Our teacher training retreats are a deep immersion into nāda yoga and Sanskrit mantra, offering profound personal healing & transformation... and a path to teacher training if you wish!
This retreat training is being hosted at a very special community on the banks of the holy Ganges river in Rishikesh, where prayers resound in a vibrant flow of auspiciousness.
Our India retreat training schedule allows for deep practice, as well as delicious shared meals and community connection. There's plenty of time for rest, self-care and play in this very safe, foreigner-friendly holy city.
Anandra hopes to be joined by her revered music Guru Pandit Baldev Raj Verma and his senior student Sudhanshu Sharma. Heart of Sound teacher training graduates and local musicians will also share their talents with us. With abundant blessings from HH Chidanand Saraswati, who we'll also have satsang with, this retreat is sure to be a profoundly musical adventure!
"The depth of the Heart of Sound practices really blew my mind. To have such a supportive course structure and community creates a phenomenally safe space. I have the tools I need to develop a practice to exist more mindfully in the world."
Our India retreat features a variety of sound-based yoga techniques, skill training in Sanskrit pronunciation, mantra chanting & Indian nāda yoga. Our top 3 learning objectives are:
Find your heart's voice and sing in our daily devotional mantra and music sessions!
You'll experience sound as a vibrant connection to Self, and understand how it transforms all aspects of your being.
Learn sound-based yoga skills to begin, refine, or enrich your home chanting practice!
Teacher trainees will be encouraged to offer chant experiences to hone their leadership skills.
Listen to what's deeply alive in you as you tune your precious body instrument.
You'll practice tools for self-regulating your nervous system for physical, emotional, and mental health.
This is Anandra's 12th retreat at her Himālayan home in Rishikesh, after 25 years of study in India. We know how to do it right (and safely)!
We've curated the perfect mix of deep practice, fun, and encounters with holy people and private places.
Dive into full aliveness with all 5 senses!
10-Day Retreat Training February 25 - March 6, followed by Sacred Sound Stage at International Yoga Festival March 8 - 14 (optional, see FAQ), and Upper Himālayas Retreat for 2 weeks following (application only, see FAQ).
6:30 - 7:00
Sunrise jāpa on the banks of Mother Gaṅgā
9:00 – 11:30
Deep morning Heart of Sound practice with nāda yoga and mantra meditation.
1-2 morning outings to secret Himālayan locations for meditation & prayer may be arranged, weather permitting.
1:00 - 3:00
Room open for teacher trainees to do buddy practices, chant experiments, etc.
3:00 – 4:00 (Alternating Days)
A - Relaxing yogāsana and guided self-massage to tune your body instrument especially for our penetrating practices
B - Q&A with Anandra on sound-based yoga and chant leadership topics
C - 200-300-500 hour trainee practicum workshops
6:00
Sunset ārti fire, chanting, and prayer ceremony at Gaṅgā
7:00 - 8:30
Opportunity for 200-300-500 hour trainees to offer chant experiments and practicum either privately in our room or publicly on the banks of Gaṅgā
Our sound healing yoga teacher training programs online can be an integral part of your India retreat! Start now & study online, then do your chant leadership in Rishikesh! Whether or not you plan to do the full 200 or 500hr mantra and nada yoga certification course, or simply study mantra and nada yoga in India on retreat Feb 25- March 6, this free Prep Course contains all of the logstical FAQ about India. (Sign up below, and scroll to the end for India retreat info only.)
Anandra (Heart of Sound Founder) leads our morning chant experiences and offers the primary course content.
Her beloved music Guruji and guru brother Sudhanshu plan to join us for part of the retreat as well!
Our team of Heart of Sound 500hr training graduates will lead practices, yogāsana sessions, and be available to support teacher trainees with skills and chant leadership.
Kīrtan chanting, sound baths, and mantra therapy workshops will also be offered by 200hr course trainees doing their final practicums for certification. Be prepared to fall in love, as we all step into the glory and vulnerability of singing from our hearts together!
This India retreat with the online 200hr sound yoga teacher training is the perfect way to explore the healing power of sound and mantra!
Teacher Training Certification: If you're enrolled in our sound healing yoga 200-300-500 teacher training online, the India retreat training fulfills many group practice contact hours and many other requirements if you wish. Also, there are an abundance of unique chant leadership opportunities available to teacher training students in Rishikesh! (see the India section in Prep Course for more info!)
Continuing Education: If you're a Yoga Alliance registered teacher, the Feb 25 - March 6 retreat training fulfills your annual requirement of 40+ hours of continuing education.
MORE ABOUT TEACHER TRAININGRetreat Only + Package Deal with our 200 or 500 hour teacher training + Payment Plans! CONTACT US for special discounts & amazing bring-a-friend deals!
Register now to secure your spot! Scroll down for payment plans & package deals with the teacher training too! Submitting payment indicates you agree to our liability waiver, cancellation, and COVID policies (in FAQ below).
ONE-TIME PAYMENT
India Retreat Training
Immediate access to extensive online course materials (print, web, audio & video) for your preparation and ongoing home practice! Including:
- Our Sacred Sanskrit Sounds online course ($697 value)
-One 40 day Mantra Meditation course of your choosing ($147 value)
ONE-TIME PAYMENT
India Retreat Training
Supervision of practicum requirements (optional)
Online trainees may count hours towards certification.
Buy the Online Teacher Training along with the India Retreat Training and save money. Start working on the teacher training now to get the most out of our time together in India. Scroll down for payment plans. Submitting payment indicates you agree to our liability waiver, cancellation, and COVID policies (in FAQ below).
ONE-TIME PAYMENT
200hr Online Teacher Training
+
India Retreat Training
Save $1045!!
ONE-TIME PAYMENT
500hr Advanced Online Teacher Training
+
India Retreat Training
Save $1095!!
ONE-TIME PAYMENT
300hr Advanced Online Teacher Training
+
India Retreat Training
Save $395!!
Buy the Online Teacher Training along with the India Retreat Training and save money. Start working on the teacher training now to get the most out of our time together in India. Submitting payment indicates you agree to our liability waiver, cancellation, and COVID policies (in FAQ below).
Register now to secure your spot! Submitting payment indicates you agree to our liability waiver, cancellation, and COVID policies (in FAQ below).
6 MONTHLY PAYMENTS
India Retreat Training
Immediate access to extensive online course materials (print, web, audio & video) for your preparation and ongoing home practice! Including:
- Our Sacred Sanskrit Sounds online course ($697 value)
-One 40 day Mantra Meditation course of your choosing ($147 value)
6 MONTHLY PAYMENTS
India Retreat Training
Supervision of practicum requirements (optional)
Online trainees may count hours towards certification.
Extend your retreat (and your teacher training hours!) at this all day, every day platform for musicians and sound healers at the world-renowned International Yoga Festival! There'll be healing sound baths, music therapy, kirtan chants, Indian classical music, and mantra meditation galore, curated by Anandra and run by Heart of Sound volunteers.
March 8 - 14, 2023
India Cancellation Policy:
There is a non-refundable $350 administrative fee. Students will receive a 75% refund of remaining tuition if requested 120 days or more before the course, and a 50% refund if requested after 120 days. No refunds will be issued less than 60 days in advance.
Venue Change for Unforeseen, Last-minute Events:
In 2020 we had to move our India retreat teacher training online because a global pandemic was declared. Obviously we'd all hate for that to happen again! But if some major unforeseen event were to happen again that put everyone's safety at risk (i.e. a new major COVID variant of concern (as defined by the WHO); a heatwave, earthquake or other climate-related danger; or political unrest with Pakistan or China, etc.) we will refrain from meeting in-person and instead meet online. By sending your registration payment, you agree to this aspect of the cancellation policy as well.
Health Consideration Agreement:
We hope that COVID numbers will be low at the time of the retreat and we can enjoy singing freely without covering our mouths and noses.
We will consistently err on the side of caution, meeting or exceeding current official government guidelines and recommendations from leading epidemiologists to protect the vulnerable among us.
There are 3 levels of Covid consideration we have to mention:
In order to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, we'll consistently err on the side of caution. The retreat training can only meet its potential if everyone remains healthy! If serious illness is spreading, it puts a huge damper on our time together.
HOS Community Health Agreements
-Take a rapid test daily each morning before practice
-Wear a mask in the classroom if community spread is high
-Wear a mask around other students, in your room with your roommate, and in the classroom at all times, if you feel the slightest bit sick.
-Stay in our student bubble and mask up when in close contact with people outside our bubble
-Take meals “to go” and eat outdoors or in your room if risk is high
-Remove yourself from the class or practices altogether if you are feeling ill or have virus symptoms (fever, cough, sneezing, etc.)
NOTE: There are medical clinics and a large AIMS teaching hospital nearby Rishikesh, but quality of care may not match your expectations and getting to/from can be inconvenient. (Services are much more limited in the remote Himālayas.) Best to be prepared yourself!
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Parmarth Niketan Covid Policy as of May 2022:
(SUBJECT TO CHANGE - Please see parmarth.org for any updates.)
Despite the fact that India has reopened and many of the steps taken by the State and Union governments have been suspended, we at Parmarth still remain vigilant about Covid-19 and continue to do our part to ensure the health and safety of our Parmarth Parivar – our saints, sevaks, residents and guests. The protocol that we follow is not complicated, and we greatly appreciate your assistance in helping us to practice it.
We will have you sign the liability waiver before the retreat training.
WAIVER OF LIABILITY, RELEASE OF LIABILITY, AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT
Anandra George PO Box 922 Kilauea, HI 96754
Read this Agreement carefully.
Assumption of Risk: I have voluntarily applied to participate in the retreat, training, class or workshop to include yoga, mantra, physical training activities and counseling/mentoring in which I have registered. I am voluntarily participating in this activity with the knowledge of the numerous risks and dangers involved, which include but are not limited to: dangers and risks inherent in doing yoga, a physical activity and traveling to India; negligence in any manner on the part of Anandra George; emotional trauma; disfigurement; temporary or permanent disability, including paralysis; death; acts of God; the hazards of traveling in remote, unsafe or politically unstable areas or under unsafe conditions; the dangers of civil disturbances and war; forces of nature; transportation failures; equipment failures; accident or illness in remote places without access to medical facilities, transportation, or means of evacuation and assistance; unexpected events; terrorist activities, social or labor unrest; mechanical or construction failures or difficulties; diseases; local laws; climatic conditions; abnormal conditions or developments; or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside of Anandra Georges’ control.
I understand that all travel arrangements to and from India are my responsibility and at my own cost. Anandra George and agents shall not be held liable for any consequences arising from delays or cancellations in any of the companies I have made arrangements with, or for any irregularities in my documentation required for travel. Transfers to/from the retreat are at my own cost, unless otherwise specified.
I acknowledge that yoga, mantra, physical training, activities and counseling/mentoring in high altitudes entails known and unanticipated risks which could result in physical or emotional injury, paralysis, death, or damage to myself, to property, or to third parties. I understand that such risks simply cannot be eliminated without jeopardizing the essential qualities of the activity. The risks include, among other things: Acute Mountain Sickness(AMS) which can further escalate to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE); exposure to the natural elements can be uncomfortable and/or harmful; exposure to potentially dangerous wildlife, insects, plants, falling rocks, landslides, accidental slips and falls on snow, ice and mountainous sections is also a possibility.
Furthermore, I understand Anandra George agents are qualified, but have difficult jobs to perform. They seek safety, but they are not infallible. No one can predict the weather, the elements, the terrain or altitude sickness with 100% accuracy. I am cognizant of the basic safety rules and instructions concerning these yoga, mantra, physical training activities and counseling/mentoring activities. I also understand that I am responsible for the safety and good operating condition of any equipment while I use such equipment.
Preparation: I assume full and complete responsibility for physically preparing for the yoga, mantra, physical training activities and counseling/mentoring as prescribed in the eligibility criteria of the activity. Representation of good health: I certify that I am in good health, have no medical, mental, physical conditions that affect my ability to travel and/or participate in the retreat, training, class or workshop has not been advised otherwise by a medical practitioner. I acknowledge that Anandra George is in no way responsible for any costs related to my medical care during or after the retreat. Training, class or workshop.
Release of Liability: As lawful consideration of, and as part of the payment for, the right to participate in the retreat, training, class or workshop, and as part of the payment for the services arranged for me by Anandra George or her agent, I HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR MY OWN WELFARE AND ASSUME ALL OF THE ABOVE RISKS, INCLUDING BOTH THOSE KNOWN AND UNKNOWN TO ME.
As lawful consideration of, and as part of the payment for, the right to participate in the retreat, training, class or workshop, and as part of the payment for the services arranged for me by Anandra George or her agent, I HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD HARMLESS FOREVER Anandra George, affiliated entities, employees, agents, representatives, officers, directors, associates, volunteers, successors and assigns from and against any liability, actions, causes of actions, debts, suits, claims and demands of any and every kind and nature whatsoever which I now have or which may hereafter arise out of or in connection with the retreat, training, class or workshop with Anandra George.
I AGREE THAT THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT SHALL SERVE AS A COMPLETE RELEASE AND EXPRESS ASSUMPTION OF RISK for myself. It is my intention to fully assume all risks associated with this retreat, training, class or workshop and to release Anandra George from any and all liability to the maximum extent permitted by law.
Indemnification: I further agree to “indemnify” (meaning to defend and to pay or reimburse) Anandra George against any claim by any person, including minors, arising in whole or in part from an injury or other loss suffered or caused by me in connection with the expedition or my participation in the retreat, training, class or workshop. Agreement with the safety protocols on the retreat, training, class or workshop I understand that there are chances that I may feel the effects of altitude sickness and oxygen deprivation while on this retreat. I am aware that the trainer may deem it unsafe for me to continue doing yoga, mantra, physical training activity or counseling at any time, and arrange for me to descend to a lower attitude.
I understand that I have been advised that travel insurance is highly recommended, but not required. If I choose to buy insurance I will make sure that the travel insurance covers the activity of this retreat as well as unexpected cancellation, sickness, losses and all the usual risks. I will bring the policy with me in case of an emergency.
Knowing and Voluntary Execution: I have carefully read and understand the provisions and legal consequences of this agreement, and I hereby agree to all of its conditions. I agree that if any portion of this agreement is found to be void or unenforceable, the remaining portions shall remain in full force and effect.
I understand that in calculating the cost of the retreat, training, or workshop, Anandra George has relied on my consent to these terms and their enforceability. Without this agreement, Anandra George would not be able to offer these services. I agree that execution of an electronic transmission of this agreement shall be deemed execution of the original agreement.
I agree that electronic transmission of an executed copy of this agreement shall constitute acceptance of this agreement.
Signed____________________________Date___________
Further, I release Anandra George (and agents) to utilize images and/or video of me for use in promotional or teaching materials.
______I require Anandra George to check with me before using my image/video.
______Anandra George may use images/video of me per her discretion.
Signed____________________________Date___________
Yes and no.
Our primary purpose of gathering is to enjoy our practices together.
There is a training element, as multiple levels of teacher trainees will be present and growing their skills.
However, no foundational lectures or basic skills classes will be offered during this retreat. The core curriculum for the Heart of Sound training is much more effectively offered online, where trainees can absorb at their own pace.
If you review the schedule above, you'll find several opportunities to nerd out with fellow trainees and get support from Anandra and the teaching team.
If you're currently enrolled in the (online) teacher training, this will be an extraordinary delight!
If you wish to get teacher training level content, please enroll for the Online Teacher Training now and get a head start before arriving to Rishikesh. (Save money with a package deal for the online TT + India Retreat Training)
We'd recommend getting to at least Phase 8 of the Self-Study Map for the 200hr program before arriving to Rishikesh.
Note that internet may be unreliable and slow in India, so don't plan to be able to access streaming video content or download large files.
Yes! We would love to have you attend the retreat only. You will have lots of free time in the schedule to enjoy āśram life on the banks of Mother Gaṅgā.
To make the most out of the practices during the retreat training, we request that you complete the following prior to attending:
Lodging is not included in the retreat price. Information on accommodation and how to book your room can be found in the (free) Prep Course, scroll to the India section FAQs.
Basically, you'll contact Parmarth Niketan Āśram by emailing their reservations and make sure to tell them you are a part of Anandra George's Heart of Sound Retreat. Their process may be a bit wonky, but if you're with us you will have a room. You can pay them directly when you are there. Rates for rooms are very affordable.
Please refer to the Self-Study Map for the certification requirements for your level of training.
This retreat offers an opportunity to attend group practices and count those towards your hours.
If you wish to self-motivate to do so, you may also do buddy practices, chant experiments, and present your practicum in small groups with other students. We envision a rich environment of learning as trainees try out their leadership skills on each other!
We'll provide OFNR feedback forms if leaders wish to get feedback (required for final practicums).
There are an abundance of unique chant leadership opportunities on offer for teacher trainees in Rishikesh, see the India section of the Prep Course for more info.
Organization
We'll provide signup sheets for the time slots on the schedule, and you'll be responsible to self-organize with other motivated students.
Supervision
200hr trainees at the stage of final 30-minute practicums, or 300hr trainees at the stage of 2nd 45-minute or final 90-minute practicum should sign up in plenty of time for someone on the teaching team to be present to observe and give feedback.
Cost
There is no additional training cost for currently enrolled online TT students to utilize the in-person retreat for their group practice attendance + practicum requirements.
The International Yoga Festival is happening and the dates are March 8-14.
If you have the bandwidth for the glorious madness that is the International Yoga Festival, it'd be lovely to attend following our retreat training.
Several of the HOS team will be leading practices and workshops (including magical daily sunrise Morning Rāga and Mantra on the Ganges with Anandra!), which may also count towards your TT attendance hours.
Nightly "Family Kīrtan Hour" would also be a platform for TT students to share a song for the participants (and count that towards their 300/500hr TT practicum as well)
If you choose to stay for IYF, you will register for IYF separately on the festival website. Registration is now open. If you're registered for our retreat we'll send you a Heart of Sound discount code.
If you'd like to help (and have Parmarth cover your lodging, food, and festival fee), we may also still need Sacred Sound Stage volunteers to help run it, and if not, volunteers are always welcome at the festival! Volunteering is a full-time job for the 7 days of the festival, but it's fun!
Yes, but it's more informal than the Rishikesh retreat training.
It's likely that Anandra and a few companions may drive to a most magical āśram 8 hours North towards the source of the Ganges for rest, relaxation, hiking, and personal sādhanā after the Rishikesh events end.
Morning meditations on the giant quartz crystal rock in the Ganges are worth the drive! :)
Can I count it for my TT hours?
No formal classes or group practices will be offered, though spontaneous devotional music is likely to occur.
We'll bring a pared-down sound system in case anyone is inspired to offer a chant session. Teacher trainees are welcome to work on their requirements together and offer practicums, workshops, etc. Anandra will be available by request for Office Hours / Q&A, and to observe final practicums as her schedule permits. (However, she will not be delivering primary content lectures for the training; all of that is online.)
People may choose to take day trips to lakes, hot springs, or an overnight to Gangotri (close to the source of the Ganges).
We have no fixed dates (and don't plan on making any until much closer to the event), but we'll leave 4-5 days after the Rishikesh events end and be up there for at least 2 weeks.
If you're a teacher trainee or personal friend, as well as a seasoned traveller who is comfortable rolling with uncertainties in remote places, and would like to request permission to join us, please email us.
It is not a hosted retreat or travel tour, and you'd be expected to be entirely self-sufficient for your travel arrangements and personal daily schedule.
If your dates coincide with Anandra & team, we'll be happy to share a ride with you on our mini-bus / van.
A typical day might be:
Sunrise mantra on "the rock" alone, or silently with other āśramites
Breakfast and tea served by the staff
Hike around the villages and forest
and/or self-study TT material, practice your musical skills, do TT enrichment activities with a buddy, etc.
Lunch served by staff
Nap, reading, relaxation, stretching
or more study/practice
or hike
Afternoon tea served by staff
Evening ārti for sunset
or Kīrtan open mic
Dinner served by staff
Kīrtan open mic
Quiet time, to bed by 9
Yes, we offer monthly free Yoga of Sound chant experiences and always hang out afterwards to chat. That's probably the easiest way to connect.
Register for the next event here!
Be sure to take the Prep Course as many of your questions (and lots you never thought of) are answered there.
Or email [email protected]. We can invite you to online sessions times to chat with Anandra, or answer your questions by email.
Be sure to take the Prep Course as many of your questions (and lots you never thought of) are answered there.
Or email [email protected] and we'll try to help you.
Between the FAQs & the Prep Course, we've probably already answered your question! However, if you're into sound healing and want training in the power of mantra and nāda yoga, we want to connect!
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