Sivananda Yoga in the Bahamas

Andrea Bobby

Andrea is a teacher and lifelong practitioner of Classical Yoga. Born in Thanjavur, India, she now resides in Ontario, Canada with her husband-to-be and their two German Shepherds. As the founder of BODY MIND LIGHT, she strives to propagate the authentic, original wisdom of Yoga to the world through her ONLINE SHOP and her CLASSES & MEDITATIONS. Read more...

12 Responses

  1. Paula says:

    Wow. I don’t even know where to start! The ashram sounds very peaceful and beautiful. I could see why folks might think of this as a vacation spot. I do have a couple of questions… why is coffee not allowed? Also, since I don’t really get involved in doing yoga, I often wondered why they tend to start so early in the morning, just after getting up from sleep, does silent meditation that early not put them back to sleep? It’s all very interesting and I wanted to say thank you for taking them time to help others understand what the yoga is about and seeing places and how beautiful they are through your eyes. It’s amazing. =)

    • Andrea Bobby says:

      Well, ashram life is meant to detoxify, which is why stimulants such as caffeine are not advised. Moreover, coffee may cause the body and/or the mind to become jittery or too active, thus hindering the effects of complete relaxation that yoga offers.
      Also, we wake up very early because that is when the spiritual energy of the environment is at its most potent. And the meditation actually rejuvenates and refreshes, as opposed to putting you back to sleep!
      Thanks for your appreciation Paula!

  2. Brandon says:

    Amazing article. I’m glad you pointed out that Ashram is not a fitness club or a hotel, but rather a secluded area for people that want to enjoy peace and relaxation. It reminds me of a camping trip actually, although it’s probably much different. Thanks for your insight into all of this, I have really learned a lot. Cheers.

  3. Melissa says:

    What an excellent article. You provide so much detail. I felt like I was on the plane with you looking at the dancing palm trees. This Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat sounds like a very peaceful place and a perfect place to get in touch with your inner self. You start a lot earlier than I am used to but I am sure it would have its benefits. Thank you for providing such a delightful read, I can feel your passion by what you have written and I have learned something new.

  4. Devon says:

    You’re a beautiful writer–I was transported to the Nassau ashram just through reading this post. I too am passionate world traveller, and though I haven’t had much of a meditation practice for several years, this piece inspires me to want to head back in that direction.

    Your post reminded me of my first (and only) experience at an ashram. I was 19 years old and my mother signed me up for a 3 day silent retreat in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. I was not ready for the intensity of the experience and actually made myself sick before escaping the ashram in the middle of the night.

    That was almost fifteen years ago. I think I’m due for another go at it. Thank you for your beautifully written and inspiring post. You’ve got my wheels turning…

  5. Matt's Mom says:

    Wow, what a great experience! And to do this in such a wonderful environment. So anyone can go here, even if you are a complete beginner? Is there anything that I would need to take with me, or do they supply mats and everything? Just seems so peaceful and tranquil. I could see getting totally relaxed and rejuvenated at the same time. Just wonderful!

    • Andrea Bobby says:

      That’s right, ANYONE can go! And yes, it is a pleasant mix of relaxation and rejuvenation.
      You should bring your own yoga mat, a water flask, a beach towel and your swimsuit! Enjoy!

  6. Phil says:

    First of all, I love your writing – so articulate and descriptive.

    Secondly, I really liked how you paralleled the beauty of the location and what was happening with spiritual transformation. I don’t know much about yoga, but I can tell the difference between someone who just got a certification for helping people get into poses versus someone who understands how this practice is a means of personal growth and transformation. This makes me want to pack up and go.

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