Yoga Kulam - A Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat in Southern California

Introduction

Yoga-Kulam, the name itself expresses a family of yogis. We are a family or community of awakened souls. That's why our mission is to bring back the greatness of our ancient vedic and scientific practices for happy and prosperous living by implementing the yogic and ayurvedic principles in daily routine.

Yoga-Kulam brings the awareness within the community to commit ourselves and again put the next step to get into the holistic life based on the learnings given and dig deeper for understanding the self then accordingly choose the correct path or practices.

A brief summary of the Feb 22 and Feb 23 event

Overwhelming community response to Yoga Kulam – a yoga and ayurveda retreat for the first time in the SoCal region. It was hosted at Aum Spiritual Center in Hemet, CA.

There were 35+ participants on 22-Feb and 60+ participants on 23-Feb. Both days were planned for 2 hours of 2 yoga sessions and 3 hours of 2 ayurveda sessions which consisted of an individual's prakriti parikshan and explanation of each prakriti as well as ways to balance it to live with a healthy mind, body and behavior. Also participants got chance to interact with our experts:

MahaMandaleshwar, Swami Advaitananda Giri Ji, Chairman, International Meditation Foundation, Los Angeles

Professor Vandana Baranwal, BAMS, MD (Ayurveda-BHU), Founder of AyurveDatri LLC - Women Wellness Solutions, also Founder and President of the Ayurveda Association, Ohio.

Dr Sonika Laskar Desai Ji, Ayurvedic Vaidya (BAMS), CPT, CMT. Founder of Ayuskaam Ayurvedic wellness center, Los Angeles.

We started the day with check-in and nutritious breakfast including herbal tea. After that we participated in 4 hours guided yoga and meditation sessions including 15 mins herbal tea break then at the middle of the day delicious lunch (catered) served. Second half of the day's 4 hour sessions were dedicated to theoretical and practical aspects of Ayurveda for our fast paced daily lives. Yoga and meditation sessions were guided by Swami Ji for both the days. Ayurveda sessions were conducted by Dr Vanadana Ji on Saturday and Sunday, and Dr Sonika Ji joined and took sessions on Sunday.

There were over 100 individuals total for this Yoga Kulam event both days (8 AM to 5 PM).

It was a great experience for everyone, the community is eagerly looking for such education of self cure which will ultimately create a healthy and happy Samaj/World.

Glimpse of the sessions:

Guided Meditation: A Path to Mental Clarity and Relaxation

Guided meditation is a structured form of meditation where an instructor or an audio guide leads the practitioner through visualization, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. It helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and enhance focus. Through deep breathing and mindfulness, guided meditation creates a state of relaxation that allows the brain to improve creativity, deep learning, and emotional stability. Regular practice improves concentration, enhances self-awareness, and reduces mental fatigue, making it an effective tool for emotional and cognitive well-being.

Memory and Brain Kriya: Yogic Techniques for Cognitive Enhancement

Brain Kriya consists of specific yogic techniques and breathing exercises that help activate and optimize brain function, enhancing memory, mental clarity, and neural efficiency. Pranayama (breath control) techniques like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing), Bhramari (humming bee breath), and Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath) boost oxygen supply to the brain, improving neural connectivity and cognitive processing.
In addition, Trataka (candle gazing) is a powerful yogic practice that strengthens concentration and memory by training the mind to focus on a single point.

Regular practice of guided meditation and brain kriyas leads to better memory retention, heightened awareness, reduced stress levels, and an overall sense of mental balance. By integrating these practices into daily life, one can achieve improved cognitive function, enhanced creativity, and long-term brain health while reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

Ayurvedic learnings

Dincharya, or the daily routine in Ayurveda, is designed to align the body's natural rhythms with the cycles of nature, promoting overall health and well-being. An ideal day begins with waking up early, preferably before sunrise, during Brahma Muhurta, which is considered the most peaceful and spiritually uplifting time. This is followed by elimination, oral hygiene, and cleansing practices such as tongue scraping, oil pulling, and nasal care to remove toxins accumulated overnight. A warm oil massage (Abhyanga) nourishes the skin, improves circulation, and balances the doshas, preparing the body for light exercise or yoga, which enhances flexibility and vitality.

Bathing follows, refreshing the body and mind, and is succeeded by a nourishing yet light breakfast. The main meal of the day is consumed at noon when digestive fire (Agni) is at its peak, ensuring optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. Post-lunch, a short walk aids digestion and prevents sluggishness. The evening is reserved for relaxation, introspection, and light activities, followed by an early and easily digestible dinner. Finally, sleeping by 9-10 PM supports the body’s natural repair processes and maintains the circadian rhythm.

The importance of Dincharya lies in its ability to create discipline, balance, and harmony within the body and mind. By following a structured daily routine, one can enhance digestion, immunity, mental clarity, and emotional stability while preventing lifestyle-related disorders. It helps maintain the balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, ensuring that energy levels remain stable and health is preserved across all seasons. Regular adherence to Dincharya leads to longevity, vitality, and a profound sense of well being.