WHAT IS KARMA YOGA?
What if there were a way to transform work into service? To make every action meaningful and part of your personal development? Through the practice of Karma Yoga, also known as the Yoga of action or selfless service, you can gain new skills, connect with like minded people, and practice mindfulness in a spectacular natural setting. You can learn to lift any task from the menial to the meaningful. Read our Karma Yoga frequently asked questions.
WHO OUR PROGRAMS ARE FOR
Karma Yoga is first and foremost a spiritual practice. Because of this, we find our programs are most suited for those with an interest in personal development, living and serving in a spiritual community and integrating spiritual practice into daily tasks. Our programs are very different from WWOOFing and other kinds of work exchange programs. In addition, while Karma Yoga programs include a weekly workshop and other benefits, those looking for more of a course or retreat experience may wish to explore other offerings under the “Programs” menu of the website.
The Ashram is a place for healing, and we welcome those seeking greater well-being, connection and purpose in life. Please note that the Ashram does not have resources on hand to support those experiencing serious physical and mental health issues. It is important that applicants ensure that they are able to independently care for their health during their stay. We send Light to everyone for their healing journey.
A Day in the Life of a Yasodhara Karma Yogi
WHAT OUR KARMA YOGIS DO
Caring for the Ashram:
Grounds and Buildings
You can learn:
- Skills for operating hand tools and working in a shop.
- How to install and operate irrigation equipment.
- How to identify and remove invasive species.
- Painting, oiling and repairs.
- Techniques for preparing ground, planting, pruning and weeding in perennial gardens.
Sustaining our Community:
Organic Garden, Orchard, and Food Preservation
You can learn:
- How to support soil fertility and practice crop rotation.
- Composting.
- Pruning in the orchard.
- Seeding, planting, weeding and harvesting.
- Food preservation techniques such as fermentation and canning.
Caring for our People:
Hospitality, Food Preparation and Guest Services
You can learn:
- Customer service and communication skills.
- Guest services such as greeting, responding to questions and supporting guests during their stay.
- Best practices for room and facility preparation and cleaning.
- Food preparation and basic cooking techniques.
KARMA YOGA PROGRAM DETAILS AND HOW TO APPLY
Two-Month Karma Yoga Program
Duration
2 months
Description
This is the Ashram’s introductory Karma Yoga program. Participants will be introduced to Ashram life and the practice of Karma Yoga as a spiritual practice. They will learn about selfless service through supporting a variety of Ashram areas in accordance with needs and interests.
Prerequisites
Those new to the Ashram must participate in a Karma Yoga (Selfless Service) Programs Information Session or another online class to ensure the Ashram’s approach is a right fit.
2023 Intake Dates:
April 6, May 4, June 4, June 29, July 27, August 31, September 28, October 19, November 9, November 30.
Learning Residencies
Duration
3-8 months
Description
This program is for those who, in addition to an interest in Ashram living, have an interest in developing a skill base or experience in a particular area such as garden, orchard, grounds, wood working/shop, welcome centre, hospitality, food preservation and preparation. It helps participants develop their skills with the support of a mentor while practicing the yoga of selfless service.
Prerequisites
Those new to the Ashram must participate in a Karma Yoga (Selfless Service) Programs Information Session or another online class to ensure the Ashram’s approach is a right fit.
2023 Intake Dates:
April 6, May 4, June 4, June 29, July 27, August 31, September 28, October 19, November 9, November 30.
* Please note that many of the Learning Residencies are seasonal in nature and may not be available for every intake date. See link below for further details.
Additional Information on the Learning Residency Program and How to Apply
Returning Karma Yogi Program
Duration
2 weeks to 3 months
(extensions by discussion)
Description
Those who have significant Karma Yoga experience with the Ashram are invited to return for periods of 2 weeks or more to continue their practice of Karma Yoga.
Prerequisites
Karma Yoga experience at the Ashram is required. This can be through the Two Month Karma Yoga Program, the Yoga Journey extension, the Yoga Development Course extension or a Learning Residency.
Pathways Program: Building a Longer-Term Commitment
Duration
Commitment of 3 months or longer
Description
Those who have developed a taste for Ashram life from past Karma Yoga experience at the Ashram can be invited to build and strengthen their commitment to spiritual life through longer-term stays.
Community members gain in-depth knowledge and experience in a variety of areas. They participate in training programs and can grow into team leaders and resident teachers.
Prerequisites
Karma Yoga experience at the Ashram is required. This can be through the Two Month Karma Yoga Program, the Yoga Journey extension, the Yoga Development Course extension or a Learning Residency.
2022 Intake Dates
Year Round
How to Apply
You can inquire about this opportunity anytime by contacting info@yasodhara.org.
What You Will Receive
- Comfortable accommodation.
- Three nutritious and delicious meals per day (and the occasional treat!)
- Access to our grounds which include beautiful gardens, forest and beach.
- Access to our facilities and amenities including our library, prayer rooms, and the spectacular Temple of Light.
- Morning Hatha Yoga several days per week.
- 6-8 hours of daily Karma Yoga practice, six days per week.
- Evening Satsangs
- Daily reflection break, and one full day a week for personal reflection.
- Weekly class or workshop.
- A contact person to address your questions and needs.
Karma Yoga Schedule
Here is an overview of what your time here would look like on a typical day. Please note that there can be variations in the schedule.
Full-time Karma Yoga is 6 to 8 hours daily, hours can vary. Karma yogis offer service 6 days a week with one day reserved for reflection.
- Hatha Yoga – 6:50-7:50 a.m. several days per week
- Breakfast – 8-8:30 a.m.
- Karma Yoga – 8:30-12:30 p.m.
- Lunch – 12:30 p.m.
- Reflection break – 1-1:30 p.m.
- Karma Yoga – 1:30-6 p.m (2 to 4 hours within this timeframe, hours can vary)
- Dinner – 6 p.m.
- Satsang – 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Note: Elders (60 and over) can request fewer hours.
By Contribution Programs
There is no fee for our Karma Yoga programs for those participating in full-time Karma Yoga (6-8 hours per day). Donations given in a spirit of generosity make it possible for us to offer you our delicious organic meals, shared accommodation, enjoyment of our lake side grounds and Temple, and classes and workshops – all included in the program. We invite you to consider making whatever contribution you can toward your stay.
All Ashram Karma Yoga stays include a $25 contribution toward The Reconciliation Fund. This money is donated to a First Nations non-profit organization to help right past injustices. Everyone who visits or lives at Yasodhara Ashram is on the beautiful, but unceded territory of First Nations peoples, and we want to take meaningful action and give something back for this privilege.
Karma Yogis should also budget approximately $100 per month for charges such as wi-fi use, laundry, and incidental costs such as snacks and treats.
Need More Information?
To learn more about the Karma Yoga program and what your time will be like at the Ashram, join one of our free online information sessions where we will share information and answer your questions.