"The ashram is a place of inner freedom. It belongs to all - be they pious, scholarly, foolish or spiritually inclined. All come with the hope of overcoming the consequences of their past deeds and deriving positive benefits. The whole purpose of an ashram is to cleanse the mind of the impurities which creep into it with worldly pursuits and to fill it with peace."

Baba Muktananda

The ashram is the form of a Saint manifested in a way that makes it easier for us to become established in the experience of divine consciousness. It functions to guide us to that continuous moment of consciousness where, by the unspoken feeling of our heart, life's meaning and purpose illumines us.

Though the ashram's visible form is the land and its structures, its invisible form is pure awareness. While its audible voice is the sound of mantras, its inaudible voice is the unspoken sound. And just as its tangible centre is the temple, its intangible centre is the cave of the heart.

We do not find in the temple (mandir) of peace (shanti) the grinding workings of an inorganic organization but the living pulsation of the spirit of all, ever open to those who seek to know and experience the truth and meaning of their existence.

"An ashram is not a mere brick and mortar structure; but a manifestation of the divine power of god where devotees come to deeply immerse themselves in their sadhana."

Mahamandaleshwar Swami Nityananda

Each of the ashrams offers a simple lifestyle, free of everyday distractions and indulgences, providing quietude for study of the ancient scriptures, contemplation of the divine, and exploration of one's inner life, truth and purpose.

Daily activities take place at set times with sacred rituals, chanting and meditation at sunrise (before breakfast), near noon (prior to lunch) and at sunset (after dinner). The remaining time is generally filled with the offering of service helpful in the running of the ashram, study, physical exercise and personal tasks. The balance is perfect for immersion in spiritual life.

Anyone can live in any of the ashrams, for as short or long a period as they choose, and are free to come and go at any time. There is a contribution for enjoying the ashram's traditional Indian vegetarian food, accommodation and lifestyle.