Programs

Introduction to Meditation

November 7th-December 5th ;  6.30pm-7.45pm , $85

Meditation is an invaluable tool for emotional balance and peace of mind . This course will provide step-by-step guidance for starting a meditation practice. It is helpful for those who are just starting  as well as those who would like to renew their commitment to this practice.

Topics covered  include:

-What is meditation and what are the benefits?

-How to start a meditation practice: The three fundamentals.

– Meditation for beginners and tips for those who are returning practitioners

-Mechanics of the mind: How the mind works and how meditation helps

-Mantras as tools for meditation

• Online participants will receive a Zoom link two days before the course

Hip Opening Variations with Chandrika

Sunday, November 9th, 9.30 am-11.30am; $35

This is intermediate level  class that focuses on releasing tension in the hips, a common area of tightness from prolonged sitting and daily stress. Students will learn variations of yoga asanas specifically designed to open the hips, improve flexibility, relieve lower back discomfort, and increase overall mobility. Through gentle stretches, variations of basic yoga postures, and guided breathing, students explore safe, accessible techniques to support their body and wellbeing.

Teacher: Chandrika has been a dedicated staff member at Sivananda Ashram Yoga Camp for many years, supporting teacher training courses and guiding students in their yoga practice. Her extensive knowledge and years of committed practice help students deepen their understanding of yoga, while her encouragement and supportive approach inspire them to grow, learn, and bring out their best selves.

Introduction to Meditation
Wednesday, November 12; 7:00 – 8:30pm; $35

Meditation can be practiced by anyone. With regular practice, it can have many benefits:
. reduced stress
. anxiety management
. improved focus and attention
. lowered blood pressure
. improved sleep
. improved memory
. emotional balance and peace of mind

In this workshop, you will learn about meditation, how to start a meditation practice, and how
to incorporate it into your daily life. You will also have an opportunity to practice meditation. This workshop is suitable for beginners and is a good introduction to our five-week meditation course.

Teacher: Padmini is an experienced Sivananda Yoga teacher who has been practising and teaching at the Yoga Centre for many years and is dedicated to supporting students in their practice by offering her knowledge and guidance.

Yoga for Fascia Stretch and Release with Padmini

November 22nd,  Saturday: 1pm – 3pm

Cost: $38

Fascia is connective tissue in the body that supports muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, bones,
organs, blood vessels, and nerves. It plays a key role in flexibility, mobility, and posture.

In this workshop, yoga poses (asanas) will be held in a yielding and meditative manner for longer periods in order to stretch and loosen fascia in selected areas of the body. To enhance the benefits of the asanas, breathing exercises and a short meditation will also be included.

Benefits:
. improved mobility and range of motion
. improved flexibility
. improved circulation
. removal of blockages, which allows Prana, the vital energy, to flow more freely
. deep relaxation and inner stillness
. reduction in stress and tension

This workshop is suitable for yoga students of all levels.
Please feel free to bring your own blocks, cushions, belts, bolsters, and/or blankets.

Teacher: Padmini is an experienced Sivananda Yoga teacher with a special interest in Hatha Yoga. Padmini has been practising and teaching at the Yoga Centre for many years and is dedicated to supporting students in their practice by offering her knowledge and guidance.

Urban Hatha Yoga Retreat with Mayavan

November 23rd , Sunday 7 am-4.30 pm; $108

Chanting and Kirtan with Ramdass

Saturday, November 29th; 1pm-2.30pm; $30

If you love kirtan or are curious to explore this form of devotional chanting, this workshop provides a welcoming space. You will have the opportunity to learn traditional Sivananda chants, discover new ones, understand the meanings behind the chants, and, most importantly, sing together while experiencing the uplifting vibrations of shared practice.

Kirtan is a form of chanting rooted in the Bhakti Yoga tradition of India, where sacred mantras are sung in an accessible call-and-response style. By combining music, rhythm, and repetition, kirtan helps quiet the mind, open the heart, and foster a sense of community.

Teacher:  Ramdass has been involved with the Sivananda Yoga Centre for a couple of years, teaching yoga and participating in satsang. Ever since he heard kirtan for the first time, he has felt connected to its uplifting vibrations. Chanting kirtan has helped him open his voice, release emotions, and connect with higher energy. Ramdass hopes to share what he has learned and help others experience the benefits of chanting.

Yoga for the Lower Back with Padmini

Saturday, December 6
1:00 – 3:00pm; $38

Lower back tightness and aches are often the result of sitting or standing for long periods of
time and/or of insufficient physical activity. To address the tightness and aches, this workshop
will include breathing exercises (pranayama) and focus on specific asanas (yoga postures) and
exercises that:
– stretch and strengthen muscles and connective tissue in the back
– stretch and strengthen muscles and connective tissue in the legs
– strengthen core muscles
– promote flexibility and range of motion
– relieve physical and emotional tension
– promote efficient breathing and mental focus
This workshop is suitable for yoga students of all levels.

Teacher: Padmini is an experienced Sivananda Yoga teacher with a special interest in Hatha Yoga. Padmini has been practising and teaching at the Yoga Centre for many years and is dedicated to supporting students in their practice by offering her knowledge and guidance.