We practice a holistic yoga based on a lineage of teachings from Swami Radha, who studied with Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh. There is an emphasis on the spiritual traditions of yoga. Our approach includes Karma Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Dream Yoga. (see Our Practices) The Hatha Yoga and Hidden Language Hatha Yoga we teach here is gentle and reflective. Combining yoga practices with personal development techniques, our teachings create a bridge to the spiritual dimension while supporting the aspiration to live our practice in daily life. Learn more about our practices »

Ashram means spiritual home. Ashrams present a particular lineage of teachings. Yasodhara Ashram is based on the teachings of Swami Sivananda Radha and is open to people of all backgrounds to pursue their spiritual development. Learn more about Yasodhara Ashram »

Yes! Yasodhara Ashram has been welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds, from around the world, for the last fifty years. As a guest, you may access the Ashram's many spiritual resources, including the meditation rooms, our extensive library and the surrounding natural beauty of lake, mountains and forest. We welcome all visitors to our bookstore and the Temple of Divine Light. Most first-time guests begin with a course or retreat. Some decide to stay on after the course, to build spiritual awareness and absorb the peace and natural beauty of the Ashram. Our courses and retreats range from two to ten days, and there are many options for extended stays and Karma Yoga.

Swami Sivananda Radha is the founder and spiritual inspiration for Yasodhara Ashram. A pioneer in the development of yoga in the West, her approach was distinguished by her unique ability to synthesize yogic teachings and western psychology. Although she passed away in 1995, her presence is felt by all who visit Yasodhara. Her legacy of teaching is preserved by her many books, essays, audio and video recordings. Swami Radha left the Ashram under the care of her designated successor, Swami Radhananda, whose dedication has supported a thriving and ever-evolving community. Learn more about Swami Radha »

Yes. Visitors are welcome year-round. We are open between from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Please register at the Gift Shop at Mandala House, where we are happy to answer any of your questions and give you a site map. Drop in and take a self-guided tour or attend our special program, Taste of the Ashram, to experience a day in the life of Yasodhara Ashram, which includes a yoga class, lunch and a guided tour of the Ashram gardens, Temple and environmental initiatives.

Karma Yoga is the practice of selfless service. Known as the yoga of action, it is the foundation of life here at the Ashram. Karma Yoga is translated into our daily work as service to the community. We work together in the kitchen and garden and grounds; we build houses and repair our buildings; we clean and care for our spaces. All residents and guests participate in Karma Yoga and engage with work as a spiritual practice. Find out more about Karma Yoga.

A typical daily schedule while on a course will look like this: Hatha Yoga – 7-8:45 a.m. (Ten Days of Yoga) or 7-8 a.m. (all other courses) Breakfast – 9 a.m. (Ten Days of Yoga) or 8 a.m. (all other courses) Workshop – 10-12:30 a.m. Lunch – 12:30 p.m. Reflection – 1-3 p.m. Workshop – 3-5:30 p.m. Dinner – 6 p.m. Satsang – 7:30-8:30 p.m. A typical daily schedule while on a Guided Retreat will look like this: Hatha Yoga – 6:50-7:50 a.m. Breakfast – 8-8:30 a.m. Karma Yoga – 9-10 a.m. Personal Retreat – 10-11 a.m. Workshop – 11-12:30 a.m. Lunch – 12:30 p.m. Personal Retreat – 1-4 p.m. Workshop – 4-5:30 p.m. Dinner – 6 p.m. Satsang –7:30-8:30 p.m. If you come for a Personal Retreat your day may look like this: Hatha Yoga – 6:50-7:50 a.m. Breakfast – 8-8:30 a.m. Karma Yoga – 9-11 a.m. Personal Retreat – 11-12:30 a.m. Lunch – 12:30 p.m. Personal Retreat – 1-6 p.m. Dinner – 6 p.m. Satsang –7:30-8:30 p.m. A typical day for residents or Karma Yogis includes: Hatha Yoga – 6:50-7:50 a.m. Breakfast – 8-8:30 a.m. Karma Yoga – 8:30-12:30 a.m. Lunch – 12:30 p.m. Karma Yoga – 1:30-3:30 p.m. Reflection break – 3:30-4 p.m. Karma Yoga – 4-5:30 p.m. Dinner – 6 p.m. Satsang –7:30-8:30 p.m.

The Ashram is in the southern interior of British Columbia, about midway between Calgary and Vancouver, and north of Idaho. Please refer to our Getting Here page for more information on bus, plane and ferry schedules, and for driving directions and times.