Looking for some inspiration? The Integral Yoga Etsy Shop has you covered—literally! Our Woodstock collection is a blast from the past reminding us it’s time to “Get Ourselves Back to the Garden!”

All our Integral Yoga Shop offerings bring you fun and uplifting designs, timeless wisdom for daily life, greeting cards & perfect gifts for every occasion. Explore the shop and please spread the word! Every purchase helps support Satchidananda Ashram–Yogaville and Integral Yoga Magazine. Thank you for your support!

The post Get Yourself Back to “the Garden” – the New Integral Yoga Woodstock Collection appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

Cover of Victoria Moran’s latest book.

Aging is often viewed as something to resist, delay, or even fear. But what if, instead of dreading it, we embraced aging as a sacred passage—an opportunity to deepen our wisdom, refine our spirit, and live with greater joy? This is precisely the perspective that Victoria Moran offers in her inspiring new book, Age Like a Yogi: A Heavenly Path to a Dazzling Third Act.

Victoria, a longtime practitioner of Integral Yoga, beautifully weaves together the spiritual depth of Yoga with practical wisdom for aging with grace, vitality, and meaning. In her introduction she shares that “If you want to know what I do, Integral Yoga is the lineage closest to my heart and I take two classes a week.” Her approach is not about defying age but about redefining it—living in a way that keeps the body strong, the mind clear, and the spirit luminous.

Yoga as the Secret to Radiant Longevity

At the heart of Age Like a Yogi is the understanding that aging is as much a spiritual process as it is a physical one. Moran invites us to see growing older not as a decline but as a transformation, an evolution into a wiser, freer, and more radiant version of ourselves. With insight and humor, she shares stories of remarkable elders—many of them yogis—who exemplify the beauty of aging consciously.

The book is structured as a practical and deeply philosophical guide to this stage of life, divided into ten parts. It explores essential themes such as maintaining physical vitality, the importance of breathwork, the power of plant-based nutrition, and creating a sacred daily routine. In these pages, readers will find an abundance of yogic wisdom on:

• Pranayama: How conscious breathing can revitalize our energy and calm the mind.
• Ahimsa: Embracing nonviolence in thought, word, and deed, including a compassionate approach to diet and lifestyle.
• Santosha: Cultivating contentment and embracing where we are in the present moment.
• Ishvara Pranidhana: Surrendering to a Higher Power and trusting the flow of life.

Moran also explores Ayurveda, Yoga’s sister science, sharing how its timeless principles can support balance and vitality as we age. She offers accessible and enjoyable practices—ranging from morning rituals to seasonal self-care—that help us move through life’s later chapters with grace.

A Call to Elevate Everything

Beyond personal wellness, Age Like a Yogi is a call to serve, to uplift, and to contribute meaningfully to the world. Moran encourages us to step into our dharma—our life’s purpose—at every age, reminding us that our most impactful years may still be ahead. She inspires readers to see aging not as a process of retreating from life but as an invitation to deepen our presence and our contribution to the world.

One of the book’s most powerful sections, Warrior Challenges, dares readers to live fully, do their dharma, make peace with mortality, and elevate everything they touch. This aligns seamlessly with Integral Yoga’s philosophy—that life itself is the Yoga practice and that every stage offers opportunities for growth and Self-realization.

Why This Book Matters Now

In a culture obsessed with youth, Age Like a Yogi offers a refreshing, much-needed perspective. Rather than prescribing an anti-aging formula, Moran provides a pro-living guide. She reminds us that aging is not something to fear but something to befriend—an opportunity to refine our light and share it more brilliantly.

For those who practice Integral Yoga, this book will feel like coming home. It echoes the teachings we hold dear and affirms that Yoga is a lifelong path, one that supports us through every stage of our journey. Whether you’re already deep in your Yoga practice or just beginning, Age Like a Yogi will inspire you to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose, vitality, and joy.

Victoria Moran has gifted us with a roadmap for radiant aging—one that is filled with wisdom, humor, and heart. Through her words, she assures us that, indeed, the light within us only grows brighter with time. And that, perhaps, is the greatest secret of all.

About Victoria Moran:

Victoria Moran has written 13 books about well-being, spirituality, and vegan living. VegNews magazine listed her among the Top 10 Living Vegetarian Authors, and she was on Oprah twice. Victoria is a passionate animal person and longtime vegan, honored in 2024 with induction into the Vegan Hall of Fame.

The post Age Like a Yogi: Victoria Moran’s Guide to Living Radiantly at Any Age appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

We live in an age characterized by an increasing sense of uncertainty.  We are exposed daily to a world in crisis, from natural disasters to political upheaval, from tremendous violence to widespread injustice. Maintaining our well-being, living by spiritual values and finding genuine fulfillment can seem impossible when surrounded by a workaholic culture, rampant with greed, deception, and “image is everything” messages.

Swami Ramananda will present the distilled wisdom of the Yoga teachings as practical principles essential for building immunity and resilience, and creating a fulfilling life. Together we will reflect on how to empower ourselves and how a spiritual practice attunes our hearts and minds to the spiritual consciousness we share.

Together, we will explore:

• How the practice of asana, pranayama and meditation can heal and build physical and psychological resilience
• The integration the Yogic teachings into every aspect of our lives
• How group practice supports and deepens a sustainable spiritual practice
• The use of guided reflection to create a focused spiritual lifestyle
• Understanding painful life experiences as an opportunity to deepen our connection to the natural, unchanging source of peace within

More info and registration here.

The post Resilience in an Age of Uncertainty: April 18–20, 2025 appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

Satchidananda Ashram is offering a Spring Silent Retreat: Reconnect, Renew, Restore from April 24 –27, 2025 led by senior Integral Yoga teachers. As spring breathes new life into the world, embark on a journey of personal renewal at Satchidananda Ashram–Yogaville.

This silent retreat offers a unique opportunity to align your inner growth with the rebirth of nature around you. Just as the earth awakens from its winter slumber, you’ll have the chance to rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit in a serene environment.

Take a few days to step back from your regular routines. Lift the spirit and refresh the body and mind. Through stillness, silence, and Yoga practices, become reacquainted with your true nature of ease and peace.

This retreat offers:

• Workshops on yogic lifestyle and philosophy led by senior Integral Yoga practitioners
• Meditation for connecting with one’s inner peace
• Hatha Yoga practices for cleansing and rejuvenation
• Delicious, vegetarian meals for an enhanced immune system
• Guided Exploration of the Yogaville hiking trails
• Opportunities to practice Karma Yoga (selfless service) in various service areas*, including the Yogaville Kitchen, Farm, and grounds

Integral Yoga, developed by Swami Satchidananda, promotes an easeful body, a peaceful mind, and a useful life. This comprehensive approach uses every aspect of life as a stepping stone to one’s supreme goal—lasting happiness and inner peace.

As you immerse yourself in the practices of Integral Yoga, you’ll also have the chance to spend time in nature, witnessing the renewal of the earth firsthand. This beautiful time at the ashram allows you to synchronize your personal growth with the blossoming world around you, creating a profound connection between inner and outer renewal.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, instruction in Yoga practices, or support in your personal practice, the Integral Yoga Silent Retreat provides the perfect foundation for your journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation. More info and registration here.

The post Spring Silent Retreat: Reconnect, Renew, Restore: April 24 – 27, 2025 appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

Vyas describes this album as “an offering—a sacred call to awaken the heart through sound.” Every track on Vedic Invocations is infused with meticulous authenticity, guided by Brahmin priests who have trained in the revered Gurukul system, ensuring the pronunciation and intonation remain pure, just as they have been for millennia.

A Sacred Compilation of Transformative Prayers

At the heart of this album is a selection of powerful hymns and invocations from the Vedas and Upanishads, carefully chosen to invoke divine energy, purify the mind, and elevate spiritual practice. These include:

• Ganapati Atharvasheersham – A sacred Sanskrit text from the Upanishads, describing the nature and worship of Lord Ganesha as the remover of obstacles and the source of wisdom.
• Durga Dwatrinshna Nama Mala – A hymn listing 32 names of Goddess Durga, a divine warrior who safeguards devotees from suffering and evil forces.
• Amogh Shiva Kavacham – A powerful shield of mantras from the Skanda Purana, invoking Lord Shiva’s protection and bestowing a halo of divine energy.
• Shree Devi Atharvasheersham – A Vedic hymn dedicated to Goddess Durga in her supreme cosmic form, emphasizing strength, wisdom, and spiritual fortitude.
• Narayana Atharvasheersham – An invocation of Lord Narayana, the sustainer of the universe, offering deep insight into divine consciousness and the path to liberation.

Each of these invocations has been carefully arranged with reverence, allowing listeners to be transported into the sanctity of an ancient temple, where these prayers have echoed for thousands of years.

The Power of Vedic Sound

The magic of Vedic Invocations lies not just in its lyrical content, but in the profound impact of Sanskrit’s vibratory force. Vyas notes,

“These prayers are not only invocations to these magnificent, powerful, gracious deities, but also a tool to cleanse and purify the energy fields in and around you. They can remove obstacles, create a shield of protection, and invite abundance, peace, and truthfulness into your daily life.”

Unlike conventional music, these chants are designed to shift energy, aligning the listener’s awareness with the higher chakras. This quality makes Vedic Invocations an invaluable companion for Integral Yoga practitioners seeking to deepen their meditation, strengthen their devotion, and cultivate inner stillness.

A Devotional Offering to the Seeker

The purity of this album is a gift for all lovers of sacred sound, from dedicated yogis to those new to the transformative power of Vedic mantras. As Vyas so beautifully expresses,

“If we’re sensitive enough, Vedic knowledge systems give us the inner knowledge of the profound energies of life that govern the universe, allowing us to access them in our daily lives.”

With its celestial chants, precise recitations, and soul-stirring instrumentation, Vedic Invocations is an invitation to step into the river of ancient wisdom, to bathe in the sound current of the eternal, and to awaken the divine presence within.

For those who seek to enrich their spiritual practice with the power of sacred vibration, Vedic Invocations is a portal into the divine, a sacred echo of the timeless wisdom that continues to guide seekers toward enlightenment.

The post Manish Vyas’s “Vedic Invocations”: A Gateway to Sacred Sound appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

This training explores:

• Adaptations of asanas (postures) 
• Chair Yoga (helpful for students with limited mobility or space)
• Gentle warm-ups and stretches
• Safe and effective prop use

Adaptive Yoga gives us the tools to reach various populations that may not have had access to the benefits of Hatha Yoga. In addition to Yoga studios, Adaptive Yoga classes can be offered in senior centers, rehabilitation facilities, recreation centers, hospitals, churches, and community centers.

An Adaptive Yoga class provides all the benefits of the basic Integral Yoga class at the level that the individual student is capable of practicing. You will learn to create safe, comfortable Yoga sessions and study how to accommodate people with limited mobility, students in private classes, and practitioners of various levels in group classes.

More info and registration here.

The post Adaptive Hatha Yoga Teacher Training – June 2025 appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

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Painting of Siddhar Bhogar, blessing his devotees.

High above the verdant landscape of Tamil Nadu, atop the sacred Palani Hills, the echoes of devotion resound through the ages. The Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple—one of the six revered abodes of Lord Muruga—stands as both a beacon of spiritual transformation and a repository of ancient wisdom.

It was here that a young Ramaswamy, the future Swami Satchidananda, deepened his sadhana, absorbed in the presence of saints, sages, and Siddhars. Among these, one figure loomed large, not in the flesh but in spirit—Bhogar, the legendary Tamil Siddhar (Siddha in Sanskrit) whose alchemy, yogic mastery, and devotion infused the very air of Palani.

For those who have followed this series, we left off with Ramaswamy’s life as a sadhu in Palani, immersed in meditation, service, and the austere path of renunciation. Now, we step into the realm of mysticism that surrounded him, exploring the influence of Siddhar Bhogar—the enigmatic sage whose presence was palpable even centuries after his physical departure.

The very heart of Palani’s temple beats with a mystery that has captivated seekers for centuries. The murti (sacred statute) of Lord Murugan enshrined within is no ordinary statue—it is believed to be an alchemical masterpiece, created by Siddhar Bhogar from an amalgam of nine poisonous substances, navapashanam. Bhogar, a master of Siddha medicine and divine chemistry, labored intensively on the statue, perfecting its features with a sculptor’s devotion. It is said that he spent the most time on the face, giving it an ethereal grace, while the rest of the body remained simple and unembellished. The result was a murti not merely carved but manifested—a consecrated presence that radiates energy to those who seek it with faith.

Ancient traditions speak of this alchemical blend, where poisons, when combined in a precise formula, transmute into a powerful elixir, exuding divine energy and with extraordinary healing properties. This is why, to this day, the abhishekam—the ritual bathing of the deity with honey, ghee, jaggery, a sweet mixture of fruits, milk, and other natural substances—at Palani is revered for its curative potency. Devotees receive the sanctified abhishekam infused with the essence of the deity, as charanamrita—a blessing that is said to restore health and vitality and to purify the soul. As Ramaswamy immersed himself in his daily worship in the temple, he would have witnessed the endless stream of devotees receiving the sacred charanamrita—and, in time, he would come to understand the deeper mysteries behind Bhogar’s spiritual and scientific genius.

Depiction of Siddhar Bhogar creating the Palani temple murti from 9 poisonous substances.

Bhogar was no ordinary saint. A master of alchemy, Yoga, and esoteric wisdom, he was said to have been a spiritual scientist who seamlessly blended mysticism with tangible transformation. While many Siddhars sought liberation through asceticism, Bhogar’s path embraced the world—his was a path of transmutation, turning the material into the spiritual, the poison into the panacea. His example would begin to shape Ramaswamy’s later path as Swami Satchidananda.

The Samadhi Shrine of Bhogar: The Mystical Seat of Worship

Nestled within the southwestern corridor of the Palani temple complex is a shrine dedicated to Siddhar Bhogar, an entryway into the depths of his spiritual legacy. To the uninitiated, Bhogar’s legacy might seem confined to the navapashanam murti. But hidden within the temple’s corridors lies another layer of his mystical work—a shrine dedicated to his worship of Shiva and Shakti. In a sanctified chamber, accessible through a winding passageway, rests the Maragatha Lingam—an emerald Shiva Lingam, pulsating with the energy of Divine Consciousness. Unlike ordinary lingams carved from stone, this one is said to contain the vibrations of lifetimes of intense sadhana, infused by Bhogar’s tapasya (austerities) and devotion.

Ancient lore whispers that beneath this shrine lies a network of subterranean tunnels, one of which leads to a hidden cave deep within the hill—where Bhogar is said to still be in samadhi, eternally meditating in communion with the divine. For the young sadhu Ramaswamy, the presence of this shrine was more than a historical relic—it was a living source of spiritual power and he spent many hours meditating at this shrine, drawn by the energy that seemed to flow directly from Bhogar’s presence into the hearts of those receptive to it.

One day, as Ramaswamy sat near Bhogar’s samadhi, repeating his mantra, something extraordinary happened. His consciousness became absorbed in deep meditation, the temple and its surroundings fading from his awareness. In that moment, he felt a presence—Bhogar himself. The ancient Siddhar appeared before him, luminous, his eyes radiating the timeless wisdom of one who had traversed the realms of existence.

Bhogar reached out and placed his palm on Ramaswamy’s head. A surge of energy coursed through his being, dissolving his sense of self. He felt as if his body had melted into light, the boundaries between form and formlessness vanishing. Time stood still. There was only peace—vast, unshakable, beyond words. When he returned to normal consciousness, Bhogar’s form had disappeared, but the experience remained. It was not merely a vision; it was more than a moment of spiritual revelation—it was a transmission of energy, a silent yet potent initiation that would subtly shape the future course of Ramaswamy’s path. Whenever Swami Satchidananda traveled to India from America, he always visited the temple at Palani, had darshan of the deity, and then spent time in silent meditation at the samadhi shrine of Siddhar Bhogar.

The Real “Emerald City”

Photo: Exterior of the Samadhi Shrine of Siddhar Bhogar at Palani Temple.

Within the samadhi shrine of Bhogar lies something extraordinary—an emerald lingam, known as the Maragatha Shiva-Shakti Lingam. Unlike traditional lingams carved from stone, this one is said to contain the vibrations of lifetimes of intense sadhana, infused by Bhogar’s tapasya (austerities) and devotion. This lingam embodies both the Shiva and Shakti principles, pulsating with the union of cosmic masculine and feminine energies. This sacred lingam was central to Bhogar’s worship, accompanied by the yantra of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari, another powerful representation of Goddess Shakti.

Bhuvaneshvari (a form of Sri Lalita Tripurasundari, also known as Raja Rajesvari) the Queen of the Universe, was Bhogar’s chosen deity. She is the embodiment of primordial energy, the force that breathes life into existence itself. To worship her is to embrace the Infinite, to dissolve all boundaries and limitations. The presence of her yantra—a geometric representation of divine energies—at Bhogar’s shrine speaks to his deep understanding of the subtle, vibrational forces that govern all. By invoking both the masculine and feminine aspects of divinity, Bhogar exemplified the non-dual realization that is at the heart of the Siddhar tradition: that all existence is but a dance of Shiva and Shakti, matter and Consciousness, intertwined in eternal unity. His worship was not merely ritualistic; it was an act of alignment with cosmic forces, an invitation for the seeker to transcend the ordinary and merge with the Infinite.

The Eternal Call of Palani

We have spent the last few parts of this series exploring Palani and its temple, a main abode of Lord Muruga. Hopefully, we now understand that the temple itself is not merely a temple; it is a force, a portal into the transcendental. Those who step onto its sacred grounds find themselves immersed in an atmosphere charged with Shakti, the divine power that permeates everything. The rituals, the mantras, the very air seems to pulse with an unseen current, drawing the sincere seeker into its transformative embrace.

For those attuned to its frequency, Palani does more than inspire devotion—it initiates inner alchemy. Just as Siddhar Bhogar turned poison into medicine, the energies of this holy place transmute the restless mind into one of peace, the scattered heart into one of unwavering faith. Those who come with sincerity receive diksha, a spiritual ignition that accelerates their evolution. The mind stills, the emotions settle, and a profound integration takes place within.

This is the blessing of Bhogar, the hidden current beneath the visible form of Muruga’s temple. It is the unseen force that awakened something deep within Ramaswamy, planting the seeds that would later blossom into a life dedicated to guiding others on the path of Yoga and Self-realization. The energy of Bhogar, the living presence of Lord Muruga, and the mystical sciences of the Siddhars all played a role in shaping the young sadhu’s spiritual path. This deep connection to Bhogar would continue to influence his journey, rippling through his later teachings and the tradition of Integral Yoga itself.

In our next installment, we will go still deeper into how the the vibration of Bhogar’s presence, the power of the Maragatha Lingam, the resonance of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari—Her mantra and yantra, all wove themselves into the tapestry of Ramaswamy’s unfolding destiny.

The post Embarking on a Spiritual Odyssey, Part 14: Bhogar’s Mystical Legacy and a Sadhu’s Initiation appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

Photo by Ekaterina Bolovtsova courtesy of Pexels.

A majority of U.S. adults experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which are potentially traumatic events taking place before the age of 18. These include forms of abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, community violence, and discrimination.

Studies have found a relationship between exposure to ACEs and negative, long-term and detrimental, mental and physical health consequences, such as mental health disorders, social challenges, and chronic diseases and premature mortality. Specifically, the more ACEs a person is exposed to, the more health problems they typically have.

As a psychologist, I’m interested in exploring methods of healing. During the development of my own recent study, I became particularly curious about finding a holistic method that targets ACEs, mentally and physically. As a practitioner and teacher of Yoga, I felt that Yoga, a practice that cultivates the union of the mind and body, may be promising, and the research I came across supported this. Yoga has been found to improve the autonomic nervous system, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and physical strength and mobility, in addition to treating mental health conditions, including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, and trauma.

Holistic methods of healing, like Yoga, were understudied in relation to ACEs, so I took on the task and had in-depth interviews with a dozen, culturally diverse adults across the world with what’s known to be a significant number ACEs (4+ ACEs), who were also regular practitioners of Yoga (practiced at least once per week for at least 6 months, with varied types of Yoga practice, including Hatha and Vinyasa). Essentially, I sought to understand the mental and physical impact of Yoga among adults with ACEs. After a process of transcribing and coding the recorded interviews, 4 main themes emerged from the data:

1. Healing from trauma-related symptoms
2. Integrating mind and body
3. Offering corrective experiences
4. Providing a nonverbal healing process

To clarify, individuals in the study described how components of Yoga, including meditation, or dhyana, acceptance, and physical awareness, repaired their past behavioral patterns of avoidance, and a sense of detachment they had previously felt from their bodies. They described both a physically and psychologically healthy shift from denying their emotional experiences to accepting them with non-judgment. Yoga also restored a connection these individuals had lost with their bodies through trauma, improving their ability to recognize and tend to their bodies’ needs.

Participants also explained that in engaging with their mind and body simultaneously, they integrated “fragmented” pieces of themselves, creating a feeling of “wholeness.” These individuals also described physical relief, and a sense of agency, belonging, self-worth, and compassion from Yoga that counterbalanced their previous poor health, and lack of self-worth and control, anger, shame, self-doubt, and loneliness. Lastly, and profoundly, many of them spoke to the way in which Yoga can uniquely access feelings stored in the body, ones that cannot be articulated through the limitations of language. In sum, Yoga proved to be a promising approach in healing holistically from ACEs.

This research has implications for Yoga practice and therapy. Some individuals who participated in the study emphasized how a trauma-sensitive approach to Yoga was especially healing for them. Trauma-sensitive Yoga, also known as trauma-informed Yoga, shares common elements with traditional Yoga, including physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, but is tailored for individuals who have experienced trauma, with a focus on safety and empowerment. These participants described benefitting from being offered with choices, in an invitatory language, in their Yoga class, and practicing in an environment that is welcoming, safe, and predictable. Teachers of Yoga may consider utilizing these approaches to enhance the Yoga experience for students, as we know that many have experienced ACEs.

In therapy, it may be worth exploring the integration of Yoga with traditional talk therapy, not only to address the mental and physical effects of ACEs, but to become in touch with the feelings that exist beyond words. It will be important for the therapist in this situation to consider ethics and obtain Yoga training, and be able to debrief the Yoga experience, integrating it into the therapy process. With a better understanding of the impact of ACEs, and the ways that Yoga can mitigate this, I hope that the holistic and therapeutic effects of Yoga can be further realized.

Recommended resources:
1. Trauma Center for Trauma Sensitive Yoga
2. Center for Trauma and Embodiment at Justice Resource Institute
3. Overcoming Trauma Through Yoga: Reclaiming Your Body by David Emerson and Elizabeth Hopper, PhD
4. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van Der Kolk, MD

About the Author:

Ida Taghavi, PhD is a NYC-based licensed clinical psychologist and certified Yoga teacher, providing evidence-based and culturally-sensitive integrative psychotherapy to individuals and couples in New York and California. She earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and completed her doctoral training at New York University School of Medicine – Bellevue Hospital Center.

The post Yoga as a Holistic Approach for Healing from Adverse Childhood Experiences appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

Photo by Mat Reding courtesy of Pexels.

Many people I know are searching for ways to actively respond to the chaotic events unfolding in the U.S. and a world filled with violence, suffering, and injustice. We don’t want to see our Yoga practice as a retreat from the world, nor do we want to simply shake our heads and shrug our shoulders at the turmoil around us.

Often, we think of spiritual awakening as a passive practice—something that involves withdrawing the senses and quieting the mind to experience the spiritual presence within. While this is an important aspect of spiritual growth, it is equally vital to consider how we engage with the world. Both approaches are necessary, as we want our responses to the challenges we face to be guided by the source of spiritual wisdom we all share.

We may need to reconnect with this inner spiritual light repeatedly, awakening to it fully so that it clearly shines in our hearts and minds as we go about our days. However, we need not wait for a certain level of awakening before we take our Yoga practice off the cushion or mat and into the world. We can intentionally practice moving, speaking, and thinking with peace and compassion in our hearts.

This intention remains vague unless we find specific ways to cultivate it. We bring compassion into conversations when we listen deeply to others, making a real effort to understand and respect their needs. Even when we disagree, we can approach others with an open heart, focusing on common ground rather than our differences. We can speak out against injustice when we witness it and strive to be peacemakers in moments of conflict.

Above all, we can maintain our equanimity in the face of unjust or violent words or actions. By keeping our balance, we sustain a connection to an inner well of peace and bring that energy into the situation. Mindfulness allows us to pause and make conscious choices that consider the well-being of everyone involved.

We can also bring more compassion into the world by serving our local communities. Whether it’s offering Yoga classes, volunteering at a soup kitchen, becoming politically active, or reaching out to those in need, serving locally connects us to the needs and disharmony in our own neighborhoods, where we can truly make a difference. It compels us to look beyond our own worlds and reminds us that, beneath our differences, we all seek the same happiness. A grateful heart is naturally inclined to uplift others.

On a subtler level, Sri Swami Satchidananda strongly affirmed that each time we pray for peace in the world—such as we do at the end of each Integral Yoga class—we send subtle yet profound energies into our world. Even though we may not see the effects, each time we visualize peace in our hearts and intentionally send it outwards, our intentions have a real impact on those who are ready to receive them.

Every choice we make, every action we take, can be guided by either a ‘me’-centered or ‘we’-centered mindset. Understanding that our daily actions are an expression of our beliefs can transform our lives, giving meaning to every aspect of it. May we all learn to see how bringing spiritual values into everyday life is both a vital response to a violent world and an essential part of awakening to our inner Light.

About the Author:

Swami Ramananda is the Executive Director of Integral Yoga Institute in San Francisco, a certified Yoga therapist, and a founding board member of the Yoga Alliance. He leads beginner, intermediate and advanced-level Yoga teacher training programs in San Francisco and teaches throughout the world. Having dedicated his life to teaching Yoga for nearly 50 years, Swami Ramananda is highly-respected senior teacher in the Integral Yoga tradition in Yoga communities worldwide. Swami Ramananda co-developed the Stress Management Teacher Training program with Swami Vidyananda, has trained many teachers to bring Yoga into corporate, hospital and medical settings, and has taught mind/body wellness programs throughout the US and abroad. He is also a co-founder of The Spiritual Action Initiative (SAI) which brings together individuals committed to working for social justice for all beings and for the care and healing of our natural world.

The post A Spiritual Response to a Troubled World appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

Photo by Pixabay, courtesy of Pexels.

Karma Yoga transforms karma into Yoga. Karma Yoga never binds you to good or bad results, whereas karma ensures that you must experience the consequences of your actions, whether pleasant or painful. If your actions are good, then you face that in the form of pleasure. If they are bad, you have to face that in the form of pain. But, if you do everything for the sake of others, for the sake of humanity, neither pleasure nor pain affects you.

Instead, everything simply moves through you because you no longer identify as the ‘do-er.’ You are the ‘be-er’ and everything just flows through you. It’s something like becoming a flute. Whatever the flute player plays, passes through the hollow flute. The flute follows no sheet music; it is simply an open, empty instrument through which the music flows. It is no problem for the flute if the music is nice to listen to or hurts the ears.

What is the real difference between karma and Karma Yoga? When you do things for your ego gratification, you get the karma. It becomes Karma Yoga when you are offering your actions as a benefit to others. You don’t get affected by the result of your action if it’s Karma Yoga. Karma is accrued when you do something for your sake and you are affected by the result of it. Whether the result is good or bad that result comes to you and that becomes your karma. You have to face it. You become responsible for it. It’s almost like you cook for yourself, you eat it, you have to then digest it, and later you have to eliminate—so it’s all your job. If you cook it and give it to somebody, you don’t have to worry about it. It becomes their business. Even if they get stomachache, it’s their business.

In a way, that is what is meant by renunciation. A good karma yogi is a good renunciate because whatever they are doing, they are not doing for the sake of their own ego gratification or fruit of their action. They become a true sannyasi. Whoever lives this way is totally free from the turmoil, the push and pull of the dualities—pleasure and pain, desire and aversion.

That’s why Karma Yoga is considered a supreme form of Yoga. In whatever you do, even your meditation can be Karma Yoga. You are not meditating for your sake. That is the reason why, in Integral Yoga after our meditation, we repeat the Kayena Vaacha sloka. That sloka affirms that whatever actions we engage in, we do so as an offering. Daily we say that, but if we don’t really understand it, mean it and follow it, then these are empty words and we don’t receive the benefit.

When the sense of egoic doership dissolves, then we are totally free, free, free from any bondage. Don’t think bondage means only bad, painful things. Even good things can bind. It’s almost like putting a parrot in a golden cage. The cage may be all gold, but it’s still a cage. The freedom is not there. You may have several million dollars but if you are holding onto it for your happiness, if you are constantly worrying about it, investing it, watching the stock market every minute, then, what is that? Freedom? It’s okay to have money and possessions, but if they possess you rather than you using them for the benefit of all, then you may be wealthy, but you are still bound. If you cling to nothing, if you feel that you are an instrument in the hands of a Higher Power who is doing everything through you for the good of all, then, you truly are the richest person, the king of kings, shah of shahs. Why? Because you are totally free. That is Karma Yoga.

By Sri Swami Satchidananda

The post From Do-er to Be-er: A Supreme Form of Yoga appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.

Photo by Chino Rocha courtesy of Unsplash.

Veganism and the Yamas: A Yogic Call to Compassion

Yoga is a path of transformation—one that extends far beyond the mat. It is a way of living that aligns our thoughts, words, and actions with our highest ideals. The eight limbs of Raja Yoga, as outlined by Patanjali, provide a roadmap for this journey. At the foundation of this system are the Yamas, ethical principles that guide how we relate to the world.

For many yogis, vegetarianism is an obvious step in practicing nonviolence. However, a deeper examination reveals that continuing to consume dairy products contradicts the very values at the heart of the Yamas. By exploring Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, and Aparigraha, we can see that choosing a vegan lifestyle is not only an ethical choice but a natural extension of the yogic path.

***SPECIAL NOTE: Fears grow over new bird flu infections in dairy cattle

Ahimsa: Nonviolence in Thought, Word, and Action

Ahimsa, the first and most fundamental Yama, teaches us to avoid causing harm to any living being. It is why many yogis adopt a vegetarian diet, believing that abstaining from meat prevents unnecessary suffering. However, the dairy industry is inherently violent.

Dairy cows are forcibly impregnated to keep them producing milk, only to have their calves taken away shortly after birth. The separation causes deep distress—both for the mother and her baby. Male calves, unable to produce milk, are often sent to slaughter for veal, while female calves are raised to endure the same cycle of exploitation. When we consume dairy, we participate in a system that inflicts pain and suffering on sentient beings. If we are committed to Ahimsa, can we truly justify this? Thankfully, there are now countless plant-based alternatives—nutritious, delicious, and cruelty-free. Shifting to a vegan diet is an act of nonviolence, an extension of our commitment to peace and compassion.

Satya: Living in Truth

Satya calls us to truthfulness—not only in speech but in how we live. It asks us to see reality clearly, even when it challenges our habits or beliefs.

Many of us grew up believing that dairy is necessary for health or that it is harmless. However, the reality is far different. The dairy industry causes suffering to animals, contributes to environmental devastation, and has serious health consequences, including links to heart disease, hormone imbalances, and increased cancer risk. When we continue to consume dairy despite knowing these truths, we contradict the principle of Satya. True integrity comes from aligning our actions with the realities we discover. As yogis, we strive to live in harmony with truth—even when it requires change.

Asteya: Non-Stealing

Asteya, or non-stealing, extends beyond material possessions. It includes not taking what is not freely given.

When we consume dairy, we take what belongs to another. A mother’s milk is intended for her baby, yet in the dairy industry, calves are deprived of their natural nourishment so that humans can consume it instead. Additionally, the environmental cost of dairy production steals resources from future generations. The vast amounts of land, water, and crops used to sustain dairy farming contribute to deforestation, water shortages, and pollution. By choosing plant-based alternatives, we respect the rights of all beings and honor our responsibility to the planet. In doing so, we live in alignment with the principle of Asteya.

Brahmacharya: Moderation and Self-Restraint

Brahmacharya is often interpreted as moderation—using energy wisely and making choices that bring balance. In the context of diet, it encourages us to consume food that nurtures both body and spirit.

The dairy industry thrives on excess—forcing cows into a relentless cycle of reproduction and milk production. This exploitation stands in stark contrast to the yogic ideal of balance and self-restraint. Moreover, consuming dairy contributes to imbalance within our own bodies, as it is linked to inflammation, digestive issues, and hormone disruption. By embracing a plant-based diet, we cultivate a sense of balance, choosing foods that nourish without harm. This is an expression of Brahmacharya in action.

Aparigraha: Non-Possessiveness and Letting Go

Aparigraha teaches us to release attachments—whether to material things, harmful habits, or outdated beliefs. Many of us hold onto dairy out of familiarity, comfort, or convenience, even when we recognize its ethical and environmental consequences.

Letting go of dairy is an opportunity to practice non-attachment, to make choices based on wisdom rather than habit. It is an act of freedom—freeing ourselves from participation in suffering and embracing a diet that reflects our deepest values.

Walking the Yogic Path with Integrity

The Yamas are not abstract concepts; they are principles meant to guide our daily lives. If we truly seek to embody Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, and Aparigraha, then our dietary choices must reflect these ideals.

Fortunately, we live in a time where plant-based alternatives are abundant and accessible. Choosing a vegan lifestyle is not about restriction but about expansion—expanding our compassion, awareness, and alignment with the teachings of Yoga. As yogis, we have the opportunity to be a force for change, to make choices that uplift all beings. By embracing a diet rooted in kindness, we take another step toward living in harmony with the world—one meal at a time.

In Part 2, we will explore how the Niyamas—the observances that guide our inner life—also support the transition to a plant-based diet.

About the Author:

Meenakshi Angel Honig is dedicated to peace and loving kindness. She has studied with one of the most highly revered and deeply loved Yoga Masters of our time, Sri Swami Satchidananda. Meenakshi is a certified Integral Yoga Instructor & Teacher Trainer with over 50 years of teaching experience and serves as the director of the Integral Yoga Center of Maui. Meenakshi Angel is a licensed minister and an animal rights advocate. She is a highly respected leader in promoting plant-based nutrition for individual and global well-being. She has produced 5 DVDs, 2 CDs and is the author of 11 books including, The Solution: 10 Compelling Reasons to Choose a Plant-based Diet & Lifestyle -The Why & The How. For more info, please visit her website.

The post Ahimsa in Action: Living in Alignment with the Ethical Foundations of Yoga appeared first on Integral Yoga® Magazine.