Satyananda Yoga

»Far away from daily life«

Description

The Satyananda Ashram in Mangrove Creek has been providing a haven of peace for people since 1975. Only 90 minutes from Sydney, Mangrove is the largest residential yoga retreat centre in the southern hemisphere. Guests can rest, heal, or deepen their yoga practice with an evening workshop or residential retreat experience lasting one day to a month in duration! The Yoga Academy offers serious practitioners an in-depth study and sadhana program taught over 2 years.

Located in a stunning bush setting, by a tidal river and surrounded by national park, it is a place where one can spend time away from the distractions and tensions of daily life. The ashram environment is yoga as a way of life, rather than just a practice. Guests are expected to participate in the group karma yoga (meditative action) session each morning and follow the ashram disciplines such as mauna (silence), and practice slowing down and living simply in each moment.

An ashram is traditional place of learning for yoga and other spiritual disciplines and a place of simplicity and regularity. Included in the retreat fees (including personal yoga retreats) standard triple share accommodation, yoga classes, use of facilities, and delicious vegetarian meals.
There are many structured residential retreats offering something for all ages and all levels of experience in yoga including Kirtan, Cooking, Yoga Asana, Dance, Meditation and Spirituality. These retreats are offered at set rates depending on the program and length with an overnight retreat typically costing $70-$170AUS; a weekend $240-$350AUS; and 1 week $600-$700. Volunteer options are available at specific times of the year and request a minimum donation and time commitment.
Many interesting non-residential workshops (2-4 hours) are held throughout the year and typically cost $30 depending on the program
Personal Retreat Stays are available all year and allow guests more personal space, less structure and the option to stay for one day or a month. Join a variety of classes offered each day and spend the remainder of the day relaxing, bush walking, swimming in the creek and discovering the comprehensive Saraswati Library. Skills and Lifestyle Stays are similar but require a minimum stay of 1 week and half of each day devoted to engaging with other ashram residents in the duties involved in running the centre. Every day offers the option of three yoga classes, including early morning yoga, meditation and chanting.

The 2012 Personal Retreat fees are $75/night (10% discount for 5th night onwards), while the Skills & Lifestyle Stays are $50/night (10% discount for 2nd week onwards). Un-powered camping sites are available for tents and campervans and like the bunk bed dorm rooms (upto 6 persons) attract a discount of $10 per night. Upgrades to single, twin and ensuite rooms have additional charges. Further savings are offered when guests book their retreat and stay online more than 7 days in advance.
Three wholesome and delicious sattvic vegetarian meals are served in the dining hall each day, along with morning and afternoon tea of fruit and tea. Fresh salad greens, herbs and other vegetables are provided daily from their own vegetable garden. The use of eggs and dairy are kept to a minimum and gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and onion/garlic free diets can be catered to with advanced notice.
Alcohol, drugs and intoxicants are prohibited in and around the ashram. Cigarette smoking is designated to an area outside the ashram gates and pets are not allowed. Mangrove welcomes children accompanied by a parent/guardian. There is no mobile phone reception; but public phones and computers with internet are available.

Cancellation with 72+ hours is subject to full fee transfer and use within 12 months or 75% refund.

Photo credit: Peter Firminger http://www.flickr.com/photos/wollombi