The mantra Om, also written as Aum, is passed down through the Himalayan sages and is regarded in yoga as the most significant mantra. In the traditional understanding, all that exists arises from a primordial vibration represented by Om: the material world, all living beings, every spiritual teaching, all languages, Sanskrit, the Vedas, and everything else.
This short audio course offers a clear introduction to the meaning of OM, together with a 30-minute guided meditation focused on this sacred sound. The two recordings can be streamed online or downloaded for offline use, making it easy to return to the practice whenever you wish.
Designed to deepen both understanding and direct experience, this two-part course is led by Swami Nishchalananda, whose teaching is known for combining deep insight with humility and practical clarity. He presents profound spiritual teachings in a grounded and accessible way, making them relevant for modern, scientifically minded lives. He is the founder of the ashram and the author of several classic texts on the spiritual sciences of yoga and tantra.
Set in the green hills of Wales, UK, the ashram is a natural sanctuary and a peaceful haven for those wishing to explore yoga more deeply. Founded in 1986, it is one of the few authentic ashrams outside India and has supported thousands of people on paths of learning and transformation. The environment is quiet, safe, and nurturing, offering space to engage fully with the teachings and practices offered here.
All courses are guided by senior teachers with nearly 100 years of yoga teaching experience between them. The resident team of yogis also supports the ashram in a spirit of enquiry and service, with many trained as yoga teachers or currently in training.
Please note: while every effort is made to create a safe and accessible environment, participation in any retreat or course means accepting responsibility for your own health and safety. Please ensure you are fit enough for yoga practice, and seek medical advice if needed before taking part in asana, meditation, pranayama, Yoga Nidra, or similar practices.
During booking, you will be asked to share any physical or mental health conditions that may be affected by the practices in your chosen course. Mandala Yoga Ashram accepts no responsibility for injury resulting from failure to follow the teacher’s instructions or from non-disclosure of relevant medical conditions, injury, or physical impairment. If you are uncertain about your ability to participate safely, please consult a doctor or other qualified professional before booking.
A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due before the start of your retreat or on arrival. All deposits are non-refundable, and cancellation of a course or stay booking will result in the loss of the deposit paid. Cancellations may be made by phone, email, or in writing. In exceptional circumstances, the course director or operations manager may choose to waive this policy if full details and reasons are provided at the time of cancellation.
Concessions may be available at the discretion of the Ashram Operations Manager for low-income participants, senior citizens, and students. Guests are asked to consider their own financial situation carefully and request a concession only where there is genuine need.
A few words from past participants:
Biography and Teaching Style “May your eyes be open to the Wonder and Mystery of life.” Swami Nishchalananda is the founder of the ashram and the author of several well-known texts on the spiritual sciences of yoga and tantra. He is known for bringing exceptional depth of understanding together with humility and a grounded, approachable manner, making profound teachings feel clear and...
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