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Who attends this program?People of all ages and from all walks of life come for our KYSS program. Some are fresh out of high school; some have ended their working lives and are looking for a change of focus in their retirement. Some have taken time out of their busy careers, while others are looking to reshape their lives after being laid off. People come to us from many different countries. In previous years, we have had applications from as far afield as Ghana, Switzerland, England and Japan, along with many from Canada and the United States. Most of those coming wish to strengthen their yoga practice – some have even taken a formal yoga teacher training program; but others come with little knowledge or experience of yoga. For some the experience of living in a working yoga community is the main attraction. All share the common desire to selflessly contribute their skills and life energy to the mission of the Centre: passing on the teachings of classical ashtanga yoga as taught to us by Baba Hari Dass.
What is the foundation upon which our community is built?
Our teacher, Baba Hari Dass, has been the inspiration for all that has been done at the Centre. Working together selflessly for the interest of the Centre is the basis of all we do and all that has been achieved in the thirty years of the Centre’s existence. When one strives to give up self-interest and works for a worthy cause in harmony with others, cheerfully and wholeheartedly, an atmosphere of peace, love, trust, and support is generated. This environment is the background for all who come, whether they are residents, karma yogis, program guests or day visitors and is the foundation for passing on the teachings of classical ashtanga yoga.
What kind of work will I be doing?
You will be scheduled for approximately 30 hours each week in your work department. In addition, there will be 3-5 hours of required meetings and classes. Work will be focused in one of the following areas: kitchen, housekeeping, maintenance , or landscaping. If you have a special skill to contribute, such as building, renovation, vehicle maintenance, plumbing, information technology or the like, you may be asked to focus your time in that area. Our needs vary with the time of year and the type of programs we are hosting. An extensive orientation to your department area will be given at the start of your stay.
How many classes will I be able to attend each week?
Our daily schedule includes a morning meditation followed by an asana class and a late afternoon asana class. There are usually other daytime asana class options also. In addition, we offer other programs, primarily in the evening, that include various aspects of yoga philosophy, kirtan, videos on spiritual topics, and occasional talks from guest speakers. Some people with particular skills may offer other classes of interest. In previous years, we have had spontaneous offerings of classes on creative writing, mandalas, art, even the making of sauerkraut and the carving of chopsticks! Other regularly-scheduled activities include the inspirational Sunday satsang, Wednesday night kirtan, and a weekly Bhagavad Gita discussion group.
Are participants given consistent days off?
You will generally have two full days off each week, but it is not always possible for these to fall on the same days each week.
Do I need to bring my car to the island?
You are welcome to bring a car to the Centre, but the great majority of people do not. The Centre is a scenic 40 minute walk from the island’s main town, Ganges. Bicycles are a very useful way of getting around, and we highly recommend that you bring one if possible. Public bus service on the island is limited but hitch-hiking is an easy and very popular option. It is also common to carpool with those who do bring a vehicle for outings such as group hikes. Many people choose to spend much of their time off at the Centre.
Will I have Internet access?
Yes. We presently have high speed internet with two communal desktop computers available for KY use. Some people choose to bring their own laptops, as wireless internet access is available in all the central areas. As a courtesy to guests and other residents, we ask that laptops not be used in the dining area.
Can I make phone calls and receive messages?
Yes. At the orientation, you will be shown the location of the residents’ telephone. Messages can be left for you at that number. Calls throughout Canada and the US are free to residents; you will need a phone card for other long distance destinations.
Where can I receive mail?
Our mailing address is: 355 Blackburn Road, Salt Spring Island, BC, V8K 2B8. Incoming mail will be placed in a box set up for KY participants, while outgoing mail can be left in our main office where stamps are available.
Can you tell me what to expect in regard to the food served at the centre?
Three meals are served daily to the community residents. When there are no programs running, meals are served at 8:45am, 12:30pm, and 6:00pm. During programs, residents eat the same meals as the guests, and meal times may be adjusted to suit program needs. The diet is lacto-vegetarian and does not include meat of any kind, fish or eggs. As practicing yogis, we also avoid the use of onions and garlic as they can over-stimulate the mind. While gluten-free and dairy-free options are available at all meals, those with serious food allergies should consult our kitchen manager before committing to the KYSS program. Where possible, all produce comes from our own organic farm; purchased food is almost exclusively organic. The Centre is well-known for the quality, nutrition, and taste of its cuisine, and residents are highly appreciative of the Centre meals.
