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.
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.
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
Diversity of perspectives and the “rubbing and scrubbing” that we may experience in various situations serve as opportunities to purify the ego, teach us how to work through differences, and to promote spiritual growth.
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.
Through the Integral Yoga approach, the spiritual energy within (kundalini) awakens naturally. We do not support practices that aim at forcefully awakening this energy prematurely.
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 through relaxed concentration.
Sometimes we serve together for special community events, holiday meals, and group projects.
“The dedicated ever enjoy Supreme Peace. Therefore, live only to serve.” – Sri Gurudev
Healthy Living
To keep our bodies and minds healthy and fit for meditation and service, Integral Yogis follow a nutritious vegetarian diet. To stay healthy and to practice non-violence, we don’t eat meat, poultry, fish or eggs, and we use dairy products in moderation. As much as possible, we use organic produce.
Before eating meals, we offer a prayer of gratitude to Mother Nature. We strive to eat consciously and moderately. Ashramites—including residential program participants—maintain a vegetarian diet on and off Ashram grounds.
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.
Integral Yoga subscribes to natural healing modes, as well as to allopathic methods, and we encourage our sangha to consult health-care professionals for guidance. We offer daily prayers for the well being of all.
Professional massage and other healing arts are available from independent practitioners whose information is available in the black binders located in Guest Services, the Academy lounge and Sivananda Hall lobby. Massage is performed only in designated areas and not in Ashram public areas.
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—Ashram Yogis/Support Staff/LYTs—should not become involved in intimate/romantic relationships.
It is not appropriate for anyone residing, visiting, or serving at Yogaville to pursue residential program participants with the intention of establishing a romantic and/or intimate relationship. In support of this policy and to help maintain a sattvic environment, people are asked to refrain from public displays of affection, and sexual activity.
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
To insure that cleanliness is maintained, Ashramites’ living quarters may be checked periodically.
Philosophy
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 “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.
Miscellaneous
Please refrain from proselytizing.
We choose entertainment that is wholesome, uplifting.
Dress neatly and modestly. Read more…