Where are you located?
Our Headquarters is located in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy of the USA® is situated in a serene, wooded setting on a 400-acre campus near Honesdale in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Directions are posted here or can be obtained through MapQuest or similar services.
When was the Institute founded?
The Himalayan Institute was founded in 1971 to teach yoga and meditation as systematic means for developing consciousness and increased awareness of Self in the individual.
What is the Himalayan Institute all about?
Combining the best of Eastern wisdom and Western knowledge, the Himalayan Institute offers a wide variety of seminars and programs in hatha yoga, meditation, yoga philosophy, psychology, holistic health, hatha yoga teachers training and other related subjects.
I'm new to yoga--are any of your seminars appropriate for me?
Many of our seminars are appropriate for the beginner who's interested in finding out about yoga, as well as for the more experienced yoga practitioner who would like to enrich and inspire their yoga practices. For details on seminars, see our calendar.
What style of yoga do you teach?
The Himalayan Institute Tradition is rooted in Raja Yoga. Raja yoga (often called ashtanga or the royal path) incorporates eight separate steps into its practice. The first two steps are the yamas and niyamas (moral restraints and constructive observances). Asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises) are the third and fourth rungs on the ladder of raja yoga. Pratyahara (sense withdrawal) and dharana (concentration) are the fifth and sixth steps in this path. The final two steps are dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (higher consciousness.) Raja yoga is the understanding, control and mastery of your mind. It is a science and a way of life, not a religion.
When are your seminars held?
Our seminars are generally held on weekends. They begin Friday evening and end with Sunday lunch. You may arrive anytime after 2:00 p.m. on Friday; check-out is 2:00 p.m. Sunday. See our calendar for seminars and additional details.
What is a typical weekend seminar schedule?
Friday P.M.
4:45 Hatha yoga class
6:15 Supper (light meal)
7:30 Lecture
10:00 Silence observed until 8:00 am
Saturday A.M.
6:30 Hatha yoga class
8:00 Breakfast
10:00 Lecture
12:30 Lunch (main meal)
3:30 Practicum
6:15 Supper
7:30 Lecture
9:00 Chanting
10:00 Silence observed until 8:00 am
Sunday A.M.
6:30 Hatha yoga class
8:00 Breakfast
10:00 Lecture
12:30 Lunch (main meal)
Departure
What are your rooms like? Do they have a private bathroom?
Our typical guest rooms are simply furnished with two twin beds, sink, desk, closet and medicine cabinet. Toilets and showers are down the hall. We have a few rooms available with a private bathroom, for an extra charge.
Is it possible to stay for an extra day or two before or after a seminar
Yes, the extra days would be your own private retreat rather than a structured program. The cost would be the cost of accommodations, which includes a private room, three vegetarian meals a day, and hatha yoga classes daily at 6:30 a.m. and Monday through Friday at 4:45 p.m.
Can I bring my young children along?
The Institute's programs are designed for adults, and our guests generally are looking for an atmosphere conducive to a quiet retreat. However, we do have a limited number of spaces in our Guest House (located on our campus outside the main building) which can accommodate families. Call for availability and charges. Please note that the Institute does not provide childcare.
Can I bring my pet(s)?
The Institute does not have the facilities to care for your pet, but we will be happy to supply you with a list of local kennels.
What credit cards do you accept?
We accept Visa or Mastercard.
What is your fax number?
570-253-9078