Living in an ashram can be a transformative experience, allowing you to slow down, reconnect, and reflect on life. But when you witness true bliss or divinity, it transcends words—it becomes something deeply personal and profound. This is precisely what I found during my time at the Sivananda Ashram, nestled in the lush green valleys of Kerala.
The Sivananda Teacher Training Course isn’t just about learning yoga postures or philosophy; it’s a holistic immersion into all four paths of yoga, brought to life through daily practice. It’s not about just reading the scriptures but living them. Here’s what makes this program truly unique:
Bhakti Yoga: You are gently guided into devotion and surrender to the divine, experiencing the joy of kirtans and prayers that stir something deep within.
Jnana Yoga: The teachings of Indian philosophy and the Bhagavad Gita are profound. This isn’t just an intellectual study—it’s a way of understanding and applying these timeless truths to your own life.
Raja Yoga: The disciplined practice of asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises) sharpens your mind and brings a sense of balance and calm you might not have thought possible.
Karma Yoga: The simple, humble tasks you take up every day—whether cleaning, cooking, or gardening—teach you the essence of selflessness and humility. These moments of service feel as meaningful as meditation itself.
This course is not just about becoming a yoga teacher; it’s about becoming a better human being. It gives you life skills that will serve you beyond the yoga mat, helping you live with mindfulness, compassion, and resilience. Most importantly, it’s a chance to turn inward, to look honestly at yourself and identify the areas you need to work on—physically, mentally, and spiritually.
I initially chose this course to deepen my understanding of the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta philosophy. But what I received was so much more than just knowledge. The entire ashram environment teaches you not through sermons or lectures but through silent observation and practice. Every moment becomes an opportunity for growth.
One of the hidden gems of this program—and something that completely surpassed my expectations—was the chance to participate in the age-old traditions at the historic Devi temple within the ashram. The daily chanting and rituals create a deeply spiritual atmosphere, but the highlight for me was witnessing the recitation of the Lalitha Sahasranama. Hearing the thousand names of the Divine Mother chanted with such devotion and precision was a soul-stirring experience. It brought a deep sense of connection to the sacred and left me with a lasting sense of peace and gratitude.
If you are looking for more than just a certification—if you are searching for personal transformation, inner peace, and a deeper connection with yourself and the divine—this course is a path worth walking. The Sivananda Ashram is not just a place; it’s a journey into the essence of yoga and life itself.
– Deepti Dubey
A yog Sadhak, teacher, who passionately shares her journey of self discovery to inspire others on their own path.
