Bhakti Yoga Retreat in India
Experience authentic traditional ashram living. Every year and as part of our 2 year Yoga Teacher Training program there is retreat held in Anandamayi Ma ashram in India. There are a number of places on the retreat for students known to yogaphysio who would like to attend.
The ashram of Anandamayi Ma in Omkareshwar was set up by Swami Kedarnath Saraswati (Baba) and is eighty kilometres south of Indore.Built picturesquely on the side of a hill leading down to the banks of the river, “Mata Anandamayi Tapo Bhumi” (Meditation and Austerity Site) was established as a meditation retreat for those who wish to spend time in a beautiful natural setting.
There are five temples on the premises; one of Anandamayi Ma, another of Lord Shiva, one of Sri Narmada Mata, and two small welcoming shrines of Sri Hanuman and Bhairav Shiva at the two entrances of the ashram.
"This trip felt to me like traveling to the heart of Indian culture and history. Omkareshwar is an ancient site with historic temples where you get a feel of how old yet alive this culture really is. I have never before felt so vibrant and connected as during my time in India. I learnt so much about yoga in such a short time, simply by being immersed in it. Finding spirituality everywhere, meeting inspiring people, participating in cultural and religious events... Every day was full of wonder and new discoveries, every minute brought new joys and mind-provoking experiences.
India's diversity will excite any traveller, but this trip gave us more than that. Far away from the beaten track and touristy destinations, we not only got much closer to Indian spirituality than I had dared to hope for - we were given the chance to actually immerse ourselves in it. We received teachings from numerous Swamis and other wise and learned people. The whole trip was authentic and life-changing with the insights that were provided by this immersion. People, animals, places were external factors, while spiritual lessons (Satsang), chanting (Kirtan), meditation and yoga asana as internal factors - everything encouraged self-discovery, stepping far beyond the comfort zone.
It was a unique experience and because it was so special I can't wait to do it again - because I'm sure the next time will be just as new and unique as this first time." (Participant - Billi)
Domestic flights will be arranged to connect with your international flight or earlier stay in India. Arrival in Indore on 2 Jan should be planned. We will travel by taxi to Omkareshwar on 3 Jan. Various outings and post retreat tours will be organised in conjunction with Omkar Tours.
The prospective retreat program 2013 is as follows:
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Standard Retreat Day: 7 - 15 Jan, 2013 Retreat days will be held in silence (muona) |
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Standard Program |
Alternative Option |
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5.00 Rise - no bell |
Morning Aarti |
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5.30 Pranayama & Meditation (Tam) |
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7.00 Agni Hotra |
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7.30 Breakfast |
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8.00 Karma yoga & Self care |
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9.15 – 11.15 Supervised asana practice (Tam) |
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11.15 – 11.45 Meditation 12.00 Lunch |
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13.00 Free Time/ Meditation in caves or under snake tree |
Meet with Tam as required |
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16.00 Talk with Swami’s |
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17.30 Dinner |
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18.00 Satsang with Baba (if in Ashram) |
Meditation |
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19.30 Aarti & Kirtan 20.45 Silence & Meditation 21.00 Rest |
Silent meditation in room |
