Isha Institute of Inner Sciences

The Isha Institute of Inner-​Sciences is one of a kind. Just sitting inside the Mahima meditation hall transported me to a different world of peace and serenity, even when I had no clue about what meditation was. Spent 4 days attending a yoga program there which changed my life! Don’t miss the food and the trek to the waterfall while your there. If you are a meat lover and have pre-​conceived ideas about veggie food, you are in for a surprise.

I try to visit this special getaway at least once a year. It’s a place where I can recharge and rejuvenate, somehow more than just being on «vacation.» The land itself is gorgeous — I went this January and the waterfalls were at their peak. There are beautiful hiking trails with soft leaf-​carpeted floor; I love taking silent walks where your feet don’t even make a sound.
More than just the natural beauty, though, there is a quality to the atmosphere that quietly affects me as the days pass. My face becomes brighter, my breath slows. The schedule includes daily meditation, and inside the big, dome-​like meditation hall there is a warmth and nurturing quality to the energy that makes it feel easy and natural to sit and close my eyes.
I have made friends there over the years too, with the wonderful people who live there and volunteer to make this space a spiritual hub for others. I always leave feeling like I’ve learned something new, how to make sunflower seed tea from scratch, or perhaps something internal, like how to let go of an old grudge.
Truly one of my favorite places to simultaneously relax and energize myself!

I have been to III a few times now as a participant and volunteer for BSP, and I am looking forward to returning. Being at III has given me the opportunity to step away from the business of everyday life, quiet my mind and connect with a greater dimension and profoundness of life. I have yet to explore the vastness of this beautiful space and deeply desire to return for a journey on the sacred walk and more. For the little that I have seen, by proximity and being in its presence, this place has a certain energy that made me feel connected to life and more alive and I can’t wait to have a greater taste of life. The programs always have me leaving more energized and vibrant and I would recommend anyone come just to get a feel of the space or by taking one of the programs.