Past Events

A "Food Forest" is a low-maintenance, sustainable, plant-based agroforestry system based on woodland ecosystems. It incorporates fruit and nut trees, shrubs, herbs, vines, and perennial vegetables, which have yields directly useful to humans and beyond. Join us to learn how food forests can be managed, and how the concept can be applied to plant and human ecosystems to create a positive footprint on the earth.

Swami Vishnudevananda came to the West to share the teachings of Yoga but he was also deeply concerned about peace and the well being of the world. He learned to fly and bought a small plane, which earned him the nickname of "The Flying Swami". During this weekend, hear about how he flew peace missions over war zones, creating awareness in the news media and dropping peace pamphlets and flowers over war torn areas, risking his life in the name of peace.

We warmly invite you to come and join us for the free International Day of Yoga event on June 20th at 5:30 PM at the UN in New York where Swami Paramananda will be teaching a Yoga class.

Join us for a hiking weekend in the magnificent Catskill mountains while learning to integrate Hatha Yoga techniques of awareness and proper breathing for an enhanced hiking experience.

The Internet has become humanity’s invisible central nervous system. It connects us and can sometimes overwhelm us. Yet the most important technology is within us—our brain, body, and consciousness. A fast-paced career in the high-tech industry in combination with a deep yoga and meditation practice has allowed Gopi Kallayil to integrate his inner and outer technologies to a remarkable degree. Wisdom from his yoga mat and meditation cushion guides his professional career, and in turn his professional life provides the perfect classroom to deepen his wisdom practice. This talk offers tools for the audience to do the same as they learn to integrate their own inner and outer worlds.

Learn about anatomy and physiology of stress and injury to create a safe yoga practice and support the body’s healing process.

Meditation is now accepted, even in the mainstream, as a powerful tool to counteract the stresses of modern society, and improve physical, mental and emotional health. Come and join us for a five-day meditation immersion program.

You feel it’s time to find your purpose. To feel fulfilled in your day to day routine and to bring more meaning to your life. Life can get so busy it gets in your way. In this workshop retreat, you will disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life long enough to reconnect with your inner guide. You will start to hear your unique voice and discover what’s important to you; and, you will develop the confidence to make clear decisions that are in alignment with your true self and what your heart truly desires.

Over the weekend we'll look at building a meditation practice with Yoga asanas. Also, we will look at the power of chanting AUM and the benefits of having your own personal mantra.

Join Reverend Nafisa Sharriff for two hours of traditional West African Dance and Folklore from the Old Malian Empire. Come and immerse yourself in a full mind, body, spirit approach to learning about this rich cultural folklore as you not only stretch, exercise and dance but also enjoy the gentle meditative cool down at the end of each class to quiet your mind, relax your body and open your heart. All levels are welcome!

Become an agent of change in a world in need. This certification course will inspire and empower you to become an “activist of the heart.” Find your passion for making a difference in the world and put this passion into action!

Swami Vishnudevananda taught that Hatha Yoga is not just about physical exercises but can also lead to samadhi (superconscious state) through the control of Prana, the life force. In this course, designed for Yoga teachers and serious practitioners who want to deepen their practice, you will explore the effect of the conscious practice of the 12 Sivananda Yoga postures on the physical, astral, and causal bodies.

Spend your holiday in the beautiful Catskill Mountains enjoying the practices of Yoga, meditation, and sacred music with gospel singer Ken Whiteley. Also take summer walks in the woods, relax in the sauna, enjoy special Yoga classes, and more!

Enjoy separate yoga classes to help both beginner and more advanced students improve and deepen their practice. Special coaching workshops and talks on how yoga really works and how to maintain a successful home practice will also be offered.

This course is designed for beginners but is also suitable for anyone looking to revisit the fundamental building blocks of Hatha Yoga. During the immersion week, we will introduce the 12 basic Sivananda asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation techniques. This course will instill the discipline to create a home practice, improve flexibility and foster a greater ability to cope with stress and find inner happiness.

This exciting program has become a favorite annual vacation for parents wishing to gather with like-minded company, who are raising their children with a sensitive heart, reverence for the wonders of nature, and positive tools for self-regulation and self-esteem.

A golden thread of radiant spiritual wisdom can be traced through much of the Western world, dating back as far as the mystery centers of Ancient Greece and beyond.

Learn Ayurvedic wisdom for selecting asanas and pranayama based on one’s constitution and present imbalance. Marma (vital energy) points will also be explored in 12 basic asanas. All levels welcome.

Explore the rolling peaceful Catskill Mountain roads around the Yoga Ranch on bicycle on this beautiful autumn weekend. With hundreds of roads to choose from, we will organize a Saturday group rides from 8 to 50 miles in distance, depending on the level of cyclists. The ashram practice of asana, pranayama, relaxation and meditation will enhance your cycling experience.

Join us in celebrating Swami Sivananda’s Mahasamadhi, a day of liberation honoring the guru’s life.

Experienced Sivananda Youth Yoga instructors Omkari, Eka Jyoti, and Gauri Devi will guide young teens through the beginning steps of Yoga with an engaging, structured and activity-filled program. The program is open to young people ages 11-14 for 8 days of growth, connection, communion with nature and creativity.

An ancient traditional art form with its origins steeped in divinity, Bharata Natyam reflects the culture of South India. The dancers use the space as their own sacred temple and bring the audience into the magical circle. In the performances the dancers expressively depict the stories of Gods and Goddesses from Indian mythology.

Explore ways to create a daily Yoga lifestyle routine at home, including how to integrate the five basic points (postures, breathing, relaxation, diet and meditation/positive thinking) into day-to-day activities.