronto, Canada
Trivandrum, India
Vienna, Austria
Vilnius, Lithuania

SPIRITUAL CALENDAR:

E-MAIL DIRECTORY
A complete e-mail directory of the Sivananda Yoga Centres and Ashrams is available at:
Sivananda Email Directory
SIVANANDA "OM" PAGE
www.sivananda.org

Online registration for TTC courses has been added. We hope to include online registration for all courses in the near future.
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OM NAMAH SIVAYA!

NEWS

Blessed Self,
Om Namah Sivaya

Greetings from the Sivananda Ashram Headquarters Val Morin where the much anticipated summer program is now in full swing.

Please take a look to see why we are happy to share what is going on. Our goal this year is to send the profound messages of Swami Sivananda and Swami Vishnudevananda as wide afield as possible. Visit our facebook page. www.facebook.com/SivanandaYogaCamp Pass the link onto friends and other teachers. If you can, visit us in person to enjoy a concert, a Puja, a Sanskrit class, a massage or Ayurveda Treatment and of course, the peace and joy of the Ashram.

We invite you to return to the source, return and feel the spirit of Swami Vishnudevananda for three days of yoga, meditations, satsangs, workshops and cultural programs. - August 12, 13, 14 2011 at Sivananda Yoga Camp, Headquarters, Val Morin, Quebec, Canada. There is new enrollment application posted for the World Wide Sivananda Yoga Teachers Reunion at the Yoga Camp website - www.sivananda.org/camp
go to the TTC Reunion page.

Other news:
Staff members at the Yoga Camp have made a good progress on Swamiji's archives at Samadhi Estates, posting some of the new and rare videos on YouTube - Visit http://www.youtube.com/yogacamphq

There is more of the same happening karma yoga in Europe. Sw Sivadasananda wrote to say: "Thanks to the work of many karma yogis in many countries, over 80 audio files of Swami Vishudevananda's lectures between 1968 and 1989 are now available for everyone to listen to on the internet at the website: http://audioarchive.sivananda.eu   Clicking on the "listen" button will show more details or play each file. These files can be searched by topics, and selected by the translation language on the tape.  Over 400 files have been reviewed so far, so new files are appearing on the website every week. Anyone who would like to help with this project, to listen to Swami Vishnudevananda's audio files in English and catalog them by topic is welcome to contact sita@sivananda.net for more information."  

In Tokyo, the official Opening of the Tokyo Centre was held on Sunday June 26, 2011, with hundreds attening the various events. Swami Mahadevananda then did a tour of three cities in Japan to meet with yogis and to spread the word of the teachings of Master and Guru. See the Tokyo report and youtube links in the SIVANANDA WORLD NEWS reports at bottom of this GURUGRAM.

Pranams,
All Staff in the Sivananda Organization

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Get up now. This is Brahmamuhurta (Auspicious Early Morning Time). Everywhere is silence. Nature herself is at peace. Now you can retire peacefully into the inner chambers of your heart. - Sri Swami Sivananda

SIVANANDA YOGA FAQ
Q. How does the mind differ from the Soul?
A. The mind is a special, limited particularization of the Soul-consciousness, which is unlimited and never ceases to be all-pervading. The mind is the form of the collective totality of desires, and hence, it is inert and powerless. But it appears to be conscious and powerful as the Inner Self or the Soul is reflected through it. The mind alone is the real person or the individual and it is the real doer of all actions. It is the experiencer of every condition in the universe, both objectively and subjectively. The Soul is the Absolute which is not really affected by any experience of the mind. The mind is mortal, while the Soul is immortal.
Q. The Gita touches on many subjects which are useful to an aspirant after God-Knowledge, but strangely enough, omits to mention anything about the purpose behind creation. Why did God embark on creation at all?
A. The Lord's silence, in the Gita, about the purpose of creation, is truly a demonstration of His divine wisdom. This very same problem arises in various minds in various forms. How did Avidya arise in Brahman? When did Karma begin? Why did the Formless assume forms? How could darkness or Maya exist in the Supreme Absolute Light? And so on. There can be no answer to these questions. It involves the understanding of the Ultimate Principle, the Intelligence that is behind and beyond these questions, the Cause of all causes, the Subject of all objects. It cannot be known as an object. And, when the subject (Self or Atman) knows Itself, speech and thought cease. The questioner and question vanish in the quest. The doubt disappears in the doubter. In that Supreme Silence, the problem is inexpressibly solved! The riddle is solved; but speech is baffled and the question remains unanswerable. Therefore, the Lord is silent about the transcendental question in the Gita; but, such is the divine wisdom of the Almighty that He gives ways and means of solving the problem. Don't bother about why creation came into being, but try to know the Creator! Take creation for what it is and try to transcend it. This is wisdom. Trying to probe intellectually into the mystery is only buying psychological distress. There is no 'Why?' in respect of transcendental matters. 'Why?' is only for worldly things. Reason is finite and frail. God only knows the 'Why?'. Realize the Self. Then you will get the answer. Then you will know the origin and nature of Maya and everything.
Q. My experience has made me conclude that goodness does not always pay in our dealings with people. Then what is the use of being good and doing good when goodness is not recognized and properly rewarded?
A. Whether goodness pays you well or not from the material standpoint, do good and be good always. No doubt the worldly-minded generally take advantage of such people as ideal gullibles to carry their wishes through and even to deceive. It matters nothing, for the Lord is always on the side of the good and the righteous who stick to Dharma and who rely on Him. No man is to be considered good without the virtue of piety or God-fearing nature. Goodness and piety go together. The good man is always the spiritually-inclined, though he is in the world. He is unlike the Vyavaharic Purusha. To be good is to increase the purity and devotion unto the Lord in abundant measure. To do good is to reap good in return. If a good action is done, a sweet fruit in favour of you arises with the result that you enjoy it whether you want it or not. If a bad action is done, the consequent fruit of action liable to be enjoyed willingly or unwillingly will be bitter and against you. Whether goodness is recognized or not, do good and be good throughout life. This alone pays you well to attain Chitta Suddhi and knowledge of the Self. Only those who have no knowledge of the Self, i.e., the worldly-inclined, do not recognize good as a medium of perfection through gradual evolution. Not so is the case with the spiritual-minded, for they know fully well that to do good and to be good help them gain the goal of life, viz., God-realization. Remember that the Lord does recognize and reward always the good people and good actions. He actually lives and moves in them. The good man actually feels the Lord's presence in himself and around without a vestige of doubt. It is a mockery for a man to consider himself good without being able to be conscious of God's presence in him, with him and around him. Do not question the benefit of being good and doing good when goodness is not recognized or properly rewarded, for to work alone man has the right and not to the fruits -- good or bad -- thereof.

Previous FAQs at
http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/faq/faq.html

Keep your heart tranquil, pure, empty of desires and thoughts.  Then alone the divine light and Grace will descend.- Sri Swami Sivananda

HATHA YOGA TIP

TRIANGLE VARIATIONS - Parsvottanasana - All levels

In all the triangle variations the posture ensures a thorough lateral stretch to all parts of the body, promoting elasticity of the spine and helping maintain a youthful posture. Standing with the feet a little more than shoulder width apart, turn left foot out. Clasp the hands behind the back. Inhale. Exhale and bend forward, bringing the forehead toward the left knee. Lift the arms up to the ceiling as high as possible. Hold the pose for 10 seconds or longer, increasing to 1 minute. Inhale as you push into the feet and stand up into the starting position. Repeat for the right side. Knees are straight, soft. Both feet pointing in same direction. Elbows are kept straight behind back. Hands re clasped together with fingers loosely interwoven.

Benefits:

  • Helps improve balance
  • Stretches the hips, lateral legs and hamstrings
  • Helps improves posture
  • Helps improves digestion
  • Opens front of shoulder sockets
This yoga tip from the new Sivananda publication - “Yoga: Your Home Practice Companion” – Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre - 2010. Other yoga tips at http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/asana/101tips.html

Conquer the hurdles.  Give a bold front and continue the spiritual practice vigorously in right earnest. - Sri Swami Sivananda

The teacher opens samskaras of the student either by the senses - touch, smell, etc, or by the words of teaching. A true teacher will challenge you and your mind. - Sw. Vishnudevananda

YOGA SANSKRIT GLOSSARY
PRANAYAMA - In our series on Pranayama, guided by Swami Sivananda, we continue …

PRANAYAMA – Kapalabhati
'Kapala' is a Sanskrit word; it means skull. 'Bhati' means to shine. The term 'Kapalabhati' means an exercise that makes the skull shine. This Kriya cleanses the skull. So this is taken as one of the Shat-Karmas (six cleansing processes in Hatha Yoga).
Sit on Padmasana. Keep the hands on knees. Close the eyes. Perform Puraka and Rechaka rapidly. This should be practiced vigorously. One will get perspiration profusely. This is a good form of exercise. Those who are well-versed in Kapalabhati, can do Bhastrika very easily. There is no Kumbhaka in this Pranayama. Rechaka plays a prominent part. Puraka is mild, slow and long (Dirgha). But the Rechaka should be done quickly and forcibly by contracting the abdominal muscles with a backward push. When you do Puraka, release the abdominal muscles. Some people naturally make a curve of the spine and bend their heads also. This is not desirable. The head and the trunk should be erect. Sudden expulsions of breath follow one another as in Bhastrika. To start with, you can have one expulsion per second. Gradually you can have two expulsions per second. To begin with do one round in the morning consisting of 10 expulsions only. In the second week, do one round in the evening. In the third week, do two rounds in the morning and two rounds in the evening. Thus every week, gradually and cautiously increase 10 expulsions to each round till you get 120 expulsions for each round.
It cleanses the respiratory system and the nasal passages. It removes the spasm in bronchial tubes. Consequently, Asthma is relieved and also cured in course of time. The apices of the lungs get proper oxygenation. Thereby they cannot afford favourable nidus (breeding grounds) for tubercle bacilli. Consumption is cured by this practice. Lungs are considerably developed. Carbon dioxide is eliminated in a large scale. Impurities of the blood are thrown out. Tissues and cells absorb a large quantity of oxygen. The practitioner keeps up good health. Heart functions properly. The circulatory and respiratory systems are toned to a considerable degree.

...more about Pranayama from Sw. Sivananda next month.

A complete Sanskrit Glossary can be found at: http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/glossary/glossary.html

Deep beneath the noise and storm on the surface, deep beneath the surging mental waves, there is that stupendous ocean of peace and stillness.  Realize this through deep and intense meditation. - Sri Swami Sivananda

RAJA YOGA
From Discourse III: "Vibhuti Pada - On Divine Powers"
III.40. UDANA-JAYAJ JALA-PANKA-KANTAKADISVA ASANGA UTKRANITIS CA

"By mastery of "udana" comes levitation and the ability not to come into contact with water, mire, thorns, etc."

Commentary:
'Udana' is one of the types of prana, which is concerned with the pull of gravity. This power is available to the yogis in the last phases of their earthly lives before merging with the Self. It is not to be confused with "hopping," the ability to bounce about a foot above ground during certain powerful pranayama exercises. Some spiritual groups teach these exercises to beginners, however this is physically and psychically dangerous and is not recommended because it causes the prana to move too quickly in the body. Problems can result for those who have not been practicing asana and more simple pranayama for a number of years.

Strive with faith and single-minded devotion. You will come out victorious in the end. - Sri Swami Sivananda

VEGETARIAN CUISINE
Tofu-Carrot Mousse - A wonderful baked dish with root vegetables. Serve with steamed vegetables and a crisp salad. Serves 4 to 6.

Ingredients:
2 tbsp sesame oil
2-3 carrots sliced
1 small rutabaga or parsnip, roughly chopped
½ cup water
1-2 tbsp tamari
9 ounces firm tofu
toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley to garnish

Preparation:
1. Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a pan and saute the carrots and rutabaga (or parsnip) over medium heat for 5 minutes.
3. Add the water and tamari and simmer until the vegetables are tender.
4. Transfer the vegetables to a food processor or blender. Add the tofu. Blend until smooth.
5. Spoon the mixture into a 2½ cup baking dish.
6. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes, just until firm.
7. Leave to cool.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds or parsley before serving.

Previous Recipes: http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/diet/recipes.html
Other recipes can be found in "The Yoga Cookbook- Vegetarian Food for Body and Mind - Recipes from the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres"

You should be spiritually hungry.  Then alone will the Lord fill you with His grace. - Sri Swami Sivananda

UPCOMING EVENTS

Jul 01 - Jul 29/11
TTC – English, Francais, Espanol
Orleans, France
www.sivananda.org/orleans

July 1 - Jul 29/11
ATTC – English, Francais, Espanol
Orleans, France
www.sivananda.org/orleans

Jul 03 - Jul 30/11
TTC – English, Francais, Espanol, Deutsch
Val Morin, QC- Canada
www.sivananda.org/camp

Jul 06 - Aug 3/11
ATTC – English
Woodbourne, NY USA
www.sivananda.org/ranch

Jul 09 - Jul 30/11
Kids Camp – English
Val Morin, QC- Canada
www.sivananda.org/camp

Jul 30 - Aug 28/11
TTC – English, Deutsch, Italiano
Reith, Tyrol, Austria
www.sivananda.org/tyrol/en

Jul 31 - Aug 27/11
TTC – English, Italiano
Umbria, Italy
www.sivananda.org/rome

Jul 31 - Aug 28/11
TTC – Francais
Orleans, France
www.sivananda.org/orleans

Jul 31 - Aug 27/11
ATTC – English, Francais, Espanol, Deutsch
Val Morin, QC- Canada
www.sivananda.org/camp

Aug 6 - Aug 21/11
Sadhana Intensive - International
Orleans, France
www.sivananda.org/orleans

Aug 15 - Sep 11/11
TTC – Español, Portuguese
En Aluenda, Zaragoza
www.sivananda.org/madrid

Aug 28 - Sep 25/11
TTC – English
London, England
www.sivananda.org/london

Aug 29 - Sep 26/11
TTC – Hebrew, English
Israel
www.sivananda.co.il

Sep 03 - Oct 02/11
TTC – English, Polski, Lietuvos, Russian
Ustka, Baltic Sea, Poland
http://www.sivananda.eu/en/yoga-teacher-training/teachers-training-course/ttc...

Sep 03 - Oct 02/11
ATTC – English, Polski, Lietuvos, Russian
Ustka, Baltic Sea, Poland
http://www.sivananda.eu/en/yoga-teacher-training/teachers-training-course/ttc...

Sep 03 - Oct 02/11
TTC – English, Deutsch
Reith, Tyrol, Austria
www.sivananda.org/tyrol/en

Sep 07 - Oct 05/11
ATTC – English
Woodbourne, NY USA
www.sivananda.org/ranch

Oct 02 - Oct 30/11
TTC – English
Uttar Kashi, India
www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi

Oct 08 - Nov 06/11
TTC – English, Francais, Espanol, Deutsch
Vrindavan, North India
www.sivananda.org/tyrol/Yogalehrer/ttc_vrindavan_eu.html

Oct 08 - Nov 06/11
ATTC – English, Francais, Espanol, Deutsch
Vrindavan, North India
www.sivananda.org/tyrol/Yogalehrer/ttc_vrindavan_eu.html

Oct 09 - Nov 05/11
TTC - English
Thailand
www.sivananda.org/thailand

See full list of International Teacher Training Courses: http://www.sivananda.org/yoga-teacher-training/ttc-schedule.html

See full list of International Advanced Teacher Training Courses: http://www.sivananda.org/yoga-teacher-training/attc-schedule.html

See full list of International Sadhana Intensives and other courses/events: http://www.sivananda.org/courses/schedule.html

There have been exceptional instances when illumination has come suddenly and has instantly transformed a life. - Sri Swami Sivananda

SIVANANDA WORLD NEWS - JUNE 2011

SIVANANDA YOGA VEDANTA Ashrams -

Sivananda Ashram Yoga Camp, Val Morin, Quebec, Canada

Om Namah Sivaya! Greetings from the Headquarters.
In early June, through Master and Guru's grace, the Yoga Camp ran smoothy. It was all about arrivals of guest and staff to the Ashram for the season and for the new programs. We welcomed a group of eager participants to the Fasting and Detoxification Program and the Sadhana Intensive Course, totaling 28. Both programs commenced Sunday June 12th. Ben arrived just in time to begin creating the kicheree meals for Sadhana Intensive Program. Staff member, Kanti Devi, joined him in the kitchen. Jnandev supervised a major clean of the kitchen for Ben's arrival. We had fond memories of the meals created each day by the staff over the low season. The staff loved taking turns cooking the two meals each day. We welcomed a frequent summer staff members, Ishwara and Kathy. Ishwara arrived from South America after visiting family, for a short while, after teaching assignments in Madurai and Neyyar Dam this winter. Kathy was also in India this winter. She arrived to the Ashram via the USA. She joined the Sadhana Intensive Program along with other Sivananda staff - Lila, Janaki and Madhava. Lalitambika and Janaki offered a ongoing Meditation Coaching, Questions and Answers workshop on Saturdays for the weekend guests. Juice Fasting began in the early morning of June 12th with Swami Mahadevananda offering sound advice to the initiates on the deeper purposes of the Fasting and Detox Program. Sadhana Intensive began with an evening inauguration in the Subramanya Ayyappa Temple with many familiar yogis returning for their uplifting two weeks of deep personal practice.

During mid-June we saw the conclusion of two sattvic programs at the Camp. The Fasting program, on their last week, gently re-introduced foods into their diet with large salads filled with a variety of 8 fresh sprouts and home made crackers made from carrot fibers from the juicer. We thanked Suzanne, Miki and Isabelle for their hard work in supporting Parameshwara and Janni with the Fasting and Detox Program. The Sadhana Intensive group went deeper and deeper into their practice on the last week, guided by Prahlad. The sounds of bhastrika and brahmari were heard from the forests of the Ashram. The group looked blissed and contented as they emerged every 4 hours from their various practice tents for their plate of fresh kitcheree, kheer or almond milk. Special Satsangs and SI classes were held at Samadhi Estates. Many staff and students said they could feel the loving energy of Sw.Vishnudevananda and how the meditations were effortlessly deep while sitting in the Samadhi Estate house. Graduation for both groups was led by Swami Ambikananda. Her words and observations were well appreciated by all. Many Sadhana Intensive participants stayed at the Ashram for a few more days before leaving. Sharada, Lakita, Murali, Lila, Kathy, Janaki and Madhava stayed on as staff. Sw. Mahadevananda flew to Japan for the official opening of the Tokyo Centre. Prahlad and Gopala also travelled to Tokyo. Gopala will remain at the Tokyo Centre for one month, helping with teaching and running the programs. He takes small break from the extensive hours of devoted work at the Yoga Camp transcoding historical audio and video files from the Sw. Vishnu archives into files to post on youtube. Visit  http://www.youtube.com/yogacamphq In the famous gardens of the Yoga Camp, Sw. Ambikananda has outdone all years with a plethora of annuals, designing colorful pockets of vibrant oranges and yellows to blissful lavenders, blues and whites. Over 30 lilac bushes at the Ashram had a full show this year, lending a noticeable sweet scent to air. The Andirondack chairs were set in the gardens, making many perfect settings for meditating and contemplating. June weather was predominantly sunny and warm, helping the gardens come into season. Meanwhile up on the Temple hill, much excitement was felt at the Mariamman Temple. Every night there were pujas sponsored by temple devotees, culminating with a high energy Pongala celebration. For the first time, a concerted effort was made by the female Yoga Camp Ashram Staff to collect the materials, join the large group of devotee women, to make their own contribution of sweet rice for the Pongala Celebration. In the kitchen, Ben and Kanti Devi teamed for morning meals for 2 weeks, culminating with cooking for 100's during the Jean Baptiste holiday weekend. The Ashram was full yogis on their holiday away from the city. KantiDevi hosted a bread-making workshop, with excellent edible results. Evening meals were created by the talented circulating Ashram staff, being sure to set aside enough kitcheree for the Sadhana Intensive students. At reception, Karuna updated our Facebook page with many new items and photos. Visit www.facebook.com/SivanandaYogaCamp to view. In the Temple Garden the planting was finished. Efforts were now to nurture and water the plants. Some plants have doubled in size already promising it to be a good year for harvesting. Much energy was focused on prepping the Ashram for the upcoming TTC, beginning July 3rd and Kids Camp on July 6th. Decks were cleaned, ready to be resurfaced; a new health hut is being designed; the boutique began its last phase of construction, finishing the interior; the bathhouses were stocked along with the dormitories. We bid farewell to Parameshawara and Janni, the facilitators of the Fasting and Detox Program. We look forward to their return next year.  We welcomed a regular staff member to the Ashram, Anjeli, after she spent some time with family in Ontario. Yoana joined us from Bulgaria and Ishwari from Toronto both joined us as temporary staff. Jeeva returned to her summer posting at the Subramanya Temple. Om and Pranams to all from the staff at Yoga Camp/Sivananda Headquarters. Om Shanti.

Sivananda Dhanwanthari Ashram, Neyyar Dam, Kerala, South India
Om Namo Narayanaya!

In early June a new yoga vacation program started on the 16th with about 40 guests. A highlight was Neyyar Dam town temple's Kaavadi festival in honour of Lord Subramanya. The whole Ashram was invited to witness the occasion. Young men showed their devotion by fasting and piercing themselves with sharpened steel rods and hooks. There were eleven 'flying kaavadis' - men suspended by hooks from long poles. The final ritual was fire walking over hot coals by some devotees. The spirits were high and everyone seemed to enjoy the festival. We said goodbye to Kalyani, on her way to England in order to renew her visa. A new member of the staff joined this week for one year service, Juanita from Columbia.

During mid-June During mid-June, apart from the noise of construction and renovation works, life at the Ashram went smoothly with the help of Kapoor ji who is helping with the yoga vacation classes. The Ashram was busy with medical camps. We held a free Ayurveda Medical Camp. 235 people came for consultations and treatments. We also hosted a free Eye Medical Camp with a medical team from the Aravind Hospital, Tirunelveli. People had their eyes and eye sight checked and treated. If necessary they were given glasses or even booked for eye operation. The Camp was attended by 342 people and 19 people went to Tirunelveli for cataract surgery. We are very grateful to Dr Sadasivan and his team for this excellent service. We welcomed Nataraj back from his triop to Europe. We were happy to see him again. We said our fond farewells to Shakti, who left for Delhi after finishing her 6 month commitment as staff. Om Namah Sivaya from all the staff.

Sivananda Ashram Kutir, Netala, Uttarkashi, North India

Om Namo Narayanaya!
All is well in the Himalayas. Yoga Vacations available in August this year. Please let us know you are coming. Peace and Pranams to all.

Sivananda Ashram Chateau du Yoga, Orleans, France

Om Namah Sivaya!
It was a high season month at the Ashram, with quite a number of guests, some of whom brought their tent, although the nights were still chilly. The Whitsun Retreat attracted many guests, and also the long weekend "Yoga and Hiking" – we could explore new hiking routes in the nearby Wood of Orleans, along the Loire river and a nearby lovely canal. Another highlight was the special Sadhana Week for Sivananda Yoga Teachers. Teachers enjoyed the challenging classes and workshops on teaching technics and corrections, as well as study of scriptures. There was also a vegetarian cooking weekend with nice workshops on vegetarianism, a cooking class and much practical advice. The energy is high at the Ashram, it is wonderful to have the priest back who led several homas and pujas, further lifting the prana at the Ashram. Swami Gopalananda went to Spain and Portugal for a couple of weeks to teach retreats there. OM.

Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm, Grass Valley, California, USA
Om Namah Sivaya!
In early June the Yoga Farm welcomed Swami Swaroopananda and Swami Premaswaroopananda, visiting from the Bahamas Retreat, along with Rukmini and Jnaneshwari, who arrived in time for the 12th Annual Vedic Astrology and Yoga Conference. This year's conference focused on Medical Astrology. We were all blessed with the attendance of keynote speaker Dr. Charak, a surgeon and Vedic astrologer, who traveled from India to participate and share his knowledge on Medical Astrology. The conference was initiated with Nava Graha Homa performed by Pandit Samavedula at the Krishna Temple and Nava Graha shrine. Many other speakers contributed to the conference, including Swami Sitaramananda, Kenneth Miller (Fundamentals of Chart Reading), Sadasiva (Ayurvedic Planets by Transit), Komilla Sutton (How Rahu/Ketu Show Disease), James Kelleher (Divisional Charts in Medical Astrology), Krishna Darshan (Sun and Moon in Yoga), and Andrew Foss (Understanding Mental Health).

During mid-June we welcomed a good and enthusiastic group for Beginners Week taught by Sri Devi with satsangs by Swami Padmapadananda and Swami Pranavananda. The highlight is the weekend on Yoga of Sound and Voice by Sylvia Nakkach, an event that puts many to tears as their voices raise and the beautiful melody fills up the Ashram with peace and joy like a fresh shower. We geared up to prepare for Kids Camp, with marathon sewing of the Kids Camp pants and welcoming of the 20 kids and parents on Sunday for the initiation into the Kids Camp by Swami Padmapadananda. Katyayani is the director this year and is assisted by: Gauri Devi, Jayadeva, Parameshwari, Vidya Devi, Zwicka, Hanuman ji, Vani. We are sad to send Gauri Chaitanya and son Hanuman off to nearby town as she found a job in an Indian restaurant. Swami Sitaramananda and staff went to furnish and inaugurate her apartment . In the beginning of the week, we also sent off Krishna ji back to Uruguay after 2 months service here. Swami Sitaramananda accompanied Swami Swaroopananda and Swami Premaswaroopananda, Rukmini and Jnaneshwari to SF for a satsang visit. The weather has become hot and we geared up for the summer with lots of clearing of bushes around the Ashram grounds and installation of new irrigation. The garden is really doing well as we have extra help this week, two Australian farm workers.

Later in June Swami Swaroopananda and Swami Premaswaroopananda visited from the Nassau Retreat. Swaroopananda gave a Questions and Answers session at the San Francisco Centre. Swami Sitaramananda was also in attendance. Attendees asked Swamiji many questions about yoga life and sadhana and the program was very well appreciated by all. Kids Camp was in full swing, with 20 young yogi-campers, led by Kids Camp director Katyayani. Children are having a wonderful time in the warm summer sunshine of the Yoga Farm, enjoying daily asana classes taught by the counsellors, learning about the garden, taking nature walks, creating their own mandalas, and most popular, afternoon pond time. Swami Padmapadananda led some satsangs for the children, sharing stories about yoga teaching and leading the kirtan. The children were blessed with a chanting workshop by local "peace" musician Angelika, who later gave an inspirational concert for the entire Ashram with assistance on some songs from the kids. The Ashram held a successful Ayurveda Massage Rejuvenation Retreat hosted by Ayurvedic specialist Ambika. Guests received massage therapies and consultations, while Ambika gave talks throughout the weekend on daily Ayurvedic routines including a cooking workshop to help with summer cleansing. Staff and Workstudy residents are all doing well, and were able to spend one cooling morning of meditation on the banks of the Yuba River. Om & Prem.

Sivananda Ashram Yoga Ranch, Woodbourne, New York, USA
Om Namo Narayanaya
In early June there was a powerful lightning storm last week, which hit the Ashram. A tree close to Swami Vishnudevananda's trailer was struck by lightning and it power spread through our ground wires, burning out several areas of the Ashram including phones and internet. We are still rebuilding the systems effected. The TTCs completed there second week with some purification tears and many questions. Aashish Khan and Ray Speigel performed a traditional sarod and tabla concert one Friday evening. It was a special concert that brought the meditative atmosphere to the evenings performance.

During mid-June we welcomed Sri Dhira Chaitanya who gave 6 insightful lectures during the daily Satsangs on chapter 3 of the Bhagavad Gita. Sunday evening Elaine Valdov lead the evening Satsang with vigour and enthusiasm in ways we can help with the suffering and conflicts of the world. She inspired many of the students to look into her Yogis Without Borders program and other outreach service. The TTCs completed their 3rd week, and enjoyed the Kriyas lead by Mahadev Chaitanya. We have had beautiful weather, and on the day off many staff and TTCs rallied in a volley ball match! We were also glad to welcome Kanti, staff from the Chicago Centre, to the Ranch for yoga vacation. Staff send Pranams to all!!

Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, Nassau, Bahamas
Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves!
In early June we celebrated the birthday of Swami Swaroopananda with a beautiful ceremony in the temple. Narayan Jyoti put together a slide show of photos of Swami Vishnu and Swami Swaroopananda in earlier years. After the ceremony there was a tasty indian-style feast. The cooking was headed by Dr. Govinda and his wife Pramila. Swami Brahmananda left that evening for Israel for a well-deserved break. June 8th we said goodbye to Krishna Namboodiri and the following day to Swami Swaroopananda, Swami Prema, Rukmini and Jnaneshwari who left for The Yoga Farm in Grass Valley. Staff are making the move from tents to rooms and tents are being taken down to store for the summer.

During mid-June work began on the 'Yamunas', being built beside the 'Gangas' on the oceanside. The Yamunas are scehduled to be completed in time for the upcoming season in December. We are also busy with other renovations to the kitchen storage area and the boutique office and storage. Sita Chaitanya is giving us lovely satsang talks on Life, Love and the benefits of satsang. The morning silent walks have been beautiful lately with no wind and a calm ocean - pure sattva. OM.

Sivananda Ashram, Retreat House, Reith, Tyrol, Austria

Om Namah Sivaya!
Towards the end of May the Retreat House started a new Sivananda Yoga Teachers' Training Course (TTC) and an Advanced Training Course (ATTC) parallely. Most Retreat House staff joined the morning ATTC pranayama. There was plenty of teaching opportunity for all swamis and staff, and a vibrant and calm energy was permeating the Retreat House hill. Yagneshvara Dixit performed an elevating Krishna Murthi Puja with everybody participating in the Abishekam and on Friday an exquisite large Sri Yantra with recitation of the 1000 names of the Divine Mother. Many flowers were offered and a strong and supportive energy filled the satsang hall. Usha Metha, a Sanskrit professor from London, started the first Sanskrit lessons for the ATTC. We held a yogic cooking class for all students on a Sunday afternoon which was informative and relaxing at the same time. Beginning of June about 50 guests arrived for a special program with Swami Durgananda on raja yoga and meditation. Everybody participated in these mind-nourishing lectures. Swamijis practical understanding of yoga was greatly enjoyed. Swami Sivadasananda taught 2 hours-workshops on yoga for the back which were appreciated by long time students and newcomers alike. Dr. Kamlesh gave interesting and entertaining lectures on Ayurveda and Dr. Annika Waldmann from Germany presented lectures on vegetarianism with interesting updates from scientific research on nutrition, the threat of obesity and how a healthy diet can help to prevent disease. For the long Whitsun weekend Swami Durgananda gave a series of lectures on meditation experience. With much humour Swamiji gave deep insights about the various stages of meditation practice. During the evenings we enjoyed beautiful raga music and wisdom from the yogic scriptures. Swami Atmaramanandaji arrived and shared well appreciated asana workshops to the guests as well as some inspiring satsangs. OM.

Sivananda Ashram Meenakshi Ashram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
Om Namo Narayanaya.
In early June our yoga vacation guests enjoyed their stay at the Ashram very much. The staff started a gardening, karma yoga project making the Ashram looking very good. One Saturday we had a beautiful talent show.

During mid-June the yoga vacation guests enjoyed their stay. The staff did lots of gardening and karma yoga. The Ashram looks clean and very inviting. All are well and conveying Pranams to all. OM.


SIVANANDA YOGA VEDANTA CentreS -
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Zentrum, Berlin, Germany

Om Namah Sivaya.
We had several special guest programs: Jyotish, the Vedic Astrology with Stephen Quong, with interesting insights into consciousness and spiritual evolution. An Ayurveda Program with S.K.Kamlesh, Ayurvedaacharya with interesting lecture and a lively and practical cooking class with 45 students. The May weekend retreat with Swami Atmaramananda, 2 hours car drive from Berlin brought a harmonious group of students, many teachers and close people and a few new participants as well. The guiding theme of the weekend was self-observation and self-knowledge, inspiring everybody to look more within. We welcomed Madhavi from Krasnoyarsk (Siberia in Russia), who will stay as a workstudy for 6 weeks. Enrollments for the upcoming TTC and ATTC in Poland are coming in steadily. Swami Atmaramananda gave an interview on Radio Kultur Berlin on physical and spiritual aspects of Yoga, as well as in Die Welt, a major german newspaper, on the Yoga experience in the Ashrams. After receiving a private cooking workshop with Vasudev in the Centre Kitchen, the journalist also included a nice section on vegetarian cooking, with recipe section. Swami Atmaramananda and Ishwara went to Estonia for a weekend retreat and to promote TTC and ATTC in Poland. OM.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Om Namah Sivaya. Hello from Buenos Aires.
In early June we started two beginner courses, both of which were well attended. The main focus was the special programmes. We were happy to welcome Kanti Devi who opened the program about "Yoga, an ancient science for a new civilization". We had yogic activities, special guests teaching about alternative therapies, plus artistic demonstrations in which the teachers and students performed a theatre play and sang devotional chants. The yogic activities were: a 2-day course taught by Kanti Devi based on Shankaracharya´s play "Atmabhoda", one Mantra workshop given by Swami Premananda and two asanas workshops taught by Radha Chaitanya. Patricia Bell and Ananda were invited to give conferences about Flowers for healing and Ayurvedic Massage. We had a very crowded Satsang and then the artistic show. The devotional chant worshiping Krishna, led by Swami Premananda, was deeply emotive.

During mid-June Swami Premananda left for Brazil, where he is going to stay for about two months in charge of the Sivananda Centre in Porto Alegre. We had a Vegetarian Cooking Workshop, led by Shanti Devi, with instructive theory about the proper diet according to the ayurveda principles. After the course we shared the tasty food with the students. Prem & Om to all.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Chennai, India

Om Namah Sivaya to all Blessed Selves from the Chennai Centre.
In early June we experienced another quiet and hot week at the Chennai Centre. People slowly returned from their holidays, incorporating the activities and classes Centre back into their everyday routine. Open classes ran smoothly. A new only-for-ladies Beginners' Course started on Mondays at 9:30 am. Small group of 50% Indian ladies and 50% foreigners. One Saturday we had our first "Variations of the 12 Basic Asanas" workshop with a good number of enthusiastic students. The construction work continued smoothly with some workers on the first floor with the flooring and some on the second floor with the plastering. Some painting was also done.

Mid-June started with a new Beginners' Course at 6:30 pm. In other classes we had a small group of enthusiastic students who have been very regular so far. One Saturday we had a Teachers' Meeting at 4:00 pm. Most of our outside teachers attended. We discussed about a set of guidelines for the Open Class. The idea is that, regardless of our personal way of teaching, we all conduct the class in a similar way. We had our monthly Headstand Workshop which is becoming very popular. We also had a meeting with some of our Life Members and Karma Yogis to discuss about the programme for the inauguration of the new building and to fix in-charge duties. The construction work continued smoothly. We had some rain, very strong winds and … power cuts almost every day. Still, we are all well and send pranams to the Sivananda family.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Chicago, USA

Om Namah Sivaya!
In early June, by Master's and Swamiji's grace, classes and courses continued well. We started new Meditation and Positive Thinking courses. Bhagavad Gita class also restarted after a break. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dwarka Centre, Delhi, India
Om Namah Sivaya
By the master and guru's grace all the activities are going well in the Centre. In early June the mercury reached up to 46 C. We started new beginner's course at 6.30pm with sufficient numbers of students. Our regular classes and satsangs were going very well.

During mid-June we were seeing fewer students at 10am due to the kids holidays. We started a new beginner's course at 6am, with sufficient numbers of students. Staff and few of our students have visited to Vrindhavan for a day yatra. Our regular classes and satsang went very well. By the master and guru's grace all the activities all are well at the Centre. Pranams to all the Sivananda Family. Om Shanti.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Nataraja Centre, Delhi, India
Om Namo Narayanaya
In early June two Yoga-1 class started. A meditation course started on Wednesdays. Students and staff participated in the Satsangs. Summer showed signs if being in its peak in Delhi.

During mid-June one Yoga-1 class started. The Meditation course is progressing well. Many students attended the Satsangs. Prem and Om.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Geneva, Switzerland

Om Namah Sivaya from the Geneva Centre.
Highlight of the month was a programme with the visiting priest: a beautiful Vishnu-Yantra-puja with the repetition of 1000 names of Vishnu uplifted the energy of the Centre. A programme on Ayurveda with Dr. Kamlesh was well received. It included a introduction to Ayurveda as well as a lecture about the three doshas and the use of spices and herbs. Highlight was the cooking class which brought a lot of prana to the Centre as well as new students. We also had a workshop about "Yoga for the back" which included a power-point-show and a plum line-test and a lively Saturday with a headstand-workshop and a TTC-information with new and very open students. Over the long weekend staff went to Reith to participate in the Whitsun retreat and came back inspired and recharged. The work on the new brochure was finished so we could send it to the printer. OM.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Om Namah Sivaya
In early June we started Yoga 1 in the afternoon and weekend for different levels of yoga students. We also introduced the the yogic diet for students by serving lunch and dinner. Students were very interested and stayed for meals after class more and more. They greatly appreciated the teaching and the yogic life style which brought them calmness and peace. The meditation course and Yoga 1 were still running well.

During mid-June was a very blessed time at the Centre. Beside of Yoga 1 is running, we started the yoga 2 with very inspired students who attended meditation course, yoga course and satsang regularly since 3 weeks. The sincerity of the students reminds us of the mission of Guru. In addition, the Centre got more and more foreigners who came for yoga and meditation. We became one of the most visible yoga Centre appearing in the first page of the google searching and it attracts more people too. Students, staffs and Karma yogis enjoy very much the yogic life style which included asana, pranayama, meditation, vegetarian meals and sattvic company. We very appreciated the blessing of Guru to have brought everyone together. We all felt cheerful and peaceful thanks to the blessing of the divine Mother surrounding us. Pranams. Visit our website at sivanandayogavietnam.org

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, London, England
Om Namah Sivaya.
In early June classes and courses continued smoothly with a new Yoga 1 and Yoga 2 starting. We had a wonderful Sarod concert with Partho Saroty one Saturday night which filled the upstairs hall to the maximum and left everyone in a meditative and yet joyful mood. After the end of the TTC the staff had a few days to bring the Centre back in shape and reactivate the normal teaching schedule. The one week Diploma course "Ayurveda – Science of Healing" started with 10 regular students (some of them residential) with an additional number of students participating part time. The main teacher is Ayurveda practitioner Angela Hope-Murray who is a long term student of Dr. Vasant Lad. The weekend focused on the topic "Ayurveda and Nutrition" with two lectures and two cooking classes introducing the principles of yogic vegetarian diet in connection with Ayurveda. The students were very happy with the talks and also appreciated the practical knowledge they gained through the cooking workshops. Sarasvati left to support the special programmes in Geneva and Munich. We thanked her for her dedicated service over the past weeks. Our resident Jnanadev returned inspired and recharged from his stay in the Sivananda Yoga Retreat House in Reith.

During mid-June the "Ayurveda – Science of Healing" diploma course continued with Ayurveda practitioner Angela Hope-Murray who is a long term student of Dr. Vasant Lad. The students were exposed to the basic principals of Ayurveda over five 2-hour workshops. The workshops had both theoretical and practical aspects. Swami Krishnadevananda returned from a lovely stay in Orleans where he assisted with the Sivananda Teacher's Week programme and had some time to rest and recharge. We welcomed Katyayani from Spain as a resident. Staff are well and send OM & Prem to All.

London TTC: The TTCs went through their last teaching week and had a series of Ayurveda lectures with Ayurveda practitioner Angela Hope Murray (who is a student of Dr. Vasant Lad). The students appreciated greatly the talks and cooking demonstration which gave them many practical and useful hints on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Swami Kailasananda guided the Mantra Initiation, almost everyone from the group took a mantra. All passed the final exam and a visibly relaxed group of future teachers enjoyed the graduation ceremony, an Italian feast and the evening Sarod Concert.
The day after, the reorganization of the Centre took place by dismantling bunkbeds and wardrobes and converting dormitories into teaching space. Swami Kailasananda left for Paris. We thank her wholeheartedly for her support and inspiration during the second half of the TTC. Swami Krishnadevananda left for Orleans to support the Teachers' week there.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Los Angeles, California, USA
Om Namo Narayanaya!
In early June we started two new 5 week courses - Meditation 1 with Swami Omkarananda on Tuesday evenings and Yoga 1 with Hanuman on Thursday evenings. In addition to regular asana classes, Felicia Tomasko presented a free workshop one Monday morning 'How to Beat the Heat with Ayurveda'. Swami Omakrananda taught Bhagavad Gita classes. Parameshwari and Chandra led a Headstand practice workshop with video feedback. We held a two week Summer Sale on class and course passes. We prepared for the annual visit of Swami Swaroopananda and Swami Premaswaroopananda from Bahamas Ashram. We hosted an international sufi teacher and his students. It was interesting to learn about another faith's approach to reaching the Divine.

During mid-June the highlight was the visit of Swami Swaroopananda, Swami Premaswaroopananda, Rukmini and Jnaneshwari. Their visit was short but Swami Swaroopananda attended satsang on Sunday night and answered questions, to the delight of the many students who had come. He reminded us of the yoga of '... a little'. By doing everything a little we don't become experts in any particular path of yoga. It is important that we don't become experts - if you become an expert, you empower the arch-enemy, the ego. To neutralize any negative karmas, we have our yoga sadhana - we need to remember to practice with a clear positive intention of the power of the sadhana. He reassured us that no-one should be worried about events in 2012 - what is being experienced is the crisis and chaos that leads to transformation and this transformation will be positive and bright. Om Shanti. Sending our Pranams to all.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Madrid, Spain

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves!
The two main highlights this month were the visit of Dr. Kamlesh and the weekend retreat near Malaga. Dr. Kamlesh gave 3 lectures on Ayurveda and Nutrition, one cooking class and some helpful cooking tips to the staff, in his usual relaxed and humorous mood. Karma yogis and residents supported the Centre with much practical help. Everyone was pleased. Swami Gopalananda returned from a Retreat organized by the Affiliated Sivananda Centre in Lisbon, Portugal. The following weekend saw our retreat in Malaga. A good group of students came, many of them completely new to yoga. The satsangs and conferences were held outside in a semi open tent area. Everyone came back from the retreat rested and re-energized. OM.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Madurai, South India
Om Namah Sivaya
By the grace of God & Guru, Centre ran well in early June. Classes are going well. We had a trial class with thirty students. On Sundays we had Satsangas, with devotees & students all participating.

During mid-June classes went well. We had several new students. On Sundays we had Satsangas. Devotees & students all participated. Staff convey their Pranams to all. Om Shanti.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Milano, Italy

Om Namah Sivaya
In early June the staff and students were well and happy. The weekend attendance became much slower as the Milanese started to head to the mountains for the summer season. Om Namo Narayanaya.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Montevideo, Uruguay

Om Namah Sivaya
Om Shanti to all!!

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Om Namah Sivaya
All is well at the Montreal Centre. Early June was quite busy at our Centre. We had hot and humid days, almost every day. The nights were colder, allowing us for a better and restorative sleep. The morning Satsangs were having more attendance than before, with some new regular students coming daily. We had our regular Wednesday and Sunday Satsangs, with staff and students attending. Our new Facebook page has already 461 friends as of today, with numbers growing every day. One Sunday, the workshop entitled "How Yoga Works", led by Geshe Michael Roach (author of the best-seller The Diamond Cutter) had an attendance of over 50 people on Sunday and 60 people on Monday. It was very inspiring. We received many positive feedbacks. All went well and running smoothly thanks to the collaborative team of dedicated karma yogis who clean, do reception and teach classes, among other tasks. May the guru's blessings be with us all. Pranams.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Munich, Germany

Om Namah Sivaya from the Munich Centre!
In the last weeks we had a positive thinking weekend course and a meditation weekend course. For a preparation day for the yoga teachers training course a group of very nice people came to the Centre. In a cooking class with the special topic "office food" we demonstrated how to prepare quick yogic dishes for the office lunch. Participants of our monthly Open House were able to take part in a full program with yoga class, asana demonstration, lecture, meditation introduction and cooking workshop. OM.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, New York, USA
Om Namah Sivaya!
Early June brought much activity within the Centre. We hosted a beautiful seminar on Non-violent communication with Thom Bond, the director of the NYC NVC Centre. On the 4th of June, the Open House was very successful and most of the 21 people stayed throughout the whole day. We had two workshops - a cooking workshop and Living Without Fear workshop that the students gave very positive feedback on. We continued making small additions to the garden out front and back. The Sivananda room now has all new lighting and a fresh coat of paint.

During mid-June Shanti began to teach more and began both a Yoga 1 course and taught her first Saturday workshop, Opening of the Heart. Kumari went to a residential seminar as a follow-up to the Non-Violent Communication Discovery weekend that was held at the Centre in May. Many teachers, karma yogi's and students began their summer travels so we have many new people coming in to help out. And we have been truly appreciating the respite that the back garden provides in these summer months. All staff are sending pranams to all the Sivananda family.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Paris, France

Om Namah Sivaya.
It was an auspicious month at the Paris Centre with the 3-day special programme "Dharma - the path to harmony" bringing a refined and sweet energy to the Centre. Swami Durgananda's loving presence in the Centre and her insightful lectures on the topic of "Swara Yoga - the cosmic flow of breath" were a source of inspiration and support for the continued sadhana of staff and students. Swami Kailasananda guided students further into their asana practise during two much appreciated classes emphasizing breath consciousness and increased concentration in the asanas. The evenings were beautifully enriched by discourses on the meaning of life accompanied by classical Indian ragas. The end of the program was followed by the start of a program on Ayurveda with Dr. Kamlesh. In two informative lectures, an introduction into the science of Ayurveda was given and students received practical advice on how to cook a balanced, vegetarian meal during the cooking workshop. Pranams to all. Om Shanti.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Porto Alegre, Uruguay, South America

Om Namah Sivaya from Porto Alegre
In early June we continued working in advertising, with two young students KY. We installed an air conditioning unit in the asana hall. The students enjoyed begin the class in an appropriated atmosphere. The winter weather has been some days cold but some days sunny, which is very good. We enjoyed our garden during the sunny moments. We welcomed Shivadas (TTC 2011 Garopaba) who will stay for one month in the Centre, then visit for few days of Narada TTC 2010 Garopaba and long time karma yogi and an excellent naturist cook.

During mid-June the winter in Porto Alegre was very humid, a little rain but not cold. Classes are OK; teachers and student were very kind. We continued working in advertising, with the two young students KY. We concentrated on it. Our Temporary staff arrived, with the good news of a scholarship for doing their master degree in business, and we are alone with the Masters again. Kanti Devi will arrive soon and Swami Premamanda from Buenos Aires also. We did a promotion - a Special Satsang of Kanti Devi and new leaflets with beautiful activities from Swamiji of Meditation Course and assorted workshops in July and August. Swami Prem will stay in Porto Alegre from 26 of June to 15 August. Pranams to all.

Centro Yoga Vedanta Sivananda, Rome, Italy

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves
In early June we were happy to have Nataraj from Neyyar Dam and Kalyani arriving. We appreciated their help and presence at the Centre very much. We had a nice teachers' meeting one Sunday followed by an advanced class, satsang and dinner after the satsang. The teachers were positive and they are helping nicely. Om & Prem to the Sivananda Family from the Rome Centre.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, San Francisco, California, USA
Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves
In early June we experienced amazing energy from the practice and service here at the Centre. After a very busy few weeks we took advantage of the reprise to focus on sadhana and rejuvenation. Bhagavad Gita, Yoga, and Meditation Courses continued steadily. Open classes were strong, too. Renovations and clean-up continued.

During mid-June, after a very busy few weeks, we took advantage of the reprise to focus on sadhana and rejuvenation. Bhagavad Gita, Yoga, and Meditation Courses continued steadily on and open classes are strong too. Renovations and clean-up continue as well as tuning-up new and past TTC grads for teaching classes. Everyone's doing well! Pranams to all from San Francisco Centre.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel

Om Namah Sivaya.
Blessings and Peace to all the Sivananda Family.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Tokyo, Japan

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves.
In early June we started two Yoga 1 courses. An Ayurveda workshop, Reiki workshop, Basic Postures and Senior Citizens workshops were taught by our senior teachers, and attended by students as well as teachers. Details of the inauguration were discussed during the Saturday Karma Yogis Meetings. A new gentle Yoga class was started. Noriko-Narayani was training the staff. Also an Ayurveda workshop, by Kalyani, was introduced along with 12 basic posture workshop by Kuni. The Sunday Free Trial Class was attended by 17 students. We were happy to welcome Hozumi after her staff time in Neyyar Dam. Inauguration fliers were distributed by few Karma Yogis. Visit our website at
www.sivananda.jp OM.

A Special Report of the Inauguration of the new Tokyo Centre -

Om Namah Sivaya,
Sunday, June 26 2011 was the official inauguration of Tokyo Sivananda Centre. For this event we were blessed with the presence of Swami Mahadevananda, Prahlada and Gopala from the Organization Headquarters at the Yoga Camp.

The Tokyo Centre is situated in the heart of the city, in the Koenji district. Koenji is an alternative type area with lots of artsy shops, Indian restaurants, and local stores. It has a relax atmosphere which welcomes the yogic way of living in a metropolis like Tokyo. Koenji district is very close to Shinjuku Station, which is the busiest station in Tokyo, making the Centre accessible to a large crowd of commuters. The Centre comprises of a 3-story building with 2 floors for asana. The building is only five years old, so quite new. The only renovation done was new flooring, nice large pine wood planks, giving a very sattvic feeling to the place. The Centre is run by Mani Chaitanya (Asia director), Narayan-Noriko and Mahadeva Mario (local directors), Chandrika-Hiromi and RamaPriya-Kazue are residential staff, together creating a wonderful team of karma yogis. The Tokyo weather was happy to oblige for the official inauguration day. We were gifted with a cool cloudy day, which was very welcome change from hot and humid.

On Opening Day Prahlada led three asana classes in the morning, all with jet lag of 12 hours from the previous day. Each class was full capacity, with 28 people per class. The essence of keeping the tradition and Swamiji's purity of teachings explained and well received by students, showing their eagerness for classical Hatha Yoga and appreciation for the classes.

A welcoming slideshow was offered, as well as a charity collection for disaster victims in North Japan. A flea market was also set in the morning, all for for greeting the local residents. In the afternoon an authentic Ganapati Puja was directed by Panda-ji, a well know Orissa Brahmin in Tokyo. Swami Mahadevanandaji and Prahlada did an offering in the name of Swami Vishnudevananda. The official ribbon cut ceremony was next, with the cutting made by Swami Mahadevananda, Prahlada and Swami Medhasananda of Ramakrishna Organization in Japan. Following this was a series of talks by Swami Mahadevananda, Swami Medhasananda, Mr. Cetana, a scholar and a disciple of Swami Dayananda Saraswati and Mr. Naruse Aroud, a Japanese author who has translated some of Swami Sivanandandaji's books into Japanese. Around 110 persons attended the deep, light hearted talks of humor and true knowledge. Every one stayed in the room - no one wanted to move. Without any break people stayed on to a beautiful Satsang, given by Swami Mahadevanandaji where he delivered a beautiful speech on how happy Swami Vishnudevananda would be to open a Centre in Japan. The ambiance was electrifying with huge prana from the Gurus. Everyone of the 120 guests enjoyed the event. It seemed Master and guru's pictures were smiling and content. They were pleased and very happy.

We finalized the night with a Indian Classical Music Concert with santoor, played by Jimmy Miyashita and tabla, by Yuko. We were excited that many of the local neighbors arrived for the concert which felt like a taste of grace at the end of the day.

The next morning a staff satsang was led by Prahlada, joined by Swami Mahadevanandaji for a staff meeting, where the future of the Centre was discussed giving clear official instructions on the protocol of a Sivananda Centre and the motivation for keeping Swamiji's teachings alive. He was able to thank the core staff for their efforts in bringing the Tokyo Centre to life. An amazing team as built showing a strong tie to the spirit of Sivananda message of Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate, Realize. Narayan-Noriko, Mahadeva-Mario and Ishan will be acting as the local directors, living next door to the Centre in a rented condominium. They have already put their heart and soul into the opening ceremonies making it a beautiful event. Other staff members, Chandrika and Ramapriya, worked very hard to make sure that everything went smoothly. All their work was selfless and inspiring to others. Sivakami, who ran the previous temporary Tokyo Centre in the heart of Shinjyuku for 3 years, was very helpful in every step of the transition to new location. She was an instrumental person in arranging inauguration and logistics. Gopala has now joined the team from YogaCamp/Denver, USA, to help with the teachings and the running the Centre. His talents for creating short films for youtube has been a valuable tool for the Centre.

Next, Swami Mahadevananda, Narayani-Noriko, Ishan and Mahadeva-Mario took the Shinkansen (rapid train) to Osaka were they led a workshop and satsang. This event was organized by Sivaram-Takeshi and his wife Nana Chizuru with the direction of Narayani-Noriko. 90 people attended, it was again a huge success thinking that we could get this amount of people in less then 30 days. The following day another seminar was conducted in Kyoto. Lakshimi Miyuki organized this on the direction of Narayani Noriko. About 40 people attended. Lakshimi surprised the crowd with her Bhakti presence while singing two magnificent bhajans. The following day Swami Mahadevananda visited a few temples and shrines before heading back to Tokyo. The visits were short and sweet. Everyone enjoyed it.

To see this huge response from the people of Japan really shows us the necessity of yoga in this society. Now we can feel the urge of spiritual yoga. The amazing work of everyone involved and the spirit of Swami Sivananda and Vishnudevananda will rise in Japan like never before. The message of Swami Sivananda and Swami Vishnudevananda will come to fill a huge hole in the needs of this society. The people are receptive and attentive to the words of the teachings and practice of yoga. They like it and will ask for more.
Om Shanti from all at the Tokyo Centre.

info@sivananda.jp

A slideshow of the Tokyo Centre Open House - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAKUEB9hlCo

A 14:34min movie of the Tokyo Centre Open House with Sw. Vishnudevananda archives to begin - http://youtu.be/S5R8ZG17gKc

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Om Namah Sivaya.
In early June we started a new Y2 course. The rest of the courses continued with good number of students attending. The Open Classes saw an increase in attendance, keeping us busy. We had the very popular weekly dinner on Tuesdays, with 17 students. A nice group of students attended our morning Satsangs. During one Friday Satsang, Saraswati talked about Practice of Truth. One Saturday we had our famous Indian Vegetarian Cooking Workshop with Jeeva, where students learned very basic and delicious recipes of South Indian style. We offered a busy free introductory class and advanced class followed by a very heartwarming Satsang and with a baby shower for two of our teachers. Lots of teachers and students came to join us with all their love and sweets. Saraswati gave a nice talk about the duty of mothers and family followed by a dinner. Prahlada left for Yoga Camp for summer preparation of the Camp and for the Sadhana Intensive. Kalyani was working on various advertising projects for the Centre and the Camp. Saraswati finalised the Yoga Camp Ashram special guests programme, boutique supplies and Kids Camp preparations. Masao continued to inspire us with his discipline and dedication to Sadhana.

During mid-June we had a new Y1 and Y2 starting. At this time of the year the Centre was extremely busy compared to previous years. We had busy weekend of cooking workshop "Weight-loss & Improving Digestion" a part of the five cooking workshop series and "Inversion Beyond Headstand" both with good attendance. Open class continued to be very busy. 5:00 and 6:30 classes on Mondays were filled with students almost full capacity. A new Krishna Murti was installed at Shambdas Hall with a help of our devotees It was introduced to the audiences during our Friday Satsangs. Pranams to all.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Trivandrum, Kerala, South India
Om Namah Sivaya!
By the grace of our Gurus all the activities of the Centre continued on smoothly in early June. One Saturday we had Kriya workshop with 22 students. On Fridays we had Lalithasahasranama Archana poojas. On Sundays we offered public Satsangs at 6:00 PM.

During mid-June we started morning beginners class with 22 students and in the evening we have started Meditation class with 15 students, conducted by Surendran Ji. On Sunday evenings we had Public Satsangs with Kappor Ji from Delhi. Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Vienna, Austria

Om Namah Sivaya.
This month the Centre saw an inspiring special program with Ayurveda Acharya S.K.Kamlesh, who gave lectures to the topic as well as the dynamic cooking course. Highlight was the arrival of three new residents of the Centre from North India: white marble Murthis of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Laxmi and Goddess Saraswati arrived from Jaipur. OM.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Vilnius, Lithuania

Om Namah Sivaya, from Vilnius.
In early June a Sudarshan Yantra puja was performed and priest Yagneshwara chanted 1008 names of Lord Vishnu. Energy was very high. The students enjoyed it a lot. We were happy to have two karma yogis that helped with maintenance projects like painting boutique area and corridor, repairing and painting the window sills. Newsletters in three languages were mailed. We made lots of greeting and reminder phone calls to all sivananda teachers and regular students of Lithuania. An outside sign of the yoga Centre was installed and looks good. Marija and Brigita joined us as a work study staff. OM.

Samadhi is the most excellent form of tapas (austerity).  This is incessant Tapas.  This is glorious, sublime, lofty Tapas. It is Tapas of Tapas. - Sri Swami Sivananda

 
 
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