Rules and Guidelines

Our Centre lies within the peaceful abode of SGS Ashrama, at the foothills of Chamundi. It is conducive for spiritual growth and self-development. Many people from all over the world come here to experience the ancient traditions and disciplines of Yoga, Vedas, philosophy and other fields of knowledge such as Music (Nada), just to name a few. It is of utmost importance that we maintain a proper environment that allows for spiritual and personal growth. We kindly request all staff and guests to help in this regard. As such, we request your kind cooperation in observing the following rules and guidelines given for all visiting and staying within the ashrama.

Dress Code:

Men and women must cover their bodies properly with the appropriate clothing. This includes shoulders, mid-torso and legs. Tight fitting, transparent and revealing clothing are not permitted. This includes: Shorts above the knee, leggings not covered up to above knees, low cut tops and sleeveless tops, tank tops etc.

Everyone should maintain the dress code and be respectful of the local culture and traditions. This enhances the spiritual atmosphere. Observance of the dress code should be maintained at all times during classes or within the Ashrama premises.

Prohibited Items:

The following are not allowed while practice or inside the premises.

  • Any meats including fish, eggs etc.
  • Food items containing garlic and onions.
  • Smoking, Drinking, alcohol, Illegal Drugs etc.
  • The use of mobile phones to take photos, videos, audio recordings during classes and functions. Permission from the relevant authorities should be taken before attempting such.
  • Animals & Pets are not allowed on the ashrama premises or in the centre during classes.

Attendance:

Attendance at all Ashram activities is mandatory once you are a guest-resident. It is highly recommended for those staying outside to also participate and attend these activities. It is self-discipline and part of Yoga that students and guests to be on time to all classes and programs.

 Silence

Class Attendees are requested to observe silence during meals, before & during morning Puja (Prayers and Rituals) and after evening satsang.  Lights out after 10:30pm.

Please maintain Silence while in the Universal Prayer Hall, Meditation Hall and in the Yoga Class rooms.

Payments & Donations

All Fees and Donations are to be paid to the relevant authorities in the Yoga Office, or Accounts Department of Main Ashrama Office or Donation Boxes available at different locations. At no time should visitors or guests make donations or give monies to individuals or encourage such to be accepted.

Practice of Yoga

  1. Salutation to Guru. A Datta Kriya Yogi should stand up when the Preceptor arrives. The proper greeting for the Guru is to bend forward touching the ground with both palms. Then stand up and say, “Hariḥ Om Om Tat Sat” while touching the forehead with the right palm and closing the eyes. This respectful way of greeting the Guru is also called Guru vandana vidhana.
  2. The chest should always remain covered with a white cloth (about 2 yards in length) and should be used exclusively by the same student for the practice of Datta Kriya Yoga.
  3. A mat made of natural fiber, such as a cotton or wool cloth or “kusa” grass, is to be used for Datta Kriya Yoga practice. It should not be exchanged with other practitioners.
  4. The practicant sits on his mat or carpet with spine erect in any of the following seated postures: Sukhasana, Siddhasana, Padmasana or Vajrasana. Follow the instructor.
  5. Wait for at least 3 hours after taking heavy meals before practicing Kriya Yoga (Asanas, Pranayama etc.)
  6. Kriyas should be practiced in early mornings and evenings in a quiet surrounding with plenty of natural air.
  7. During Datta Kriya Yoga practice, one should avoid certain foods and take certain foods as given in the balanced diet refer topic on Yoga and Diet.
  8. DO NOT practice Yoga during illness or menses (for women) unless advised by Adept Yoga teacher or Doctor in certain cases.
  9. Datta Kriya Yoga can be practiced by all-regardless of one’s religion, color or race. Only sincerity and purpose are essential.
  10. Teachings of Asanas, Pranayama etc. learnt during class sessions should not be causally taught to others.
  11. Students and Practitioners should make aware the Yoga Instructor or Yoga Teacher of any prior or present health conditions.
  12. The Datta Kriya Yoga International Centre, Mysuru, India disapproves of and condemns any form of harassment directed at resident guests, staff or visitors. Any matter of such nature should be reported to the Convener of the Yoga Centre, Ashrama manager or any senior Swami and will be treated confidentially.