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Sadhguru on Why Sadhanapada
Tell Me More
1
Duration
From Guru Purnima (July) to Mahashivratri (March), usually around 7 months.
Why this Time & Length?
Nature’s Support: In the Yogic culture, the time between the summer solstice and the winter solstice is referred to as Sadhanapada. That is when the natural forces of the planet are supportive for one's growth and for Sadhana to yield maximum results.
Long-Lasting Benefits: A focused, dedicated, and consistent effort is needed to transform one’s life. The impact of these 7 months stays with you as an insurance for Life, building a strong foundation for you to remain unwavering on the path of growth.
2
Location
In the powerfully consecrated and energized space of the Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore, India.
Why spend time in an ashram?
Consecrated Spaces: An ashram is a space where everyone is focused in one direction -- to explore life’s deepest questions and possibilities. To be in the ashram is to be in a cocoon of energy with a group of committed seekers.
Reconnect with Nature: Live at the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains, amidst natural surroundings, and reconnect with the elements of nature.
3
No Fee
There are no fees and the program includes basic accommodation and a healthy, nutritious diet.
What will I do in Sadhanapada?
Program Highlights
Live with Balance, Clarity and Intensity
Learn to live joyfully no matter what life throws at you.
Experience Life in an Ashram
A space built for precisely this- inner growth. Enrich your life in a vibrant and exuberant space.
Volunteer - Give Back and Contribute
Live a life of fulfillment through Seva (Volunteering) by being part of a vision beyond oneself.
Why Take a Break?
I'm Working
I'm a Student
I'm a Seeker
If your work has become synonymous with burnout, stress and a constant sense of unfulfillment, take time off to untangle so you never get tangled again.
Establish Inner Stability
Bring a deep-rooted inner stability and handle work without stress, tension and anxiety.
Seva - Contribute
Offer your skills and give back to society through Sadhguru's vision.
Scale Up Your Capabilities
Develop a mind with inner clarity to bring success on both personal and professional fronts of life.
Sadhanapada 2021 registration is closed now To express interest for next year, please click the button below
Invest time now to empower yourself and learn how to manage your thoughts and emotions.
Friction-Free Life
Align your thoughts and emotions to become friction-free and find greater success in life.
Live Strong
Live in sync with nature, practice Yoga and eat healthy to make yourself strong, physically and mentally.
A Fresh Perspective
Look at life with a new perspective, cultivate inner clarity and find your direction.
Sadhanapada 2021 registration is closed now To express interest for next year, please click the button below
Spend time in a powerful space to deepen your Sadhana.
Non-denominational Spiritual Process
A global program, open to seekers from all backgrounds and walks of life, focused on one's ultimate wellbeing.
Powerful Kriyas and Hatha Yoga
Take part in the advanced Isha programs and enhance your practices to a new level of intensity.
Receive Guided Support
A team of Brahmacharis, Yoga instructors and volunteers devoted to helping you establish consistency and deepen your Sadhana.
Sadhanapada 2021 registration is closed now To express interest for next year, please click the button below
Read Participant Stories
Akram
I began to experience the ashram as a living space with an intelligence that was guiding all of us,
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I had no idea about consecrated spaces or how they support one's inner growth until I came to the Isha Yoga Center. As part of the program schedule, we frequently sat in Dhyanalinga and spent time around energized spaces like Suryakund and Linga Bhairavi. It felt like having the invisible hand of Grace to assist me at all times. After some time,I began to experience the ashram as a living space with an intelligence that was guiding all of us,gently reminding whenever we went astray. Being in such a powerful space for my inner growth was invaluable.
Charlie Gavins
Socially relevant, fast-moving projects that touch on the very pulse of our planet in an atmosphere of fun.
Read More
This place, this program, this Yoga has given me what I was always looking for. I signed up to Sadhanapada with trepidation, but found the entrance to a world within that begs to be explored.The ease with which all the practices happen now and the power and depth that I experience with each of them is something I would never have imagined.Being able to work on stimulating,>socially relevant, fast-moving projects that touch on the very pulse of our planet in an atmosphere of fun and ease is something that I will cherish very highly.
Abhilash Jain
I decided to go to Sadhanapada just after my graduation, so I didn't attend any campus placement program in the college. Many people advised me not to risk my career, but I decided to go for it and I think this was one of the best decisions I have taken so far. Before coming here, I was irregular with my sadhana, but these 7 months have brought discipline into it. Doing sadhana here in the consecrated spaces is so wonderful and effortless.I have become more balanced in terms of my mind and emotion.
Usha Rani
Volunteering started giving me internal satisfaction and a constant, natural kind of happiness.
Read More
The whole journey of Sadhanapada was beautiful, and I loved the volunteering part most. In Tree Care seva, I connected with Mother Earth, the open air, the vastness of the sky, and the most beautiful thing – rain that came anytime.When my seva changed to Cauvery Calling accounts department, I was reluctant. I was short-tempered initially and got easily irritated. It bothered me when others weren’t giving their best. With my seva coordinators’ guidance, soon my anger was gone and I started accepting people without judgment.Volunteering started giving me internal satisfaction and a constant, natural kind of happiness.
Poonam Jhangiani
Pradakshina always helped me stop the internal chatter, leading to more vibrancy and focus thereafter.
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The Ashram and the many consecrated spaces have impacted my mind, body and emotions. Sadhana here has been more fluid, effortless and magical. Whenever I felt low, sitting in front of Devi has comforted me. Dhyanalinga calmed the restlessness in me and Pradakshina always helped me stop the internal chatter, leading to more vibrancy and focus thereafter.
During Sadhanapada, I got the opportunity to coordinate the Upasaka silence program and support the 21-day Tamil Upasaka training webinar! Both helped me break a lot of limitations within, leading to stillness and lifting of the veil of ignorance in some way.
Gabriel Araujo
spending time in consecrated spaces is giving me a lot of energy and a sense of joy and lightness.
Read More
Sadhanapada was a very enriching and fantastic experience. After Sadhanapada, my focus and energy have increased so much. I'm able to handle much more activity and do much more quality work, in a way that I didn't expect was possible for me.
Also, spending time in consecrated spaces is giving me a lot of energy and a sense of joy and lightness. At the end of the day, taking a dip in Suryakund and going to Dhyanalinga is a fantastic experience that recharges me in a big way! Meditation happens so effortlessly. For me, it is an indescribable experience!
Stevan Kospetin
When I arrived to Sadhanapada, I really avoided the Dhyanalinga and Linga Bhairavi. But after some time, my perception and awareness increased and I became naturally drawn to them. Linga Seva really changed the way I looked at Dhyanalinga. Once, I got the opportunity of playing the singing bowl during Nada Aradhana. I sat down to play and after some time the movement started happening by itself. Falling into a very different kind of meditative state by focusing so intensely on the sound, it was an experience I will never forget.
Hitesh Udasi
Dedicating time to sadhana and staying in the ashram has brought freedom, peace and joy into my life. Everything in the program was crafted in a supportive way for growth, like the daily schedule, monthly meetings and food. Sadhana has made me conscious of myself and now, even if things go haywire, I know I need to fix myself first and then the situations around.
Doing sadhana in the consecrated spaces makes the process of growth very rapid. It would take me years to reach this level of personal and spiritual development that happened in such a short period.
Siddhartha Modukuri
Within me, the kind of balance I am experiencing is just incomprehensible. It's a new high!
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Sadhanapada has left a deep impact on me and it took my practices to another level. All my colleagues at work tell me that I am more energetic, stable and efficient than before. A day doesn't go by without my mother expressing her gratitude to Sadhguru for the way I am at home. But what they are seeing is only the surface. Within me, the kind of balance I am experiencing is just incomprehensible. Day after day, I just keep doing sadhana, and every day I see a new me! It's a new high! It's a new level of living!
Lokesh
I am no longer intimidated by big work. I no longer think, "Oh, if this doesn't work, what will happen?"
Read More
Before coming to Sadhanapada last year, I'd been working in IT for 12 years. I thought I'll get to do something different in Sadhanapada – but I was put in IT again. But here, I felt a certain energy every morning after the practices. Many issues stopped bothering me and my ideas started flowing without a restriction. Sadhanapada took away so many of my limitations. I am no longer intimidated by big work. I no longer think, "Oh, if this doesn't work, what will happen?" All problems became solutions. I am always raring to go, "Yes, let's do it! What next?"
Arpita Shaleen
Staying at home for 8 months after Sadhanapada, I can clearly see the difference in myself. Situations do not have the same impact on me as they used to. I feel like a new person and find it amusing how I reacted to them before. I can see I could have done better, but this change is very refreshing. Life is much lighter now. The only important thing is to do the daily sadhana and everything else fits in effortlessly. My focus and my decision-making ability have improved. This is helping me do things faster and more efficiently.
Path to Sadhanapada
Step 1
Decide
Are you ready to commit 7 months for your own growth?
What happens in Sadhanapada?
The participants will spend time in:
1. Yoga: Guided Yoga practices
2. Seva: Supporting Isha’s activities
3. Events: Taking part in festivities and cultural celebrations
4. Darshan: Be in Sadhguru’s Presence
5. Meditation in powerfully consecrated spaces
1. Yoga: Guided Yoga practices
2. Seva: Supporting Isha’s activities
3. Events: Taking part in festivities and cultural celebrations
4. Darshan: Be in Sadhguru’s Presence
5. Meditation in powerfully consecrated spaces
I have responsibilities at home, towards my family or work. How do I come?
Before stepping into Sadhanapada, it is important to consider one’s responsibilities and set a plan so that for the 7 months, one can maintain a single-pointed focus towards one's growth.
The program is designed to establish an inner way of being that will naturally lead to a more joyful and friction-free life. Taking this time for yourself is also a long-term investment to strengthen the relationships one may have.
When you bring the necessary balance and exuberance in your body, mind and emotions, your ability to do things is greatly enhanced. Many past participants have shared how Sadhanapada has enhanced the quality, efficiency and creativity of their work.
Why can’t I do this at home?
The ashram is a cared-for and committed space, taking care of one’s basic needs, allowing participants to focus full-time on their growth.
1. Living in a consecrated space2. Guided practices with a supportive schedule
3. Practice support and corrections
4. Opportunity to go beyond “myself” and catapult into new capabilities and possibilities
Step 2
Eligibility
Those aged 18 years and above, who have completed the Inner Engineering program and have been initiated into the Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya, are eligible to apply.
What is the Inner Engineering program?
Inner Engineering is offered as an intensive program for personal growth. The program establishes the possibility to explore the higher dimensions of life and offers tools to re-engineer one’s self through the inner science of Yoga.
Inner Engineering Online is a sequence of 7 powerful sessions with Sadhguru, each lasting about 90 minutes. You can do it at your own pace, in your own space.
“As there is a technology to create external wellbeing, there is a whole dimension of science and technology to create inner wellbeing.” - Sadhguru
Find out more:https://isha.sadhguru.org/in/en/inner-engineering-online
I have completed Inner Engineering Online -- when will the Completion Program happen? When can I get initiated into Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya?
The logistics of the Inner Engineering Completion online program are still being finalized. Details will be shared as soon as they are available. However, you can still apply for Sadhanapada now.
Step 3
Application
Find out more details on the entire application process.
What is involved in the application process?
The application process involves:
- Completing the Application Form
- Video Call
- Health Assessment
- Final Confirmation
Is prior ashram volunteering experience mandatory?
In order to familiarize yourself with volunteering and life in the ashram, you may be asked to volunteer at your local center or at the Isha Yoga Center if you have not done so in the past. More information will be shared on this during the application process.
When should I inform those at my workplace?
You can inform at your workplace after you receive the final confirmation to come for the program. Please apply for the program well in advance in order to have enough time to make the necessary arrangements.
Step 4
Approved
What's next once your application is approved and you are confirmed to come?
What to pack?
We will send a list of essential items to carry once you are confirmed to participate in the program. Please carry critical or absolutely necessary personal items when you arrive.
Toiletries and other items can be purchased at the Department Store in the ashram. Amazon deliveries are also possible.
Where will I stay?
Singles and those applying alone: Participants will be provided with shared accommodation and bathroom facilities. Men and women will be given separate accommodation.
Couples: If you are attending the program with your spouse and would like to stay together, please mention this during your interview.
Medical facilities?
Isha Yoga Center will provide basic first-aid and medical assistance. Any serious medical conditions, such as asthma, chronic ailments, allergies, heart conditions, physical disabilities, injuries and history of mental imbalances/disorders, must be informed to us during the application process, well in advance.
Program Photos
Ready to Apply?
The recent events in the world have clearly shown the need for one to establish physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
An offering from Sadhguru and a rare opportunity in today’s time to live in an Ashram and dedicate 7 months fully to your growth and live with:
An offering from Sadhguru and a rare opportunity in today’s time to live in an Ashram and dedicate 7 months fully to your growth and live with:
Balance. Clarity. Intensity
Sadhanapada 2021 registration is closed nowTo express interest for next year, please click the button below
I am Interested
Find Out More
Explore more details about the Sadhanapada program through participant stories, alumni reflections, video glimpses, guides and the fun bits! Select a topic from below to see more:
Watch Sadhanapada glimpses on Youtube
Frequently Asked Questions
Program details and Fee
Is there a fee to participate in Sadhanapada 2021?
Once you meet the eligibility criteria, there are no fees for the program. But you should come here with total commitment and willingness to be here for the entire duration of the program.
What is the duration of the program?
This is a 7-month program which requires you to be at the Isha Yoga Center continuously from Guru Purnima until Mahashivratri. The exact commencement date of the program will be communicated to you by email or phone upon confirmation of your participation.
Will I be able to communicate with my family during this period?
We encourage all participants to keep communication to a minimum during this time, so that they can focus on the sadhana and the program.
Can my family come to meet me in the ashram?
Yes, they can come and meet you outside of scheduled sessions or activity. If they wish to stay, make sure to book a stay for them in the cottages in advance.
Will I be able to leave the ashram for a short duration during the program?
To reap the most from this conducive time of the year, it requires a commitment to be intensely focused upon one’s growth for 7 continuous months. So, one should not plan to take any break or leave the supportive environment of the Yoga Center during the program. However, in case of emergency situations, the program coordination team will look at such cases on an individual basis.
Daily schedule /activity
What will I be doing at the Isha Yoga Center during this period? What will my schedule be like?
The Sadhanapada program is a very disciplined and intense process. It will require 100% involvement in all sessions and full commitment from the participants. The day begins promptly at 5:30 am and usually ends in the night by 9:30 pm. Practice sessions will be in the morning and evening. For the remainder of the day, participants will be supporting in Isha Foundation activities at the Yoga Center through seva (volunteering). The Yoga Center follows a two-meal system – brunch and dinner, with juice/kanji in the afternoon.100% attendance in all sessions is mandatory.
Participants are expected to follow the program schedule strictly.
All participants must stay in the Isha Yoga Center premises for the complete duration of the training program, unless they are going on a trek or excursion organized by the Yoga Center.
What will I be doing at the Isha Institute during this period? What will my schedule be like?
During this period, participants will be involved in sadhana and volunteering with various departments at the center. Each day will start with Guru Pooja at 5:30 am, followed by sadhana, after which a schedule with volunteering activities will be given for each volunteer.
Stay
Where will I stay during the program?
Accommodation is provided within the Yoga Center.
Singles and those applying alone: Participants will share a dormitory with common bath and toilet facilities. Men and women will be given separate accommodation.
Couples: If you are attending the program with your spouse and would like to stay together, please indicate this in your application form.
Food
What food will be provided during my stay?
Two wholesome vegetarian meals will be provided, as well as fresh fruit juice or kanji in the afternoon. The first meal is at 10:00/10:45 am and the second at 7:00/7:45 pm.
The kitchen will not be able to accommodate any specific dietary requirements, hence the participants will have to arrange for it themselves.
Application process
What is the basic criteria to apply for Sadhana Pada?
Attending the Inner Engineering program (Full course with initiation into Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya) is mandatory to participate in Sadhanapada. Also it is essential that you be in good mental, emotional and physical health due to the rigorous nature of the schedule and activity.
Participating in Isha Hatha Yoga programs (Surya Kriya, Angamardana, Yogasanas) and Advanced Isha Yoga programs (BSP, Shoonya) is highly recommended.
Understanding of basic English language is required, as it is the medium of instruction (only Tamil translation is available).
What is the application process?
The first step is to fill out the Sadhanapada 2022 Interest Form
After that, there will be an online interview and health assessment for each applicant.
The Volunteers’ Coordination Department (VCD) will then inform you about the status of your application.
Can I apply along with my spouse or family member?
Yes couples and family members are welcome to apply. Each person must fill out their own application form and go through the application process separately.
Packing and Clothing
What will I need to bring with me?
The Volunteers’ Coordination Department will inform the Sadhana Pada participants about what they need to bring with them for the program.
Is there any specific dress code that I have to follow in the ashram?
Indian clothing style is modest, so please bring clothing that covers the shoulders, midriff and knees at all times for both men and women. Proper attire includes: ankle length pants for both men and women (no capris or shorts) and long shirts that cover the upper arms and thighs. Traditional Indian clothing such as kurtas, dhotis/panchakacham or pant for gents and salwar kameez , kurtis or saris for women are recommended. Please avoid tight clothing such as shirts and jeans – both for your own comfort and as a sign of respect for the local culture.
Medical facilities
What are the medical facilities available at the ashram?
Isha Yoga Center will provide basic first aid and medical assistance. Any serious medical conditions such as asthma, chronic ailments, allergies, heart conditions, physical disabilities, injuries and history of mental imbalances/disorders, must be informed to the Volunteers’ Coordination Department well in advance.
Withholding any information about one's current or prior medical condition can lead to your application or participation being rejected at any stage of the program.
Overseas Participants
Is an Indian visa required?
Yes, please plan to apply for your visa at least one month in advance of your travel in order to allow for the necessary processing time.
Can I come on a tourist visa for Sadhanapada?
No, a tourist visa will not be appropriate for this program.
What type of visa should I apply for?
The coordination team will guide the confirmed Sadhanapada participants as to what type of visa to apply for and will also provide the necessary documents required from Isha Foundation to apply for the visa.
Should I get immunizations prior to traveling to India?
It is best to follow the advice of your local health professional and/or your respective country's national health service regarding which immunizations you should take before traveling.
Sadhanapada at Isha Yoga Center 2021
Application Form
