How to Find the Right Ashram for You

Picking the right Ashram in India is not that different from choosing the right college. The people, location, and ideals are all key factors in finding the perfect place to quiet your mind. Leora Novick helps you get started:

From the various forms of yoga, to the different regions of India, choosing the right ashram can seem an overwhelming task. Breaking down the key fundamentals that are important to you can be a good start. The first step is actually understanding what an ashram is.

What is an ashram?
Ashrams were originally created as a haven for Hindu seers, known as Rishis. Now, they are open to the public and provide spiritual illumination, as well as an escape from the harsh realities of the outside world. 

Each ashram teaches yogic traditions and principles, but the actual practices and methods vary per location. Many are located in isolated regions of India, high up in the Himalayas, but due to popular demand, ashrams have sprouted up all throughout India’s main regions.

Starting the journey
Finding the type of yoga that you relate to can be the perfect place to start your journey. Although there are thousands of varieties of yoga, there are six forms that have become known as the most popular. They are: Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Kriya Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Hatha Yoga.

Raja Yoga is more focused on the spiritual connection of the mind, while Karma Yoga revolves around doing good deeds and actions. There is no right or wrong choice when choosing which style suits you, as long as you are honest with yourself and your body.

Your needs
Once you have determined which type of yoga you connect most with, you should start determining your personal requirements. Will you be comfortable sleeping on a thin cot without air conditioning? Do you have a price limit? Knowing your boundaries is important, since you will find options for almost every budget and comfort level.

Be realistic and idealistic at the same time, with your goals. Life on an ashram is the time and place to push you out of your comfort zone, but make sure that your finite boundaries are met. Perhaps you can afford to spend more money on an ashram that provides air conditioning, but you are willing to compromise and accept the mandatory 6am wakeup call.

If you are willing to give and take with your own comforts, then you are already in the right mindset for your ashram visit.

Getting a guru
Finally, once you have found a collection of ashrams that offer both the yoga style you enjoy, and the basic personal requirements you will not compromise on, do some research on the teachers and gurus. If you learn best by example, it won’t be an issue if your swami does not speak English. However, many people feel lost without clear instructions and explanations.

Find out the quality of the teachings, whether you will receive daily lessons on spirituality, or if you are expected to create a daily routine and discover your own enlightenment.

Every person is different and their bodies and minds react to very different situations. Get the most out of your ashram experience by being honest with yourself and your needs. Remember, ashrams are a safe haven, where you have permission to free yourself from your own judgment and self-pity.

About the Author: Leora Novick is a freelance travel writer with an extensive background in fashion. A former executive for Burberry, she now comments on style around the world at An American Girl in Transit. Leora is most interested in the different definitions of beauty around the world. Follow her travels through her blog, twitter or Facebook page.

Got a question for Leora? Leave it in the comments section below. If you've got any advice to share, please leave it on our twitter or Facebook feed for other Gecko's travellers.

Want to see India and find out about ashrams for yourself? Take a look through all our trips to India for inspiration. 

De Visu / Shutterstock.com

• Tweet