Amrita Yoga Magazine by Oro Design

2018

H O N O R I N G YO G A C U LT U R E

A M R I TA YO G A 2 0 1 8 CONTENTS

1 A M M A’ S M E S S AG E 3 D I R E C TO R ’ S M E S S AG E 5 W H O W E A R E / A M M A & A M R I TA YO G A 9 L I V I N G YO G A 13 O U T R E AC H

Women and Men - 19 Older Adults - 23 Corporate - 25 Research - 26 IAM Technique - 27 Teacher Training - 27 Kids, Pre-teens, Teens, Young Adults - 33 39 H O L I S T I C H E A LT H 41 I N T E R N AT I O N A L DAY O F YO G A ( I DY ) 44 A M M A O N T H E G L O B A L S TAG E 45 C O N TAC T / L I N K S

A M M A' S M E S S A G E

Previously, people did not need to have a special day for performing yoga, because yoga was part and parcel of their lives. Unfortunately, now we need a special day to remind us to perform yoga, just as we need a day to remember our mother and father. In the olden days, people would wake up in the morning, bow down to Mother Earth, and then chant prayers and perform Surya Namaskarah, facing the sun. The whole time they were praying, they were exposed to rays of the rising sun. Today, in many countries, six or seven out of ten people have a vitamin D deficiency. Yoga is beneficial for our health, physical beauty and mental discipline. It helps reduce our cholesterol, and through this, to maintain cardiac health. It increases our bone strength. This is especially important, as the incidences of arthritis and osteoporosis are on a steep rise. It even helps improve our memory power. Yoga also creates powerful spiritual vibrations. These vibrations positively affect us, as well as others. It is like entering a perfume factory. Even after emerging, the sweet fragrance will remain on our body, pleasing both to others and ourselves. When we perform yoga with complete awareness, it purifies each and every cell in our body. The purpose of yoga is for our inner well-being. It does not belong to any particular faith or religion. It was passed on to us by the ancient seers for the well-being of humanity. Yoga helps us to reconnect with nature and eventually become one with God.

A M R I TA YO G A

Awareness with Heart-centered intention

A M R I TA YO G A

A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR B R A H M AC H A R I N I S H O B A N A

Amrita Yoga isn’t just about the asanas – it’s much more. It’s about aligning to our true Self. If yoga was only about aligning parts of the body, anyone with perfect bodily alignment would be Self-realized. Alignment is an insideout approach. Aligning to the inner presence enhances the panchakoshas (5 layers of the body as described in the yoga scriptures) and is the real alignment. This is what Amrita Yoga emphasizes. The practice itself guides us from movement to stillness, from gross to subtle. Working from the inside out, Amrita Yoga leads us to realignment with our own true Self.

great teachings into our programs and our lives. We are committed to upholding Amma’s example of love and selflessness, bringing India’s rich and ancient tradition of yoga to future generations. We continue to offer yoga as an essential tool to experience the innate happiness within us. We are immensely grateful to Amma for allowing us to share Amrita Yoga. It is based on universal values that each of us may embrace to unfold our full potential. Furthermore, we are eternally grateful to each one of our precious volunteers for their selfless service. Amrita Yoga could not have grown to what it is today without them. We also offer sincere gratitude to Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Vice-Chairman of Mata Amritanandamayi Math and the President of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. Despite his many responsibilities, he has been so generous with his support and assistance.

By utilizing breath, chanting, and awareness, Amrita Yoga moves us beyond the asana and breath into stillness and our innate silence. Amrita Yoga supports us to establish a positive and harmonious lifestyle. This experience of attunement extends into our family life and resonates with everything in creation. Thus, Oneness, the goal of yoga, becomes part of our day, not something far away that we have to strive for.

Finally, we give the deepest thanks to Amma. We are all so fortunate to have Amma’s presence Amrita Yoga has a long history of outreach, serving communities globally. Our curriculum is and guidance. She is our Mother, and our rooted in Sanatana Dharma and inspired by the Aadiguru — First Teacher. living example of Amma. Thus, we infuse these

A M R I TA YO G A

WHO WE ARE

AMMA S ATG U R U S R I M ATA A M R I TA N A N DA M AY I D E V I

Her Holiness Sri Mata Amritanandamayi is known throughout the world as 'Amma' or Mother, for her selfless love and compassion towards all beings. Her entire life is dedicated to helping the poor and those suffering physically and emotionally. Amma has embraced and comforted more than 38 million people. WHO WE ARE

Amrita Yoga was born from the divine resolve and unconditional compassion of renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian, Satguru Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma). Focusing on Awareness with Heart-centered intention, Amrita Yoga transcends the physical asana practice to deepen self-awareness to experience the interconnectedness of all life. The practice creates inner and outer balance and harmony so that our true potential is realized.

The Director of Amrita Yoga, Brahmacharini Shobana, is the head of this department. VISION

Amma’s vision for Amrita Yoga is a holistic breadth of yoga courses that are taught in the spirit of love and service, providing a practical way for people worldwide to lead Heart-centered lives and to discover their true nature. MISSION

To provide a comprehensive yoga program that is rooted in the ancient and practical universal principles taught by Satguru Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma). Amrita Yoga students cultivate a holistic attitude (mano bhavana), embrace practical Vedanta, gain physical strength, mental equanimity and enhanced awareness of their hidden abilities.

FORMALIZED

Under Amma’s guidance, Brahmacharini Shobana was tasked with formalizing a school of yoga in accordance with Amma’s vision. Amrita Yoga classes were formally introduced at Amritapuri in 2004 for Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham students and at various Amrita Vidyalayam schools in India. In 2017, the Department of Amrita Yoga was formalized under Amrita Darshanam, International Center for Spiritual Studies at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri Campus.

S C H O O L O F H AT H A YO G A

A traditional school of Hatha Yoga upholding Vedic principles, Amrita Yoga integrates the

A M R I TA YO G A

four main paths of yoga: Bhakti Yoga (yoga of devotion), Jnana Yoga (yoga of wisdom), Karma Yoga (yoga of selﬂess action), and Raja Yoga (yoga of contemplation, creativity and meditation). Reﬂecting Amma’s guidance, the core program content and training methods focus on the theme Awareness with Heart-centered intention. Amrita Yoga bridges the gap between the ancient traditional Eastern practice and the practical, modern needs of the West. Adopting Amma’s philosophy of embracing all, Amrita Yoga offers programs relevant for everyone, be they young or old, male or female, and designed to encourage an ongoing practice of ‘the middle way.’ Our courses, classes and retreats cultivate selfintegration and interconnectedness to all of life, awakening hidden abilities and potentials.

30 years to bring together all institutes of yoga under one umbrella. IYA was established on 31st October, 2008 approved by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. Amrita Yoga’s Director, Brahmacharini Shobana, serves on the 12-member Committee for Yoga Education in Universities, set up in 2016 by the Indian Ministry of HRD. O U R I N T E R N AT I O N A L T E A M

Amrita Yoga could not have grown to what it is today without the efforts and support of the many volunteers who offer their valuable time and energy for a social cause, the upliftment of humanity, and our global society. Inspired by our beloved Amma, our team consists of international staff who offer their varied skills for a noble cause amidst their busy work schedules, and across global time zones. OUR PRESENCE Our instructors, administration staff and support Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is a member staff serve on a non-monetary basis to support institution of the Indian Yoga Association (IYA). and honor ancient Indian tradition. The joy IYA is a self-regulatory body of leading yoga and beauty of selﬂess service surrounds every institutions following lineages of more than 25– aspect and every moment of our programs.

“May the circle of love within everyone expand and gradually come to embrace all of creation.” Amma

A M R I TA YO G A

L I V I N G YO GA Yoga practice is about connecting with the innate Self to live a truly integrated life. Since time immemorial, families in India have practiced yoga together, in the same way that they ate, worked and worshipped together. Yoga benefits both body and mind. From the beginning of Amritapuri ashram, Amma has encouraged all her children to follow a balanced, healthy lifestyle that includes daily sadhana with yoga practices and simple living.

that I knew hatha yoga, and she wanted to see my asanas (yoga postures).” At the end of the sessions, Amma told Kusuma to teach yoga to the ashram residents. During the 1990s, the green roof of theKali Temple at Amritapuri ashram hosted one full day of meditation every week. For many years, Amma participated for almost 12 hours of that day with the ashramites and led meditation, offered satsanga, prasad and darshan. At around noon Amma would lead the group with a few simple movements ending with 15-20 minutes of Savasana. Several of us have witnessed Amma demonstrating the highest state of breath retention, a special kind of pranayama called Plavini Pranayama while swimming at the ashram swimming pool, floating effortlessly like a lotus leaf, as mentioned in the yoga scriptures.

A M M A’ S C O M M I T M E N T TO YO G A

Amma’s conversations on yoga with ashram visitors and residents demonstrate her commitment to uphold the lifestyle and wisdom of ancient India. Amma often emphasizes the four main paths of yoga and how they complement each other. Amma says, “Yogasanas can be performed in two different ways, as a technique of meditation and as an exercise for the internal organs.” In Awaken Children, there is a documented conversation from 1983, where Amma discusses living yoga. Amma explains that yoga is an experience expressed in day-to-day life. It is not just a daily asana practice on the mat for 20 to 60 minutes, it is the connection to the essence of life itself. Thus, yoga practice is not just a part of life, but is the substratum underlying every action, every movement and every breath of our life. Gretchen Kusuma McGregor, a resident of Amritapuri since 1985 and originally from the USA, recalls her experiences with Amma doing yogasana in her book In the Shelter of Her Arms: "One morning, Amma called me to her room shortly after breakfast. Someone had mentioned

C O N N E C T I N G TO T H E S O U R C E

The Upanishads (scriptures of India) define that hrdayam (the heart-center) is the essence of one's existence, the pure consciousness. The abode of the Self is the cave of the heart-center, the source of wisdom. Living from the heart means unfolding the essentials of one's e xistence

A M R I TA YO G A

“It was profound. It was a multi-level experience of yoga of movement, mantra, meditation and stillness — so rich in information on each level of experience.” Gary Morris, USA, Shiva-Shakti Therapeutic Workshop, 2017

by enlivening the deepest motives and the intentions within. When we live from the hrdayam, we access this innate inner intelligence to lead a balanced life with creativity and intuition. This is important for o ne's growth and increases personal effectiveness resulting in a fulfilled life. This is living yoga. Amma says, “We should enquire into the very source of that power, which exists within ourselves." Amma also exhibits her connection to the source by demonstrating her tireless action of hugging for the past forty years. When asked by a journalist if she was not tired hugging several million people, Amma responded that if one is connected to the source of energy, there is no tiredness. In the early days, visitors and brahmacharins (practicing monks and nuns) would meditate for more than eight hours a day. Each had a minimum self-practice of Surya Namaskarah. This is an asana series which expresses gratitude and connection with the source of wisdom, symbolically represented by the Sun, Lord Surya. Thus, the practice was an expression of the inner Self, transcending the physical movements with greater meaning.

the ancient universal values is more important than ever to maintain a healthy body and mind. From the very beginning, Amma guided the yoga program to ensure it followed the highest tenets of Sanatana Dharma (Eternal Wisdom), India’s philosophy and ancient traditions. For this reason, the ashram has offered yoga classes since its early days. Teachers from Amritapuri and elsewhere travelled to many cities and villages to offer yoga classes to all who were interested. Read more in Outreach. A M R I TA YO G A , A S C H O O L O F YO G A

Mata Amritanandamayi Math has a committed tradition of offering yoga globally. Amrita Yoga proudly acknowledges its roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions and yet is a completely new approach of understanding yoga practice based on Amma’s core philosophy of Living from the Heart. Amrita Yoga offers something for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Amrita Yoga practice offers greater awareness, increased self-knowledge and connects you to the source of existence. All cultivated breath by breath.

E A R LY O U T R E AC H

In the busy modern world of India, reviving

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“… I finally heard the mantra as if for the first time. By surrendering and melting into it, the practice finally fell blissfully into place. Thank you!” Simon Reynolds, Canada, Bala Namaskarah, February 2017

Image opposite: Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev visited Amritapuri to meet Amma on 18th Sep, 2017 "We need to do two things to become good children of Amma. One is honesty and the second is selflessness. When purity is there in your life, and divinity in your action, then in your life bhakti, yoga and karma all come together."

OUTREACH

OUTREACH INDIA

Including Rural India

A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Amrita Yoga offers a unique and holistic approach to yoga asanas. We offer a wide range of classes for our Indian and international students, both at Amritapuri and at our centers worldwide, including classes for older adults, youth and children, all-women classes, and therapeutic and corporate retreats. Each of these groups are taught a unique sequence of yoga asanas and meditation for daily practice. Programs tailored to suit varied needs are filled with practical insights to encourage participants continued reflection and use in daily life. Courses include fundamental principles and applications of yoga, backed by Vedantic knowledge, in easy-topractice sessions which minimize pain and strain. With increased awareness of lifestyle, health and well-being, participant numbers have increased every year.

Pages following: Black text indicates milestones in India Purple text indicates milestones internationally

1987-1990 Swami Prajnanamritananda Puri and Brahmachari Brahmamrita Chaitanya taught yoga to the men and brahmacharis (practicing monks) at the ashram. Brahmacharini Virajamrita Chaitanya taught classes to the women and brahmacharinis (practicing nuns).

1983 onwards Ashram residents and visitors were encouraged to perform a simple self-practice yoga. 1985 In her book, In the Shelter of Her Arms, Gretchen Kusuma McGregor, a resident of Amritapuri from the USA, recalls her experiences with Amma practising yoga "Amma called me to her room shortly after breakfast one morning. Someone had mentioned that I knew hatha yoga and she wanted to see my asanas (yoga poses).” At the end of the sessions, Amma asked Kusuma to teach yoga to the residents.

1987 onwards Therapeutic yoga was the focus of Amritapuri’s first outreach efforts. Read more in Holistic Health. 1990-2000 Every week, ashram residents and visitors participated

OUTREACH

offers exclusive sessions for men. Read more in Men in one full day of dedicated meditation. Amma led the meditation and around noon, Amma led the group with Exclusive. a few simple movements ending with 15-20 minutes of 1997 onwards Savasana. Regular yoga sessions in local languages are offered to both teaching and non-teaching staff at our Amrita 1990-2004 Vidyalayam schools and in our university campuses. Brahmachari Asokan traveled to several locations both Yoga is an integral component of our annual meetings, within Kerala and outside India to conduct exclusive orientation meetings and summer camps for staff yoga and meditation camps. across Amrita institutions. A number of international residents at Amritapuri 2000 onwards conducted yoga camps and classes during this time. The range of programs offered by Amrita Yoga are expanding to meet the needs of different age groups Brahmachari Nirvanamrita Chaitanya taught yoga and people of different abilities. to 15,288 participants in Kerala over this 15-year period. Amma continues to directly guide and inspire the program and our efforts to reach more people. 1990 onwards The Amritapuri ashram, along with other ashram We are continually training teachers to meet the centers across India have offered regular yoga and growing demand. Increasing numbers of people are meditation courses since the 1990s. Currently there eager to learn yoga and meditation practices directly are around 50 ashram centers in India. inspired by Amma. Many international visitors come to Amritapuri, 2002 onwards especially during the months of August, September, December and January — the peak months for our yoga The Mata Amritanandamayi Center in France offers regular yoga classes. classes and retreats. Brahmacharini Dipamrita Chaitanya has taught 320 participants since 2002. Other international teachers taught 3,200+ students up to December 2017.

M.A. Centers and satsanga groups across the world regularly offer classes in yoga and meditation for all ages. Currently there are more than 50 centers globally.

The ashram held close to 35 retreats and workshops from August 2012 until December 2017.

Sanyasis, Brahmacharins and residents of Amritapuri ashram travel across India to various towns to conduct Antar Yoga, a special retreat that focuses on various elements including yoga and meditation.

2004 onwards Brahmacharini Shobana held several yoga camps, workshops, retreats and classes at many of the Amrita Vidyalayam school campuses across India.

They also travel around the world for almost three months every year to conduct talks, yoga and meditation symposiums. These sessions are offered to the general public.

She also held camps, retreats and demonstrations at various community centers, schools and universities across India.

Two-hour yoga and special meditation courses are held at Amrita Institutions, including our schools and university campuses, with a focus on improving health awareness and concentration. These sessions are offered to the general public.

From 2011 to 2017, Brahmacharini Shobana taught a total 12,950 participants. Brahmacharini Shobana has offered a variety of yoga courses and teacher training programs along with directing and leading the International Day of Yoga (IDY) programs internationally. She has taught

Brahmachari Gurudas Chaitanya taught several ashram visitors and residents until early 2000. Currently, he

OUTREACH

over 10,000 international students of all ages.

exclusively for women since 2015.

2010 August-2018 February We offered the following retreats at Amritapuri, exclusively attended by international visitors:

Over 1,050 regular yoga classes were conducted by local staff, at least once a week, with an average participation of 26 villagers per class.

Total Women Men Adults 3,531 2,511 1,020 Graduates 170 124 46 Women 63 63 0 Ayurveda 114 88 26 French 32 26 6 3,910 2,812 1,098 Total

Regular classes for children are conducted at tuition centers and at various locations for ladies attending self-help groups. About 50 yoga classes were conducted by staff from Amrita SeRVe on special occasions. Classes on national holidays, such as awareness days, amounted to 2,181 participants. These events are typically public, and on a much larger scale than the regular classes.

2012 onwards Amrita Yoga has been represented at the International Yoga Conference (BYC) in Barcelona, Spain since 2012.

Since 2016, over 3,800 villagers have been involved in classes such as these.

The BYC is a yogic celebration open to people from all ages and backgrounds, with or without any previous experience in yoga. It provides an uplifting and open-hearted platform for world leading yoga teachers and musical artists to learn, experience, discover and transform.

Experienced yoga instructors from Amrita Yoga headquarters conducted twenty three sessions with 421 participants in total. 2015-2018 Silent Meditation programs were taught to 797 participants, of which 599 were female and 197 were male.

2013 onwards Amritapuri ashram offers monthly yoga camps on weekends in local languages.

2016 onwards Exclusive classes for Indian visitors are offered four days a week at the Amritapuri ashram. Participants have an option to attend private classes where they are given a sequence to take home that is tailored to their individual needs.

Amrita Yoga Beginner Level instructors are teaching across India at various locations including towns and villages. Since 2013, 90,000 people have participated in Amrita Yoga classes and retreats through M.A. Centers and Embracing the World global charities. 25 instructors have covered 22 countries in 6 continents.

Amrita Yoga Director, Brahmacharini Shobana, is also a member of the Ministry of Human Resource Development Committee on Yoga Education in Universities, set up in 2016.

Groups of yoga fans and teachers visit Amritapuri from various countries such as China, Portugal, Russia, UK and USA. They are offered exclusive classes and talks by the Amrita Yoga team.

2017 Mata Amritanandamayi Math celebrated 30 years of hatha yoga practices.

2014-2018 In seven months, 9,300 people attended the Amrita Yoga daily classes at Amritapuri Ashram. 2015-2017

Amrita Yoga held its inaugural session in Nordic countries: Norway, Denmark and Sweden and presented at the Nordic Yoga Conference in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Amrita Yoga’s outreach in rural India, via Amrita SeRVe, has offered weekly classes for adults and

Under the Swedish Government, the artist and adviser for Art and Culture, Dr. P.K. Mahanandia, along with

OUTREACH

Nov 2017 — Feb 2018 Amrita Yoga was taught to the entire community of women in Alappad Panchayat in the Kollam District of Kerala, reaching all 16 wards in the Alappad village area Azheekal Azheekal Samithi Jn Kazhukan Thuruth Pookkot Devi Temple Ayiram Thengu

Srayikkadu Parayakadavu

Teacher training, Anand Bhavan Central School, Kollam

Kuzhithura Alappadu Kakkathuruthu

Alumkadevu

Cheriyazheekkal Jetti Cheriyazheekkal Jn Cheriyazheekkal

Pandarathuruthu

Vellana Thuruth

INDIA KERALA A L L A PA D

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Presenting at the International Yoga Conference in Moscow along with with Amrita Yoga were well-known national and international teachers offering different styles of yoga. Approximately forty people came for each of the two Amrita Yoga classes that weekend. Participants particularly reported how relaxed, happy and energized they felt, completely immersed in the chants during the asana class. The classes were without doubt a unique experience.

his wife, Charlotte Von Schedvin, herself a yoga teacher, participated both in the Amrita Yoga practice, and the question and answer session in Gothenburg, Sweden. Her Highness Princess Märtha Louise of Norway met Amrita Yoga Director, Brahmacharini Shobana to share thoughts on the ancient tradition of yoga practices, and Amma’s contribution in upholding them.

Amrita Yoga has been participating at the Inter- national Yoga Conference conducted by the Ministry of AYUSH, India in New Delhi since 2016. Amrita Yoga outreach organizer, Ann Kristin from Norway, was appointed by the Oslo Indian Embassy to represent Norway. The conference hosted forty four nations.

Brahmacharini Shobana, Director of Amrita Yoga, was invited by the Indian Embassy Ambassador, His Excellency Shri Debraj Pradhan, to celebrate IDY 2017 on the 24th June, 2017 at Norges Idrettshøgskole (NIH), Sognsveien 220, Oslo. She spoke on Living Yoga, Living from the Heart. At a meeting held at the Indian Embassy in Oslo on the 23rd June, they shared thoughts and traditions about yoga and Amma’s contribution to it.

Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) Delhi, invited Brahmacharini Shobana as a guest lecturer on the 9th November. Around 30 South Koreans met for a question and answer session followed by a short meditation. MDNIY is an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.

Indian Embassy Counselor, Shri Amarjeet invited Amrita Yoga Director, Brahmacharini Shobana to lead IDY 2017. Amma Norway organized these celebrations in Frogner Park, Oslo. Counselor, Shri Amarjeet also participated in the program.

Amrita Yoga was taught to the entire female community of Alappad Panchayat, Kollam District, Kerala. We reached all the 16 wards in the Alappad village. We have held regular classes with an average of 15 women participating in each session. Read more in Women Exclusives.

Yoga Journal Russia published a two-page article about Amrita Yoga in the September issue and invited M.A. Math to present Amrita Yoga at the popular International Yoga Conference in October.

“It opened my eyes and ears to realize that in order to grow spiritually, one needs to also have discipline with food. Ayurveda part given me inspiration to learn more about my body and the foods that will help me grow spiritually and potentially expand my consciousness.” Katarzyna Rosenplanter, Germany, Yoga & Ayurveda retreat, August 2016

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WOMEN & MEN E XC LU S I V E W O R K S H O P S

“Real power and strength don’t come from the outside; they are to be found within. And courage is an attribute of the mind; it is not a quality of the body. Whether you are a woman or a man, your real humanity will come to light only when the feminine and masculine qualities within you are balanced. Let us remember that real leadership is not to dominate or to control, but to serve others with love and compassion, and to inspire women and men alike through the example of our lives.” Amma

class could easily perform Sirsasana (headstand) either supported or in the center of the room.

WOMEN

1990 onwards Brahmacharini Virajamrita Chaitanya, Dharmista, Neeraja, Lisa Waters, Brahmacharini Shobana and Gitamba are just some of the yoga instructors who have offered classes, camps and workshops exclusively for women at Amritapuri.

Classes were generally 90-minutes. Once a week we also offered a mixed class for women and men together. Prior to 2003, classes for girls were taught at the Amrita Institute of Computer Technology (AICT) three days a week and continued at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham once it was established.

2000 onwards Until 2008, Amrita Yoga conducted introductory/ beginner, intermediate and therapeutic classes four days a week. Therapeutic workshops focused on lower spinal issues, cervical issues, asthma, insomnia and other common ailments. Three-day yoga camps were frequently held.

Between 2007 and 2017, Amrita Yoga taught 6,325 Indian visitors at Amritapuri ashram. 2006-2007

Each class was carefully built as a sequence, paving the way for the practitioner to improve her practice.

Over two years we taught 50 sessions for girls from the School of Biotechnology — a total of 3,000 students.

Over time, almost every woman who attended the

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2014 onwards We taught at Bharat Heavy Electrical Limited, EDN Division, Bengaluru for two consecutive years, 2014 and 2015. Each time we conducted a five-day workshop for groups of 30 women.

MEN

1987 onwards Until 1990, Swami Prajnanamritananda Puri and Brahmachari Brahmamrita Chaitanya taught yoga to men and Brahmacharis (practicing monks) at the Amritapuri ashram.

In 2015, we taught 35 women at the Community Center of Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd., Bengaluru.

Brahmachari Gurudas Chaitanya has offered classes exclusively for men since the early 1990s. He leads the IDY celebrations at Amritapuri with large groups of participants, and also manages the recently-built men-exclusive yoga mandiram provided for male practitioners and yogis visiting and residing at Amritapuri.

From July 2014 to February 2018 at Amritapuri Ashram, over 8,000 women attended Amrita Yoga daily classes. In 2015, we taught 400 women students at Sri Adi Chunchanagiri Women’s College, Cumbum, Theni, Tamil Nadu.

2007-2017 We have taught over 3,000 Indian and international visitors at Amritapuri.

2016 onwards We currently offer classes for female ashram residents, staff from Amrita institutions, Indian locals, ashram visitors, working women from the local village, and university project staff. Classes are 45 minutes, six days a week. To date, we have taught 358 women.

2016 onwards In June 2016, we taught over 80 men in a 2-day program at the Cochin Naval Base. In 2017, we taught 291 student boys at the Boys High School, Parakode, Kerala.

Several Women’s Health Workshops are conducted each year focusing on spinal and hip health.

We offer ongoing morning classes at the boys hostels for students at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham campuses.

2017 We taught 339 student girls at Amrita Girls High School, Parakode, Kerala and 60 women at N.S.S. Nursing College for Women, Pandalam, Kerala. Nov 2017 to Feb 2018 We taught the entire women’s community in Alappad Panchayat, Kollam District, Kerala. We reached all 16 wards — the entire Alappad village area. During our teaching, we identified female volunteers and individually trained them in five 2-hour modules. These volunteers have been leading their own sessions, and encouraging ongoing practice in their area. Through this pioneering village outreach and training model, we look forward to Amrita Yoga expanding and thriving well into the future!

OUTREACH

O L D E R A D U LT S There has always been a special place for older adults at Amritapuri. Brahmacharis, Brahmacharinis and a select few international residents have offered classes at the ashram since the 1990s.

“I have been practicing Amrita Yoga for six months now. I am grateful for its benefits and results. My cholesterol levels are reduced, and sugar levels are normal. I experience less fatigue.” Saraswathy, 69 years old, Kerala

“I have never experienced a yoga practice like this one! The healing sessions took me on an inner journey. Using both mudras and chanting while holding the asanas was very powerful. I have no more pain in my body, and my awareness has grown.” Irene Busse, 53 years old, Germany

T H E P R AC T I C E

Older adults require a simple practice to meet the needs of their stage of life. At M.A. Centers across the world we continue to offer a gentle, slow-paced meditative practice with a simple sequence. Classes are infused with chanting, meditation and a glimpse of yoga nidra.

C U R R E N T O U T R E AC H

Amrita Yoga beginner-level instructors, Priya Sahana, Brahmacharini Hemaa and Aswathy offer 40-minute practice classes for older adults every morning at Amritapuri. We also offer a simple, gentle practice with a focus on maintaining good health in rural Indian villages in 22 states.

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C O R P O R AT E

Amrita Corporate Yoga is an effective antidote to stress, improving employee morale, enhancing work relations, building teamwork, and increasing productivity and efficiency levels.

“I must admit it was one of the nicest asana and meditation sessions I have ever experienced. Thanks a million for getting me initiated. It is so vital for one’s well-being and really helps us empty our mind… great way to release stress.” Sreelatha, BHEL EDN, Bengaluru

The programs support a loving and focused life while consciously reflecting on, and choosing to live, a balanced, harmonious and holistic life.

FOCUS

Amrita Corporate Yoga promotes preventive measures to heal, energize, improve bonding and keep employees healthy, happy and content. STRUCTURE By realigning and rebuilding internal energy, Our qualified instructors conduct in-house it optimizes productivity for individuals and teams, by encouraging creative problem-solving, training sessions including asanas, simple breathing, yoga nidra, relaxation techniques clarity of mind and improved decision-making. and a variety of meditation techniques. The programs are customizable according to I N T E N T I O N F O R P R AC T I T I O N E R S requirements. We aim to inspire practitioners to let go of both past and future in order to experience the O R G A N I S AT I O N S W E H AV E S E RV E D present moment fully. Indian Institute of Management (Kolkata), Embracing our philosophy, Living from the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited EDN (BenHeart, the program synthesizes allfour paths of yoga, not just beginning and ending with asanas galuru), GAIL India Limited, Tata Steel and the Karwar Naval Base. (postures).

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RESEARCH Research scientists at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Computational Neuroscience Laboratory at the Amrita School of Biotechnology and Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, are actively studying a wide variety of topics related to yoga and meditation including: � The effects of yoga � Yoga’s role in relaxation � Medical benefits in regular, new and long-term practitioners � Neuroimaging and yoga communication � Clinical psychology: The effects of yoga on the brain’s functional connectivity � Areas such as Vitamin D deficiency, obesity, stress reduction, modulation of cholesterol conditions, musculoskeletal problems and reducing epilepsy The Amrita Darshanam – International Center for Spiritual Studies is working on the philosophy of yoga. More info at www.amrita.edu/search/site/yoga and www.amrita.edu/compneuro Below Left • Dr. Shyam Diwakar, Associate Professor and Lab Director, Computational Neuroscience and Neurophysiology Labs, Amrita School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri Campus

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IAM TECHNIQUE This unique meditation technique is a short,

India’s military and paramilitary soldiers on a simple approach to meditation that anyone can large scale. learn. It combines energizing exercises (yogasan- IAM is taught in schools, universities and as), breathing techniques, and concentration colleges throughout India, and also to employexercises. ees of business corporations, such as Infosys, By integrating movement, breath, sound and BSNL, IIM, Whole Foods Corp., Genenvisualization, the body, mind and intellect become tech-USA, and the State University of New unified and heart-centredness enters our lives. York. It has also been introduced in the Juvenile Different age groups are offered versions Detention Center, Santa Fe, New Mexico, and tailored to their needs. into prisons in Italy. This meditation takes approximately twenty minutes. It is a secular technique not bound Since 2003, the IAM Technique training to any religious or spiritual belief system. has reached over 500,000 people across India, and over 50,000 in other countries.

O U T R E AC H

Since 2003, the IAM Technique has been taught free of charge by certified instructors in more than 60 countries worldwide. In 2008, at the request of the Indian government, M.A. Math taught the technique to

RESEARCH

The international journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (eCAM) published a paper that showed IAM Technique lowers stress hormones.

TEACHER TRAINING Our Teacher Training Courses (TTC) offer a holistic approach, integrating asana as one part of a broad spectrum of yoga. Each year, Amrita Yoga offers a one-month Teacher Training Course free of charge to selected volunteers, enabling them to teach worldwide. We manage a team of more than 100 volunteer teachers internationally. Between 2015 and 2017, Amrita Yoga offered TTCs for working with a variety of age groups: � Kids TTCs - 9 � Adults* TTCs - 10 � Rural India TTCs - 12 � IDY TTCs - 12+ * Including exclusive training for women and men

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K I D S , P R E -T E E N S , T E E N S , YO U N G A D U LT S

“A child’s mind is like freshly laid cement. If anyone steps in it, the imprint remains forever.” Amma Yoga is for all ages. Asana practice is suitable for every child, including differently-abled children. Studies show that to function optimality we need a good connection between the body and the brain. This connection improves our learning ability. Amrita Yoga offers a variety of programs specifically designed for young yogis. Our programs help children become self-sufficient, build their self-esteem and enhance their creativity, paving the way for a life of lasting happiness. At the same time, yoga assists them in becoming stronger, more balanced and flexible in both mind and body. We emphasise the yogic tradition of ancient India. Yogis revered every object and living being in creation, and thus lived in harmony with nature — inside and out. This approach to education integrates universal values from a young age to establish a future of hope, peace and social engagement.

“My concern was that they didn't speak English. We are Brazilian and my kids speak mostly Portuguese. Would they be lost in class? Would they be able to participate?… But the children seemed bewitched by the teacher's… They turned into frogs, monkeys, snakes, cats, dogs and turtles.” Renata Leao, Brazil, Mother of Alice, 8, and Gabriel, 5

“I have learnt not to neglect my feelings, stay centered and not be carried away by my feelings.” Oshin, 10th Grade, Pukkottu Temple Kids Camp “Practicing regularly, you’ll get a result. It is so simple, but it gives me so much energy. You have to do it regularly, like medicine. Do it for your health.” Priya, 24 years old 29

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Our yoga classes and workshops help teens learn to: � Develop self-expression and creativity � Set goals for themselves � Learn to cope with peer pressure Teens learn how to be givers in this world, to stay true to their values and use their unique abilities to help others.

A M R I TA K I D S YO G A

Ages 3-7 In today's world children need movement and relaxation. Asana practice provides both. Amrita Kids Yoga uses storytelling, games, songs and dances. We also use nature-based activities to introduce yoga in a playful way, with a focus on fun and joy. Using animals and plants for inspiration, kids imitate nature and become part of the play of life. Every part of nature has a lesson for them. Kids get to interact with the environment in a more relaxed state of mind which fosters a healthy body and a balanced outlook on life.

A M R I TA YO G A F O R YO U N G A D U LT S

Ages 18-25 Youth are the strength and future of every nation. Amrita Yoga empowers young people to contribute to a peaceful and sustainable world, and grow into compassionate leaders with a sense of tolerance, solidarity and global responsibility. Beginning with themselves in their yoga practice, our program aims to establish a future of hope, peace and social engagement in our global community. Yoga is a key part of all youth programs offered by the Mata Amritanandamayi Math. Our classes help participants to develop outer and inner strength.

A M R I TA P R E -T E E N S YO G A

Ages 8-12 Amrita Pre-teens Yoga helps kids focus and boosts their self-confidence. Stress levels are reduced, helping them channel their emotions and energies in positive directions. Pre-teens learn advanced movements and asanas along with rhythmic breathing. Children practicing yoga learn to be open, creative, aware, self confident, able to manage stress and much more — tools that will stay with them for the rest of their lives! A M R I TA T E E N S YO G A

Ages 13-17 Teens face unique issues. Our yoga workshops offer tools to tackle their particular challenges through practical skills. We emphasize cooperative efforts, teamwork and compassion towards others. Our unique approach to yoga empowers teens by guiding them to apply Amma’s teachings.

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I N D I A O U T R E AC H

student participation 2009 - 2018.

Across India, we offer regular classes, workshops and camps for kids, preteens, teens and young adults. They are held at numerous schools, universities, community centers and all Mata Amritanandamayi branches and institutions, teaching a way of living with peace and lasting happiness.

2015 onwards Teachers of Amrita Yoga Kids (ages 3-14 years) are coaching across India in diverse schools, community centers and other institutions. Currently, they have reached almost 8,000 children. 2017 onwards Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is offering variety of yoga programs as part of Amrita Darshanam, International Center for Spiritual Studies.

1990s onwards Exclusive classes, yoga shibiram (yoga camp), yoga chikitsa shibiram (therapeutic yoga camp) and yoga training are held for kids and pre-teens to enhance their overall growth and development.

Some of our university campuses also provide yoga clubs that offer training in yoga for interested students, enabling them to attend national and international level training.

Youth students attending the Amrita Industrial Training Institute (ITI) are trained in yoga, to complement their technical training.

Our students have won many state level, national level and even international level medals and prizes.

1997-2017 Over 50 Amrita Vidyalayam schools in India have offered Amrita Yoga as part of the academic curriculum since their inception. Image opposite depicts the growth of our outreach by 40 times.

Amrita Bala Kendra Centers are active in more than 140 locations across the different states in India, offering classes for kids and pre-teens (ages 4-12) every weekend, inculcating values with a short yoga session.

2001-2004

R U R A L I N D I A O U T R E AC H

Brahmachari Nirvanamrita Chaitanya held yoga camps at Amrita Vidyalayam school campuses at locations all over Kerala. In total, 5,830 participants were taught in 54 days of 2-hour sessions.

2005 Over 5,000 tsunami-affected children attended the one-week shibiram (camp) at Mata Amritanandamayi Math, Amritapuri. Special emphasis was given to the personality development of the children based on cultural awareness. Yoga Acharyas from the ashram taught yoga classes for the children.

2004 onwards We regularly offer Sunday classes for kids and pre-teens at Amritapuri ashram. Brahmacharini Shobana has taught over 72,000 children of different ages at various institutions across India. She conducted tailored workshops for each group, as well as summer camps at community centers, university campuses and at schools in India and internationally.

2015 September onwards Our outreach has spread to over 5,000 children between 5 and 15 years old. Cultural awareness classes are conducted across India to share information on how to live in harmony with nature. Village-level sports events and camps are organized for the children.

2008 onwards At Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amrita Yoga is offered to all first year undergraduate and postgraduate students as part of Cultural Education, a one-credit course option since the inception of the university in 2004.

The 101 Adopted Villages project in India hold regular Amrita Yoga classes every Sunday with short meditations and simple asanas, exclusively for kids, pre-teens and teens. Across 44 villages, 2,746

Hostel students are offered classes on a regular basis. The graph opposite illustrates the steady growth of

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54%

46% 14,000 +

Women

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham

Men

14,000+ university students take classes every week

Amrita Vidyalayam Schools

45,000+ primary and secondary students take classes every week

45,000 + +

40 x Increase x 40 between 1997 and 2017

A M R I TA V I DYA L AYA M S C H O O L S T U D E N T PA RT I C I PAT I O N 60,000 50,000

Total No. of Students

40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000

0 1997

1998

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2003 2004 2005

2006 2007 2008 2009

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Amrita Vidyalayam

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Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham

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RURAL INDIA OUTREACH

Kids and Youth

2005

Over 5,ooo tsunami-affected children attended the one-week shibiram at Mata Amritanandamayi Math, Amritapuri. Yoga Acharyas from the ashram taught yoga classes to the children.

2015-2018

Outreach to over 5000 children 5-15 yrs: The 101 Adopted Villages project hold regular Sunday Amrita Yoga classes with meditations and simple asanas exclusively for kids,pre-teens and teens. 2746 sessions across 44 villages have been conducted, with an average of 38 participants per session.

2017-2018

167 sessions taught in under 4 months in 5 government schools, Alappad Panchayat, Kollam, Kerala

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sessions were conducted. On average 38 participants attended each session.

and mentors from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds across 22 states of India participated in Amrita Yoga, amongst other activities.

Nov 2017-Feb 2018 We have taught 167 sessions in less than four months in five Government Schools in Alappad Panchayat, Kollam, Kerala.

AY U D H N O RT H A M E R I C A

Since 2014 Amrita Yoga has been taught as a key activity in: � The Ripple Effect 2015 100+ participants � The Ripple Effect 2016 115+ participants � The Ripple Effect 2017 150+ participants Participants represented all regions of the United States and Canada, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Argentina, Japan, and Kenya. Many of them had never met Amma before and were experiencing Amrita Yoga for the first time. A large number chose to start the day with Amrita Yoga because they were very happy with the practice.

I N T E R N AT I O N A L O U T R E AC H

Amrita Bala Kendra is a tool Amma has provided to ensure that today’s youth will grow into good citizens and become positive contributors to society. Every weekend across the globe, Mata Amritanandamayi Centers offer Bala Kendra (children's group) classes at more than 150 locations for kids and pre-teens (ages 4-12) that include a short, playful yoga session.

AY U D H E U R O P E

A total of 780 participants have been trained since 2014: Frankfurt, Germany, June 2014 150 participants Massa Marittima, Italy, June 2015 200 participants Frankfurt, Germany, July 2015 250 participants 180 participants Madrid, Spain, June 2016

2000 onwards AYUDH, (Amrita Yuva Dharma Dhara) The International Youth Movement of Mata Amritanandamayi Math, offers Amrita Yoga as part of their annual summit and regularly during their meetings worldwide. AYUDH is active in India as well as parts of Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and Africa.

AY U D H A F R I C A

A total of 350 participants have been trained AY U D H I N D I A since 2014: Amrita Yoga has been taught since 2000. Several youth Nairobi, Kenya, April 2015 50 participants camps on personality development have been conducted Lusaka, Zambia, February 2016 300 participants over this 18-year period all over India. Recently AYUDH India conducted the first national level summit, AYUDH India Leaders Training Summit at Amritapuri. Over 600 aspiring youth leaders

“We learnt that we should never get distracted by the obstacles we seemingly face, but consider them to be the adventurous route, thus converting all challenges into concrete solutions for real life situations.” Vaishali, 14 years old

A M R I TA YO G A

"I felt really happy after the Shiva/Shakti Therapeutic Retreat. It has given me a lot of tools to improve my life on all levels. Like its name, it has been very therapeutic and healing. Since then, I can meditate which I have never able to do before." Oceana Malasquez, 30 years old, Peru

"This therapeutic and restorative intensive was an excellent retreat for me to attend. I was able do the postures, so rather than having to struggle, I was able to stay in the posture and go deeper, for which I am very appreciative." Judith Rotman, 71 years old, USA

A M R I TA YO G A

H O L I S T I C H E A LT H YO G A A S A T H E R A P Y

“Yoga creates powerful spiritual vibrations. These vibrations positively affect us as well as others. It is like entering a perfume factory. Even after emerging, the sweet fragrance will remain on our body, pleasing both to others and to ourselves.” Amma

1987-1990 Therapeutic yoga outreach began at Amritapuri. Swami Prajnanamritananda Puri taught classes focused on psychosomatic and holistic health. Swami held yoga camps for mixed groups, young and old. He taught more than 300 students. Exclusive Yoga Chikilsa Shibirarm (therapeutic yoga camps) were also held.

affected areas. Understanding this, Amma provided them with counseling throughout 2005, providing child psychiatrists from the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences. Special emphasis was given to the personality development of the children based on cultural awareness. Yoga Acharyas from the ashram taught yoga classes for the children.

1993-1994 Another 200+ students were taught at multiple locations in Kerala.

Classes focused on yoga and holistic practices to help alleviate: � Arthritis of several kinds � Alzheimer’s disease � Asthma, nasal congestion, common cold, cough, sneezing and breathing difficulties � Cancers of different types, mainly breast, prostate, and uterine � High cholesterol and hypertension � Constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, acidity and stomach ulcers � Diabetes and related disorders � Fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome � Insomnia, depression, anxiety and stress-related issues � Migraine and different kinds of headaches � Obesity disorders � Parkinson’s � Spinal issues including lower spine and cervical � Thyroid both hypo and hyper � Migraine and different types of headache

1993 onwards Brahmachari Gurudas Chaitanya has been offering special private classes for Indian and international visitors. Early 2000 Lisa Waters, an ashram international resident, offered exclusive therapeutic classes. 2004-present Brahmacharini Shobhana and her team members are currently offering speciality health workshops for both Indian and international visitors, either in small groups or in private sessions. 2005 Over 5,000 tsunami-affected children attended the one-week shibiram at Mata Amritanandamayi Math, Amritapuri. The tsunami was traumatic for children in

A M R I TA YO G A

350+

locations

We went to cities, villages, schools, universities and many other institutions

California 2017

I DY G LO B A L P R E S E N C E AC T I V E I N OV E R 2 5 C O U N T R I E S

30,000+ participants worldwide

100+ Ashram Centres worldwide held events to celebrate IDY

Japan 2017

Amrita Institution statistics are a work in progress and yet to be added for the IDY celebrations. (To be included in forthcoming editions.)

A M R I TA YO G A

I N T E R N AT I O N A L D AY O F Y O G A ( I D Y ) THE P OWER OF HARMONY

peace and harmony in the world. Mata Amritanandamayi Math enthusiastically embraces this opportunity to honor Indian tradition. Through the annual IDY activities, Amrita Yoga hopes to promote harmony within ourselves, with others, and with the whole of creation. On this day, the differences between nations, religions, and traditions are dissolved as people come together to practise yoga and experience the power of harmony, the strength of global unity, and the expression of our highest potential.

Addressing the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, 2014, the Honourable Prime Minister of India urged the world community to adopt an International Day of Yoga (IDY). On December 11, 2014, the 193 member UNGA approved the proposal by consensus with a record 177 co-sponsoring countries to establish 21st June as International Day of Yoga. THE P OWER OF HARMONY

The world is undergoing difficulties and challenges, and the global community is lacking harmony. In particular, nature is disturbed. Amma often speaks about how Mother Nature is a reflection of our own inner nature. When our minds are disturbed, so is Mother Nature. Amrita Yoga practice creates harmony between inner nature and Mother Nature. When the mind, body and intellect are in harmony through yoga, the individual consciousness becomes united with the Universal Consciousness. This is the power of yoga— the power of harmony.

C O L L A B O R AT I N G W I T H G OV E R N M E N T

Mata Amritanandamayi Math (MAM) and Amrita Yoga provided support to Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), an institution under the Indian Ministry of AYUSH in the planning, preparation, promotion and propagation of the activities conducted worldwide on the occasion of IDY, 21st June, 2016. Yoga experts from the Math provided technical support to the Ministry of AYUSH, as well as Ministries of Government of India, companies, schools and institutions throughout India for the celebration. The Math offered training workshops, demonstrations, and organized the yoga programs.

A M R I TA YO G A A N D I DY

Amrita Yoga celebrates International Day of Yoga as a way of promoting and encouraging

A M R I TA YO G A

I DY 2 0 1 5 O U T R E AC H

R U R A L I N D I A O U T R E AC H

Amrita Yoga trained yoga ambassadors in celebration of the first International Day of Yoga across the globe, held on June 21, 2015.

Amrita Yoga conducted several training workshops in India for over 200 young adults (ages 19-25) from the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham campuses. Once trained, they lead IDY in the 101 villages adopted by the Math (101 villages in 22 states in India, including Kashmir, Rajasthan Uttarakhand and Andhra Pradesh). Around 1,600 villagers across India participated in this event.

Amma, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, celebrated in Santa Fe, USA, on her North American tour. Starting the day with a satsang on the importance of yoga, She led the group in some simple stretches and spoke about the tradition and benefits of yoga. Brahmachari Amit demonstrated the yogasana practice. Over 1,200 participants joined in the celebration.

I DY 2 0 1 7 O U T R E AC H

Amrita Yoga has conducted several training workshops in India since March 2017.

MAM headquarters at Amritapuri and its centers across the globe, along with over 55 Amrita Vidyalayam schools throughout India celebrated the event in style.

Amma was in Chicago, USA, for IDY. She led everyone in a gentle yoga practice in honor of the day. About 1,500 participants joined in the celebration. At Amritapuri, more than 1,000 participated in the IDY 2017 event, including local village children, youth from schools and the university, ashram residents and the elderly around Alappad Panchayat.

Over 100 ashram centers globally and over 100 Amrita institutions held yoga events to celebrate the day. International Satsang groups in Helsinki, Paris, Switzerland and Tokyo as well as in North America in San Ramon, Washington D.C. and Atlanta participated. R U R A L I N D I A O U T R E AC H IDY 2017 was conducted simultaneously in 18 villages I DY 2 0 1 6 O U T R E AC H across India involving over 1,400 villagers. Amrita Yoga experts conducted workshops at numerous schools in India, Southern Naval Command in Cochin, Amrita Yoga also supported corporate celebrations, and public venues in many different towns to promote among them Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited and nurture yoga culture. in Ambalamugal, Kochi, Foundry and Forge Division of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and the Ministry of Amma was in Santa Fe, USA, for the International Day Defence, Bengaluru. of Yoga. During the question and answer session of a spiritual retreat, Amma led everyone in an asana class The Indian Embassy Counselor, Shri Amarjeet, invited in honor of the day’s celebrations. Over 1,400 people Brahmacharini Shobhana to lead the event in Frogner participated. Park, Oslo, Norway, organized by Amma Norway. At Amritapuri, more than 1,000 people participated in the yoga celebrations, including children, young people and the elderly.

Brahmacharini Shobana, Director of Amrita Yoga, was an invited speaker by the Indian Ambassador for Norway, His Excellency Shri Debraj Pradhan, to celebrate the 3rd International Day of Yoga 2017. The Guest of Honor was His Excellency Mr. Himanshu Gulati, State Secretary of the Office of the Prime Minister of Norway. Other dignitaries also participated in the event.

MAM centers in Europe, North and South America and Australia also organized yoga sessions for the celebrations. Around 50 countries celebrated IDY 2016 with Amrita Yoga.

Ms. Hemaa, an Amrita Yoga instructor, led an IDY 2017 program at PERKS Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. She taught a large group of 850 students from grades 3-8. When it ended, they were so enthusiastic they didn't want her to leave, saying,"Teacher, if you come back next year, we will practice every day and you'll see how much better we are!"

The Bharat Petroleum Corporation in Ambalamugal, Kochi, celebrated IDY with 100 employees and 50 students from their CR school. IISER-TVM Indian Institute of Science Education and Research in Thiruvananthapuram celebrated with over 200 students. The Central Excise from Palakkad, Naval Command from Karwar also participated — to mention a few.

A M R I TA YO G A

explained the importance of awareness in yoga practices.

I DY 2 0 1 8 O U T R E AC H

From April 2018, M.A. Math trained Amrita Yoga Ambassadors in preparation for the IDY celebration, conducting a number of training workshops in India. Youth from the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham and many volunteers were sent out to the 101 villages adopted by the Math, and to various schools and institutions to teach Amrita Yoga.

International Satsang groups in Europe, North America, Australia and Asia actively participated in IDY 2018 celebrations. In April 2018, the Indian Ambassador in Switzerland, George Sibi, came to visit the Ziegelhütte centre and afterwards sent three representatives from the Indian Embassy especially for the IDY 2018 celebrations.

Several organizations also approached Mata Amritanandamayi Math for support to celebrate their own IDY events, including ISRO LPSC-TVM Liquid Propulsion Systems Center in Thiruvananthapuram, and Central Prison in Thiruvananthapuram.

Denmark celebrated IDY 2018 in partnership with the Indian Embassy and six other yoga schools in three cities: Copenhagen on June 16th, and Aahus and Vejle June 17th. More than 300 people joined in the presentation of the yoga protocol.

In 2018, M.A. Math and affiliates totaling more than 150 centers, 80+ institutions and education centers all over the world participated in IDY. Amma, Sri Mata Amritanandamyi Devi, honoring the yoga culture, celebrated with her children and devotees in two locations as part of the North American tour: Santa Fe on the 19th June, 2018 and Dallas on the 21st June, 2018. She practiced some simple stretches and

“From this experience with yoga, I understood that I can overcome challenging situations. I thought I wasn't able to, but I can. That’s my joy." Dhanya, 16 years old

A M R I TA YO G A

Amma teaches that everyone, rich or poor, has the power to make a difference in the life of another. No selfless gesture is insignificant. Rather, it is the selfless actions we perform for one another that awaken true peace in the individual, community and among diverse cultures, nations and faiths.

BARCELONA 2004 Amma delivers a keynote address at the Parliament of the World’s Religions

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 1993 Amma receives the Hindu Renaissance Award from Hinduism Today

LONDON 2005 Amma receives the Mahavir Mahatma Award VATICAN 2014 Amma joins Pope Francis and 10 other world religious leaders in the signing of a declaration against human trafficking and slavery NEW YORK 2015 Amma addresses the United Nations Academic Impact Conference on Technology for Sustainable Development

CHICAGO 1993 Amma addresses the Parliament of the World’s Religions’ 100th Anniversary, where she is named President of the Hindu Faith

NEW YORK 2010 Amma receives an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from the State University of New York at Buffalo 2006 Amma receives the James Parks Morton Interfaith Award

2000 Amma is a keynote speaker at the Millennium World Peace Summit, UN General Assembly 1995 Amma addresses the Interfaith Celebrations at the 50th anniversary of the UN

A M R I TA YO G A

A M M A O N T H E G L O B A L S TAG E

SHANGHAI 2012 Amma addresses the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) Regional Consultations for Asia-South Pacific GENEVA 2002 The World Movement for Non-violence confers the Gandhi-King Award for Non-violence on Amma at the UN

PARIS 2007 Amma is awarded the Prix CinemaVerite for her humanitarian activities and work for peace at the Cinema Verite Film Festival

INDIA NEW DELHI 2009 Amma inaugurates the Vivekananda International Foundation

JAIPUR 2008 Amma is a keynote speaker at the Summit of the Global Peace Initiative of Women. PUNE 2009 Amma receives the Philosopher Saint Sri Jnaneswara World Peace Prize KOCHI 2008 Amma receives the Centenary Legendary Award of the Rotary Club International

A M R I TA YO G A

M ATA A M R I TA N A N DA M AY I M AT H A M R I TA P U R I P.O . KO L L A M - 6 9 0 5 4 6 KERALA, INDIA

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https://www.amrita.edu/center/amrita-darshanam-international-center-for-spiritual-studies/amritayoga https://amma.org http://www.embracingtheworld.org https://amrita.edu https://amritaserve.org https://www.amrita.edu/center/create https://www.amrita.edu/center/ammachi https://amritapuri.org https://www.amrita.in http://www.amma-europe.org https://www.iam-meditation.org http://www.amritahospitals.org http://amritavidyalayam.org http://www.balakendra.org/index.php/en/ https://ayudh.in https://ayudh.eu http://ammachilabs.org/ http://www.amritacreate.org/ https://www.amrita.edu/center/amrita-rite https://www.amrita.edu/center/awna https://www.amrita.edu/center/nanosciences https://www.amrita.edu/school/biotechnology/research https://www.amritapuri.org/activity/nature/greenfriends https://e.amritapuri.org/abc/

“The purpose of yoga is for our inner well-being. It does not belong to any particular faith or religion." Amma

I N F O @ A M R I TAYO G A .C O M 1 A M R I TA YO G A A M R I TA P U R I A M R I TAYO G A .C O M