CONWAY Ellen Schwindt will offer a Music as Meditation event on Sunday, March 5, at 5 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church on the corner of Pine and Main Streets in North Conway.

Enjoy music presented with its connection to human hearts in mind and with time for contemplation interspersed between musical offerings.

This month, Doris Henney joinsSchwindt to present music by Baltimore composer Harriet Katz.Schwindt andHenney are collaborating on presenting a concert of new music later this month in Baltimore. You will hear improvisations from musicSchwindt is composing inspired by the paintings of Stephen Kull, Cynthia Pfender and Susan Forsman.Schwindt also includes her latest installment in Edward McDowell's First Modern Suite.

Schwindt began Music as Meditation as a way for her to share her newest music with listeners and to share a meditative spirit with attenders. The series has blossomed into an opportunity for community musicians to share music with each other. Music as Meditation takes place on first Sundays of each month.

Admission is free. Call (603) 447-2898 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

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Ellen Schwindt to offer Music as Meditation March 5 - Conway Daily Sun

Rebecca Rosen says her work as a medium has helped her learn ways to better manage the stress of everyday life.

A long strand of beads wraps its way around Rebecca Rosens delicate wrist, which she touches throughout a conversation.

The beads, mostly black with some white, are called malas and in Buddhism, the 108 stones are used during meditation, with the practitioner repeating a specific mantra quietly with each bead.

Rosen knows something about meditation and mantras, though it goes far deeper than the average yoga class. Rosen is a medium. She believes she can communicate with those whove died.

Rosen got her start as a medium doing readings at a coffee shop in West Bloomfield before opening an office in Royal Oak, which she had for three years before moving to Los Angeles.

But beyond her medium work, shes also a busy mom of six yes, six struggling like the rest of us to balance work, children, to-do lists, co-parenting and everything in between. She just happens to have some spiritual guides helping her along her journey.

Rosen, who now lives in Denver but recently visited Metro Detroit to promote her new book, What the Dead Have Taught Me About Living (Rodale, $24.99), that came out Feb. 14, says whether you believe in spiritual guides or not, she says her work as a medium has helped her learn ways to better manage the stress of everyday life.

I always say Im not immune to lifes challenges, says Rosen. Im human, too. It was the guidance and direction I got from the other side that got me through some challenging times.

And one of her best coping mechanisms? Meditation. Rosen says meditation can be as quick and easy as taking several deep breaths at a stoplight, or getting out in nature and taking a walk.

Make time to be quiet, says Rosen, who also had a TV show on Lifetime called The Last Goodbye. Its becoming aware of your breath. When you start breathing, you get present, and when you get present, you start to calm down from the mind chatter. I call it the party in the head.

Rosen says she used to be an avid list-maker and shed feel tremendous guilt if she didnt complete them. After her first son Jakob was born, she remembers crying and later meditating on it. It was then that she got guidance to let go.

I dont put as much judgment on myself anymore, says Rosen. It took the pressure off.

But does she still get caught up at time on lifes gerbil wheel? Yes. When that happens, she touches her beads as a reminder to come back to the present.

Id never met a medium before, let alone had a reading from one. I was skeptical.

But listening to her she immediately asked about my father who died five years ago and other dear loved ones she knew things about my father, my children, even the unhooked car seat in my husbands car that you couldnt Google or find on Facebook.

Still, Rosen acknowledges there will be skeptics. And shes OK with that. During a group reading she did last week at the Jewish Community Center connecting loved ones with others by name, dates, even spouses I saw her work speak for itself.

She connected with a local mother whose 4-year-old girl had died in October. She knew the date her daughter had died, plans for a tattoo on her back and much more.

I cant know this stuff, Rosen says.

She says as skeptical as some may be, she suggests those people open themselves to guidance.

We are not alone, Rosen says. And if we choose to open up and suspend our disbelief long enough to invite spirit in, life becomes a whole lot more magical and interesting and flowy. I call it flow-tastic. Just put it to the test even if you dont believe. Just try it.

mfeighan@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @mfeighan

Read or Share this story: http://detne.ws/2mygLWL

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Need to quiet 'the party in your head'? Try meditation - The Detroit News

Medford, Ore. Students at Oak Grove Elementary School in west Medford come from diverse backgrounds. Some are in fostercare, others are homeless.But despite thechallenges some of them may face at home, teachers and staff have found a unique way to improve the health and mental well-being of all their students while in the classroom.

On any given Thursday, before the bell has even rung, Oak Grove Elementary Schoolstudents take a few minutes to be mindful.

Life can be stressful, Oak Grove Elementary School Principal, Liz Landonsays,so how do we teach our students and ourselves [to] just release that, and be more present?

The answer, Oak Grove found was in yoga, for both the body and the brain.

To some, it was a dramatically different approach, that was met with a little skepticism.

I thought it was kind of a little bit weird, 4th grader, Eden Rux says.

But after some practice, that approach was soon producing some dramatically different kids.

It feels relaxing, 4th grader Ericka Farissays.

Calm, 5th grader Jacob Santossays, very calm.

It actually does help, Ruxadds.

Our attendance rate is the bestits ever been, Landson says, our kids are coming, and theyre ready and eager to be here.

In many classrooms, the mindful games take just a minute. But after a few squats, or some deep breathes, students and teachers, are finding a minute of mindfulness, sets them up for a day of success.

You can do math, and you can read, Ruxsays, Its just good to have something that you can actually rely on to be relaxed.

I know I wont be so frustrated when I do all my work, Faris adds.

They are able to come to school and be focused, Landon says, you are doing something that is powerful and noteworthy, and I would encourage anyone to try it, why not?

Since the start of mindful moments, referrals for disciplinary action have decreased at the school significantly. The principal says students are sharing the practice with their families, and the faculty have even incorporated it into their staff meetings.

Kristin Hosfelt anchors NBC5 News at 6 with NBC5 News Director Craig Smullin. Kristin is originally from the BayArea. Sheearned her Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism from San Jose State University.

She comes to KOBI-TV/NBC5 from Bangor, Maine where she was the evening news anchor. Kristin has won multiple journalism awards including Best Feature Reporting in the State of Maine.

When Kristin is not sharing the newssheshunting down the best burrito, hiking a local trail or buried in a Jodi Picoult novel. Shes also a Green Bay Packers shareholder! If you see her out and about shed be happy to tell you how a California girl became a Cheesehead.

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Yoga, meditation prove successful in Medford classroom - KOBI-TV NBC5 / KOTI-TV NBC2

The meditation music that the late jazz composer Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda created during her later yearsis getting the much-deserved reissue treatment.

On Thursday, the lauded label Luaka Bop announced the arrival of World Spirituality Classics:The Ecstatic Music of Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda, a collection that gathers work from four cassettes she issued between 1982-95.

Turiyasangitananda was married to jazz saxophonistJohn Coltrane (and isthe mother of acclaimed saxophonist Ravi Coltrane and the great aunt of the Los Angeles beat producer Flying Lotus), and created mystical free jazz for the Impulse label during its late 1960s and early 70s prime.

Long a devotee of transcendental meditation, Alice changed her last name in the 1970s, opened a 48-acreashram outside of Malibuin the early 1980sand started composing works for her classes.

The recordings mark the first time any have been released on vinyl or compact discand show the breadth of her skills. They also mark the earliest recordings on whichTuriyasangitananda sings.

A multi-instrumentalist who replaced McCoy Tyner in John Coltranes legendary band, for a long time Turiyasangitanandas work waseclipsed by her late husbands explorations. Since her passing in 2007, though, her influence has expanded, and the new collection reveals why. The versatile player works with instruments including synthesizer, harp,percussion, strings, organs and a 24-person choir on the recordings, and the free-floating results are ethereal without being spineless.

World Spirituality Classics:The Ecstatic Music of Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda will also be put out on cassette. The LP version will feature two extra tracks, including one, Rama Katha, that has never before been released.

The volume, which arrives on the heels of a fantasticaudio documentary by Dublabs Mark Frosty McNeill,is the first in Luaka Bops new World Spirituality Classics series, one that mirrorssimilarly inspired Luaka Bop seriesincluding World Classics, Brazil Classics and Cuba Classics.

For tips, records, snapshotsand storieson Los Angeles music culture, follow Randall Roberts on Twitter and Instagram: @liledit. Email:randall.roberts@latimes.com.

UPDATES:

10:36 a.m.This article was updated to include an embed of Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitanandas piece Om Shanti.

This article was originally published at 5 a.m.

Excerpt from:

Selections from Alice Coltrane's blissful late-period meditation music ... - Los Angeles Times

One Iowa State guest speaker believes there may be a link between exercise and improvements in mental illness, saying, Exercise is good not just for the body, but for the mind.

James Blumenthal, clinical psychologist at the Duke University Medical Center, discussed the relationship of exercise and physical activity to mental health.

Blumenthal explained that people who arent physically active arent only at risk for a variety of diseases, including diabetes and hypertension, but multiple mental health disorders as well. Those disorders could range from clinical depression to dementia.

Panteleimon Ekkekakis, professor of kinesiology, invited Blumenthal to present the third of four lectures in the 2016-17 Helen LeBaron Hilton Endowed Chair lecture series.

We wanted to cover mortality, the risk of dying is important, then some major issues related to health," Ekkekakis said. "We had somebody talk about the brain, somebody talk about the muscles and the bones, and then we needed somebody to come in and talk about mental health. Professor Blumenthal is the worlds leading expert on the subject so we were very fortunate to get him here."

Blumenthal explained that the topic is important because in the last century, the leading cause of death shifted from acute illness and infection to chronic illness.

Chronic disease accounts for 7 out of 10 deaths in the U.S.," Blumenthal said. "It accounts for 75 percent of the nations health care spending. Mental health and substance abuse are among America's most chronic illnesses."

A diagnosis of depression requires at least five of these nine symptoms, including depressed mood or irritability, decreased interest or pleasure in most activities, significant weight change, change in sleep and change in activity. The only way to officially diagnose it is by a psychiatric interview.

Blumenthalprovided evidence that prescribing exercise as a form of treatment may be a successful alternative for patients with depression. The research he has done examines the effects of lifestyle behaviors like exercise on patients with cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairments and major depression.

Exercise improves depressive symptoms of people with the diagnosis of depression, but the results are only moderate and not statistically significant. The studies showed that physical activity was beneficial, especially as an alternative for those who are opposed to medication.

An audience member asked if there is a relationship between time and intensity with exercising.

Blumenthal said there isnt a great correlation, but frequency is more important than the intensity of the physical activity. The recommended amount of time for exercising is about 150 minutes per week.

Another member of the audience asked if individuals already taking medication for depression should stop if they are going to try exercise as a treatment.

Begin an exercise program with taking the medication," Blumenthal said."If after about six to eight weeks you feel better, then talk to your doctor and see what they suggest."

The most important message Ekkekakis hoped the audience would receive was for people struggling with mild or moderate symptoms for depression to try treatments other than medication, such as physical activity. He described it as safe, inexpensive and effective.

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Alternatives to medication for treating depression include excercise - Iowa State Daily

Century tabs Okerson as next girls soccer coach

Century's athletic department has announced that Ryan Okerson has been hired as the next head coach of the Patriots girls soccer program.

Okerson, 38, had spent the past two seasons as an assistant varsity coach at Legacy. The former Patriots soccer player graduated from Century in 1997 ahead of playing collegiality at both the University of Mary and Huron University. He graduated from U-Mary in 2012 with a Bachelor's in Excercise Science and Master's in Human Performance/Sports Administration.

He has coached in varying roles both at the middle and high school levels in the Bismarck Public Schools system since 1998. In addition, Okerson has spent seven years coaching club soccer and helped establish both the men's and women's soccer programs at Bismarck State.

Okerson replaces Nate Ulness, who resigned earlier this year in order to accept a women's soccer head coaching position at Gillette College (Gillette, Wyo.).

See the article here:

Area Sports, Girls Soccer - Bismarck Tribune

26

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience there. I just spent this past weekend there. I got there late and had trouble finding my room because of miscommunication. I don't hold it against them. I went with the flow and resourcefully located my room with the help of another guest, one "LYT", and this gentleman called Alan. I ended up finding a party where we danced to lots of great international music. Oh the joy! I had a fantastic time meeting all the good natured, kind-hearted people there and learning about their philosophy. I met so many people on a spiritual path who dedicated their lives to living there. I enjoyed meditating, doing yoga (hatha yoga, laugha yoga), and learning from the talks the swami's there gave on. It was even nice to be vegetarian for a weekend. The warm food was refreshing and very filling! The food on Saturday night was redundant (and not as great) but I had options. I look forward to going back, someday. I think I would learn so much. I would like to visit other ashrams before I do, though. The world is a better place because of this haven.

I just came back from a weekend at this place. It's important to go in with realistic expectations. I did some due diligence beforehand, and left refreshed and happy. It's an ashram, and it is rustic. If you're concerned about the thread count in your sheets, or require a foot massage every morning, look elsewhere. I stayed in a dorm with four bunks, although they took care to ensure that no dorm room had more than two people before putting people in the top bunks. When I arrived, someone had already squatted my designated bed, but they found me another one, and there weren't enough people so that they need to have more than two in a room. Bathrooms are shared, although adequately clean. Meals are vegan, with a few dairy condiments like butter available for breakfast. None of the main dishes have dairy or meat products though. The food is super fresh and simple, without a lot of spice. They have a wide range of spices available as condiments, from Sri Racha sauce to powdered kelp to various peppers and more. I'm not even vegetarian, and found the meals ample and satisfying outside of breakfast, which is kind of weak. Some of the dishes run out before the meal is over, so it pays to arrive at the beginning. At lunch, you are expected not to talk during the first half hour, when someone reads from a text. The yoga is rather slow, with two sessions a day of 90 minutes. They have a level 1 and level 2 - level one is very basic, and level 2 was less intense than what I'm used to. The ashram is on about a thousand acres of wooded, hilly land south of Charlottesville. It's beautiful country, with deer and other wildlife everywhere. I did a lot of hiking. The main trail leads from the building complex to the LOTUS shrine, which is about a mile away on an artificial lake near the James River. There is a cafe on the corner of the grounds, called Mandala Cafe. They have killer coffee (unavailable elsewhere at the site), and the basic groceries you'd expect like kombucha, snacks, veggie products, and souvenirs. I've read a lot of complaints about the ashram being cultish. I didn't get that at all. There's no pressure at all to partake in any of the activities. Upon arrival on Friday, they handed me a list of activities that were available, telling me that I could participate in all or none of them. There was absolutely no proselytizing. I went for the setting, the yoga, and the meals, and didn't participate in any of the talks or chanting or stuff like that. No one gave me a hard time about it, or really even noticed my absence. I hung around the library a lot, taking the opportunity to study Sanskrit. There really isn't a whole lot to do if you don't participate in the group activities, so bring some books to keep yourself occupied if you don't want to participate. People are extremely friendly and nonjudgmental. The only rules are no drugs, no alcohol, no tobacco, no meat, no sexual contact, and to demonstrate respect for everyone. I went to recharge after a breakup and a few hard weeks at work, hoping mostly to be left alone for a silent weekend, and walked out feeling better beyond measure. I'll definitely be back the next time I need a recharge.

It is was a pretty amazing experience, my first time at Yogaville/Satchidananda Ashram. The weather was gorgeous, which helps tremendously. We went up just for the day to explore (before committing to a longer overnight stay). And I'm glad we did. It is hard to discern from the reviews what the experience is like. You should know that I have done some form of yoga intermittently for over ten years. I'm no power yogini. I don't have a matching yoga outfit. I'm not blonde. My parts are real. I'm not skinny. So, I don't do the yoga-for-show thing. If you prefer your yoga at Gold's Gym or the like, this may not be for you. It is an ashram, a working religious community. The people are welcoming. It is a multigenerational crowd, elders and young children. It is walkable, with about five trails of various levels of difficulty. (Ask for the map that rates the trails by difficulty, actually. We didn't know to ask for it and let's just say that my sore feet suggest that we chose poorly as a result). You can drop in for the day and take classes, eat lunch, explore the temples, and chill out. It's donation based except for meals, which was $10 for a vegetarian lunch (red sauce, pasta, vegetables, salads). I'm not a vegetarian and it was good. It wasn't retreat slop food. The red sauce tasted fresh and had great flavor. No need for salting, etc. Officially, there's no coffee but there is a cafe on the grounds that serves simple brewed coffee. Everyone says you cannot miss the Lotus temple and I agree. We went after hiking about two miles, doing a laughing yoga class, and eating lunch. You can drive from the main quad to the temple (something they said you couldn't do, btw) but we walked it. Maybe it was all the fresh air and exercise but I meditated so deeply in the temple that when we left an hour or so later I felt like I'd slept for days. Anyway, listen, it isn't a spa and that's a good thing. It's a nice place for human connection with warm people and fresh air and a really inexpensive way to slow down your mind, stretch out your body, and forget that the world is going to hades in a handbasket (I didn't check my social media or email the whole time and was suspended in a magic bubble for 9 hours where the european union wasn't dissolving and the presidential election wasn't a reality tv show -- bliss).

I've never been a person who likes remembering and adhering to a lot of rules. And I found out on Easter weekend that Yogaville has quite a few of them: no shoes indoors, no meat, no cheese, no caffeine, no alcohol, no public displays of affection, no revealing clothes, limited cell phone use, and no pointing your feet at altars or presenters. I had a headache all weekend from caffeine withdrawal. I can't tell you how much I missed having coffee in the morning. I was pretty grumpy waking up for 6:30 AM yoga class. But they did have a pretty extensive selection of herbal tea. There's also a little cafe in the dorm area where they sell coffee and other "contraband", but it was never open when I stopped by. My luck! I don't eat much meat as it is, so that was pretty easy to abandon. But dammit, I missed dairy! On the drive back home, all I wanted was a pretzel smothered in cheese. The cafeteria food was pretty standard vegan fare - lots of beans (they were inescapable) and soups and tofu and salads. There were a few items I liked, but I'm not a big fan of beans, nor am I a fan of the effects of beans, so I felt like I lost weight over the weekend. My boyfriend, a major meat-eater, was pretty unhappy with the cuisine. While I was craving cheese, he was craving meat-focused German food. We both agreed the food was bland; however, there is a spice table where you can season and jazz up the food to how you like it. But there's only so much you can do. I also missed having sweets. Dessert was infrequent, but they served fruit with every meal; I guess this was supposed to fulfill sugar cravings. It didn't fulfill mine. You will lose weight at Yogaville if you're anything like me or my boyfriend. And forget about having a nice red wine with your meal - you are not allowed to bring alcohol on the property. I did miss the freedom to have a drink. While we did do some hiking there, it was rather sad that we couldn't bring spiked hot cocoa along with us and sit looking at a stream sipping on something warm. And if you're a pothead or crack addict, you can't bring that either. On to the other rules... I forgot to take off my flip flops once in the cafeteria, but after I got the stare down, I remembered and quickly shuffled to the entrance cubbies to stow them away. They ask that everyone wear modest clothes - ladies should try to cover their shoulders and wear loose yoga pants. Short shorts and spaghetti straps are a no no. And fellas, you better keep your shirts on, no matter how sweaty you get. Actually hatha yoga isn't really sweat-inducing. It's more about calming the body and mind, and focusing on breathing. So it wasn't too much to ask for everyone to be covered up. I think a couple women missed the memo on this, but no one was kicked out of the class. Everyone was pretty accepting. No PDA. Pretty easy to adhere to this, unless you have some fetish about kissing in shrines and temples and other spiritual places. If you're going with your significant other, I'd recommend getting a private room, rather than staying in the dorms. If you stay in the dorm, it's filled with bunk beds, so you won't get any privacy. And even if you get a private room, there is a photo of Swami (yogaville's founder) hanging right near the bed, so you may not feel like you're alone there either. It was a little unsettling to unlock the door for the first time, walk into the room, and see a bearded old man smiling at us. "Hi Swami, I'm Lauren, the three of us will be spending two nights together!" Limited cell phone use was my favorite part of the weekend. It was so liberating to leave all of my things in the room and not feel tied down to my daily life. Also, if you don't have Verizon, you won't get service anyway. So you'll be out of luck. But there are communal phones around the property, so bring a calling card. On to what to expect once you arrive Friday evening: 1. They will ask you to remove your shoes and check in. 2. They will give you a wristband - whatever you do, don't lose this. It's how they know you've paid for weekend meals, so it's your stamp for cafeteria access. They serve three meals a day, at very specific times. Do not miss these times. You will be left to your own devices if you do. 3. You will be given your room key. You can lose this if you want. 4. They will review the map and various buildings. 5. Cafeteria style dinner. There will be song and prayer before serving the meal. It might be unsettling if you're an atheist like me. They will also ask for volunteer dish washers. 6. You will receive an orientation and watch videos. 7. Visit the Lotus Temple - it's only illuminated Friday night. Highly recommend this. There's a crazy buzz upstairs, and it's like the Las Vegas of meditation. Despite the rules, Yogaville is a very peaceful escape and offers a way to experience another lifestyle. My big complaint, however, was that they kept moving class locations or canceling classes without giving notice.

Love coming here! Accommodations are wonderful, the programs are energizing and the people are incredibly friendly. Oh, and the food is great!

Since I expect that most people that go to Yogaville know in advance what they are getting into, and as a result have exactly the amazing experience that they went there for, the majority audience here of my review may not receive it well. However, I write this review for the benefit of all others that might stumble upon Yogaville and need a clear description of what it is and isn't. Let me clarify my rating in this punchline: if you are a vegan, seeking to escape the world at an open-armed community of alternative/spiritual disciples and students and join them to experience their structured, ritualistic, and spiritually religious ascetic lifestyle based on daily meditation, ritual, and yoga, in a beautifully remote mountain location, then you will rate Yogaville 5 Stars. Perhaps it should be better called "Vegan Spirituality Ville" to reflect that. However, given that it's called "Yogaville", and they advertise their "delicious healthy vegetarian meals", there is the potential to misunderstand; this was our case, and I must therefore stretch to give it 2 Stars. I just returned from a 2 night short stay at Yogaville, an extremely well-intentioned surprise gift from my girl. We stayed in a private room, which was perfectly comfortable and clean, if ascetic. For me, it offered a desperately needed place of privacy to escape to. I believe that most of the accommodations involve shared rooms and bathrooms, which would not afford that luxury. We expected an escape, peace and serenity, hiking, delicious vegetarian meals, and lots of yoga and meditation. Peaceful and serene, yes, sort of.. Hiking, yes, mostly about hiking between the main complex and the Lotus shrine. The meals....The atmosphere....The yoga....hugely disappointing. Ok, this is my opinion. Some will not like it. The atmosphere of this place is really more like a cross between a spiritual cult and a commune. While there are various degrees of visitor like myself who just drop in with various expectations, the majority seem to be there long term (weeks, months, forever) to embrace an alternative lifestyle. They have memorized rituals and chants, some spoken during Yoga, others happily sung at any time throughout the compound. Meals are served cafeteria style 3 times a day. They are advertised as lasting 45-75 minutes, but in reality the believers (who rotate through everything from cleaning the toilets to cooking the meals) prepare certain amounts of food, and everyone shows up right at the beginning (to hear prayers and various spiritual sermons from the Reverend). The food quickly disappears, and there is no more. Show up halfway through and it may be gone. Even if you get food, there are two varieties for every meal. #1, salad. The same each meal, excellent fresh greens and veggies, excellent homemade dressings. #2, cereal and fruit (breakfast), and rice, beans, greens, and if you are lucky a vegetable stew. There are no flavors added, no seasonings. Amazing, plain vegetables, cooked to perfection. You can add your own salt, pepper, even sriracha sauce after the fact. Oh, and there is dessert with each meal: yoghurt and honey, and fruit you can slice. We expected some Indian vegetarian dishes, for example, but perhaps that is considered decadent for the ashram. Just as you wonder on Day #3 if you can ever survive this, you learn that Thursday is fasting day. There is even less food, and hot broths replace the stews. Unless you are into all this food-deprivation, the saving grace of Yogaville is the Cafe, a comparably decadent shop with comfortable furniture, the best coffee I have ever had, fruit smoothies, and even fresh baked pies, donuts, and other treats. On fasting-Thursday, the Cafe features "tofu taco day" for lunch, which is limited by advance signup, and is told to be insanely popular with those that are not into "fasting day". Yoga. I love yoga, and thought this would be the good part. But, yoga is actually only offered twice a day, in a single class each time, at 6am and 5pm. This is not your "normal" yoga. Here, it is part of their spiritual practice, and is taught by the "Reverend". I have experienced a variety of "normal" yoga teachers. Some bad, some good, some excellent. But, there is almost always a serene love for the practice that radiates from a good instructor and fills the room, inspiring the students. In this case, I did not feel that. It felt cold and aloof, more lecturing then instructive. And, laced with the chanting and spiritual practices of Yogaville. There was very little in common with yoga as I know it. It was slow, deliberate, and the few poses done were held long, much like yin yoga. Meditation isn't guided. The Lotus Universal temple/shrine is absolutely amazing. Go just to see this. Don't misunderstand me--the people are all wonderful, friendly, and nice. They clearly love Yogaville. But, it's not for me...

Yogaville is not a spa retreat. It is an ashram. An ashram is a place for sanctuary, a place to retreat, a place that welcomes spiritual study (of ALL religions, which makes this one most unique in the world) and personal growth. It's important to do some research before you go to help understand its history. The founder came to virginia decades ago with a plan to establish a place that would welcome all people. He was a Hindu, but he accepted/encouraged the study and understanding of every other religion (which should be a clear sign that this place is not a cult). He even included non-religious studies (musicians, scientists and politicians) as well as, left room for religions not yet developed. He built a shrine that was "dedicated to interfaith understanding and the Light within all faiths. Individual altars represent and honor the different world faiths and spiritual paths. "Truth is One, Paths are Many." It is a beautiful monument and we love our monuments in Virginia! The people that run the ashram are a combination of monks and volunteers that are there studying. This is their home, maybe temporarily or permanently. If you are confused by some of their ways and rules, simple ask them. They will be happy to explain and demystify these concerns for you. The food they prepare is vegan, fresh and incredibly delicious. (I've been in the restaurant business for 20 years and was happily surprised by how delicious it was). There is no alcohol on the property (remember, this is place to recharge yourself). Also, cell service is spotty however, they provide wifi for a small fee. Oh, and they wake you by playing the violin. I'd like that to be my new alarm clock!! Try to come to Yogaville with an open mind, free of judgement. Remember, they've welcomed you without judgement and will spend a good bit of their time making you welcome.

they offer silent retreats. ive been for the weekend and weeklong retreats. great experiences both times! i definitely recommend doing a weeklong silent retreat. the weeklong one i attended was an interfaith retreat and i had teachers (priests, rabbis, monks) from every major faith teaching spiritual lessons. it was a great time listening to each other's prayers to hear how much the message is the same. satchidananda is known for saying "truth is one, paths are many." during the retreat you'll be exposed to yoga 24/7: karma yoga, laughing yoga, physical yoga, mindful eating, meditation, chanting, etc. you'll be exposed to living yoga, not just the fitness piece of it. be open minded. -cell phones don't work. you're in the middle of nowhere. -shopping! they have an amazing store--books, mats, etc. -AMAZING FOOD. yes, all caps. they have their own farm.

Sometimes I do things so I can say things like: "Remember when we went to an ashram for a weekend?" For those not in the know, Yogaville is an interfaith community dedicated to spreading the word of the teachings of Swami Satchidananda. If you don't know who Swami is...you will not forget it by the end of the week! There are photos of him everywhere! Photos of him on a mountaintop, cuddling lions, at the beach, overlooking the hills, at Woodstock, etc. DVDs of him speaking are played on loop throughout the site. My friends always thought my seventh grade pinup shrine to Hanson were a little bit creepy, but now I can understand their concern. Accommodations: My friend and I were set up in a private room. She had a full size bed, while I slept on a pull out couch. There is no TV but you have 30 free minutes of internet a day. Cell phones do not work in the area but there are several phone booths scattered throughout the compound. No decorations on the wall except a photo of Swami. Shower had good water pressure, linens and towels are provided. I'm a princess so I brought my own pillow and down comforter. The room was akin to an Old Comfort Inn. Walls are paper thin so we could sometimes hear chanting in the room next door. Food: The food is plentiful, delicious and healthy. Everything is vegetarian and they have plenty of gluten-free options as well. A typical breakfast is steel cut oats, fresh fruit from a local organic farm, bagels and rice cakes. Lunch or dinner consists of make-your-own salads, tabbouleh, dahl, spiced chick peas, gluten free pasta, and some type of dessert. I enjoyed eating at the communal tables and meeting all different walks of life who were at the ashram for different reasons. Activities: Boy did I feel out of place in my see-through Lululemon pants and technicolor moisture wicking tank tops! Most people wore loose, modest clothing. You can take advantage of daily ashram life: daily pujas on the mountaintop, chanting, meditation, hatha yoga, and pranayama breathing techniques. The ashram is set on over 800 acres neestled in the foot hills of the Blue Hill Mountains so I highly recommend hiking on trails to Kailash (a mountaintop structure that overlooks the entire property) or to Lotus (a GIANT lotus blossom that is illuminated at night and serves as a great place for meditation). The facilities are beautifully maintained -- big props to their landscaper! One of my favorite seminars was "How to Integrate Yoga in Your Daily Life." It was an inspirational talk and was just a great reminded that yoga isn't all about handstands and the splits. It's about serving others, loving yourself, and cultivating relationships. Final Thoughts: There are a lot of old people with long white hair, beards, and white flowy outfits. Don't be intimidated! A lot of the people who live on the ashram are very funny, smart, and friendly. The ashram strongly reminded me of the commune that the Dharma Initiative lived on in "Lost" but I think that added a lot of charm to the weekend. Keep an open mind and even if you don't, you'll walk away feeling serene, well fed, and with your lungs full of fresh mountain air!

Look, my review is based on the fact that I bought a groupon to what I thought of a yoga retreat, not a cult-like spiritual journey. So- obviously, if someone is seeking spiritual guidance in Hindu philosophy that is the right place to go. That wasn't my understanding regarding the welcome weekend. But I have a spiritual practice, with which I am at peace, and which I do not want to impose on others. It involves meditation and yoga, but without seeking the external guidance that yogaville tries to instill. No such luck here. My discomfort started with the fact that I could not do a single move, without a huge portrait of the Guru watching me. I mean it: you cannot climb the stairs, enter the bathroom, turn in your bed, without an image of the Guru watching. Meditation is done facing a candle lit image of the Guru, and a large portrait watches you during yoga. During silent meal times, his words will be read to you, and you'll at least watch two videos of his speeches. The yoga classes are also very basic (even the advanced ones) , so I did not even get the yoga experience I was seeking. That said, the food is amazing. And as many faithful people, who want you to see their light, are- the folks there are incredibly friendly. Again, if people seek guidance in the Hindu faith, this is a fantastic retreat. If you are just seeking a quite place to meditate and practice yoga without attempts to convert you, I would encourage you to look elsewhere.

The most important information to keep in mind about Yogaville is an understanding of what it is and what it isn't, especially when reading some of the reviews. With those expectations properly understood, it is an amazing place that I know I'll visit again to at some point. Yogaville is not a yoga retreat in the traditional gym, "yoga is hip and therefore makes me cultured" sort of way. People do not walk around in work out clothing and yoga mats. Yes there are yoga classes there but they are part, and only a part, of the bigger picture of the ashram. The Asrahm is a spiritual retreat for those who subscribe to yogaville's belief structure. They are open, vulnerable, and accommodating enough to allows others to witness their spiritual practice. The idea behind is the aspects of yoga as a full practice are essentially the same principles that guide all religions and faiths - contentment, self discipline, truthfulness. Many different aspects of yoga are present including physical, emotional, spiritual, and social. Yoga, to the followers of Integral Yoga, is more than a few poses. It is a way of life that encompass breath, kindness, openness, doing good, physical, mental, and spiritual exercise. They are genuine and unapologetic in their devotion to the Divine Light and their guru. Which at times was strange to see as an outsider. I didn't understand most of the prayers or rituals but I never made to feel uncomfortable by not participating. They never forced their practice or made it a big presentation. It occurred quietly with as little fanfare as ritual can have. I am sure that had I asked, they would have been more than happy to explain some of the seemingly odd rituals. But I wasn't interested so that aspect never came up in conversation. The grounds are beautiful. They have a few hiking trails, a beautiful outlook overlooking rolling hills, a winding river, and the Lotus. It is beautiful at sunset. Just bring a little bug spray and do not mess with the spiders. I took two yoga classes. The first was a joint freeing one very different from the yoga classes I have taken at big box gyms. The second was a laughing yoga class where I had a blast. Seriously, the instructor is so much fun it is impossible not to laugh with his genuine heartfelt giggles and belly laughs. I've taken some of the exercises into my normal life when I am feeling crappy. We really do not laugh enough but we used to as children. I also went to a meditation class/service. I spent most of the time in the meditation room wondering if I was doing it right and rightfully deciding that I wasn't. I supposed you can take a class or seminar to learn. They have a welcome weekend where you can take a couple of classes both physical, meditation, and lifestyle. The Lotus stands for Light of Truth Universal Shire and is shares artifacts and beliefs of all the world's religions and those that have not been created yet. It shows the similarities within the faiths. It is at the core of Yogaville's practices and philosophies.

This place is out in the boonies for real BUT that is not a bad thing per say if you are staying for the reasons it is intended for. Like other reviewers have posted this is not a spa or a retreat. It is an place where people go and practice yoga in every sense possible through postures, breaths, scriptures and the whole shebang. It is modest in decor and there is an air of solace about. I originally stayed here for a week in April, it was a monday through friday and the place was dead! The prices were cheap I felt but of course the more privacy you want like a private bath and room the more expensive it gets. I thought by staying in the dorm I would be able to interact with other but I had not only the whole dorm but floor to myself. Which wasn't so bad as my intentions for going was to deepen my practice and learn about the Integral style but it felt honestly like a silent retreat for me. The people were friendly but not sociable which again was okay with me, but if you are chatting then perhaps bring a friends. I practice some meditation and a song meeting during the evening. I did not know what to expect but I had so much fun while I did. The lectures were interesting and interactive. I had one guy introduce himself but when he found out I was not there as an actual student he cut the conversation short. There was a diverse set of people within the ashram from all walks of life and religious background. I did not feel out of place as I did dress modest and simple for the most part The ashram itself is located in a beautiful area, mountains, hills, lush trees and water. I hiked just about everyday to the farm, the LOTUS temple and designated hiking trails. There are maps and brochures but I just followed the primitive trail markings along the way and never got lost. The food was great. Lots of options in a cafeteria style setting with prayers in the background. I appreciate how they grow a large amount of veggies at their farm, who by the way actual residents interning and living there who do so, some as a part of their Karma Yoga. Overall, I would go again but perhaps in a group so I do not feel so isolated. They hold plenty of workshops, teacher training and "retreats" as well as programs for those interested in Yoga beyond the actual postures one would practice in the gym. Perhaps I will update that trip.

Don't expect a spa, first and foremost. I came here to check out a lecturer, and to unplug from the frenzy that is the day-to-day. Its a little over an hour south of Charlottesville, and yes its in a pretty remote area. I stayed in the dorm, it had four beds in the room and I had one other lady in the room with me. Shared bathroom as well. Although if that's not your thing they have other accommodation options from camping to having your own private room and bathroom. I'm used to staying at hostels so this was nothing new. The dorm rooms are clean they provide you sheets and towels as well. The schedule is pretty well laid out, meditation early in the morning, midday, and in the evening. And they have a yoga class in the morning and later in the afternoon. The other great thing about this place you can go to meditation, and yoga class or you can choose not to. No one will go looking for you. There's also a variety of hiking trails around the property if you want to soak in nature and there are some nice areas that you can just sit outside, or do some yoga. The food, ok I do love veggies but I was a bit weary of not having any sort of meat. The food is really good!!! When in season they use fruits and veggies from their farm. There was always plenty of food and frankly I was often over stuffing myself. Now here's the thing about breakfast, they don't have coffee. (Yikes!) They do have a large selection of herbal teas. But never fear, there is a little cafe/market on the property and they have coffee there, but you have to pay for it. With your stay 3 vegetarian meals are included and yes they are pretty healthy meals. If you're vegan depending on what they are serving they will specify at the start of the meal where to get vegan only items. The cafeteria is sort of like something from elementary school. Tables you can sit at or you have the option to sit at a short table where you sit on the floor. This place is a great place to go if you just want to unplug your mind or you just want some peace and quiet. I certainly plan to return again.

For the actual price, scenery, lodging and food-this is a 4-star experience. I deducted a star because I found it to be a bit culturally insensitive (ironically) for what is promoted as a peaceful, open-minded place. It's not a culturally diverse place which isn't an issue but I was consistently asked (as a South Asian-looking person) "are you good with computers," "did you go to American schools growing up" and "how long is the flight to India"...from the residents of Yogaville (non-South Asians who had assumed Sanskrit names to add to the irony!) It felt a bit awkward with the experience but otherwise it was quite relaxing and the food was delicious! Everything is cleaned by volunteers for karma and was well-maintained.

Friends told me about Yogaville and a Travelzoo voucher deal for a weekend there. I was hesitant, thinking it may be cult like or strange. Arrival was a bit difficult after dark because signs for the buildings were not well lit. The rooms were clean and well kept in the Lotus Guest House. Plush towels and clean bedding were a pleasant surprise. During the daytime, there were meditation classes, Integral Yoga ( a blend of many forms of yoga), hiking trails ( although very difficult with extreme inclines and slopes) and Yoga Nidra classes. The vegetarian food was decent, vegan options and Gluten free options were available too. Some dishes lacked flavor, but overall was not bad. The retreat weekend visitors seemed happy. The ashram residents volunteered in the kitchen and shops and seemed comfortable with this lifestyle. The message of the large pink shrine should be better advertised and might make its appearance and presence more accepted ;" One truth, many paths", which basically means although we have many religions, we can respect that we all look to a higher power. I most likely will not return and will opt for a spa like resort in the future, but enjoyed stopping at a few VA wineries on the way back to MD after my stay in Yogaville. Namaste!!!

This was my first time doing yoga or being on a retreat, and I must say I walked away so calm, relaxed, and grateful. First and foremost, I stayed in a dorm room with 7 beds. They do have other accommodations but it was fine. There are shared bathrooms but I never ran into an issue trying to fight for a shower or get to a bathroom. I liked they had things pretty structured and it was up to each person to decide what they did or didn't want to attend. I enjoyed the presentations, talks, and yoga classes. I am a beginner and it was tailored to all levels. The only thing I did not like was the fact that everyone 'worships' the leader Swami Satchitananda but they did not force it on you, either. I thought it was a tad creepy leaders in the ashram wore pendants with his picture on it...but, whatever. The vegetarian food was amazing!!! I walked away feeling lighter, clearer, and happier as a result of the detox this food gave. I looked forward to each meal while I was there. I look forward to trying this place again when I need some peace and relaxation.

This is an ashram - - - NOT A SPA. I went there for a week-long retreat with that in mind. Therefore, I came home feeling refreshed. I was treated with respect and welcomed by most everyone I encountered. It was a culture shock upon arrival; however, I live in the burbs of DC and this place is REMOTE (on 300 acres) so it took me some getting used to. I have been practicing yoga for years and recently began meditating. I also eat healthy and am spiritual so adjusting to the atmosphere wasn't that difficult for me. They practice hatha yoga only.... no other types of yoga are offered during the personal retreats, but this could be different on the weekends so I recommend checking before enrolling. I have practiced anusara, hot yoga, vinyasa, kundalini, etc. and hatha is not my favorite but I did enjoy the classes. The instructors were excellent. The food was so good! It's all vegetarian and meals are prepared fresh daily. I stayed in the Lotus guest house which was affordable and super cozy. I had my own room & bathroom and it was quiet and peaceful. It was quite chilly at night and my room was nice & toasty. The bed was comfy; not too firm or soft and the linens were soft. Since I stayed during the winter, there wasn't a lot going on there. If you want more to do during the day other then meditation/yoga, go during the warmer months when you can spend more time outside. Or, just bring lots of books to read 🙂 It didn't bother me because I run & hike all year round so everyday I spent hours outside, even in the 20-30 degree weather. They have a book/yoga distribution center down the street from the ashram and you can get really great deals on books & yoga materials. Check it out! A few important notes: - wear modest clothing when staying there - only vegetarian food is served and meat isn't allowed on site - no coffee or alcohol but they have a "coffee shop" on site where you can purchase coffee if you must have it - quiet time is from 10pm - 8am - about an hour from Charlottesville; close to lots of wineries if you're into that sort of thing! Again, if you're looking for a spa with all sorts of yoga classes & a spa-like atmosphere, DO NOT stay here. You will be disappointed. People, it's an ashram.... if you're not sure what that means, Google it. This way you can understand what you're signing up for when you stay here. All in all, I really enjoyed my visit there and I look forward to coming back when the weather is nicer and checking out one of the weekend workshops.

4.5 stars. I recently had my first-ever yoga retreat/ashram experience at Yogaville -- and I loved it. It was a wonderfully beneficial experience, great for "detox" physically and mentally. The ashram is about an hour's drive from Charlottesville, near the James River. The ashram ethos is one of service and welcome, and they do it very well. For example, I left the city during rush hour and had to arrive late, and they set aside a plate for me so I could eat even though the kitchen had closed. One of their staff gently shepherded our group through our daily schedule, helping us to get oriented and making sure we knew the locations of our sessions. I went for a particular program, and initially I was annoyed because we didn't spend much time talking about the topic; I expected the usual western approach of "processing" things, and perhaps being given some kind of tips or strategies. Instead, we mostly spent the time doing meditation (silent or guided), some pranayama (breathwork), and gentle yoga, interspersed with talks from ashram staff. In the end, that was just what I needed, and in the long term it was more beneficial than filling my head with more pop-psych techniques. There are different levels of yoga classes, but in general the yoga practiced there is *not* the strenuous, athletic, show-offy Americanized kind. One of our instructors said she never pushes herself beyond about 80 percent of her capacity; the benefit is just as great, without risk of injury. I respect this approach. As others have noted, the food is vegan and delicious. One example: coconut black beans! Lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Another day they had a citrus press and make-your-own-lemonade station. Worthy of note is the extensive condiment table. You won't find ketchup and mustard, but in addition to salt & pepper there is kelp, nutritional yeast, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, ground flax seeds, sriracha, and so many other things I can't remember them all. On the sweet side, there is honey, shredded coconut, and cocoa powder. The salad dressings will rock your socks. I had a distinctive experience of detoxing: the absence of caffeine, the clean diet, the fresh air, and the slower pace actually made me feel logy and "out of it" for the first day as my body adjusted. If you are used to drinking caffeine, you may want to decide whether to stop drinking it and potentially deal with a headache, or to purchase coffee at their market so you aren't distracted by missing it. On my next visit I'll plan to arrive a day or two before my program to acclimate my body. The accommodations are simple, clean, and comfortable. You take off your shoes when entering every building, and there is lots of soft, soothing carpeting. I stayed in the dormitory but had a room to myself mid-week. I was grateful that people aren't supposed to use their cell phones near the buildings (to avoid distracting others) and that there are specified quiet hours. We were awakened in the morning by the delightful Mataji playing her violin. I took half a star off my rating because I found the constant references to Swami Satchitananda (the founder, who died in 2002) a bit much. But that was more of an "aesthetic" issue -- I never felt that anyone was pushing a belief system on me. Although the ashram's spiritual practices are rooted in the Hindu tradition, it is *explicitly interfaith*, with a temple constructed to honor ALL faith traditions: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Sikhism, Shinto, Confucianism, Native American traditions, African traditions; plus "all other" traditions and faiths "not yet in existence." I totally recommend a stay at Yogaville as an affordable way to step out of the rat race and tune into simplicity and self-care.

Let me preface this with saying: I do not write reviews unless I feel strongly one way or the other about something. This is the opinion of my gut and instincts alone. It is not to be accepted as truth for all, for there are so many paths and ways of life, but it is for me. My yoga practice is strong and has spanned almost 6 years. In that time, I have attended workshops, achieved RYT status and had exposure to various yoga practices including hatha, Kundalini, yin and Forrest. I practice meditation daily, as well as asana and pranayama. I believe that yoga is about self care and empowerment, cultivating community, heightening spirituality and growing more attuned with Oneness. This introduction is merely to reflect my background to give the reader some area of connection as to why this retreat center did not work for me, not to laud my history. On the search for a spiritual retreat meeting my personal needs, I discovered Yogaville. I arrived at 5:30 PM, just before closure. A man at the desk called me, due to people becoming lost on the way, which was very kind of him; however, something about his demeanor was off. His affect was uninviting and almost disenchanted. When I arrived, with little difficulty, I entered the building next to Registration. The woman there had an air about her that exuded indifference and unwelcome. I chalked it up to being in a new place and my personal response. When I registered, the man explained the schedule, which is routine based on day. Regardless, he showed me my dorm, and explained there were no locks. Ok, that was cool with me. I had driven 6 hours and had not eaten in that time: dinner was in an hour. The food was excellent. Absolutely delicious, I loved it. Considerately, they had a table set out for silence to be respected. It was here that I observed and meditated on my meal, as well as the ashramites. There was a sense of disconnection, fragmentation and seclusion emanating from their conversations as well as their spirits. Just observing how they walk, they seemed lost and stripped of their personal identity. Granted, this is something that is disconcerting to me, I am including it due to it being one of the main reasons I was turned off to the ashram. Later that night, we did a full moon chant around the glow of a lamp in the LOTUS shrine. That was a beautiful and unforgettable experience. My mind was like a conduit to the divine, creativity harnessed and transmitted through the lunar to my soul to paper, my creative and spiritual medium. The one thing I should mention about this chant was how, in the beginning, Sister Bhakti announced if anyone wanted to say a prayer, to please do so. Everyone's prayers were thoughtful, but their attention is turned away from the spirit. The focus of the prayers in general were geared towards everyone else, not you. It is this undertone and subtly of not being worth prayer. This is where I believe the ashramites' natures were derived. This feeling of disempowerment, neutrality and identity lack. Perhaps this is where the stripping away of ego comes in, in their method of practice. I respect that; however, it horrified me. In the yoga practice I took the next morning, the instructor nit-picked minute details of each person's practice, trying to refine it to the way Integral yoga intended. This is totally against my philosophy that we are all born perfectly imperfect, with our own practices and that they should flourish as such. If his adjustments were constructive and to avoid injury, this would be understandable and appreciated. However, there was no feeling of that whatsoever. It was being set to match the way Swami regarded practice to be. Dorm beds were super uncomfortable. I did not sleep at all, but that also could have been the result of the unsettling energy felt. Regardless, what do you expect from dorm accommodations? Hiking grounds were nice. It was a way to connect with nature with a walking meditation along the James River. There was virtually nobody on the trails which created a pleasant solitude. There is a notion of "love" transmitted by the Swami, but the definition and action in place lacked a certain humanity. It could not be felt. Before I left, I had lunch which is silent with a reading of Swami's. His theories and viewpoints are generally sound, but the enactment by the ashramites did not lend to it. If you've ever read Watership Down, I would relate this ashram as the Cowslip warren. I drove 720 miles in 24 hours as the result of the disharmony felt for my personal journey on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It served me very well, for I have returned home feeling refreshed and settled in my own skin, more attuned with my mind, body and most importantly God.

I am completing my 1-month Living Yoga Training program (http://www.livingyogatraining.org) at Yogaville this Sunday. It has been a monumental personal growth experience. Yogaville is an excellent place to cultivate one's spirituality, health, and happiness. I'm so thankful to have discovered such an amazing community and concept early in my life that empowers me to better myself, others, and my surroundings. I will undoubtedly be returning for other programs, retreats, short and extended stays.

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Satchidananda Ashram - Yogaville - Buckingham, VA

Commerce Resources Corp. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with TUGLIQ Energy Co. (TUGLIQ) to complete a definitive assessment on the potential use of wind energy to satisfy part of the Ashram Rare Earth Projects energy requirements. The preliminary evaluation of wind data TUGLIQ conducted in 2016 indicated favourable wind speeds for renewable power development, leading to the MOU for a more definitive assessment.

The Wind Energy Project will be comprised of three main components: Wind Resource Assessment, Electrical System Engineering, and an Integration Study, which will include an assessment of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions. The ultimate objective of the project will be to determine if the incorporation of wind power into the baseload diesel power supply at the mine site is cost-effective.

We are excited to be collaborating with TUGLIQ, and to have the support of the Quebec Government on this renewable resource project, Commerce President Chris Grove states. We look forward to evaluating this potential in much further detail. The potential to incorporate cost-effective renewable energy into the Ashram Project only makes it that much more attractive for development.

Wind power is now cost competitive for the mining sector, and applicable to remote environments far from the regional power grid. Should the Ashram Rare Earth Project integrate wind power, it will join two other wind-powered northern mining projects: the Diavik Mine in the NWT, which boasts a four-turbine wind farm thats been in operation since 2012, and the Raglan Mine in Nunavik, which has a single 3 MW turbine with energy storage that was commissioned in 2014.

Read the full press release at Stockhouse.com.

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New Mining Renewables Project: Commerce Resources Assessing Wind Power for its Ashram Rare Earth Project - Energy and Mines (press release) (blog)

Luaka Bop will dial up the divine with a first-ever official anthology of devotional music recorded by Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda at the Sai Anantam Ashram. Culled from four private press cassette tapes Turiya Sings, Divine Songs, Infinite Chants and Glorious Chants recorded between 1982 and 1995 and distributed exclusively inside her spiritual community near Los Angeles, this vital Vedic soul balm of sacred tracks will finally be made available to the wider public on 5 May via cassette, CD, digital and deluxe double-vinyl formats.

Remastered from original tapes located in the Coltrane archive, World Spirituality Classics, Volume 1: The Ecstatic Music Of Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda showcases Alice's first vocal works, solo harp performances, small ensembles and a 24-piece choir, and is accompanied by extensive liner notes on the collection from Grammy-winning music historian Ashley Kahn, as well as a series of exclusive interviews.

World Spirituality Classics, Volume 1: The Ecstatic Music Of Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda constitutes the initial instalment in a planned series of spiritual music from around the globe, to be curated, compiled and distributed by Luaka Bop.

Spencer Grady

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Alice From The Ashram: Private Press Tapes Released - Jazzwise - Jazzwise magazine

Guest Post by Alan OReilly

Since the use of animal products in all manner of both common and obscure items is endemic, it is impossible to be a perfect vegan. In fact, even in a completely vegan world we could not avoid causing some indirect or inadvertent harm, despite our best efforts.

Enter the nirvana fallacy, which is the fallacy of comparing actual things with unrealistic, idealized alternatives, and it is a favourite justification for not being vegan; since veganism cannot be perfect, there is no point in being vegan at all, they trumpet. Now we may expect this kind of nonsense from nonvegans, but recently there seems to be an increasing number of people identifying as vegan using this particular fallacy to mitigate their occasional consumption of animal products. This is usually included in a confession, presumably made to obtain moral absolution from their peers. These incidents are often referred to as slip ups but, regardless of the reason given for such a lapse, deliberate and knowing animal use is not slipping up in anything like the same sense as, say, missing the declaration of whey powder in the ingredients list of a packet of biscuits. It is certainly not vindicated by our inability to be 100% vegan.

In a recent account, a vegan told of periodically consuming a couple of poached eggs due to an irresistible urge to satisfy a pleasant childhood memory. The question was asked that if such a person was not vegan at the time the eggs were consumed, when could they subsequently be regarded as vegan once again? This is, of course, a question designed to elicit a reply which implies that veganism is something to be dropped and picked up again according to the whim of personal preference and convenience. Realistically, a rational response could only be attempted if veganism were framed as merely a matter of dietary preference rather than the moral philosophy it is. Consuming the eggs was certainly an unvegan act, but we need to look beyond this to the ethics of veganism. In my view, that person was not vegan prior to consuming the eggs; if they had been, would their ethical principles not have prevented them from doing so (let alone for such a trivial reason) in the first place?

Sadly, these incidents are further evidence of the erosion of the definition and meaning of veganism which has occurred over the years, fostered by the mainstream animal movement relentlessly promoting it as just one of a number of measures which can be taken to reduce suffering, a growing band of YouTube vegans more interested in self-promotion and an almost universally anti-vegan media. If we take the position that sentient beings have the basic right not to be treated as resources and exploited then veganism is a moral obligation, an obligation fulfilled by not violating that right through eating, wearing or otherwise using them. It is the minimum that the victims of exploitation deserve. Someone identifying as vegan who knowingly commits a rights violation must judge for themselves whether or not that act constitutes an abandonment of their personal commitment to the ethical foundation of veganism.

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WHEN IS A VEGAN NOT A VEGAN? - Ecorazzi