Truth is One, Paths are Many

We appreciate the world’s faiths, recognizing the underlying unity and celebrating the diversities. While we may draw inspiration from spiritual sources, the core teachings of Sri Swami Satchidananda and the practices of Integral Yoga form the basis of our path and yogic lifestyle.

The Integral Yoga Lifestyle Principles are based upon the overall code of ethical precepts, Yama and Niyama, as presented in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.

Diversity of perspectives and the “rubbing and scrubbing” that we may experience in various situations serve as opportunities to  teach us how to work through differences, purify the ego, and to promote spiritual growth.

The Goal of Integral Yoga

The goal of Integral Yoga and the birthright of every individual is to realize the spiritual unity behind all the diversities in the entire creation and to live harmoniously as members of one universal family. This goal is achieved by maintaining our natural condition of:

A body of optimum health and strength

Senses under total control

A mind well disciplined, clear and calm

An intellect as sharp as a razor

A will as strong and pliable as steel

A heart full of unconditional love and compassion

An ego as pure as crystal

A life filled with Supreme

Peace and Joy

Attain this through asanas, pranayama, self-discipline, selfless action, mantra repetition, meditation, study, and reflection.

Yama

Ahimsa — non-violence in thoughts, words, and deeds, refraining from profanity, threatening remarks, violent topics, etc. Our intention is to benefit at least someone and harm no one.

Satya — truthfulness

Brahmacharya — moderation

Asteya — non-stealing

Aparigraha — non-greed

Niyama

Saucha — purity

Santosha — contentment

Tapas — purifying spiritual gold, “rubbing and scrubbing”

Svadhyaya — Self study

Isvarapranidhana — surrender

Sadhana

(Spiritual practices)

We study Yoga philosophy to inform our practices. To gain full benefit from the Yogic lifestyle we regularly practice asana (physical poses), pranayama (breathing practices), and concentration leading into meditation.

Karma Yoga 

We approach all our activities as Karma Yoga—selfless service or an action that brings benefit to someone and harm to no one. During our service we relate with respect, understanding, and compassion, striving to be unattached to the results of our actions. We are mastering perfection in action by cultivating an easeful, peaceful, and useful attitude. 

“The dedicated ever enjoy Supreme Peace. Therefore, live only to serve.” – Sri Gurudev

Healthy Living

To keep our bodies and minds healthy, Integral Yogis follow a nutritious vegetarian diet. We don’t eat meat, poultry, fish or eggs, and we use dairy products in moderation. We use organic produce.

Before eating meals, we offer a prayer of gratitude to Mother Nature. We strive to eat consciously and moderately.

We abstain from alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, or illegal drugs, on and off grounds. These substances are not beneficial to our health and well-being. If an Ashramite is suspected of engaging in substance abuse, the Administration reserves the right to intervene as it deems appropriate.

Relationships

 According to the Integral Yoga teachings, sexual moderation (for those who have not chosen to be celibate) is recommended so as to preserve the vital energy. Yogaville is a community devoted to spiritual disciplines. In order to remain focused on the practices, residential program participants should not become involved in intimate/romantic relationships.

Environmental Awareness

We respect our environment, recognizing the cosmic force in all forms of life. We endeavor to treat animal, insect, and plant life gently. We strive to:

– use Mother Earth’s resources wisely

– treat all objects with care

– recycle glass, plastic, aluminum cans, paper, and cardboard.

– walk or use bicycle if possible

– work together to keep Yogaville clean, beautiful and well maintained.

– not waste food, water or electricity

Philosophy

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

A collection of 196 sutras (aphorisms) on the theory and practice of Yoga. The Yoga Sutras were compiled prior to 400 CE by Sage Patanjali who synthesized and organized knowledge about Yoga from older traditions.

The Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita  “Song of God” – is a Sanskrit scripture from the Mahabharata epic. For its religious depth, quintessential Upanishadic and Yogic philosophy and beauty of verse, the Bhagavad Gita is one of the most compelling and important texts in our tradition. It is considered by many to be one of the world’s greatest religious and spiritual scriptures.