“उद्धरेदात्मनाऽऽत्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्।”
Uddhared ātmanātmānaṁ nātmānam avasādayet — Bhagavad Gītā 6.5
“Let one uplift oneself by one’s own Self; let not the Self be degraded.”
Volunteer Research Program at Kaivalaya Ashram
At Kaivalaya Ashram, volunteers who join the Research Program are allocated a specific sadhana (spiritual practice) based on their Aadhar — the internal atmosphere or the unique qualities of their mind, emotions, and energy. This personalized approach ensures that each participant receives a practice that aligns with their current state of being and supports their individual growth.
What is Aadhar?
Aadhar refers to an individual's internal state, including their mental, emotional, and spiritual atmosphere. By understanding a person's Aadhar, we can assign them a sadhana that best fits their present condition, allowing for deeper, more effective spiritual work. This tailored approach helps participants connect more authentically with their practice, facilitating genuine progress.
Program Process
Once volunteers are allocated their sadhana, they will be grouped with 4 to 5 participants who are practicing the same sadhana. These small groups provide an environment of shared learning and mutual support. Each group will engage in their practice collectively, with a focus on consistency, mindfulness, and sincerity.
The practice period typically lasts for a set duration, depending on the specific sadhana. Throughout this time, participants will journal their experiences, track their progress, and reflect on the impact the practice is having on their peace, clarity, emotions, and overall wellbeing.
Group Sharing and Reflection
At the end of the practice period, each group will come together to share their experiences and insights. This sharing session serves as a space for participants to discuss how the sadhana has influenced their inner state and personal growth. The collective reflections provide valuable feedback on the effectiveness of the practice.
Based on the group's experiences, the method will be evaluated, and if it proves transformative, it may be shared with the broader community. This collaborative sharing ensures that only those practices that yield positive results are introduced to all, enhancing the Ashram's collective spiritual journey.
The Collective Cause
Through this process, every individual’s experience contributes to the collective cause of spiritual growth and transformation. The insights gained from each small group help refine and expand the practices offered at the Ashram. When a particular sadhana proves effective in fostering peace, clarity, and emotional balance, it is made available to the wider Ashram community, so that others can also benefit from its transformative power.