The Ashram
 |
| Central courtyard |
The residential ashram of Satyanandashram Hellas is located just outside the town of Paiania. It is home to a community of teachers and residents, actively dedicated to living yoga. Visitors come from near and far to gain practical experience in living yoga on a daily basis.
The word ashram comes from two Sanskrit roots. Shram means a place of hard work physically, mentally, emotionally – where we can face and work on our personal problems and negative tendencies and in time become liberated from their destructive hold on us and ashraya which means refuge or retreat.
An ashram is a place of temporary retreat from the noise of the world, where we have the time and the energy to look inwards and see the deeper aspects of our mind and Being.
In other words, an ashram combines two aspects: The more passive aspect of a retreat, which allows us the security, time and space to explore our own fundamental nature and the more active aspect of hard work physically and mentally where we confront all the inner insecurity that plagues our mind. This process is absolutely necessary if we are to go deeper along the spiritual/ yogic path.
 |
| Seva yoga scene |
An ashram is also a place where we develop the attitude of service and experience karma yoga (efficiency in action) and seva yoga (offering one’s time and energy for service).
Ashrams have existed in varying forms all over the world for thousands of years.
Ashrams range from one-man establishments to places with hundreds of residents or they may take a modern form with multiple branches around the world.
An ashram aims at allowing people to imbibe Yoga in a spiritually charged atmosphere. It is a place where people from all ages and walks of life can come for a period of time, find a new vision of life and gain a deeper insight into their own being. This brings inspiration and helps foster co-operation and harmony in society.
An ashram has much to offer the present stress-filled world.
It is a mistake to think of an ashram as a holiday retreat centre, an educational institute, or some kind of community.An ashram is a place set apart, where the atmosphere is charged with transformative energy. It is a place where we gain nourishment, inspiration and inner strength to continue with our lives.
 |
| Yoga class in the garden |
A unique library of yoga and spiritually focused books is available for research into the many an varied texts related to yoga.
A typical day in the ashram life
According to season: rising early, chanting of Vedic mantras, morning Yoga class or self practice, talk or workshop, hands-on activities in the departments of the ashram, Yoga Nidra (deep relaxation practice), meditation, gardening or farming and kirtan.
Satyananda Yoga teachers
Satyananda Yoga teachers receive highly comprehensive training and are continually assessed to ensure their skills reflect a high degree of quality and professionalism. They undertake regular in-service training programs to upgrade their skills and are informed about latest trends and developments.
 |
| Picking vegetables in nearby organic field |
Satyanandashram Hellas actively supports the principles of organic farming. Practices like companion planting, organic pest control and planting according to the phases of the moon are successfully applied in the gardens and a nearby field where the ashram cultivates seasonal vegetables and herbs.
Satyanandashram is a non-profit organization and receives no government funding. Programs and activities are open to members. Contributions and donations cover the running costs and go towards the philanthropic work of Satyananda Math to assist those in need. Contributions are non-refundable and non-transferable. Booking is essential to secure your place.
The terms
and 
are trademarks owned by IYFM and used with permission.