The Ashram is a Svaroopa® Yoga Ashram, led by Swami Nirmalananda. She is a swami, a yoga monk who has 
dedicated her time and efforts to support those who commit themselves to the yogic lifestyle. Swamiji is living in the Ashram and sharing her life with a small group of residents in a yogic environment.
Yoga Practices:
Swamiji teaches a yogic lifestyle based in the tantric disciplines of Kashmiri Shaivism, whether you are residing in the Downingtown Ashram or you want to make your home be your Ashram. This lifestyle includes a broad spectrum of yogic disciplines designed to create an all-encompassing yogic experience. Free time, fun and laughter are an important part of the discipline.
Swamiji observes a personal discipline of daily practices, including:
personal meditation and asana practice
early morning chanting of Shree Guru Gita
sunset arati (a traditional candle flame ceremony)
evening chant or japa session
study of texts and teachings, privately or in small groups (in person or by phone)
While Ashram residents also maintain a program of yoga practices, if an ashramite has another commitment, due to work or family responsibilities, their absence is understood and supported. Otherwise, daily yoga practices are a priority in the life of each ashramite.
Seva is another important yoga practice, with Swamiji and the ashramites contributing to the workings of the Ashram activities as well as supporting and taking care of each other.
Continuing Yoga Studies:
Ashram residency is the next step in a progression of yogic studies and practices. To respect the privacy of our residential community, our group is small and deeply committed to their yogic path. If you are considering becoming an Ashram resident, please contact us to begin the application process, as well as to plan for when we may have vacancies.
Previous Svaroopa® yoga studies that indicate your readiness and commitment include:
· Foundations of Svaroopa® Yoga
· One or more Sutra Studies courses or The Shiva Course with Swami Nirmalananda
· A personal history of tithing for the most recent 4 months or more (monthly donations to Master Yoga Foundation or Svaroopa Vidya Ashram). No financial reports are needed to fulfill this prerequisite; only your assurance.
· Residency Application (including your transcript from Master Yoga Foundation and a passport photo)
· Phone interview, which is scheduled after your application is received
Extended Family:
Family relationships are an important part of a yogi’s development. Ashramites must nurture their family relationships through regular communication with key family members, as well as attending major family events, holidays and celebrations.
Applying for Residency
Openings depend on the Ashram’s capacity. Complete the courses listed in the prerequisites (above) before you submit your Residency Application. If you have not been tithing, get started so you can complete the minimum of 4 months before you move in (but you don’t have to complete the whole 4 months before you submit your application).
We want this to work for you as well as for us!
Namaste.