Yoga Retreats

“Who am I?” Discover the deepest answer to this essential question and undertake a journey that will lead you to the source of happiness and joy inside you. During this retreat, we will explore our true nature (which is existence, knowledge and bliss absolute), study meditation techniques and learn fundamental philosophical principles such as discrimination and detachment to make better choices, be less affected by events and face the ever changing nature of our lives with solid grounding, clarity and tranquility of mind.

Topics covered will include:

• Brahman: the principle of oneness
• The power of Illusion (Maya)
• False identifications (Upadhis)
• Who am I (Atman)
• Vedanta meditation technique: Neti Neti

Swami Svatmavidyananda Saraswati, PhD, is a widely recognized as scholar of Advaita Vedanta . Teaching Internationally through lectures and seminars. She is a disciple of Pujya Sri Swami Dayananda Saraswati is known for her expertise in interreligious engagement and Advaita Vedanta. She is the Acharya of Arsha Vijnana Gurukulam and its centers throughout the United States.

Applying the principle of positive thinking into all of our activities can significantly improve our relationships and increase the quality of our life. Join us for this uplifting retreat and discover the power of thoughts; learn the basic tenets of Vedanta, the philosophy of Oneness, and explore practices that will help you to improve the quality of your mind, leading you to more calmness, greater wellbeing and further self-development.

Topics covered will include:

• The nature of thought and its inherent power
• Developing a healthy body-mind connection
• Samskaras: how habits are formed and how to transform them into positive forces
• How to create powerful positive affirmations
• Aims of life (purushartha): self-effort and karma
• Thought creates destiny: the self-transformative power of the mind

Experience Ayurveda presented and taught by an authentic Ayurvedic Doctor Sonal Bhatt. Learn how to take care of your body and mind with the help of this ancient holistic system of medicine that has been practiced in India for more than 5000 years. Ayurveda (the science of life) promotes a holistic approach to health by creating harmony between the body and mind.

Open to all with or without experience or knowledge of Ayurveda and Yoga.

• Introduction to Ayurveda
• Discover your Ayurvedic Constitution.Learn about your body and mind’s personality through the Ayurvedic perspective on the three Doshas and the three Gunas.
• You will learn your own daily routine according to your own constitution for the four seasons.
• How to do your oil self-body massage using the right oils for your own constitution.
• Ayurvedic nutrition class.
• Preparation of herbal home remedies: We will learn the benefits of Ayurvedic home remedies and we will make some Ayurvedic home remedies.

Dr. Sonal Bhatt is a highly qualified Ayurvedic physician and Panchakarma specialist from one of the leading Ayurvedic universities in India, Jamnagar Ayurvedic University. She is also a Registered Holistic Nutritional Consultant from CSNN Toronto. She has been practicing as an Ayurvedic consultant, Panchakarma specialist, teacher, and researcher in India, Canada, and North America for over 30 years. Dr. Bhatt is director and owner of Sonal’s Ayurveda Panchkarma Centre in Toronto and currently practicing and teaching Ayurveda and offering holistic health services. Dr Bhatt will be available to give private consultations.

Asanas or yoga postures can bring countless benefits to the body and mind. They don’t only stretch the muscles and reduce stress levels, but also improve bodily functions, energize the body and mind and increase physical and mental strength Join this unique retreat and deepen your yoga practice thanks to special yoga classes with specific themes and variations. In addition, there will be 30-minute Asana workshops each day for in-depth training in specific postures, and sessions during which we will learn different yogic techniques to develop will power and mental flexibility to better face the changing circumstances of our lives.

Topics covered will also include:

• Benefits of asanas on the various body systems
• Asana variations to increase the flexibility of hips and shoulder girdle
• Challenge yourself – try out some new variations
• How to balance muscle length and muscle strength
• Evacuate stress and tensions away through asanas

Modern life has become synonymous with stress, especially for those living in cities. In addition to affecting mood and outlook, scientific studies consistently show that stress negatively impacts long-term health. In this program, you will learn how to use ancient wisdom and practices found in yoga to help cope with life’s challenges and become more balanced and fulfilled, no matter where you live! You will return home with fresh perspectives and new skills to incorporate into your daily life to prevent being “stressed out”.

Kindle the fire of yoga within you. Dive deep into the practice of asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing techniques) in yoga classes adapted to your level (beginners, intermediate-advanced). In this retreat, we will look at the concepts of prana (vital energy), chakras (energy centers) and nadis (subtle energy channels) in order to better understand the philosophical and energetic principles underlying the yoga practice. Developing this understanding will eventually lead you to a profound spiritual experience which will elevate your practice of yoga and meditation.

Topics covered will include:

• How to make the asanas (postures) steady and comfortable
• Steps towards greater physical and mental flexibility
• Improve your asana practice through deep relaxation
• Prana, pranayama and increased concentration
• Nadis (energy channels), chakras and experiences in the astral body
• From yoga to an inner awakening

The Sanskrit language is considered to be one of the most ancient and sacred languages in the world. It opens the door to yogic scriptures and the subtle world of spirituality. Sanskrit is an eternal, vibrant ancient language and learning it is a fulfilling experience that adds richness and authenticity to a yogic lifestyle and is the key to a conceptual understanding of India’s tradition of sacred knowledge, unlocking the ideas and insights of Yoga, Ayurveda and more. During this retreat, you will learn the basics of the Sanskrit alphabet and an introduction to mantras and chants from the yogic canon. Open to all!

let go of the past, with all its stored memories of injuries, is a prerequisite for personal growth. During this retreat, we will study the nature of our subconscious mind and practice various yogic techniques to help us overcome negative mental habits, allowing our true, understanding, and loving Self to emerge.

This week of asana practice focuses on specific postures and sequences within the Sivananda tradition to help the physical body grow stronger and regain flexibility. Each day will highlight a particular aspect of asana practice, helping the body become more attuned, balanced, and supple. It is often said that muscle length and strength go hand in hand—so as we increase flexibility, we also build strength.

• Monday – Focus on Sun Salutations & Alignment
• Tuesday – Focus on Forward-Bending Variations
• Wednesday – Focus on Back-Bending Variations
• Thursday – Focus on Inversions & Balancing
• Friday – Meditative Class : Long posture holds to cultivate strength

Enjoy a relaxing yoga holiday and a unique experience immersed in nature. Take a deep breath and find new strength and inspiration in the healing Laurentian Mountains, surrounded by the beautiful natural setting of the ashram. This rejuvenating retreat includes a holistic practice of yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), deep relaxation (savasana), group meditations (satsangs), nutritious vegetarian meals, and inspiring talks on yoga philosophy. You’ll also enjoy forest walks and, weather permitting, an evening around a bonfire. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, uplifted, and more deeply connected to yourself and the natural world.

Enjoy a relaxing yoga holiday and a unique experience immersed in nature. Take a deep breath and find new strength and inspiration in the healing Laurentian Mountains, surrounded by the beautiful natural setting of the ashram. This rejuvenating retreat includes a holistic practice of yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), deep relaxation (savasana), group meditations (satsangs), nutritious vegetarian meals, and inspiring talks on yoga philosophy. You’ll also enjoy forest walks and, weather permitting, an evening around a bonfire. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, uplifted, and more deeply connected to yourself and the natural world.

Let this become a turning point in your life’s journey. Depression ranks among the leading causes of disability in people aged 15 to 44, and it doesn’t have to hold you back any longer. This retreat offers an opportunity to transcend depression by sparking a radical shift in perspective. You will reconnect with your essential Self as you learn specific yoga postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), dietary guidelines, and other yogic practices designed to ease and relieve symptoms of depression. Allow your natural state of balance and inner peace to re-emerge.

Join us for this celebration of life’s greatest gifts: health and happiness. Take part in this holistic program of yoga postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), deep relaxation, nutritious vegetarian meals, inspiring lectures, elevating group meditations with mantra chanting and refreshing nature silent meditation walks. You will experience radiant health, physical and mental strength and a deep sense of contentment and connection to life.

Join us for this celebration of life’s greatest gifts: health and happiness. Take part in this holistic program of yoga postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), deep relaxation, nutritious vegetarian meals, inspiring lectures, elevating group meditations with mantra chanting and refreshing nature silent meditation walks. You will experience radiant health, physical and mental strength and a deep sense of contentment and connection to life.

This retreat offers a deep exploration of the mind and the power of thought. Drawing from ancient scriptures, we will study the five types of vrittis (thought waves), the five kleshas (causes of suffering), and practical methods to resolve inner conflict, leading to greater clarity, focus, and peace of mind. These timeless teachings offer a message of hope and empowerment. They guide us beyond fear, depression, and inner turmoil, helping us discover a place of stillness within, a center untouched by the constant changes and challenges of life.

This program features nourishing fruit juices, fresh salads, and much more, all enjoyed in a supportive group setting. Combining a detox regimen with yoga and meditation, this holistic approach cleanses your body, mind, and emotions. It helps you break free from cravings for sugar and other tempting but inflammatory foods. You’ll discover how revitalizing it feels to nourish yourself with nutrient-dense options, leading to improved digestion, increased energy, greater flexibility, and sharper mental clarity.

This program can help alleviate:

• Indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Uncontrollable sugar cravings
• High cholesterol
• Migraines
• Chronic fatigue
• And more!

Discover your inner light during this uplifting family retreat. Enjoy a Halloween lantern carving workshop, a magical evening silent walk through the forest, and a heartwarming bonfire meditation with music and storytelling for the whole family (weather permitting). The weekend also includes two daily yoga classes for adults, one kids’ yoga class (ages 7 to 11) at 4 PM, two group meditations, and a special family pumpkin carving activity.

Escape the digital chaos with our rejuvenating Digital Detox Retreat, where serenity meets self-discovery. This retreat offers a peaceful space to unplug from technology and reconnect with yourself in the present moment. In a tech-free environment, immerse yourself in mindfulness practices such as yoga, meditation, and introspective outdoor activities. Take part in uplifting workshops designed to foster positive habits and build a healthier relationship with technology. Nourish your body and soul with wholesome meals, and form meaningful connections within a supportive community. This retreat is a powerful reset, empowering you to embrace life with renewed clarity, balance, and a fresh perspective.

This interactive retreat offers participants a chance to experience the harmony of Ashram life while exploring specialized yogic practices designed to help better understand and manage anxiety and emotional distress.

Each day will include dedicated asana and pranayama (yogic breathing) sessions focused on supporting emotional regulation and inner calm. Going beyond the physical aspects of yoga, a series of engaging workshops will draw on yogic philosophy to help participants better understand the roots of distress and explore practical tools for navigating the stresses of daily life.

Repeating mantras (sacred sounds) and singing kirtans (devotional chants) can have a profound healing effect on both body and mind. Chanting generates a powerful transformative energy, capable of uplifting negative emotions, opening the heart, and reconnecting us with our divine nature.

Join us for this special retreat, featuring meditation sessions, yoga classes, and interactive workshops, and discover the elevating power of sound. Learn the art of chanting and journey from emotion to devotion, awakening a deep, joyful sense of inner peace.

Topics include:

• Sound as a transformative and healing force
• The power of mantras and kirtans
• From emotion to unconditional love
• How to choose and use mantras
• Step-by-step guided chanting practice

Embark on a transformative journey with our Meditation and Silence Retreat. Set amidst the majestic nature of the Laurentians, in a sanctuary of peace and serenity, this retreat offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in stillness and introspection. Disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with your inner self through mindfulness practices, guided meditations, and yoga classes. Surrounded by calm and natural beauty, you’ll be supported by experienced teachers who will gently guide you toward deeper self-awareness, mental clarity, and emotional balance. This retreat is a sacred pause, an invitation to release stress, cultivate silence, and return to daily life rejuvenated, centered, and renewed.

This program is designed for complete beginners, but also ideal for anyone wishing to revisit and strengthen the foundations of Hatha Yoga. You will be introduced to the 12 basic postures, pranayama (yogic breathing techniques), and meditation practices. Throughout the retreat, you’ll be encouraged to develop a sustainable home practice, improve your flexibility, and cultivate greater resilience to stress, all while nurturing a deeper sense of inner peace and happiness.

Join us for a hands-on cooking retreat and discover the joy of preparing healthy and delicious vegetarian meals that nourish both body and mind.
Pure, natural food supports a healthy body and a clear, focused mind, essential tools for living a balanced life and progressing on the spiritual path. Curious about the role of diet in spiritual practice and daily well-being? This special retreat will guide you in improving your eating habits, healing with the power of spices, and overcoming food-related cravings, paving the way toward a happier, more fulfilling life. Alongside daily meditation, chanting, yoga classes, and afternoon lectures, you’ll take part in an engaging cooking class where everyone is invited to participate and enjoy the process together.

Challenges are an integral part of life. Would you like to face them with greater confidence, resilience, and will power? During this retreat, we will explore yogic tools that can help you build inner strength and learn how to apply these practices in your daily life to foster positivity, peace of mind, and personal growth.

• Workshops will cover:
• Drawing strength from within
• Developing will power and determination
• Rising above circumstances and despair
• “As you think, so you become”
• Experiencing the power of love

Holidays at the Ashram are joyful and inspiring. Join us for an uplifting program featuring Christmas carols, a theater play, bonfires, skiing, outdoor activities, and much more! Dates are flexible. Choose the time that suits you best.

To book your stay, please call reception at 819-322-3226 ext. 314 or email [email protected].

The best way to welcome the New Year is through yoga and meditation practice. This New Year’s retreat will help you build a strong foundation for making positive changes and embarking on a path of self-transformation. Learn practical tools to cultivate inner peace and deepen your awareness of both body and spirit.