Community Living Programs
Seva Program

This program permits you to be a part-time “spiritual student,” and a part-time “karma yogi.” You attend all of the spiritual practices, morning and afternoon, the classes, the evening programs, and at the same time be part of the Seva family.

The program begins on Sunday afternoon and lasts for a minimum of two weeks. Your community service will be about four hours per day for five days a week. This program requires previous experience in the Karma Yoga Option at Ananda Assisi or a similar program at one of the other Ananda communities or meditations centers.

Your daily schedule includes morning and afternoon spiritual practices in the Temple of Light, attendance at the morning lesson of your choice (there are between 2-4 courses to choose from), and two karma yoga sessions each day.

Daily Schedule for the Seva Program

Spiritual Practices and Study Group for Seva and Full Immersion Programs

Each week there are one or more meetings exclusively for the participants in this program. After practicing together the energization exercises, chanting and meditation, the group will discuss topics that relate to the universal teachings of Self-realization and to spirituality in daily life. Topics can include:

• The ancient teachings of India and her spiritual masters
• The Four Yogas: Bhakti, Karma, Gyana, Raja
• How to deal with negative energies and environments
• How to stay calm and centered under pressure
• How to practice and get the most out of spiritual affirmations
• The qualities of a truth seeker
• The common struggles of devotees on the spiritual path
• How Ananda Yoga can help you improve your meditation
• Devotional chanting and the practice of kirtan.

Pilgrimages and Excursions

Ananda’s location near Assisi is not casual: We love being in the spiritual heart of Italy, near many churches, shrines, mountains, caves, and pathways where St. Francis lived. There will be half-day and some full-day pilgrimages planned throughout the year, as well as excursions to nearby natural sites (lakes, waterfalls, sea), and cultural exhibitions (art, music).

How to Register for This Program

If you have already been to Ananda Assisi or one of the other Ananda communities, you are eligible to apply for this program. Please click here to find the Application form. There are a limited number of spaces for the Seva Program, and you will hear from us as soon as possible. If you need help or more information, please call (+39) 0742.813620 or write to anthonyfrancisoconnell@hotmail.com.

Application Form and Questionnaire (PDF)

Accommodations and Program Cost

You can choose any of the accommodation options you prefer. Just click here to go to the Reservation and Payments page, and look in the Seva Program column.

“My heart is filled with gratitude for this opportunity to transform myself. I have seen peace, calmness, joy and love flower within me. I know that now I have the inner strength to express my true essence.” ~Cristina

“The place at Ananda where I have most actively participated is the kitchen, which I call, ‘The Kitchen of Joy.’ The food and the people are continuously in harmony; the principle ingredient is joy, which comes from the divine cupboard. Every dish is overflowing with divine energy which is served to guests of every race, cultural background and religion who are here to share their experiences with each other. Nothing is wasted, everything goes the right way under the secure guidance of the Master. Washing the dishes, which might seem like the least difficult task, is another moment of joyful reunion where people who do not know each other come together harmoniously. Many words can describe this place, but surely three words say it all: joy, love and happiness.” ~Raffaele

Find out all about the Community Living Programs.

For information and reservations:
info@ananda.it   Tel: +39 0742-81.36.20   Fax: +39 0742-81.35.36

Ananda is located in the tranquil hills of Umbria, Italy on “Strada Statale 444” between Assisi and Gualdo Tadino. It is the largest retreat center in Europe for Yogananda’s teachings.

Travel Directions

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Ananda Associazione • Via Montecchio, 61 • I-06025 Nocera Umbra (PG) • ITALY