10-Day Classical Yoga Retreat in India
16 March - 25 March
Immerse yourself in a unique Yoga Ashram experience along the banks of the sacred Ganges River, in the foothills of the Indian Himalayan Mountains
RETREAT SUMMARY
This experience is an immersion into the tranquil Ashram life, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We have specifically chosen an Ashram which is just outside of Rishikesh, nestled in nature.
Our days here revolve around an itinerary of daily meditations, breath-work, yogic cleansing techniques, asana (yogic movement classes), seva (karma yoga), scenic nature walks, rest time, discussions, puja (sunset blessing rituals) and chanting.
Some of the highlights include a purification and blessing ritual in the sacred Ganges River, as well as a traditional Havan Fire Ceremony.
During our retreat, we will be going on an exciting excursion into Rishikesh itself, the birthplace of yoga. Prepare to be awe-struck by temples, saris, cows, vegan cafes, shopping extravaganza, bookshops, yoga jewellery, and a rich diversity of people like you have never seen.
This unique 10 day retreat is with Ryan and Fran, within which we participate in a 6 day traditional Ashram Yoga programme.
DATE: 16 March to 25 March 2024
16 March – Participants arrive at Ashram (12:00 midday)
16 to 25 March – Stay at Ashram for yoga retreat, including an excursion to Rishikesh
25 March – Participants depart from Ashram (12:00 midday)
HIGHLIGHTS
- 10 day yoga retreat with Ryan and Fran, within which we participate in a 6 day traditional Ashram Yoga programme
- Daily yoga-asana (movement) classes, meditations, mantra, breath-work, cleansing techniques, discussions, walks, reflection time
- A transformative facilitated process with Ryan and Fran, adding tools to your yogic toolbox
- Integrating yogic practices into a lifestyle to take home with you
- Skillfully facilitated for all levels of experience (from the absolute beginner to the seasoned yogi)
- Rishikesh excursion, shopping and sight seeing
- Ceremonial purification and blessing ritual in the sacred Ganges River
- Traditional havan fire ceremony
- Daily sunset puja (traditional Hindu blessing) and kirtan chanting
- Delicious Indian vegetarian cuisine
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Temple Puja / Pooja: Each evening we gather at the heart of the Ashram for a sunset ritual followed by Kirtan (devotional chanting).
Ritual Bathing in the Ganges River: Participants join together in a ritual on the banks of the sacred “Mother Ganga” near the Ashram and spend personal time meditating on the banks of the river.
Bonfire Celebration: This is a joyous evening and creative time for sharing our diverse cultures in song, dance and much laughter.
Havan Fire Ceremony: Havan is the term for a sacred purifying ritual in Hinduism that involves a fire ceremony. We make a ritual sacrifice to the fire god, Agni, by offering seven kinds of wood into the sacred fire.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- All accommodation for duration of retreat
- 3 vegetarian meals a day
- 10 day yoga retreat with Ryan and Fran, within which we participate in a 6 day traditional Ashram Yoga programme
- Daily meditation classes
- Daily yoga asana (movement) classes
- Daily chanting and mantra sessions
- Sunset puja (blessing ritual)
- Morning cleansing techniques and breathwork
- Yoga nidra (deep relaxation)
- Silent nature walks / meditations
- Enough free time to relax, explore and integrate
- Ritual purification in the Ganges River
- Rishikesh excursion, including transport
- Group discussions and lectures
- Facilitated integration processes
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Transport to and from the Ashram
- Lunch on excursion day into Rishikesh
- Ayurvedic massages and treatments at the Ashram
- Personal items such as medication and snacks
ACCOMMODATION & FOOD
Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, surrounded by mountains and nature, we have selected this ashram for many reasons – one being the tranquil and quiet setting, away from the bustling noise of the city.
This is one of the best Yoga Ashrams just outside Rishikesh, situated in the North of India in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains.
We welcome you to feel the ancient vibration for yourself, that so many people notice when they first set foot on this holy land. The ever-flowing song of Mother Ganga (Ganges River) can be heard throughout your stay, always calling to invite you into her sacred waters.
- Each room offers a comfortable bed (sharing and private options available) with bed linen and blankets provided
- All rooms have an attached private bathroom with Western-style flush toilet and water-hose
- Includes storage space for your belongings, power socket and ceiling fan
- Rooms have a balcony with wonderful views of the Ganges River and garden
- 3 delicious Indian vegetarian meals a day are included, prepared by in-house Ashram cook (vegan option available)
- Meals are based on Ayurveda principles, and are good for gut health and longevity
ITINERARY
EXAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE
05:30 Wake-up bell
06:00 Meditation
06:30 Chanting
06:45 Jala Neti (sinus cleansing)
07:00 Pranayama (breathing techniques)
07:15 Yoga (asana) Class
09:00 Breakfast
10:00 Karma Yoga (selfless service)
10:30 Meditative Nature Walk
13:00 Lunch & Tea
13:30 Rest & Free Time
16:00 Lecture & Discussion
17:00 Yoga (asana) Class
[Sunset time] Temple Pooja (Ritual), Chanting & Bhajans
19:30 Dinner
20:30 Guided Meditation
Please note that this is an example of the daily programme, and it will be different on certain days (opening and closing days, excursion in Rishikesh, ritual bathing in the Ganges River).
See below for a detailed explanation of the elements of our retreat programme …
ELEMENTS OF THE RETREAT
Mauna (Silence): Silence begins after the evening meditation and is maintained until after lunch the following day. All meals are taken in silence as this allows attendees to focus on their own inner journey.
Meditation: We offer a wide variety of techniques and styles to help attendees find one that suits their personal energy and lifestyle. We often also chant “Om” together until it dissolves and then sit quietly with the vibrations.
Guided nature walks: Guided walks are done in silence, allowing students to practice breath and body awareness, as well as becoming aware of the sounds, smells and feel of the surrounding nature. Our nature excursions include Ganga River walk, waterfall walk, ritual bathing in Mother Ganga, walk to Him River, garden tour
Hatha Yoga: The asana practices of Hatha Yoga are primarily done to prepare the body and mind for meditation. By focusing on the breath these movements become movement meditation. An important benefit of asana practice is the function of each pose to heal the body in different ways.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga: It is an active practice, requiring continuous movement flowing with the rhythm of the breath. A modified, less vigorous approach is presented in the retreat.
Yogic Cleansing: Jala Neti (nasal cleansing with warm salt water) helps to relieve allergies, colds, and sinusitis. It removes pollutants thus maintaining good health of the ears, eyes and throat.
Pranayama (breathing exercises): These practices energise the body and balance the flow of prana (life force energy) throughout the body. This allows us to channel our energy in a more creative way, allowing for healing and inner peace.
Lecture and Discussion: Introduction to the basics of Yoga philosophy, yogic techniques and practices, group discussions, questions and answers.
Laughter Yoga: Laughter Yoga was created to relieve stress and pent up emotions. The aim of Laughter Yoga is to bring good health, joy and world peace.
Grounding Dance: This dance is performed after Laughter Yoga sessions. Usually people feel energized and joyful, but sometimes deep emotions or memories can surface. Dancing to the drum beats from Africa and India a person is able to stabilise and ground him/herself in the present moment.
Mantra chanting: Mantra means a sound, or a combination of sounds uttered in a specific way. There are different types of mantras. Every mantra activates a particular kind of energy in a different part of the body. While chanting Sanskrit mantras, the sound is more important than the meaning.
COST
ZAR prices for those residing and earning in Southern African or other developing nations
USD prices for those residing and earning in developed nations with “first world” economies
Tier 1 – 1 May to 30 June 2023
50% deposit secures your spot | Balance by 30 December | Surcharge for late payments
- Sharing room, private bathroom – ZAR 17 950 / USD 1190
- Private room, private bathroom – ZAR 22 950 / USD 1520
Tier 2
50% deposit secures your spot | Balance by 30 December | Surcharge for late payments
- Sharing room, private bathroom – ZAR 21 350 / USD 1420
- Private room, private bathroom – ZAR 27 350 / USD 1810
Optional add on – Yoga Retreat Kit
- Handloom India cotton yoga/meditation mat, jala neti “pot” for morning sinus cleansing, mala for chanting and meditation, handcrafted journal – ZAR 1 250 / USD 200
BOOKINGS CLOSE 30 DECEMBER 2023:
If we still have space, bookings after this date will be charged on Tier 3
Late booking additional surcharge of ZAR 2 500 / USD 150
CANCELLATION POLICY
– deposits are non-refundable
– 50% refund* on balance paid after deposit if cancelled by participant before 15 September 2023
– 25% refund* on balance paid after deposit if cancelled by participant between 16 September and 15 December 2023
– 0% refund* on balance paid after deposit if cancelled by participant after 15 December 2023
– if the retreat is cancelled by the organisers, you will receive a full refund*
*5% admin fee will be withheld on all refunds
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU IN INDIA
Please email fran@tuningin.co.za with any questions