Retreat

Self-Catered Private Retreat 

The Trust offers quiet, peaceful, safe and simple self-catered accommodations for personal and family retreats without teachings.

Rooms and dorms are available for a minimum of 2 nights which can be used on a weekend and weekly basis, (for long-term stay of at least 1 year, please see Housing).

This offers the chance to do your own private meditation and yoga practise, seva, relax and rejuvenate, and visit the surrounding areas. 

Please respect the Ashram and its facilities. It is a vegetarian (no eggs), smoking, vaping and intoxicants free area, (strictly no alcohol or any form of drugs, legal or otherwise) in the compound. 

In order to enhance your practice we also encourage you to read the rules below and in Hatha Yoga and seva/volunteering section.

Typical suggested donation for private self-catered, no teaching retreat: (subject to change depending on availability and requirements)

Dorm for 10 people: £350 per night for the whole dorm

Ensuite room (sleeps 2): £125 per night

Room (sleeps 2): £100 per night

Dorm (per person): £ 70

Rules for Retreat 

While on retreat at the Ashram, we would endeavour to follow at least the first five of the Eight Limbs of Yoga as expounded by Patanjali.

These 5 limbs are as follows:

1.  The Yama (Restraints) which control the senses and help withdrawing the mind from the sense objects.

  Refrain from hurting others mentally and physically, including ourselves.


By dwelling in the truth. ie. Restraint of speech and not indulging bluntness.


Not taking what is not given or offered.

 

Seeing the spirit in others, not the body of others.

 

Not looking for reward in terms of remuneration, social appreciation and praise from others.

 

2. The Niyamas (Vows)


3.  Asana (Sitting)

Creating the spiritual habit of sitting for meditation. So this can be developed naturally and at length.

 

4. Pranayama (Control of Prana)

Control of the Prana within the body and mind which leads to the natural and deep state of Pratyahara.

 

5.  Pratyahara (Introspection)

The complete withdrawal of the mind and senses from the body during the practice of meditation, which leads us to the state of concentration, contemplation and Samadhi.

 In addition to the above, we also expect the following mode of conducts for all programmes or events held by the Ashram as follows:

 Seva

Everyone have to do Seva as part of the practise, this gives you a chance to practise and perform your duties for the Ashram with detachment and without expectation of praises and rewards. We encourage you to maintain silence and contemplation of Atman as you go about your assigned duties. Everyone have to help with food prep, setting table and clearing up.


Dress code

For comfort and convenience in meditation and the rest of the programme, please wear loose fitting clothing. Shirts must cover the upper arms and the midriff and wear full length trousers. Please, no see-through or low cut tops, tights or leotards. We also ask that your clothes be neat and clean.  It is also unnecessary to wear jewellery, make-up, perfume or other forms of adornment during your stay.         

White clothes are normally worn for all programmes. 

You may bring a shawl to use while sitting for meditation.


Cleanliness

All persons attending are expected to take a shower each morning before meditation; even if a shower has been taken the previous evening.

 

Silence

As part of our Satya practise, please try to observe as much silence as possible during the programmes. Try not to indulge in chit-chat or gossip. With the exception of practical and organisational matters and spiritual question and answer sessions.

The programs and Satsangas should not to be viewed as a social gathering, or opportunity to meet and make new friends. These programmes are for our and others spiritual upliftment and growth.

 

Food

Strict vegetarian meals are served in the programme. Vegan options are also available.

Please be respectful by not bringing any non-vegetarian products onto the premises, or store food in your room.


Intoxicants

No cigarettes, alcohol or drugs are to be consumed inside or outside the premises as part of the Sauca observances.

 

Following the Schedule (for taught retreats)

We ask that you follow and take part in the whole schedule. There is sufficient free time provided in the schedule to rest, relax and reflect on the teachings.

Please see Hatha Yoga section for Hatha Yoga practice.

Winter scene at the ashram

Schedule for a typical weekend retreat with teachings: