Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres and Ashrams

India

Ayurvedic Abhyanga Course (Ayurvedic Massage)

Course outline

Ayu means life, veda means knowledge, thus Ayurveda means the science or knowledge of life. The system has been in practice for more than 2000 years. It is a therapy as well as a philosophy of living in a meaningful, healthy and useful way. It is an upaveda (ancillary text) of Atharvaveda, as such it is considered as the fifth veda.

This three week course will provide a theoretical and practical approach to Ayurveda. Theory includes Pancabhuta (5 elements) theory, Tridosa (3 physiological qualities) theory, Prakrti body-mind constitution), preventative medicine, seasonal regimens, Ayurvedic diet, Dhatus (the seven body tissues), cause of disease, Ayurvedic pharmacology, diagnosis, treatment principles and Pancakarma (5 cleansing actions).

Practicals include tuition in abhyanga (Ayurvedic massage). During the course participants are expected to strictly follow the ashram schedule including satsang, meditation, asana practice and karma yoga (see below).

The course is conducted in English with many Sanskrit terms.

The course content does not necessarily reflect the teachings and views of the International Yoga Vedanta Centres (ISYVC)

The Teachers

Dr L. Mahadevan BAMS, MD - belongs to a family tradition of Ayurvedic practitioners. He is based at the Sri Sarada Ayurvedic Hospital, established by his grandfather. He is well known for his in depth knowledge of the principles of Ayurveda and his engaging teaching style. He is conducting research on clinical neurology and panchakarma and has published eight books on Ayurveda including 'Ayurveda for Beginners'.

Dr K.Chidambaram BAMS - practices at the Sri Sarada Ayurvedic Hospital. Apart from clinical medicine Dr Chidambaram has given lecture demonstrations on traditional methods of preparation of ancient Indian medicines and food preparation.

Certificate

A certificate is awarded on successful completion of the course jointly by Dr L. Mahadevan and the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram.

The certificate does not qualify the participant to diagnose, prescribe or dispense Ayurvedic medicines professionally.

Daily Schedule

0520 hrs	Wake up
0600 hrs	Satsang
0730 hrs	Tea
0800 hrs	Asana, pranayama class
1000 hrs	Brunch
1100 hrs	Karma yoga
1200 hrs	Ayurveda lecture
1330 hrs	Tea
1400 hrs	Ayurveda lecture
1600 hrs	Ayurveda workshop / practicals
1800 hrs	Dinner
2000 hrs	Satsang
2200 hrs	Lights out

Attendance of the entire daily schedule is mandatory.

Definition of Terms

Satsang:  Satsang consists of silent meditation, chanting and a talk or reading on the philosophy of yoga and Vedanta. It will help you develop a strong and steady meditation practice.

Asana class:  There are usually both beginners and intermediate classes running at the ashram. For those with no experience or experience from another school are recommended to join the beginners classes where the basic pranayama, sun salutation, and the twelve basic postures are taught in a systematic step by step manner.

Pranayama:  Basic practice of kapalabhati, anuloma viloma (alternate nostril breathing).

Karma yoga:  Karma yoga is the practice of selfless service which helps guests to feel part of the ashram. You are expected to do up to one hour of selfless service per day within ashram.

Chanting (kirtan):  Opens the heart and purifies the mind. Correct pronunciation of Sanskrit and a devotional attitude is important.

Meditation:  Guideline to meditation. Benefits of meditation. The use of mantras and mantra initiation.

Brunch/Dinner:  Simple Indian style vegetarian meals.

Recommended texts

Ayurveda:

• Ayurveda for Beginners - Dr L. Mahadevan (included in the course donation)
• A Treatise on Home Remedies - Dr Suresh Babu MD (Ayurveda)
• Astanga Hrdaya Sutra Sthana (English) - Dr T. Sreekumar

Yoga practice:

• Sivananda Training Manual - Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre
• The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga - Swami Vishnudevananda
• Sivananda Companion to Yoga - Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre
• Meditation and Mantras - Swami Vishnudevananda

These texts are not included in the course donation.

The texts are usually available in the ashram boutique or can be purchased from any of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres (ISYVC) or ordered from the catalogue of the London Centre.

Course Dates and Donations

For a list of upcoming course dates and donations click here.

Accommodation

Accommodation is simple, mainly dormitory space. A small number of shared twin rooms with private bathroom are available at Neyyar Dam. We cannot guarantee twin room bookings. Those requiring twin rooms should book early. Separate dormitory space for men and ladies. Tent space is available. Please bring your own tent. Bathroom facilities are with cold water only.

Single accommodation is not available.

Two sheets, a pillow, pillowcases and mosquito net are provided.

To maintain the spiritual atmosphere we ask all ashram guests to comply with the ashram rules. Kindly refer to the Ashram rules and guidelines for more information. The ashram reserves the right of admission and students may be asked to leave if their behaviour goes against the ashrams rules and teachings.

Registration & Cancellation

See How to Register for instructions on applying and paying for courses and programmes.

Dates and donations are subject to change without notice. For all programs, guests are subject to the suggested donation in effect at the time of final payment.

To maintain the spiritual atmosphere we ask all ashram guests to comply with the ashram rules. Kindly refer to the Ashram rules and guidelines for more information. The ashram reserves the right of admission and students may be asked to leave if their behaviour goes against the ashrams rules and teachings.

In the case of cancellation of a course or departure within the first half of a course, any unused amount may be transferred to another course in India (excluding Vrindavan courses) or in Canada. The alternative course should be within one year of the original course start date. Alternatively a credit note may be issued valid for one year from original course start date. This may be used in India or Canada at any of the ISYVC centres or ashrams for courses and programs but not for boutique items or for other services such as Ayurveda massage. Transfer of credit / credit note to another person is not possible without advance permission.

Students leaving the course before completion are required to return all teaching materials and uniforms.

What to Bring

Comfortable clothes, sandals, toiletries, personal items, meditation shawl for cool evenings, yoga asana mat or pad, meditation cushion, notebooks, pens, towels and a torch.

These items can usually be purchased in the ashram boutique.

Two uniforms and the text book, 'Ayurveda for Beginners' by Dr Mahadevan, are included in the course donation.

Passport/Visa

Foreign Nationals are required to bring their original passport with a valid visa for India.

Further Sivananda Courses

Ayurvedic Abhyanga Course (Ayurvedic Massage) participants may be interested in the Ayurvedic Wellness Course, Fasting and Detoxification Program, and the Yoga Teachers' Training Course (TTC).