Essentials of Yoga I: Create a Daily Practice
First time at a Sivananda ashram? Looking to bring more yoga into your life?
Jumpstart your own yoga practice — whether you are new to yoga or have experience in classes. Gain practical knowledge about yoga and discover keys for enriching your life and building your own yoga routine.
Enjoy one workshop per day, teaching you the foundations of yoga, plus a once-daily yoga class taught by a senior teacher — designed to help you improve your postures in a more private setting. The rest of the day is yours to attend other ashram programs and enjoy the beach.
People who take the this course say that it greatly enhances their understanding of yoga and experience at the ashram and is a special opportunity to make friends with other travelers.
In Essentials of Yoga I, you will:
- Learn a routine of essential yoga postures for daily tuning up your body, building strength, balance, focus, and physical intelligence
- Find out how to benefit from better breathing, how to de-stress, how to stretch, and how to relax
- Experience extensive guided practice
- Gain exposure to yoga theory and philosophy
- Discover how meditation, a healthy diet, and positive thinking contribute to well-being
- Receive personalized attention and answers to your questions.
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Yoga brings in perfection, peace, and lasting happiness. You can have calmness of mind at all times by the practice of Yoga. You can have restful sleep. You can have increased energy, vigour, vitality, longevity, and a high standard of health. You can turn out efficient work within a short span of time. You can have success in every walk of life. Yoga will infuse in you new strength, confidence, and self-reliance. —Swami Sivananda
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Testimonial
I just completed the 5-day “beginners yoga course” in the Sivananda Ashram Yoga retreat in Bahamas. I have been practicing yoga for sometimes now in various gym and yoga studio locations. I always felt there is much more to yoga than just yoga exercises and I was longing to learn about yoga philosophy and inner peace. This class did just that.
The instructor had vast knowledge on the subject and was passionate about transferring this knowledge to the student. We learned about meditation, breathing techniques, relaxation, diet and exercises. A very classical yoga asanas practice.
This class will benefit anyone regardless of their history of yoga practice. It will enhance the lifestyle and help control the mind.
—TripAdvisor Review
Cost
Tuition
5-day course: $240. Add 6 nights accommodation.
Please note A 7.5% Bahamian VAT tax will be added.
Plan to arrive on or before the day before the course start date and depart on or after the course end date.
Please note A 12% Bahamian VAT tax will be added.
Total cost depends on your choice of accommodations and includes all sessions of your course/cleanse/training, meals, yoga classes, satsangs, as well as access to our beautiful beach and the ashram grounds and amenities. (Depending on your schedule, you may also attend optional mid-day Yoga Vacation workshops offered during your stay.)
Stay a little longer. If your schedule allows, consider staying for 2 to 5 days of Yoga Vacation before or after your course to fully integrate your experience. You will enjoy all that the ashram has to offer — healthy meals, yoga classes, meditation, spiritual practice, opportunities for relaxation, community talks, teachings, and performances — as well as optional daily workshops on topics of yoga, health, and spiritual inspiration.
Our housing options are designed for a range of budgets and personal needs and range from self-pitched tents to comfortable cabins to luxurious beachfront suites. All of our accommodations are welcoming and simple, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time with us at the Ashram.
Please note
- Accommodation rates are all-inclusive for our Yoga Vacation Program.
- Courses, cleanses, and trainings have an additional tuition.
- Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Course rates are all-inclusive.
- Minimum 2-night stay year-round.
- Children are welcome to stay at the Ashram. See the Families tab for pricing and details.
Payments We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. We do not accept American Express, personal checks, or travelers checks. All deposits and payments in US dollars only.
Deposits To guarantee your reservation, a $300 deposit is required. The balance is due 14 days before your arrival. If the booking is made within 14 days of arrival, the full balance is due at the time of booking.
Our rates are seasonal
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- Winter/Spring Season: November 1 – June 9
- Summer/Fall Season: June 10 – October 31
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Rooms are available for single or double occupancy. Prices are listed per night, per room and are in US dollars. Rates include accommodations, meals, yoga classes, satsangs, and Yoga Vacation workshops. A Bahamian VAT tax of 10% will be added.
- Note: Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.
Beachfront Deluxe
Delight in breathtaking, wide-open views of the sparkling ocean from your own beachfront private balcony. Our Beachfront Deluxe Rooms are simple and spacious, furnished with two double beds and include a private bathroom with shower and tub. You will have a miniature refrigerator, kitchen sink, tea kettle, and tableware. These rooms are fully air-conditioned; bedding and one towel set per person are provided (incl. bath towel and beach towel).
Book this room privately for yourself to enjoy or book for two (or three, or four) people.
| Beachfront Deluxe | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $564 | $490 |
| Double Occupancy | $736 | $490 |
| Each Additional Person (max 4 persons) | +$182 | +$140 |
Oceanview Deluxe
Relax into gorgeous views of the turquoise ocean from your balcony, and be within a stone’s throw distance from our beachfront yoga platform. Choose from either one king bed or two extra-long twin beds, and enjoy your own private bathroom with shower and tub. These spacious rooms also have a rocking chair, desk, and kitchen area with a small refrigerator, kitchen sink, tea kettle, and tableware. These rooms are fully air-conditioned; bedding and one towel set per person are provided (incl. bath towel and beach towel).
Book this room privately for yourself to enjoy or book for two or three people.
| Oceanview Deluxe | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $518 | $450 |
| Double Occupancy | $690 | $450 |
| Third Person | +$138 | +$120 |
Bayside Room with Bath
These rooms have two single beds and a private bathroom with shower and tub. Within a short distance of the bay, these rooms include simple furnishings, a small refrigerator, tea kettle, and air conditioning. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided.
| Bayside Room with Bath | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $276 | $200 |
| Double Occupancy | $368 | $240 |
Beach Hut East
Fall asleep to the relaxing sounds of ocean waves, and spend your time on the balcony. Our Beach Huts with with two single beds are comfortable, simple, and seconds from the beach. These rooms feature simple furnishings, and air-conditioning. Full bathrooms are located within one minute’s walk from your room. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided.
| Beach Hut East | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $311 | $190 |
| Double Occupancy | $380 | $220 |
Beach Hut West
Fall asleep to the relaxing sounds of ocean waves. Our Beach Huts with with two single beds are comfortable, simple, and seconds from the beach. These rooms feature simple furnishings, and air-conditioning. Full bathrooms are located within one minute’s walk from your room. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided.
| Beach Hut West | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $288 | $170 |
| Double Occupancy | $357 | $210 |
Spacious Double Bed Room
The Spacious Double Bed Room allows for single or couples occupancy. These rooms feature one double bed, a desk and furnishings, and air conditioning. Situated in various locations throughout the Ashram, shared bathrooms are always close by. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided.
| Spacious Double Bed Room | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $311 | $160 |
| Double Occupancy | $345 | $200 |
Double Bed Room
The Double Bed Room allows for single or couples occupancy. These rooms feature one double bed, simple furnishings, and air conditioning. Situated in various locations throughout the Ashram, shared bathrooms are always close by. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided.
| Double Bed Room | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $250 | $150 |
| Double Occupancy | $290 | $190 |
Single Room
Ideal for solo travelers, our Single Room offers a comfortable space with one single bed, simple furnishings, and air conditioning. Single rooms are situated in various locations throughout the Ashram, including within our main building. Depending on the location of your room, various shared bathrooms are available within a few seconds walking distance. Bedding and one bath towel are provided.
| Single Room | Winter | Summer |
| $200 | $128 |
Twin Bed Room
These Twin Bed Rooms are situated within various locations of the Ashram. Featuring two single beds and air conditioning, these rooms are simply furnished with shared bathrooms nearby. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided.
| Twin Bed Room | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $200 | $160 |
| Double Occupancy | $256 | $190 |
Spacious Twin Bed Room
A Spacious Twin Bed Room contains two single beds with the option to add a cot for a third person. These rooms are sold for single, double, or triple occupancy. They are located in various parts of the Ashram, and shared bathrooms are nearby. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided.
| Family Room | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $259 | $185 |
| Double Occupancy | $352 | $240 |
| Triple Occupancy | $499 | $315 |
Tent Hut Double Bed
Perfect for couples and close friends, our Tent Hut with Double Beds feature one double bed and allow you to sleep in the Bahamas breeze. Sized for two people, these Tent Huts are comfortably furnished with a simple closet, nightstand with bedside lamp and fan, and electrical outlets. Bedding and one bath towel per person are provided for you, and shared bathrooms are a short walk away. Tent Huts are available from November until June.
| Tent Hut Double | Winter | Summer |
| Single Occupancy | $128 | not available |
| Double Occupancy | $180 | not available |
Tent Hut Single
Sleep in the fresh, tropical air while still enjoying indoor comforts — including one single bed, electrical outlet, simple furnishings, and a nightstand with bedside lamp and fan. It’s the easiest camping you’ll ever do, while you’re safely surrounded by your Tent Hut neighbors. Bedding and one bath towel are provided for you, and shared bathrooms are a short walk away. Tent Huts are available from November until June.
| Tent Hut Single | Winter | Summer |
| $110 | not available |
Tent Space
Many of our guests are nature lovers. Set up your tent near the beach, bay, or amongst the palm trees. Create your own sacred space within in the Ashram to reconnect with nature and sleep close to the earth. And you won’t be completely alone — get ready to meet “tent neighbors” from around the world!
Bring your own tent (sized up to 8’x8’), camping gear, mattress, bedding, and towels.
Tent Spaces are available from November through May.
Are you new to the idea but want to give it a try? View our blog for some good tenting tips.
Enjoy your Tent Space privately for yourself, or stay together* with some friends or family.
*Tent Space pricing is calculated by person (not by tent).
| Tent Space | Winter | Summer |
| $65* | not available |
- Tent space rate is $89 per night during the end-of-the-year holidays, December 20 – January 1
Swami Hridyananda is a direct disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda and senior staff at the Yoga Retreat. She has spent over 35 years teaching different aspects of yoga, as well as teaching in Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Courses. She also teaches meditation, thought power, chanting, and supports individuals on their inner transformative journey.
Swami Brahmananda is Manager of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat and senior staff of the Sivananda organization. A long-time practitioner of yoga, he regularly teaches yoga philosophy and meditation for the Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Courses as well as meditation immersion courses. He is a much-loved, inspiring, and knowledgeable teacher.
Swami Paramananda is the manager of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Ranch and longtime teacher of Sivananda Yoga Teacher Trainings in the Bahamas, New York, and India. A much-loved teacher admired for his humor, warmth, and devotion to the practice, he seamlessly weaves classical yoga teachings into modern daily life.
Jnaneshwari Chaitanya is a senior staff member and teacher of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat. An experienced and devoted practitioner, she is an inspiring and insightful teacher of Yoga and Vedanta in Yoga teachers training courses and many of the ashram programs. Jnaneshwari Chaitanya is known for her clear and pure way of communicating the knowledge and its application in daily life, and is especially known for her skill in teaching the Bhagavad Gita.
Rukmini Chaitanya is a senior staff member of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat Bahamas, and the personal assistant to Swami Swaroopananda, the Acharya, or spiritual director of the Ashram. She regularly teaches the Bhagavad Gita during the Sivananda Yoga Teacher training as well as other courses on the Bhagavad Gita, Vedanta, positive thinking, meditation, and yoga philosophy.
Rukmini Chaitanya is known for her enthusiastic and inspiring teaching style as well as for her devotion to the lineage and the scriptures. She is dedicated to each of her students and has an innate desire to share knowledge with them. She brings a great deal of clarity to every topic and is highly appreciated for her capacity to unfold complicated topics and present them in a coherent and pure way.
Krishna Chaitanya is a physical therapist, senior staff member of the Yoga Retreat, and senior instructor of Hatha Yoga in the Teacher Training Course and other courses. He has taught for more than 20 years and specializes in working with the elderly population. He teaches Adaptive Yoga, Chair Yoga, and has many years experience helping individuals with all kinds of physical limitations.
Parvati Chaitanya is a senior staff member of the ashram with many years of experience teaching, studying, and practicing yoga. She currently serves the ashram as caretaker of the gardens.
Narayani is an advanced Sivananda Yoga teacher (RYT 500), staff member at the ashram, and a hatha yoga instructor in yoga teacher trainings. She is a much loved teacher, teaching with love, devotion and great clarity.
Daily Schedule
Your course schedule has been designed by the presenter to provide a holistic educational experience, and includes course presentation time, meal times, and free time for you to enjoy the beach and the grounds and participate in the ashram’s daily programs. Lines in bold type indicate required course times.
Morning and Evening Satsang: community gatherings for meditation, chanting & teachings; sometimes a silent beach walk.
Yoga Asana & Pranayama Classes: available on outdoor ocean and bayfront platforms (beginner and intermediate levels offered twice daily).
DAY 1
6:00am – 8:00am Morning Satsang
8:00 am Course Yoga Asana & Pranayama Class
10:00 am Brunch
11:00 am Ashram Welcome & History Tour (meets at Reception)
11:30 am Inauguration Ceremony
12:00 pm to 1:30 pm Course Session
4:00 pm Yoga Asana & Pranayama Classes
6:00 pm Dinner
8:00 to 9:45 pm Evening Satsang
DAY 2 – DAY 4
6:00am – 8:00am Morning Satsang
8:00 am Course Yoga Asana & Pranayama Class
10:00 am Brunch
11:00am – 12:00pm Karma Yoga/Free Time
12:00 pm to 1:30 pm Course Session
4:00 pm Yoga Asana & Pranayama Classes
6:00 pm Dinner
8:00 to 9:45 pm Evening Satsang
LAST DAY
6:00am – 8:00am Morning Satsang
8:00 am Course Yoga Asana & Pranayama Class
10:00 am Brunch
11:00am – 12:00pm Karma Yoga/Free Time
12:00 pm to 1:30 pm Course Session
2:00 pm Graduation Ceremony
Regular ashram schedule the rest of the day
All Essentials Course Sessions are scheduled for 2pm to 3:30pm from June through October.
I decided to enroll in the beginner’s course with my sister. I highly recommend that all of the people who consider themselves “beginner” at yoga and those who are great at the yoga exercises offered in classes but don’t know much about the philosophy behind it take the beginner course. It will give you a chance to really focus on things that matter to you and could easily change your life forever.
The course was a transformative experience. I learned about the meaning, purpose and intention of the asanas, but in addition the whole universe of spiritual practice has unfolded before me.
I would not have missed this powerful introduction to the foundations of Sivananda Yoga (principles, philosophy, asanas) for the world. Also, the people who I met in the course were amazing. The experience provided an opportunity to develop deep attachments in a short time. The teacher was brilliant and created an atmosphere conducive to learning. Magic quality.
Guest Information
Arrival and Departure
All Courses (including the Yoga Teacher Training Course): Plan to arrive the day before the course begins and depart the day after it ends.
Yoga Vacation Programs: You choose your arrival and departure dates and can attend all or part of a particular program or special event.
Room check-in time: 3 pm
Room check-out time: 11 am
Getting Here
Fly directly to Nassau International Airport. Please note: the Bahamas is an independent country and you will need a passport to travel here. Most citizens from the US, Canada, and European countries do not need a visa to visit the Bahamas (you can verify whether you require a visa to enter the Bahamas at Bahamas.com or by contacting your local Bahamian Consulate).
Please note Visitors from some countries are required to have vaccinations before they can enter the Bahamas. Please check with your travel agent or local consulate to find out if you are required to have any vaccinations before your trip.
After collecting your luggage and passing through customs, call us at +1-242-363-2902 or use WhatsApp (+1-242-426-6780), with the airport’s free wi-fi, to let us know you are on your way and we will send our boat to meet you at our dock in Nassau.
Take a taxi to our dock on Deveaux St. and off of Bay street. You can pay for the taxi with American or Bahamian dollars (you can use either currency throughout the Bahamas and at the ashram). The cost of the taxi will be approximately $45 (plus a surcharge for more than two people and extra luggage).
Our boat will pick you up from our dock and take you to the ashram, a five-minute boat ride across the bay from the dock in Nassau. We will do our best to ensure that our boat meets you at the dock in a timely manner so you do not have to wait long.
Please visit the Planning & Pre-Arrival Information for more details about your stay at the ashram, including What to Bring, Internet, Money, etc.
