Ancient Wisdom - Contemporary Practices
Online Community
Weekly Online Classes
from the Mount Madonna Community
As we slowly emerge out of a very challenging time, many are seeking to find balance and positive, creative ways to engage. We are able to build connection through our practice and study of Yoga. The teachings and practices can offer an enormous anchor of support and strength.
By registering for the yoga asana (postures) classes, you agree to the waiver.
Philosophy
Yoga Sutra Class | Tuesdays 9:15-10:45am PDT
At Mount Madonna, we have been gathering to study the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali under the leadership of Baba Hari Dass since 1974. The class goes in depth each week and explores one sutra at a time so that everyone can integrate new learnings into their life. Even though Babaji left his body in 2018, the power of the transmission of his yogic knowledge is felt each time the class meets.
The class begins with Vedic mantras for healing, and in praise of the universal Self that permeates all. Then we take time to welcome new folks to this on-going study by setting context and introducing the bigger concepts that are woven throughout the sutras. After chanting in Sanskrit, we read commentaries that help to explain the sutra. This is followed by guided meditation to seat the sutra knowledge deep within. Lastly, we share insights, questions, and discussion to further bring the sutras to life and make them meaningful for everyone. Whether you are new to Yoga Sutra study, or have studied for a long time, the satsang of learners is a great support and lots of fun. Please join.
*No class Dec 26*
Yoga Asana
Wednesday Yoga | Wednesdays 7:00-8:00am PDT
This is an all levels, balanced class that starts with breathing practices and a brief meditation. The movement portion of the class includes a warm-up followed by standing poses that lead into poses that open and deepen into larger muscle groups and closing with a brief savasana relaxation. Some experience with yoga is beneficial but not necessary. Join us on Wednesday mornings for a great start to your day! By joining this class, you agree to the waiver. (See top of page)
Register on ZoomPhilosophy
Samkhya Karika | Wednesdays 4:00-5:15pm PDT
In this Mount Madonna class, we have the benefit of studying Baba Hari Dass’ unpublished commentaries to the Samkhya Karika. The Samkhya Karika reveals how individual human suffering can be brought to an end. Karika explains the Samkhya Philosophy, which is the foundation of both Yoga and Ayurveda. Babaji infused his teachings with Samkhya wisdom and this class is a rare opportunity to receive the direct transmission of his yogic knowledge through his commentary, even though Babaji left his body in 2018.
The class goes in depth each week and explores one karika at a time, allowing for personal integration and application to daily life. The class begins with chanting Vedic mantras in praise of the universal Self that permeates all. Then we take time to welcome new folks to this on-going study by setting context and introducing the bigger concepts that are woven throughout the Karika. After chanting in Sanskrit, we read Babaji’s commentary and contemporary notes. This is followed by guided meditation to seat the Samkhya knowledge deep within. Lastly, we share insights, questions, and discussion to further bring the Karika to life and make it meaningful for everyone. Whether you are new to Samkhya study, or have studied for a long time, the satsang of learners is a great support and lots of fun. Please join.
*No class Dec. 27*
Philosophy
Bhagavad Gita Class | Thursdays 9:15-10:30am PDT
The Bhagavad Gita (Song of the Divine) is a jewel of wisdom teachings studied by spiritual seekers around the globe. At Mount Madonna, we have been gathering to study the Gita the leadership of Baba Hari Dass since 1974. The class goes in depth each week and explores three slokas (verses), allowing for personal integration and application to daily life. Even though Babaji left his body in 2018, the power of the transmission of his yogic knowledge is felt each time the class meets.
The class begins with the classical invocation to meditate on the truths revealed within. Then we take time to welcome new folks to this on-going study by setting context and introducing the bigger concepts that are woven throughout the Gita. After chanting in Sanskrit, we read Babaji’s commentaries, which help explain the slokas. This is followed by guided meditation to seat the Gita knowledge deep within. Lastly, we share insights, questions, and discussion to further bring the Gita to life and make them meaningful for everyone. Whether you are new to Bhagavad Gita study, or have studied for a long time, the satsang of learners is a great support and lots of fun. Please join.
*No class Dec. 28*
Meditation
Saturday Morning Meditation Class | Saturdays 7:30-9:00am PDT
Students of Baba Hari Dass have been gathering on Saturday mornings since the early 1970's to experience the joy of the teachings that Babaji shared with us. With Covid, we moved our practice online and saw a blossoming of participants who live across the country. Past students of Babaji's yearned to return to a shared practice but for many and varied reasons, gathering at Mount Madonna was not possible. New students who never met Babaji were excited to come together in satsang for practice.
While we are starting to meet in person once again, we:will keep this online class. Each week we gather together to reaffirm our aim and intention that supports maintaining a daily yoga practice. Various Mount Madonna teachers lead the class which includes chanting of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra (healing mantra), gentle, classic Ashtanga Yoga practices to bring awareness to the breath, and the Swasa Yam Kriya (eight actions) for quieting the mind in preparation of a half hour meditation. These practices are gentle and suitable for all adult ages and levels of experience.
Join us. We are so happy to share the practices with you.
Donations Gratefully Accepted
We remain committed to offering the precious teachings and practices for the attainment of peace. Please consider making a donation to support stewardship of this vibrant learning community, inspirational environment, and sacred land.
Other Online Offerings
Temple YouTube Channel
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple has set up a YouTube channel and will be posting regular videos and live streaming ārati, Hanuman Jayanti (April 7th), and other rituals.
Visit the Temple YouTube Channel
Mount Madonna Media Library
Access to our Media Library with a host of recorded materials including community discussions about the Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita and other previously recorded practice materials.
Offerings from Salt Spring Centre
Our sister center in BC, Canada, is also offering online scripture study, and a weekly satsang with kirtan, meditation, and readings.
Visit The Salt Spring Centre's Public Offerings