Sivananda Yoga Thailand
Sadhana Intensive
16th – 30th September 2023
The Sadhana Intensive course is stage three of your yoga practice. This 2 week course creates an atmosphere to deepen your personal practice likened to the practice of those meditating in the Himalayas. The goal is to extend the limits of your capabilities, strengthen your stamina and develop self confidence, with long lasting effects of radiance and good health.
The focus of the Sadhana Intensive is individual, self practice divided into two or three sessions per day with an emphasis on intense and prolonged pranayama. Students work towards eight hours of Hatha yoga per day which is balanced by the study of classical scriptures. The SI course quickly develops a high level of self discipline. You are guided deep into your practice according to your individual needs. You are expected to remain within the Ashram premises throughout the course with no free days, no access to telephone or email and following a strict sattvic diet (salt, spice, tea and sugar free). The highly controlled, supportive environment is vital for this type of practice, reflecting practice of advanced yogis. |
The SI course requires some preparation from the student. Interested TTC graduate students are advised to prepare by following their regular daily Hatha yoga practice and follow a sattvic lifestyle. A sound physical and mental health is a prerequisite.
This Sivananda Sadhana Intensive Thailand course is taught in English with no translation. All Thailand courses are conducted by the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashrams and Centers of India, taught by senior teachers, under the guidance of Prahladaji, Yoga Acharya and a senior disciple of Swami Vishnudevanandaji. Upon completion of the course a certificate will be issued by Sivananda India.
- Explanation and practice of advanced pranayama, bandhas (locks) and mudras (seals).
- Daily self practice of asana.
- Practice of shat kriyas (cleansing techniques).
- Meditation and chanting.
- Keeping a spiritual diary.
- Mouna (at certain times of the day) to conserve the vital energy
The study of:
- Viveka Chudamani by Sankaracharya – A standard text on Vedanta philosophy which describes the practical methods towards realizing the Self and the necessary preparations for it.
- Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Yogi Swatmarama with commentary by Swami Vishnudevananda – classical text on Hatha Yoga which explains in detail asanas, pranayama, mudras, bandhas and the process of awakening the Kundalini.
- Srimad Bhagavatam by Vyasa Maharishi – Considered one of the most important works on Bhakti Yoga, it contains stories that fill the mind with universal love and open the heart, which is the key to experiencing the deepest levels of Hatha Yoga and for the practice of Bhakti yoga.
- Sadhana Intensive course manual (supplied)
The daily schedule includes:
|
AC Cottage for 3 students
US$ 1,200 (via bank transfer)
US$ 1,320 (via credit card via Paypal link)
AC Cottage for single occupancy
US$ 2,100 (via bank transfer)
US$ 2,310 (via credit card via Paypal link)
Note
- Course prices are calculated on the basis of the current rate of the US dollar. Prices are subject to change without notice.
- All fees are non-refundable. A student can transfer from one course before the start of that course, to attend another, once only. After this time fees are forfeited. If you are asked to leave the retreat due to disrespectful or disruptive behavior no refund will be given, regardless of time spent at the ashram. No rebate is given for the meals you elect not to eat.
- $100 will be contributed towards community development.
Refund Policy
- If you want to cancel your registration before the start of the course, we will refund your original payment less an administration fee of $100 USD (for original payments done via direct bank transfer) and $125 USD (for original payments done via credit card payment mode).
- If you do not how up and do not contact us, no refund will be issued.
- If you contact us before the course begins and wish to transfer to another teacher’s training course a $150 USD administration fee will be charged. Some restrictions may apply and it can only be done once.
- Once the course has begun, and you decide to leave within 3 days, we will refund your original payment less an administration fee of $225 USD.
- No refunds will be issued after the 3rd day of classes had begun.
What To Bring:
- 1 passport size photo for registration
- Comfortable as well as warm clothing
- Notebook, torch (flashlight)
- Sandals or slippers for indoors, walking shoes
-
Students must bring uniforms from TTC or ATTC or purchase at the boutique by placing order at the time of application.
-
Students must wear uniforms for all meetings and Satsang during the 2 week course.
Food:
- The diet must be followed strictly to get the benefits of the course. The only food served will be Kitchadi and proper food which suits the practice. Students should not expect or ask for any other type of food.
Accommodation:
- Students are doing self practice, therefore booking a single room would be an ideal. If not, students have to practice with the group in one hall. It is not possible to practice in the dorm with others.
Clothing:
- Depending on the season, it may get quite warm during the day but cold at night. You might need to pack a scarf, cap, warm socks and sweaters.
- In October: Mosquito repellent suitable for tropical regions and long-sleeved clothing for the cool evenings.
- These items can also be purchased in the TTC Boutique subject to availability.
Getting to The Resort
- Students are responsible for making their own way to the Course. Details on how to get to the Resort are below. The course Initiation starts at 7.30 pm on Saturday, 16th September 2023.
- You are expected to arrive earlier in the day to have time to register, check into your accommodation and to settle down. Please do not arrive late or plan to leave early.
- In addtion, there will be group & private pick up service from the airpot and Chiangrai downtown to the resort, details and service fees will be advised upon confirmation of registration.
Early arrivals:
Students arriving earlier than the 16th September 2023 can stay in the Resort at your own expenses. Booking for extra room nights should be made in advance to [email protected]
Phu Chaisai Mountain Resort & Spa
E-mail : [email protected]
Website: www.phu-chaisai.com/en
Passport and Visa requirements:
- Foreign Nationals are required to have an original current passport and a valid visa for their stay in Thailand.
- You are advised to apply for an ordinary tourist visa stating the purpose of your visit as vacation.
- The visa application form can be downloaded from your local Thai embassy’s website.
- Your passport has to be valid for at least another six months.
- It is recommended to purchase a travel health insurance policy through your travel agency.
- A copy of your visa, passport and plane ticket should be kept separately from your luggage.
Vaccinations & Pharmaceuticals:
- Check with your local health authority for advice regarding vaccinations for visiting Thailand.
- Please ask your pharmacy for a small kit of medicines appropriate for Thailand.
Departure:
However, if one wishes to stay 30th of September Saturday night onwards. It will be at an added expense of $70/night/person. Booking for extra room/night should be made in advance to [email protected]
Open to Sivananda-certified teachers, the Sadhana Intensive is a two-week program devised by Swami Vishnudevananda based on his own hatha yoga sadhana in the Himalayas. He said that six months of this intensive practice gave him the energy to carry out his mission of spreading the teachings of yoga in the West for the next 40 years.
The practice and especially the teaching of yoga demands a high degree of self-discipline and purity. To ensure the success of the program, participants are required to attend all spiritual activities, meditation sessions, lectures and asana classes. Meat, fish, eggs, black tea, coffee, alcohol, tobacco, drugs and nudity are prohibited during the course as they are counterproductive to yoga practice. Participants who do not comply with the ashram rules may be dismissed from the course. Unfortunately, it is not possible to cater for personal dietary preferences beyond the yogic lacto-vegetarian meals. |
Check-in/Check-out: On Sunday. The course Initiation starts at 7.30 pm. You are expected to arrive earlier in the day to have time to register, check into your accommodation and to settle down.
Conservation and recycling: Please conserve water while bathing and washing. Report any leaking taps and toilets to reception. Save electricity by switching off lights and electrical items when not in use. Be aware of how much paper products are used. Used batteries can be left at boutique. Any used items of clothing can be donated at reception.
Remember: “Every Action Matters” when consciously living in yoga.
Dress Code: Please cover the shoulders, upper arm, midriff and legs at all times, including asana classes & especially temple visits.
Fire Hazards: Please do not burn candles, incense, mosquito coils, etc. in your room, dormitory or tent.
Food: We serve a vegetarian diet, nourishing and balanced with proteins, carbohydrates, fruits and plenty of local vegetables. Snacks are available at our Health Hut during high season. There is no consumption of meat, fish, eggs, garlic and onions. Alcohol, tobacco and any drugs are prohibited.
Hygiene: A good yogi leaves the premises, rooms and bathrooms cleaner than when they arrived. For hygienic reasons, please leave your Ashram pillows, blankets and sheets in your room.
Karma Yoga: The Ashram is run by volunteer staff members. Selfless service, karma yoga or seva is an essential part of the Ashram experience. Maintaining a positive spiritual atmosphere requires participation from all the guests and staff. In addition to staff duties, we ask all students to participate for 1 hour each day contributing to the upkeep of the Ashram. A small task can make a big difference. Karma Yoga task shall be explained in the class.
Laundry: An independent and affordable laundry service is available between 10.30 – 11.30 and 18.30 – 19.30 from the resort with additional charges.
Lights out: Kindly respect the silent time after evening satsang on your way to your room. Please turn all lights out and observe silence by 10:30 pm to ensure everyone a peaceful rest.
Personal Belongings: Valuables may be stored in the Reception safe. Valuables are stored at your own risk. Do not leave valuables in the dormitories and huts.
Internet & Phone calls: An Internet facility is available through Wi-Fi and can be used only during the free times as fixed by the management.
*subject to availability and changes of timings. Phone call options are available at the Resort reception.
Cell phones: To ensure a full Ashram experience we ask that all cell phones are set to silent and/or are turned off. Making or awaiting phone calls or text messages can distract a yogi and their friends from their yoga practice. The Boutique has alarm clocks or perhaps follow the Ashram bell to guide you through the day.
Photography: To ensure people’s privacy during their stay, photography or video recording is not permitted during satsang, pujas, or asana classes. See Ashram Director with any questions.
Punctuality: For everyone’s benefit, kindly arrive to classes, events and satsangs on time or even arrive a little early to settle. Leaving your room at the 10-minute bell will help you arrive on time. Punctuality ensures peace for all for the beginning of any event.
Travel Agent: The resort cannot change foreign currency, cash or travellers’ cheques. For travel assistance and currency exchange, you may travel to the local town on the day off.
Post: You can leave any outgoing mail at reception. If you are expecting any mail, check with reception.
Relationships: Kindly restrain expressions of affection in public, such as kissing and hugging.
Women and men’s dorms: kindly respect the gender privacy of these dorms. Couples are advised to observe celibacy as part of the spiritual discipline.
Spa and Swimming Pool: Spa and Swimming pool are available at the resort for all students. Kindly wear discrete swimming clothes in the spa and pool.
Shoes: Please remove your shoes and place them on the shoe racks when entering any of the buildings.
Schedule: It is expected that all students attend all satsangs, lectures and asana classes. To help with the upkeep of the Ashram we ask all students participate for 1 hour of Karma yoga each day.
Silence: To maintain the tranquil setting of an Ashram we aim to observe personal silence before the morning and evening satsangs and especially at mealtimes. Maintaining silence conserves energy and instills a peaceful environment. To maintain the energy received during evening satsang try observing silence for the remainder of the night.
Spiritual Respect: Kindly maintain a respectful attitude when near an altar, satsang hall or temple. When sitting, sit cross-legged, or in a chair. Kindly refrain from pointing the feet towards any altar, deities or teachers during satsang and lectures. Kindly do your best to remain in the satsang hall for the entire satsang.
Staff: Staff members are willing and able to answer any of your questions. Feel free to go to them and ask your questions. They will most often be wearing yellow and white.
Suggestions, Comments & Special Requests: If you have any suggestions, comments or special requests, feel free to write them down with your name and drop them into the suggestions box at reception. Any immediate concerns, feel free to mention to any staff member.
Physical Harassment: The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers of Canada disapprove of and condemn any form of harassment directed at guests, staff or visitors. Specifically, no harassment, proposals or innuendos with a sexual connotation will be tolerated during any program or activity organized by the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers of Canada. Guests participating in such programs are accordingly made aware of this policy and invited to apply it in their personal behavior whilst on our premises. Any guest who thinks she (he) may be the victim of unsolicited advances or any other form of sexual harassment is asked to notify a senior Swami or Director immediately in order for corrective action to be undertaken without delay. Complaints made to a senior Swami or Director will be treated confidentially and the alleged violator or any third party will not be advised of the complainant’s identity without the latter’s consent.
The Sadhana Intensive course is stage three of your yoga practice. This 2 week course creates an atmosphere to deepen your personal practice likened to the practice of those meditating in the Himalayas. The goal is to extend the limits of your capabilities, strengthen your stamina and develop self confidence, with long lasting effects of radiance and good health.
The focus of the Sadhana Intensive is individual, self practice divided into two or three sessions per day with an emphasis on intense and prolonged pranayama. Students work towards eight hours of Hatha yoga per day which is balanced by the study of classical scriptures.
The SI course quickly develops a high level of self discipline. You are guided deep into your practice according to your individual needs. You are expected to remain within the Ashram premises throughout the course with no free days, no access to telephone or email and following a strict sattvic diet (salt, spice, tea and sugar free). The highly controlled, supportive environment is vital for this type of practice, reflecting practice of advanced yogis.
The SI course requires some preparation from the student. Interested TTC graduate students are advised to prepare by following their regular daily Hatha yoga practice and follow a sattvic lifestyle. A sound physical and mental health is a prerequisite.
This Sivananda Sadhana Intensive Thailand course is taught in English with no translation. All Thailand courses are conducted by the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashrams and Centers of India, taught by senior teachers, under the guidance of Prahladaji, Yoga Acharya and a senior disciple of Swami Vishnudevanandaji. Upon completion of the course a certificate will be issued by Sivananda India.
- Explanation and practice of advanced pranayama, bandhas (locks) and mudras (seals).
- Daily self practice of asana.
- Practice of shat kriyas (cleansing techniques).
- Meditation and chanting.
- Keeping a spiritual diary.
- Mouna (at certain times of the day) to conserve the vital energy
The study of:
- Viveka Chudamani by Sankaracharya – A standard text on Vedanta philosophy which describes the practical methods towards realizing the Self and the necessary preparations for it.
- Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Yogi Swatmarama with commentary by Swami Vishnudevananda – classical text on Hatha Yoga which explains in detail asanas, pranayama, mudras, bandhas and the process of awakening the Kundalini.
- Srimad Bhagavatam by Vyasa Maharishi – Considered one of the most important works on Bhakti Yoga, it contains stories that fill the mind with universal love and open the heart, which is the key to experiencing the deepest levels of Hatha Yoga and for the practice of Bhakti yoga.
- Sadhana Intensive course manual (supplied)
The daily schedule includes:
- Practice of kriyas.
- Morning and evening satsang with meditation and chanting.
- Two or three practice sessions of asana and advanced pranayama incorporating bandhas and mudras.
- Study of Hatha Yoga Pradipika / Viveka Chudamani / Srimad Bhagavatam.
- Morning almond milk drink, brunch and dinner.
- Participation in entire daily schedule is mandatory. The course director may change the schedule according to the needs of the students.
AC Cottage for 3 students
US$ 1,200 (via bank transfer)
US$ 1,320 (via credit card via Paypal link)
AC Cottage for single occupancy
US$ 2,100 (via bank transfer)
US$ 2,310 (via credit card via Paypal link)
Note
- Course prices are calculated on the basis of the current rate of the US dollar. Prices are subject to change without notice.
- All fees are non-refundable. A student can transfer from one course before the start of that course, to attend another, once only. After this time fees are forfeited. If you are asked to leave the retreat due to disrespectful or disruptive behavior no refund will be given, regardless of time spent at the ashram. No rebate is given for the meals you elect not to eat.
- $100 will be contributed towards community development.
Refund Policy
- If you want to cancel your registration before the start of the course, we will refund your original payment less an administration fee of $100 USD (for original payments done via direct bank transfer) and $125 USD (for original payments done via credit card payment mode).
- If you do not how up and do not contact us, no refund will be issued.
- If you contact us before the course begins and wish to transfer to another teacher’s training course a $150 USD administration fee will be charged. Some restrictions may apply and it can only be done once.
- Once the course has begun, and you decide to leave within 3 days, we will refund your original payment less an administration fee of $225 USD.
- No refunds will be issued after the 3rd day of classes had begun.
What To Bring:
- 1 passport size photo for registration
- Comfortable as well as warm clothing
- Notebook, torch (flashlight)
- Sandals or slippers for indoors, walking shoes
-
Students must bring uniforms from TTC or ATTC or purchase at the boutique by placing order at the time of application.
-
Students must wear uniforms for all meetings and Satsang during the 2 week course.
Food:
- The diet must be followed strictly to get the benefits of the course. The only food served will be Kitchadi and proper food which suits the practice. Students should not expect or ask for any other type of food.
Accommodation:
- Students are doing self practice, therefore booking a single room would be an ideal. If not, students have to practice with the group in one hall. It is not possible to practice in the dorm with others.
Clothing:
- Depending on the season, it may get quite warm during the day but cold at night. You might need to pack a scarf, cap, warm socks and sweaters.
- In October: Mosquito repellent suitable for tropical regions and long-sleeved clothing for the cool evenings.
- These items can also be purchased in the TTC Boutique subject to availability.
Getting to The Resort
- Students are responsible for making their own way to the Course. Details on how to get to the Resort are below. The course Initiation starts at 7.30 pm on Saturday, 16th September 2023.
- You are expected to arrive earlier in the day to have time to register, check into your accommodation and to settle down. Please do not arrive late or plan to leave early.
- In addtion, there will be group & private pick up service from the airpot and Chiangrai downtown to the resort, details and service fees will be advised upon confirmation of registration.
Early arrivals:
Students arriving earlier than the 16th September 2023 can stay in the Resort at your own expenses. Booking for extra room nights should be made in advance to [email protected]
Phu Chaisai Mountain Resort & Spa
E-mail : [email protected]
Website: www.phu-chaisai.com/en
Passport and Visa requirements:
- Foreign Nationals are required to have an original current passport and a valid visa for their stay in Thailand.
- You are advised to apply for an ordinary tourist visa stating the purpose of your visit as vacation.
- The visa application form can be downloaded from your local Thai embassy’s website.
- Your passport has to be valid for at least another six months.
- It is recommended to purchase a travel health insurance policy through your travel agency.
- A copy of your visa, passport and plane ticket should be kept separately from your luggage.
Vaccinations & Pharmaceuticals:
- Check with your local health authority for advice regarding vaccinations for visiting Thailand.
- Please ask your pharmacy for a small kit of medicines appropriate for Thailand.
Departure:
However, if one wishes to stay 30th of September Saturday night onwards. It will be at an added expense of $70/night/person. Booking for extra room/night should be made in advance to [email protected]
Open to Sivananda-certified teachers, the Sadhana Intensive is a two-week program devised by Swami Vishnudevananda based on his own hatha yoga sadhana in the Himalayas. He said that six months of this intensive practice gave him the energy to carry out his mission of spreading the teachings of yoga in the West for the next 40 years.
The practice and especially the teaching of yoga demands a high degree of self-discipline and purity. To ensure the success of the program, participants are required to attend all spiritual activities, meditation sessions, lectures and asana classes. Meat, fish, eggs, black tea, coffee, alcohol, tobacco, drugs and nudity are prohibited during the course as they are counterproductive to yoga practice. Participants who do not comply with the ashram rules may be dismissed from the course. Unfortunately, it is not possible to cater for personal dietary preferences beyond the yogic lacto-vegetarian meals. |
Check-in/Check-out: On Sunday. The course Initiation starts at 7.30 pm. You are expected to arrive earlier in the day to have time to register, check into your accommodation and to settle down.
Conservation and recycling: Please conserve water while bathing and washing. Report any leaking taps and toilets to reception. Save electricity by switching off lights and electrical items when not in use. Be aware of how much paper products are used. Used batteries can be left at boutique. Any used items of clothing can be donated at reception.
Remember: “Every Action Matters” when consciously living in yoga.
Dress Code: Please cover the shoulders, upper arm, midriff and legs at all times, including asana classes & especially temple visits.
Fire Hazards: Please do not burn candles, incense, mosquito coils, etc. in your room, dormitory or tent.
Food: We serve a vegetarian diet, nourishing and balanced with proteins, carbohydrates, fruits and plenty of local vegetables. Snacks are available at our Health Hut during high season. There is no consumption of meat, fish, eggs, garlic and onions. Alcohol, tobacco and any drugs are prohibited.
Hygiene: A good yogi leaves the premises, rooms and bathrooms cleaner than when they arrived. For hygienic reasons, please leave your Ashram pillows, blankets and sheets in your room.
Karma Yoga: The Ashram is run by volunteer staff members. Selfless service, karma yoga or seva is an essential part of the Ashram experience. Maintaining a positive spiritual atmosphere requires participation from all the guests and staff. In addition to staff duties, we ask all students to participate for 1 hour each day contributing to the upkeep of the Ashram. A small task can make a big difference. Karma Yoga task shall be explained in the class.
Laundry: An independent and affordable laundry service is available between 10.30 – 11.30 and 18.30 – 19.30 from the resort with additional charges.
Lights out: Kindly respect the silent time after evening satsang on your way to your room. Please turn all lights out and observe silence by 10:30 pm to ensure everyone a peaceful rest.
Personal Belongings: Valuables may be stored in the Reception safe. Valuables are stored at your own risk. Do not leave valuables in the dormitories and huts.
Internet & Phone calls: An Internet facility is available through Wi-Fi and can be used only during the free times as fixed by the management.
*subject to availability and changes of timings. Phone call options are available at the Resort reception.
Cell phones: To ensure a full Ashram experience we ask that all cell phones are set to silent and/or are turned off. Making or awaiting phone calls or text messages can distract a yogi and their friends from their yoga practice. The Boutique has alarm clocks or perhaps follow the Ashram bell to guide you through the day.
Photography: To ensure people’s privacy during their stay, photography or video recording is not permitted during satsang, pujas, or asana classes. See Ashram Director with any questions.
Punctuality: For everyone’s benefit, kindly arrive to classes, events and satsangs on time or even arrive a little early to settle. Leaving your room at the 10-minute bell will help you arrive on time. Punctuality ensures peace for all for the beginning of any event.
Travel Agent: The resort cannot change foreign currency, cash or travellers’ cheques. For travel assistance and currency exchange, you may travel to the local town on the day off.
Post: You can leave any outgoing mail at reception. If you are expecting any mail, check with reception.
Relationships: Kindly restrain expressions of affection in public, such as kissing and hugging.
Women and men’s dorms: kindly respect the gender privacy of these dorms. Couples are advised to observe celibacy as part of the spiritual discipline.
Spa and Swimming Pool: Spa and Swimming pool are available at the resort for all students. Kindly wear discrete swimming clothes in the spa and pool.
Shoes: Please remove your shoes and place them on the shoe racks when entering any of the buildings.
Schedule: It is expected that all students attend all satsangs, lectures and asana classes. To help with the upkeep of the Ashram we ask all students participate for 1 hour of Karma yoga each day.
Silence: To maintain the tranquil setting of an Ashram we aim to observe personal silence before the morning and evening satsangs and especially at mealtimes. Maintaining silence conserves energy and instills a peaceful environment. To maintain the energy received during evening satsang try observing silence for the remainder of the night.
Spiritual Respect: Kindly maintain a respectful attitude when near an altar, satsang hall or temple. When sitting, sit cross-legged, or in a chair. Kindly refrain from pointing the feet towards any altar, deities or teachers during satsang and lectures. Kindly do your best to remain in the satsang hall for the entire satsang.
Staff: Staff members are willing and able to answer any of your questions. Feel free to go to them and ask your questions. They will most often be wearing yellow and white.
Suggestions, Comments & Special Requests: If you have any suggestions, comments or special requests, feel free to write them down with your name and drop them into the suggestions box at reception. Any immediate concerns, feel free to mention to any staff member.
Physical Harassment: The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers of Canada disapprove of and condemn any form of harassment directed at guests, staff or visitors. Specifically, no harassment, proposals or innuendos with a sexual connotation will be tolerated during any program or activity organized by the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers of Canada. Guests participating in such programs are accordingly made aware of this policy and invited to apply it in their personal behavior whilst on our premises. Any guest who thinks she (he) may be the victim of unsolicited advances or any other form of sexual harassment is asked to notify a senior Swami or Director immediately in order for corrective action to be undertaken without delay. Complaints made to a senior Swami or Director will be treated confidentially and the alleged violator or any third party will not be advised of the complainant’s identity without the latter’s consent.