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Published: November 17th 2007
Hari Om,
That is the yogic greeting at the ashram. It is in reference to the supreme powers in the universe.
Life at the ashram is peaceful and quite beautiful. The setting is amazing. I walk out my front door to see the beautiful countryside framed with an interesting range of small mountains. The mountains and entire area are said to be very sacred and devotees of Lord Shiva make pilgrimages here from all over India. The weather is perfect right now. It is cool in the mornings and in the evenings and sunny and warm during the day. The ashram is run by an amazing group of very selfless volunteers. They are all very kind and happy and the mood spreads like wild fire.
Our days start at 5:30am with herbal tea. I thought that not having the coffee fix I am so accustomed to would be hard. Though, after a couple days of a mild headache, I have been fine. After tea, we spend time chanting mantras and meditating. From 6:30 to 8:30 we practice yoga positions, called asanas. After asanas, we have a healthy Indian style breakfast and more herbal tea. Next, we have lectures about yoga. One
lecture a day is given by the guru at the ashram. He is a very intelligent and tuned in kind of guy. He is also warm and funny. I really like his talks. During this time we also practice a special relaxation/meditation called yoga nidra. Next, we have lunch, very tasty and healthy. Our diet is vegetarian and traditional. After lunch, we have a bit of free time to study and and relax. In the afternoon we do karma yoga, which is selfless acts. We do chores around the ashram. I have weeded the garden, typed on the computer, organized the shop, and cleaned. After this, we do two more hours of asana practice, followed by dinner. In the late evening, we meet and discuss our day or anything relevant. Usually, this means people complaining about thier aches and pains and getting advice from the volunteers. Finally, they they tell us inspirational stories related to our study and we do some final chanting. Bed time is 10:30, but I try to be asleep by 9:30. I want to rest up to be fresh for the next day of yoga and inspiration.
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Chris and Sonya
non-member comment
Hari Om to you!
Wow! What an amazing experience! It looks like a very restful place. Those instructors look very limber! :-) We were glad to hear that Sean made it safely home and is feeling better. We continue to keep you both in our prayers. Can't wait for your safe return, as well. Take care... Love, Chris and Sonya