This retreat is created to train and refine the mind through a range of meditation techniques that help participants experience meditation more deeply. It introduces traditional methods with Sanskrit names such as Antar Mouna, Ajapa Japa, Vipasyana, Chidakasha Dharana, Yoga Nidra, Prana Vidya, Pancha Dharana, and mantra chanting, alongside what is now commonly called mindfulness. These practices are offered as tools to support relaxation, withdrawal, concentration, and the discovery of what already exists within us. During the retreat, participants are expected to observe disciplined guidelines in order to access subtler levels of experience.

The retreat may be organized around a specific method, such as an Antar Mouna Meditation Retreat, Prana-Vidya Meditation Retreat, or Yoga Nidra Meditation Retreat.

How it works – The program explores how the mind witnesses, identifies with, and responds to external and internal objects, visualizes, imagines, and holds attention on chosen experiences. These capacities are used to better understand the mind and explore its deeper layers. The tools for this work are the human body, the senses, sense objects, sense perceptions, and the mind itself, all approached in a systematic way.

Inclusions – 7 nights of accommodation in shared accommodation or private rooms, retreat materials including books, notebook, pen, and Jala Neti pot, retreat training, private yoga consultation on request, vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and Wi-Fi.

Exclusions – Flight tickets, airport pick-up and drop-off, longer tours and trips, travel and cancellation insurance, medical assistance, and personal expenses.

Things to do – Camping, hiking, meditation on the holy Ganga beach, Ganga Aarti, visits to ancient temples, ashrams, holy people, and Rishikesh city, waterfall visits, river rafting, Ayurveda massage, shopping, and more.

Why choose us – Our yoga courses and retreats follow a strictly traditional, yogic lifestyle-oriented approach. We honor the teachings of authentic schools of yoga and spirituality such as Ramakrishna Mission, Sri Aurobindo Society, Yogoda Satsang Society of India, and Bihar School of Yoga. We do not teach modern trends of yoga such as Iyenger, Ashtanga, Acro, Yin, Vikram, or Power yoga. Drawing on our educational and cultural background, as well as our experience in authentic yoga, we create a unique space to learn, heal, and grow in a safe, relaxed, and supportive environment. Compassion, kindness, and love are at the heart of our work, and we aim to offer the best possible pre- and post-course assistance for your growth and well-being.

Accreditation – Sanatana Yog Sandesh is certified by Yoga Alliance USA and Yoga Alliance International, offering opportunities to use the certificate for career and job prospects. Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible to register with Yoga Alliance USA as Registered Yoga Teachers (E-RYT).

Eligibility – Participants should have some basic understanding of yoga and meditation, though beginners are also welcome. A willingness to follow yogic discipline, including purity, punctuality, early rising, and participation in daily activities, is required. Good English skills are necessary, as this is the medium of instruction. Sound physical and mental health is important; any health concerns should be shared before registration.

Curriculum – The retreat includes Hatha yoga asana, with basic postures and preparatory movements for joints, muscles, and body parts, plus standing, supine, prone, inversion, and balance practices. Special asanas for relaxation and meditation include Shavasana, Sukhasana, Ardha Padmasana, Padmasana, Siddhasana, Siddha Yoni Asana, Swastikasana, Dhyana Veerasana, Vajrasana, and Padadhirasana. Pranayama practices include Udar Svashan, Vaksha Svashan, Griva Svashan, Yogic Svashan, Nadi Shodhana, Bhramari, and Ujjayi. Mudra practices include Jnana, China, Bhirava, and Bhairavi. Satkarma includes Jala Neti. Meditation topics include Yoga Nidra, yogic breathing with awareness, development of awareness, Kaya asthairyam, awareness of natural breath, awareness of peace, Bhava aaropan, mantra awareness with AUM, body awareness, awareness of symbols, chakra awareness, and Atmanubhav. Lectures cover how to practice, how to structure a program, ethical guidelines, yogic lifestyle, and the holistic approach of yoga. Karma yoga may also be included depending on the needs of the retreat.

Suggested books – Yoga Asanas by Sri Swami Sivananda, Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Raja Yoga by Swami Vivekananda or Four Chapters on Freedom by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Yoga Darshan by Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati, and Anatomy and Physiology (not specified).

Duration – 7 days, or 1 week. With the arrival day included, the full stay becomes 8 days.

Schedule – The daily schedule is tentative and may change according to need. Classes are held for 6 days each week. 6:30am to 7am – Herbal drink; 7am to 8:30am – Hatha yoga session (asana, pranayama, dhyana); 8:30am to 9:30am – Breakfast; 10am to 11am – Rest; 11:15am to 12:15pm – Lecture on pranayama and dhyana; 1pm to 2pm – Lunch; 2pm to 3:30pm – Rest; 3:45pm to 4:30pm – Personal cleaning and karma yoga; 5pm to 6pm – Asana, pranayama, dhyana; 6:30pm to 7:30pm – Dinner; 7:30pm to 8:30pm – Kirtan, chanting, and video show, optional; 9pm – Bedtime.

Retreat fee – International fee: 700 Euro. Indian fee: 21000 INR.

Mindfulness in Rishikesh