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“Renunciation”

AUDIO

In this archival audio clip, Swami Radha tells a short story that goes to the heart of renunciation – taming the need for recognition so that the Light can express itself through us.

You can listen to it here:

REFLECTION IDEAS

What does ‘renunciation’ mean in your life? Where do you see examples of letting go of attachments in your work, your relationships, your interior life?

In the Preface to On Sanyas, Swami Radhananda says:

I understand that there is more to renunciation than letting go of things. It is a commitment to facing life and moving forward. It’s a practice of compassion in a time when terrible things are happening in the world. It’s a vow to look to each other and live a life that overcomes emotional turmoil and fear, creating a solid foundation to work with and to bring into the world.

TEACHING IDEAS

  1. Tapas – Swami Radhananda, in this month’s video, describes tapas as a way to “burn habits away.” What habits would you like to burn away? Choose one and decide on a tapas that would help you. Do it for the whole month. Keep notes to record your learning and check in weekly, with reflections.
  2. Relaxation (Surrender) – Physical relaxation is a way into your own experience of surrender and letting go. Practice Savasana, observe the effects, and reflect on what it means to surrender. As relaxation deepens, what do you renounce or let go of? How can renunciation lighten your life?
  3. Selfless Service – How do you lift up your actions and bring Light into your work and relationships? What has to be let go? How is Karma Yoga related to renunciation? Identify an ideal you want to take into your week and observe the effect on your mind, body and the world around you.
  4. Gita, 18th Discourse – Read the 18th discourse of the Bhagavad Gita; or check Swami Radha’s commentary in On Sanyas. (p. 87-104) What is your real work and how do you make it an offering? Are there desires or concepts that need to be sacrificed? Stand in Tadasana and ask: What is my heart’s desire and how can I keep it alive? Create a devotional ritual to support your ideal. What is the effect on your body, speech and mind?

A wonderful resource for exploring this month’s theme is Swami Radha’s book, On Sanyas.

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Cancellation Policy

To reserve your space we require a non-refundable $300 deposit at the time of booking. If you cancel prior to 14 days before the start date of your program, the deposit is non-refundable but may be transferred to another stay at the Ashram booked within a year of the original registration. Deposits for stays cancelled within 14 days of the start date will not be refunded and cannot be transferred to another stay. If you depart early during a program, full tuition and room charges still apply. Thank you for your consideration that will help make space available for other guests.

Cancellation Policy

To reserve your space we require a non-refundable $300 deposit at the time of booking.

  • The $300 deposit is non-refundable, but if you cancel with at least two weeks’ notice, your payment may be transferred to another stay at the Ashram. 
  • If the cancellation is made less than 14 days before the start of the course, the deposit is not transferable. 
  • Deposits transferred following a cancellation are converted into a booking credit. This credit must be applied to a retreat scheduled within twelve (12) months of the cancellation date. 
  • If the credit is not used within this period, it will expire and be forfeited. Expired credits have no cash value and will not be refunded or extended.

Thank you for your consideration that will help make space available for other guests.