Bapuji - Kripalu dharma's topics - tribe.net

New York Kripalu now has a Facebook page

Vibhusha — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 05:47:26 GMT

I see that there has not been much activity here lately - I hope everyone is well and you feel supported in your sadhana.
Wanted to say that the NY Center for Kripalu Yoga & Health now has a page on Facebook, so you're invited to become a fan!
Visit us at http://www.facebook.com/pages/New-York-NY/New-York-Center-for-Kripalu-Yoga-Health/56136628748
Jai Bhagwan!

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Chanting Guru Mantra

Vibhusha — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 04:21:10 GMT

I've really felt the need lately to sit with a few people in community and chant guru mantra together. I have some friends here in NYC I can call to try and organize this, but I'm wondering if anyone else has suggestions for getting Kripalu community support in real life. The internet doesn't do it for me. Thanks much and jai Bhagwan.

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Experience a Transforming India YOGA Odyssey (February 21 to March 6, 2008)

Dennis — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:44:50 GMT

Experience a Transforming India YOGA Odyssey
(February 21 to March 6, 2008)

Just imagine your airplane touching down at the India airport of your choice – Mumbai or Ahmadabad – on Thursday, February 21, 2008. Awaiting you at the airport is your guide, who will escort you by rail or taxi to your hotel accommodations in Surat City, Gujarat State. You will have arrived just in time to take in the World Yoga Championships, either as a participant or as a spectator. If anyone wishes to participate in the Championships the necessary registration forms can be downloaded at www.lifemission.org. The Championships run from February 22 though February 24. (The Championships were primarily founded as a means for encouraging youth worldwide to engage themselves in the ageless science of yoga for the betterment of body, mind and spiritual development in similar fashion that society worldwide encourages youth to participate in common sporting events.)

Following the Championships, you will be escorted to Malav Ashram for a five night stay, which includes three days of “hands on” yogic training under the expert guidance of Acharya Yogendradev, who has taught in North America, Taiwan, and India

And now – the Tours – you will tour the historic spiritual pilgrimage site of Kayavarohan and visit the Brahmeshwar Temple of Lord Lakulish (the 28th incarnation of Lord Shiva). You will spend 5 nights at a beautiful oceanside resort near the city of Div, overlooking the Indian Ocean with its miles of sandy beaches, and visit surrounding points of interest including the renowned Somnath Temple; a lion wildlife reserve, an ayurvedic clinic of a renowned ayurvedic physician where you will be able to observe the natural preparation of ayurvedic medicines and receive a free medical check-up. You will also have the opportunity to visit the temple complex at Rajrajeshwardham, where Lord Lakulish materialized in his divine body on January 29, 2007. Then – another great grace awaits you – you will have the rare opportunity of having darshan with the highly advanced yogi, Swami Rajarshi Muni.*

Now your yoga trip is reaching its end – on March 6, you will be escorted by your guide to your departure airport for your trip home – to reflect on and absorb your many yoga experiences of the past 2 weeks; the multitudes of wondrous Indian sites you've seen; the unmatched hospitality of its people and the many lasting new friendships you've made.

The cost per participant is $ 695.00 USD. This price does not include your transportation costs to and from India, which is entirely your responsibility, as are any required passports, visas etc. This price does include designated tour accommodations and meals in India, and all ground transportation to the Championships and touring sites in India, as well as ground transportation to and from airports at Mumbai or Ahmedabad. Any profits after all costs have been met will be directed to projects for the poor, including schools and hospitals. For further information, go to www.lifemission.org, or email: Acharya Yogendradev, ggvaghela@yahoo.com; or Dennis Konchak, lifema@telus.net; or Hans Splinter, Hsplinter@cogeco.ca.

* Swami Rajarshi Muni is the author of a vast library of nearly 100 titles in four different languages, including ten books in English. Some of the English titles are: Classical Hatha Yoga, Divine Body Through Yoga; Tenets for the Spiritual Life; Infinite Grace (The Story of My Spiritual Lineage), Awakening the Life Force, and Light from Guru to Disciple. For more information, check the Life Mission website www.lifemission.org and www.amazon.com under Rajarshi Muni

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Lakulish Yogasan Championships 2008: Feb. 22; 23; & 24th, - City of Surat, Gujarat State, India

Dennis — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 11:06:08 GMT

For details and application forms, please refer to: http://www.lifemission.org/ and under "New" go to item #4 and click on "World Open Yogasan Championships".

Please note, to optimize your India trip and your experience of Lakulish Yoga you could attend or participate in the Yogasan Championships and also take in the 3 week Certificate Yoga Training Course being offered at Swami Rajarshi Muni's Malav Ashram from January 30 -February 20th. For details on the training go to http://www.lifemission.org/ and under "New" click on item # 5 " "Overseas Students Annual Yoga Certificate Training Program"

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If You Could Only Have One Book On Yoga

Dennis — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 06:24:40 GMT

If one could only have one book on yoga, the new book, Classical Hatha Yoga by Swami Rajarshi Muni would likely be it. This is the only book on yoga the practitioner or teacher would ever need. It is probably the most comprehensive book ever written on the subject of yoga and it is written by a most highly advanced Yogi and based upon his own intensely deep personal practice . Check it out on Amazon's Inside the Book Program, where you can actually see its contents as well as its summary. It can also be purchased at the Kripalu Book Store.

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Certificate Yoga Training - Malav , India - Ashram Of Swami Rajarshi Muni

Dennis — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 04:45:56 GMT

An International tuition free Certificate 3 week Yoga Training Program is being offered at Malav Ashram, Gujarat State, India
from January 31 - February 20, 2008. The only Charge is Board & Room for the 3 week event of $1200. See www.lifemission.org
or e-mail Dennis (Sandip Kumar) for further details: denlor2@telus.net

Malav Ashram is where Bapuji did his sadhana before moving to Kayvarohan on Dadaji's instructions.

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 6 replies

Introduction of new member -Dennis (Sandip Kumar)

Dennis — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 06:13:42 GMT

My first contact with Bapuji was seeing his picture at Sumneytown Ashram. I was immediately drawn to it and when Amrit announced news of a trip to India in 1974, I was drawn to see Bapuji. He was everything and more that I ever could have asked for. It was at Kayavarohan that I also became acquainted with Dadaji, and there also I met Rajarshi Muni, Bapuji's prime disciple. When Bapuji came to North America I was graced with his darshan many, many times and the highlight of my life was when he gave me my name, Sandip Kumar. When Bapuji died I was really lost and in a vacuum. Finally, something drew me to make contact with Rajarshi Muni's organization, Life Mission, last fall and to my surprise I was invited to Malav Ashram in January. I was due for hip surgery and all my friends and relatives said, "don't be ridiculous you can't go in your condition" , but I was drawn to go and thank the Lord I did go. For I had the great privilege of having Rajarshi's darshan on many occasions; receivied his teachings; observed an International yoga training program in progress conducted by Acharya Yogendradev; and participated in the opening of the new Three Temple Complex at Rajrajeshwardham, where Dadaji appeared to Muniji on January 29, 2007 and presented him with two celestial gifts, pictures of which can be seen at www.lifemission.org. I stayed 6 weeks in all; took in Shiviatri at Kayavarohan, and I definitely plan. to get back again. I have been blessed to assist in having Rajarshi Muni's priceless books being made available to the North American market. And I was so happy to hear about this site and to be invited to participate by Vibhusha. Many thanks Vibhusha. It's always wonderful to be amongst spiritual brothers and sisters and to share the joys and experiences of our great, great lineage.

Love to all

Jai Bhagwan

Sandip Kumar

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Yogeshwar's passing?

Vibhusha — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 01:41:57 GMT

I had been wrapped up in planning my wedding for the past several months and only just learned of Yogeshwar's passing earlier this year.
Can someone here recount the details - esp. of any memorial services or tributes to his life and work?
Thanks and Jai Bhagwan!

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Marriage vows/blessing in the Kripalu tradition ??

Vibhusha — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 14:57:58 GMT

Greeting friends-
I have the good fortune to be getting married to the love of my llife next month, and the extra good fortune
of having Hari Sharana joining us to give an invocation and blessing.
I'm wondering if any of you know of anything special from the Kripalu tradition that might be appropriate to
include in the wedding ceremony. Any discourses from Bapuji on the subject of marriage?
In profound gratitude,
Vibhusha

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply

An Introduction and a Request

Bruce — Thu, 15 Sep 2005 19:19:49 GMT

Hello,

Bruce Markow, here, known by many via Kripalu as Raju. I lived at Kripalu/Shadowbrook for about 3 1/2 years during the “good old days” of the mid eighties. Those were some of the best, hardest and easiest times of my life. Though I think there was a big shadow side to the community, I still believe it was a true center for love, spirit and dedication to excellence.

While at Kripalu I taught for Programs Department and did up to 36 sessions a week (ouch!) of various forms of holistic bodywork in Health Services amidst some of the best practitioners I have ever known. I had started my practice professionally in Cambridge, MA in 1981 and continue it still in private practice in New York City, and it's still a source of many blessings.

While at Shadowbrook I somehow managed to nourish my interest as a singer-songwriter-multi-instrumentalist by chanting, drumming, playing in the house bluegrass-etc. band, writing an album’s worth of songs for the ashram (that never got produced), teaching the prototype of the workshop “The Healing Power of Sound” (which I still do) and giving concerts in the Main Chapel. The latter two were among the highlights of my life.

I stopped playing actively for many years and it wasn’t until about four years ago that I began concertizing “seriously” again. I love it! A self-gift. Fun! Get down! And a subtle, non-preachy, musical ministry for love and healing at the same time.

This is where a request comes in, in a moment. Since my Kripalu Center residency, one of my featured songs has been a rousing, sprawling, audience participatory, jazz samba called “Mango”. I’m about to give a big concert (Please come: Sat, Oct 8 at 8 pm, Peoples’ Voice Cafe. 45 E. 33rd Street, NYC, eventually up on www.brucemarkow.com) that I’m framing as a mini-Mango Festival, with my usual eclectic repertoire, but also songs, stories and multi-sensory experiences in homage to “the fruit of the gods.” (Many in India evidently do see mangoes as religious objects.)

THE REQUEST
There is a story that Bapuji tells in a book of anecdotes, now out of print I believe, about an old man who labors to plant a courtyard full of mango saplings for future generations’ use. Bapuji tells the story beautifully, a lot better than I do so far.

Do you have that book and could you send me a word-processing or scan or snail mailed photocopy of the mango story? Also, if you know other stories about mangoes, that could be helpful, too. Please email me off-line for this at bruce@brucemarkow.com. Thank you.

Jai Bhagwan,
Bruce (Raju)

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply

Introduction + seeking contact information for Sanat Sivdas

Erin — Sat, 14 Jul 2007 04:24:25 GMT

Hello All,

How exciting to find this tribe of love. I have been deeply touched by my connection with Bapuji, and have decided to jouney this coming year to India to spend some time exploring this further.

I am looking for contact information for Sanat Sivdas. He was one of the people who was responsible for jaibhagwan.com which is no longer active.

Does anyone have any information about where I can contact him?

thank you.

with blessings and love,
Erin

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 2 replies

Albany Kripalu Yoga Center has Closed

Vibhusha — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 15:27:25 GMT

A sad situation. Here's the article from the Albany Times-Union.
Jai Bhagwan,
Vibhusha

Yoga center closes its doors after 33 years
Kripalu in Albany cites financial reasons behind decision to shut down
By ALAN WECHSLER, Business writer
First published: Thursday, August 2, 2007

COLONIE -- Judi England 's last words to her colleagues as she left the Albany Kripalu Yoga Center on Wednesday were: "Let's close with grace."

It figures that the 33-year-old school, which has taught flexibility and peace of mind to hundreds of yoga practitioners in the region, would seek the calm at the center of the most difficult of decisions: to end a generation-old business.

Kripalu had lost nearly a third of its membership in the last three to four years. Competition has grown as more for-profit yoga centers opened, and more YMCAs and other health clubs offered yoga classes, said England , a senior teacher at Kripalu.

Officials had hoped to sell the nonprofit center to a new owner, a local businessman. But when that deal fell through last week, the organization's end was assured.

"We just ran out of money," said Dave Ferrill, president of the Kripalu board of directors. "We couldn't make it financially."

On Wednesday, Ferrill and England were helping to clean out the offices at the center. Mats and blankets were still piled together, as if waiting to be used. In a room where members could come in and meditate all day long, a teacher helped take down the Hindu-style shrine that was the centerpiece.

Kripalu, located just off Wolf Road in Metro Park , held yoga classes for the last time Sunday. Many members knew the end was here. More than 60 people came -- about three times more than normal -- so many that some students had to do their poses in the hallway.

Kripalu also told the center's 500 members it wouldn't be able to refund any class fees they had paid.

Instead, it would consider them contributions to be used to pay down liabilities. Members would at least be able to take a tax deduction.

"This may help remove a small portion of the financial sting of this event," a letter from the board said.

Kripalu, named for the swami who encouraged this school of yoga, began locally in 1974, with practitioners meeting in each other's basements. After some growth, it moved to Central Avenue in Albany and then to Niskayuna . The center has been at its current location for a decade.

During its prime, the center grew with the popularity of the mystical practice that has its origins in India . Yoga combines breathing techniques, meditation and stretches of ever-increasing difficulty to help practitioners overcome stress and negativity in their lives.

It's a skill that has come in handy in Kripalu's last weeks.

"It was my home away from home," said Colleen Hassett, a nurse from Slingerlands who has also taught yoga at the center for six years. "It was very sad to hear that it was closing. A piece of myself feels that it's missing."

The center is associated with the much larger Kripalu center in Lenox , Mass. Over the past few years, the local center had branches in Schenectady , Delmar and Albany , and sponsored classes elsewhere as well.

Kripalu leaders say they don't know what will happen next. But they hope to see the center return, in true Hindu fashion, in a different incarnation.

"We need to have a good ending with this," England said. "To exit the building, not exit the practice."

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Muktidham Fundraiser June 3, 2007

mahadevdas — Tue, 08 May 2007 21:52:24 GMT

Kripalvananda Yoga Institute is the organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Muktidham, Bapuji's abode while in residence at Summneytown PA. Though originally owned by Amrit Desai, Muktidham passed through a succession of private owners (Bapuji followers). In January, 2005, the owner listed Muktidham for sale on the open market, at a time when the adjoining property was being sold to developers. Kripalvananda Yoga Institute was hastily organized and initially funded by a small group of Bapuji followers who were aghast at the idea of this precious resource falling into mundane hands.
Though funding to complete a purchase was obtained, there is still a large mortgage which needs to be retired. The effort to preserve and maintain the only abode of Bapuji in the Western Hemisphere continues.
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Bapuji's arrival in North America, KYI is hosting a fundraising luncheon on June 3, 2007, in King of Prussia Pa. Details can be found on our website, www.kripalvanandayogainstitute.org. All persons interested in Bapuji, (even those unable to contribute) are encouraged to visit the website, or better yet to visit Muktidham. Satsang at Muktidham takes place the first Sunday of each month, starting at 3:00 pm (ET).

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Pranpratishtha at Kripalu Muni Mandel in Malav, India 26-28 January??

Vibhusha — Tue, 26 Dec 2006 21:13:18 GMT

I hear that the ceremony to install the lingam into the new Bapuji temple will take place in Malav at the end of January. Anyone have further details or planning to attend?

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Ex-Kripalu Volunteer Reunion?

akingsto — Sat, 28 Oct 2006 20:53:01 GMT

Hey everybody,

This message is for anyone who spent time at Kripalu as a volunteer, whether it was through Seva, SLP, or KYLP or anyone who knows former volunteers and could pass the info along to them.

I was a volunteer at Kripalu from December 2002-May 2004 - seva, SLP, KYLP, and staff.

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about my time at Kripalu as well as the recent changes Kripalu has been making to the volunteer program (among other things). I've also been thinking about how much the connections I made at Kripalu meant to me, and about some of the insecurities/inauthenticities/issues that kept me from fully connecting with everybody or from keeping in touch with all the people who really made a difference in my life.

I would love to put together a reunion event to bring together anyone who spent time at Kripalu as a volunteer. I think it would be an incredible way to reconnect and to integrate all of the different experiences we've had in the years since Kripalu opened. I know it would also help me (and hopefully others) get some completion/resolution in the midst of all the changes to the volunteer programs, which would allow me to more fully integrate the lessons I learned at Kripalu into my life. And it would help people to rekindle old connections and establish ourselves as a community - even though we're all scattered around the globe, we share a powerful history and we can make an incredible difference in the world.

I'm sending this out as a "feeler" to see what you guys think. Does the idea inspire you? What do you see as possible if a reunion event were to occur? Do you have ideas of things that could be included to make the event more powerful? Where do you think it could be held - near/at Kripalu or in a more central location?

I am thinking really big... I'm not putting any limitations on what's possible for this event. So put yourself out there and think big with me! I would love to hear any ideas that you have. You can leave a comment here or e-mail me (akingsto@yahoo.com) or call me (317-448-7761). I really want to hear from you. I'm taking this project on, but it won't really be powerful without other people's participation. One of the biggest lessons I learned during my time at Kripalu was how powerful community can be... I want this project to come from that same space... I want it to be a community project... and I want it to work for everybody involved, not just for me.

I'm really excited about the possibility. Please share this with anyone else that you know who volunteered at Kripalu - make sure to pass along my contact info so they can get in touch with me and let me know what they think. Let's get this going and see where we end up!

Lots of love,

Amy Kingston (January 2003 SLP Family)

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California Kripalu

zyoah — Wed, 18 Jan 2006 21:49:03 GMT

Just checking to see if this is working and I'm connected to the Bapuji-Kripalu dharma tribe. While I have a long history with Kripalu, I feel like there is another part of his family that I hardly new existed. Like cousins I had never met. I've been a part of the Yogeshwar lineage from California. I never did Kripalu Yoga as taught by Amrit but did surrender or sahaja yoga.

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 3 replies

Mataji's Mahasamadhi

falguni — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 15:57:54 GMT

> From: "Modini" <lila@amrityoga.org>

> Subject: Mataji's Samadhi
> Date: Tue, 1 Aug 2006 19:56:05 -0400
>
>
> On July 31 2006, just two days after her 69th
> birthday, our dear Mataji left her body to join our
> Lineage of Masters to continue her soul's journey.
> It is with a mixture of sadness and celebration that
> we inform you of her peaceful Samadhi on Monday
> evening at 7:07 pm.
>
> As she took her final breath on this plane, Mataji
> was in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her
> family--Gurudev, Malay and Kamini, and her sister,
> Sharmista. In accordance with custom, her ashes will
> be strewn into the Ganges River on the 13th day
> after her passing.
>
> Please join our entire Amrit Yoga family as we pause
> to reflect on the invaluable contribution Mataji
> made to serving Bapuji, supporting Gurudev's work,
> and to each of us through her gentle and unswerving
> path of love, service and surrender.
>
> Please visit Mataji's Living Legacy
> (http://www.amrityoga.org/mataji-fund.htm) to learn
> about her final wishes so that the work of Vasudhaiv
> Kutumbikam may continue through the
> generations....You may also email a message of
> condolence to the Desai Family from this site.
>
> Let us unite in forbearance and remembrance.
>
> Hari OM. Shanti Shanti Shanti

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Mataji final hours - Mrutyunjaya - legacy - remembrances

Vibhusha — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 19:56:00 GMT

Unfortunately, Mataji is in her final hours. This is from her daughter Kamini ...

She is ready to leave her body very soon. Please keep her in your prayers. She is asking everyone to do the following healing mantra-Sri Mrutyunjaya Mantra. She wanted to do 125,000 before she died and will not make it, but I told her I would ask everyone to continue it for her. The general translation is asking to be released from the bondage of the mind like a ripe fruit dropping from a tree.

The community here is chanting it as a 24 hour saptah. The words are:

> Om trayambakam yajamahe
> Sugandhim pushti vardhanam
> Urvarukamiva bandhanat
> Mrtyor mukshiya mamrtat

For people who do not know it, they can order a CD off the internet. Karunamayi has a beautiful one that Mataji is listening to.

Love, Kamini

---------------------------------
June 27, 2006
From: The Desai Family

Fond greetings from the Desai family to all of you who have been connected with us over the years.

We have received many inquiries recently regarding the health of our beloved Mataji. It is our hope that this communication will encourage all those who have known her devotion, service and loving presence over the years, to hold her in their thoughts and prayers during this time.

Although she has enjoyed robust good health for many years, Mataji has also been suffering for some time with hepatitis, which arose from a tainted blood transfusion. She contracted the virus during surgeries she underwent in the 1980s. In recent months, the condition has worsened and we are sad to report that she is in the end stages of liver failure. She is very comfortable at home here in Florida and is surrounded by her loving family- Gurudev, her children, brothers and sisters, and many loving devotees who are ensuring her continued comfort and care.

At her request and in her honor, it is our privilege to announce the establishment of the Mataji Living Legacy. This charitable fund will support two of Mataji_s personal projects to help provide:
1. viable livelihood and medical care for widows in her hometown of Halol and
2. educational material for schoolchildren at the Shri Kripalu Mandir in Malav.
Since the fund's inception in January, we have already collected 600 books and CDs for the school.

Many of you have taken the time to send flowers and cards to express your gratitude for the enormous inspiration Mataji has been in your life. Thank you. It touches her deeply to know the difference her presence has made in our lives.

We welcome your cards, letters or donations to the Mataji Living Legacy.
Please send any correspondence to:
Mataji Living Legacy
P.O. Box 5340
Salt Springs, Fl 32134

Flowers and packages should be sent to:
23855 NE County Road 314
Salt Springs, Florida 32134

In Bapuji’s love and light,
Kamini and Malay Desai

--------------
REMEMBRANCES FROM HANSA

Dear All,
Mataji is an angel, a rare and unique being. She is Amrit Desai's wife. And she was more . . . she was a Spiritual Master in her own walk of life. I was lucky to have the opportunity to spend time with her in the 80's and 90's.

Here are a few remembrances:
In the older days, we wore sari's for special occasions. Mataji would come and join all of us and teach us how to tie and tuck the many yards of fabric. I remember preparing for initiation and her hands quickly guiding the fabric to the proper places. Her love beamed as she watched our group prepare to dedicate themselves to the path of Kripalu (compassion).

She served Bapuji for many years, preparing his meals and cleaning Muktidhama, the house built in Sumneytown for Bapuji. Her service was her sadhana. We would talk about about how children and dedication to your Guru was a greater sadhana than any asana. Family was yoga off the mat. . . . and for Mataji, family always came first. Well, pretty close to first -- Bapuji was always first.

I met with her one time when life was really bleak. I asked her how she made it through such dark times. She pointed to her malas, and said she just did japa. Then she walked over and touched Bapuji's shoes. Tears welled and she returned to her japa. I watched as once again inner peace returned.

One time, I was in turmoil. I was living in Colorado and my heart wanted to move back to Kripalu. Yet, Spirit was guiding me to stay in Colorado. Mataji advised me to listen to Bapuji. She assured me -he would always be there. He was and is still my guide.

Mataji is steadfast. Her devotion radiates. The earth will feel an emptiness with her passing. Yet, I know her love will expand into the hearts of those she has touched. She is Prem, love. She is Kripalu, compassion. She is . . .
Jai Bhagwan
Hansa, E-RYT, LMT

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply

Introductions

Vibhusha — Fri, 10 Dec 2004 15:33:30 GMT

This is an invitation for all of us to say a little about ourselves and what we're interested in here.

I'm Vibhusha, and I've been the director of the NY Kripalu Center for the past ten years. I'm looking to connect with the community of folks who are endeavoring to live Bapuji's teachings and be part of the conversation about where the Kripalu lineage is going. I live and love in New York City, where I have Found My People!

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 2 replies

Shivaratri

Vibhusha — Tue, 28 Feb 2006 17:48:47 GMT

Had a wonderful time chanting in Muktidham with Hari Sharana, Radha-Laurie, Shivanand, Philip, Andy, Sadhana-Liz, and a handful of others! For me it generated a lot of internal heat - I somehow came home with a 101-degree fever.

Meanwhile, Indukanta sent me a wonderful photo of the Lakulish Temple in Kayavarohan lit up for Shivaratri - I'll try to re-post it here.
Jai Bhagwan! Jai Shiva!

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Lakulish Film Project

Michael — Tue, 07 Feb 2006 20:25:58 GMT

Dear Spiritual Community,

Om Namah Shivaya

Taking a shower one morning before heading out the door to the local coffee shop for my AM ritual I began to hum some the old mantras that I absorbed during my Kripalu Ashram days (83-94). For the last ten years these ancient sounds receded from my shores of my mind.

I can’t explain why or how the tides of these sacred tunes returned to me in the steamy confines of my morning shower. Memories of my pilgrimage with Smita to Kayavaronhan in 1995 and the story of how Lord Lakulish (Dadaji) shaped the spiritual culture of India began to flash across my screen. I began to connect the dots. This ancient sage profoundly influenced my life and left humanity some very important knowledge for all spiritual seekers. This knowledge has been preserved and enshrined uncorrupted as the Bhagwan Bhahmeshvariji Jyotirlinga in Kayavarohan, India. Inspiration began to flow. A dharma project was born.

The Lakulish Film Project

On the new moon this Sunday January 29 at 3pm (local time) we are launching a film project documenting the life story of Lakulish. Devarshi and Don Stapleton (Brahmanand) and myself have been working on this project for a few months. Our common interest and inspiration helped to initiate this film project. We are now building a team to create the documentary.

If you are interested in this project please put out some good thoughts, prayers or Shiva Artis at this time. Our progress will be uploaded on http://lakulishfilm.blogspot.com/. You can sign up on this site to receive email up dates and give input. It is Time

Peace

Michael Johnson (Premdas)

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply

Bapuji's birthday, 13 January

Vibhusha — Wed, 11 Jan 2006 20:40:05 GMT

Greetings, Friends, and Happy New Year!
As Bapuji's birthday approaches, I'm wondering what plans people have to celebraate/observe it.

At the NY Kripalu Center, we'll be ending our yoga class with a brief puja to Bapuji and arti.

May Bapuji's blessings fill your life.
Jai to the World!
--Vibhusha

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 0 replies

New Kripalu Yoga book will be out in December

Vibhusha — Thu, 11 Aug 2005 14:58:34 GMT

I just learned from Shobhan that
"Kripalu Yoga: A Guide To Practice On and Off the Mat"
will be published by the end of the year. This is the first book about Kripalu Yoga in over a decade.

I'm very excited about this effort that will showcase the pinciples and benefits of Kripalu yoga. AN it looks like there are wonderful quotes describing the experiences of many Kripalu teachers across the country, along with inspiring poems by Danna Faulds as well.

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply

The Essence of Kripalu Yoga

Vibhusha — Fri, 04 Mar 2005 20:17:17 GMT

I was delighted to have attended the eagerly-anticipated Bapuji Conference in Lenox, MA, in December 2004 that celebrated the life and legacy of Swami Kripalu (affectionately called "Bapuji", or dear father.) The event was infused with bhakti (spiritual devotion) and a sense of community among all attendees, whether they had known Bapuji years ago or had only recently encountered him through his teachings. Our bodies, minds, & hearts were inspired through chanting, stories, practicing yoga postures, and hearing wonderful presentations about the history and the future of the Kripalu lineage by Atma Jo Ann Levitt, Kaviraj Stephen Cope, Shobhan Richard Faulds, Vidya Carolyn Dell’uomo, & Yoganand Michael Carroll.

One of the especially interesting talks was Shobhan’s description of the qualities and principles particular to Kripalu yoga, my notes from which I share here. Many thanks to Shobhan and to Joan Stenzler for their contribution to my recollection of these points.

· Kripalu Yoga is empowered spirituality for people leading active lives in the world. Renunciation is not required for spiritual growth. Living life is a transformative opportunity.

· Kripalu Yoga asana (posture) practice is a ritual of being deeply present in the body.

· Kripalu Yoga emphasizes the technique of Breathe, Relax, Feel, Watch, and Allow (sometimes abbreviated as BRFWA) and doing postures with consciousness and sensitivity.

· Conscious breathing is essential to Kripalu Yoga postures.

· Kripalu Yoga enlivens the subtle body by building and releasing prana (the life force and the vehicle for the transformative process) through a dance of willful and surrendered approaches to moving the body. This is why Kripalu Yoga is often described as meditation-in-motion.

· Kripalu Yoga encourages students to find their own practice through exploring postures, micro-movements, longer holding, and flowing into variations.

· Kripalu Yoga features the technique of riding the wave (of energy, sensation, emotions) in postures – opening and releasing chronic tensions by being present to our entire experience.

· Kripalu Yoga teaches witness consciousness – observing without judgment. We learn to love the body, not “whip it into shape.”

· We are all born Divine – all of us are already whole and complete in this moment. Kripalu Yoga practice is a way to uncover blocks that prevent us from realizing this.

· Practicing Kripalu Yoga postures is part of a healthy and supportive lifestyle, balancing work, play, rest, and a moderate diet.

· Kripalu Yoga acknowledges that we grow best within a community of people committed to love, service, and personal transformation.

· Kripalu Yoga is based on a deep respect for the yamas and niyamas (restraints and observances described in yogic scriptures, including non-violence, non-stealing, non-attachment, moderation, truthfulness, austerity, purity, contentment, self-study, and surrender to the Divine.)

· The practice of Kripalu Yoga strengthens our container and improves our ability to digest our experiences, both on and off the yoga mat. It nurtures the roots of health, opens the heart, clears and concentrates the mind, awakens a greater intelligence beyond the mind, and prepares us for a deep energetic practice. Its consistent practice promotes healing, growth, and transformation.

· Kripalu Yoga embraces life as a Divine mystery and asks us to be fully present to life’s unfolding moment by moment. What we try to split off and disavow will come back to us.

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 3 replies

NPR story about Neti Pots

Vibhusha — Wed, 12 Oct 2005 15:07:54 GMT

12 Oct-
sounded like a good story today on Morning Edition about neti pots (I was half awake.) Did anyone else hear it? Check out
www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4955292
to hear it.
For some reason the full URL is not printing, so the story aired on 12 Oct and was called "Nasal Irrigation Makes Comeback as Cold Remedy", by Patricia Neighmond. Shouldn't be too hard to find.

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 0 replies

book about bapuji

zebulon — Sat, 13 Aug 2005 01:53:11 GMT

infinite grace, the story about bapuji, his guru, and his disciple is available through the life(lakulish institute for enlightenment) missions sister organization in the us, the life institute. you can get a copy by writing them. this book is incredible, i have read it over and over. you can reach them at

Life Institute, P.O. Box 3838, Edgewood, NM 87015

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 5 replies

The World Is One Family Initiative see www.theworldisonefamily.com

Andrew — Tue, 07 Dec 2004 03:43:01 GMT

I am looking for assistance in spreading the word about this Initiative and helping to make it more successful. This is part of Swami Kripalu's living legacy.

Please see www.theworldisonefamily.com for information.

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 2 replies

membership

Vilasini — Thu, 03 Mar 2005 17:41:23 GMT

just checking to see if my joining works now all I have to do is stop struggling and float to whatever Jai Vilasini

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 0 replies

Lakulish Yoga Training in Malav, India

Vibhusha — Mon, 24 Jan 2005 17:43:34 GMT

I just got a note that the Lakulish Institite, which was formed by Rajarshi Muni, disciple of Bapuji, is having a three-week yoga training (in English) in India in Feb-March. No charge for the training, but it's U.S. $1,000 for room, board, course materials, trips, etc. I've encouraged them to post the info here; meanwhile you can get more info about Lakulish Institute at http://www.lifemission.org/readingfrm.html and choosing #11 LAKULISH INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIP. Inquiries about the yoga training can be sent to life_mission@hotmail.com

Note that in addition to being a yoga training, this is a real immersion in Indian culture. In my experience, you will learn a lot about flexibility.

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 0 replies

Ammachi, tsunami relief, and donation opportunities

Vibhusha — Thu, 30 Dec 2004 17:11:09 GMT

Many of us are familiar with Ammachi (Mata Amritanandamayi), the "hugging saint", from her visits to the U.S. each year. You may not be aware of her humanitarian efforts. Please take a look at the link below for info on what her organization has been doing to help victims of the tsunami throughout India. There are also some videos and slides of the flooding and the relief operations, in addition to information on making donations.
www.ammachi.org/humanitari...ctivities/get-involved/tsunami.html

My heart goes out to all the victims of this tragedy, and I am sure all of us are sending prayers their way. If you would like to do a little karma yoga and send donations in addition, here are a few organizations that are doing important relief work in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, India, and other affected locations.
If anyone is aware of any Kripalu-specific efforts, please let the group know.
Jai Bhagwan,
Vibhusha

Doctors Without Borders
PO Box 2247
New York, NY 10116-2247
888-392-0392
www.doctorswithoutborders.org

American Red Cross
International Response Fund
PO Box 37243
Washington, DC 20013
800-435-7669
www.redcross.org

Direct Relief International (99% directly to aid)
http://www.directrelief.org/index.html

Save the Children
http://www.savethechildren.org/

CARE USA
151 Ellis Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30303
800-422-7385
www.careusa.org

UNICEF
1-800-4UNICEF
www.unicefusa.org

Additional information on ways to assist is also available at: www.reliefweb.int

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 0 replies

Ketul closing Rasa Yoga studio in NYC after 12 years

Vibhusha — Wed, 22 Dec 2004 23:42:55 GMT

FYI, for anyone who has known Ketul or taken class at Rasa Yoga. I plan to be there on Thursday night - 246 West 80th St, 4th Fl., Manhattan.
--Vibhusha

-----Original Message-----
From: RASA YOGA
Sent: Friday, December 10, 2004 2:54 PM
Subject: Re: Rasa Yoga Studio Closing, and New Beginnings

Dear Friends,

For those of you who have not visited the studio in recent weeks, this news may come as a surprise. I am writing to inform you that the Rasa Yoga studio is closing, and that our last day of classes will be Thursday, December 23rd.

We have had an extraordinary twelve years here at Rasa Yoga. Thousands of students have attended classes and workshops here, and many lives, including mine, have been profoundly touched by the Rasa Yoga practice and the Rasa community. I have learned much by sharing this path of growth, healing, and change with all of you.

Rasa Yoga will continue to operate and maintain our farm, and yoga and ayurvedic retreat center at the Lucky Dog Lodge in New Hampshire. We will be consolidating our energies and resources there.

In addition, the Rasa Yoga teachers will continue to teach Rasa classes in other venues throughout New York City. We will help you to stay in touch with the teachers and their class locations, and we encourage you to continue your Rasa Yoga practice. As I have learned during my years of study, the yoga is within each one of you, and we need not be attached to a physical location in order to find inner peace.

It has been obvious to many of you that the studio has been struggling to survive over the last couple of years. In fact, the studio has been operating at a deficit, and we simply cannot afford to keep it going. Rising costs and the crowded “yoga market” are two main factors preventing us from remaining open. Some of you have expressed concern about Rasa’s difficult financial situation, and have generously offered year-end charitable donations. If you have the heart and the means, all donations will be gratefully received. Rasa Yoga is a not-for-profit corporation and all donations are fully tax deductible.

There will be two evenings of celebrations to commemorate what Rasa Yoga has meant and will continue to mean to all of us. On Thursday, December 16, please join us for a pot-luck vegetarian dinner starting at 8:00 p.m. immediately after the 6:30 yoga class. Then, on Thursday, December 23rd, at 8:00 p.m., join me for a Ceremonial Closing of the studio. Please come for chanting, and sharing of our Rasa stories.

Thank you, all of you, for these many years of study, practice, and for having the courage to change. Closing the studio is a big change for all of us—and a new beginning.

Namaste,
Ketul

P.S. If you would like to contact me, please e-mail me at ketularnold@yahoo.com .

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply

Where to post websites?

Vibhusha — Wed, 22 Dec 2004 17:42:51 GMT

I'm thinking we should have a section here listing the websites of interest concerning Kripalu's lineage in the world. e.g. Kripalu Center's site, Rajarshi Muni's LIFE Mission site, Amrit Desai's site, etc. Maybe you have a site too. Where would be the most logical place to put this? Under "listings"?

By the way, from the LIFE mission site I find this delightful example of Indian English. Can anyone tell me what this means?
"...For more information on the Mission and its work and on the disciplic tradition of the modern parampara of Lord Lakulish please click on LIFE MISSION."
parampara...??

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 0 replies

Kripalu Dharma

Vibhusha — Mon, 06 Dec 2004 18:43:29 GMT

What is the Kripalu dharma in the world today, both in relation to and separate from the operations of Kripalu Center in Lenox?

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 2 replies

Bapuji CD now available

Keval — Sun, 12 Dec 2004 22:47:48 GMT

Thanks, Vibusha for creating this group..and sorry I missed you when I was in New York last July getting Ammachi's hugs:)

A new CD of Bapuji's chanting and bhajans is available from http://www.jaibhagwan.com/ (click on "shop"). This CD rocks!!! Best 20 bucks you'll ever spend :) Really makes Bapuji come alive!! It's got a few chants that I never heard before and some other chants that were
re-mastered from old Kripalu audiotapes. There's also a CD of flute improvisations by Indukanta, available from Jaibhagwan.com in Kayavarohan.

Jai Bapuji!!

Keval

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply

thank you, vibhusha

falguni — Wed, 08 Dec 2004 01:58:28 GMT

thank you, dear vibhusha, for creating this forum! for a variety of reasons i was unable to attend the retreat this past weekend - am looking forward to hearing all about it!

jai bhagwan,

falguni

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 2 replies

Reflections on the Dec'04 Bapuji Retreat at Kripalu Center in Lenox

Vibhusha — Mon, 06 Dec 2004 18:30:44 GMT

Sisters and Brothers who attended this past weekend's retreat-
How was it for you? Did you feel inspired? What's on your mind and in your heart?

posted in Bapuji - Kripalu dharma - 1 reply