‘The first lesson to be learned from Yoga is to lead a dedicated life. If you are dedicated in life, you will always be peaceful and joyful.”
– Sri Swami Satchidananda, founder of Satchidananda Ashram–Yogaville
Summary Overview
Sections A and B define behavioral guidelines that support our spiritual growth and living harmoniously together. Section C describes our commitment to a safe and supportive environment that honors diversity and equity. Section D describes the reporting and resolution process if any problem should arise.
Section A: Statement of Purpose
Our Mission is to practice, live and impart the Integral Yoga teachings of Sri Swami Satchidananda to experience supreme peace and joy, and to share that peace and joy with one and all.
Satchidananda Ashram–Yogaville is committed to maintaining a safe, supportive and peaceful environment that fosters spiritual growth for all who work, serve, live, visit or participate in programs, retreats and trainings. Toward that end, we have a Code of Conduct as well as some related documents. Ultimately our aim is to achieve the Goal of Integral Yoga.
Section B: The Goal of Integral Yoga: Explanation and Application
The Goal of Integral Yoga, and the birthright of every individual, is to realize the spiritual unity behind all the diversities in the entire creation and to live harmoniously as members of one universal family. This goal is achieved by maintaining our natural condition of: a body of optimum health and strength, senses under total control, a mind well-disciplined, clear and calm, an intellect as sharp as a razor, a will as strong and pliable as steel, a heart full of unconditional love and compassion, an ego as pure as crystal, and a life filled with supreme peace and joy.
What follows is a point-by-point examination of the Goal.
The goal of Integral Yoga, and the birthright of every individual, is to realize the spiritual unity behind all the diversities in the entire creation and to live harmoniously as members of one universal family.
We are all united as members of one universal family inclusive of all people across race, color, faith, gender identity, national origin, disability, age and sexual orientation. With the motto “Truth is One, paths are many” we recognize the rich diversity in the world’s faith and spiritual traditions, as expressed in the Light Of Truth Universal Shrine (LOTUS). We appreciate the uniqueness of each person and respect each other’s approach to the Divine. All the life forms of the entire creation – animals, plants, and the elements – form an integral part of the Cosmic Balance. By uniting with our inner peace and reaching out in service to others and the environment, we contribute to world peace and harmony.
Section C: Ensuring Non-Discrimination and Non-Harassment at the Ashram
Ashram leadership does it’s best to ensure that all those visiting, serving or living at the Ashram are able to enjoy an atmosphere free from sexual or other inappropriate conduct, harassment and retaliation. A safe, supportive environment is further ensured by all striving to follow the expected conduct, as outlined in the Ashram Lifestyle Principles. Failure to abide by the expected conduct includes unwanted or inappropriate physical contact, sexual advances and other inappropriate behavior or harassment of a sexual or aggressive nature.
The Ashram is committed to maintaining a space that honors diversity and equity. We prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, color, faith, sex, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, or status in any group protected by law, in compliance with federal, state and local regulations.
Section D: Reporting and Resolution Process at the Ashram
Anyone may initiate the reporting process. If you believe you have witnessed or been subjected to inappropriate or unwanted behavior, sexual or other harassment, or discrimination, that has not been adequately resolved, please notify the Ashram’s Human Resources Department at humanresources@yogaville.org.
Our complaint and grievance process provides that complaints be promptly and impartially investigated in a compassionate and professional way. If the unwanted behavior is confirmed in the investigation, prompt and effective action will be taken to remedy the situation. The complainant will be assured that an environment free from harassment has been restored and that there will be no retaliation of any kind toward anyone who has participated in the investigation.