

Level 1: Foundations of Yoga
Realise your true individual path
Immersive in-person training course
Level 1: Foundations of Yoga
Course Length: 4 months
Study Method: Immersive, In-person
Course Fees/ Investment: No monetary fees apply for this course. This course is offered with purity of purpose and free from any commercial intent. Please read more here.
Course Overview
This course introduces the pursuit of self through the yogic perspective and modern neuroscience. Students will develop in knowledge of themselves, their purpose and passions, and the body-mind-soul complex through the ancient wisdom of the Astanga (Eight-Limb) Yoga system.
Self development with a particular focus on discipline, integrity, independent study, introspection, and selfless service will also be cultivated.
In reference to practical developments, students will grow in the practices of yoga, breath work, and meditation as well as cultvate healthy habits using behavioural science and nueroscience. This course includes both theory and practical classes. Students are expected to engage in a daily yoga practice.
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Course Details
Subjects:
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Astanga (Yoga & Meditation)
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Habit Creation (Neuro and Behavioural Science)
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Jyotisha (Vedic Astrology)
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Ayurveda (Vedic Science of Health and Healing)
Core Subject: Jyotisha (Vedic Astrology)
Facilitator: Andre Melis (Vedic Education, Advanced Yoga, Astrology, etc.)
Explore the deeper dimensions of who you are and what you're here to do, using the framework of Jyotisha, or Vedic Astrology. Although some principles for a fulfilled life are universal, much of your journey is uniquely personal. This course will guide you in understanding both.
You’ll begin by learning the foundational techniques and metaphysical principles of Jyotisha, gaining insight to map the rhythms of life and consciousness. As the course progresses, apply these tools to explore your own birth chart, uncovering key aspects of your personality, talents, strengths, limitations, and life direction.
This is not just a technical study of astrology, but a personal journey of self-inquiry and life orientation. By the end of the course, you will have a deeper understanding of yourself and how to align your choices with your unique nature and purpose.
Meet the Faculty
Principal: Andre Melis (Vedic Education, Advanced Yoga, Astrology)
Educators
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Aithne Ngo (Ayurveda)
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Crystal Chu (Astanga & Habit Creation)
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Christine Chu, Dean Boyle & Jahnavi Clark (Astanga)
Course Coordinators
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Aithne Ngo
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Crystal Chu
Administration & Counselling
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Malini Stultiens

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Course Fees / Investment
There are no charges for attending Govinda Valley Ashram & Yoga School courses. Our education is given freely - this includes free food and accommodation.
This is to ensure the full integrity of our project and teachings. We received this sacred wisdom from a lineage that spans thousands of generations from sages/monks that truly only wished for our happiness, growth and development.
Therefore, the teachers at Govinda Valley offer this knowledge also freely, following in the footsteps of their mentors who sought to see a world where everyone is their happiest, fullest and most authentic selves.
Our only request is that in return, all students make a sincere commitment to their personal growth, studies, service, and yoga practice.
To allow the scholarship nature of our courses, all students offer their support through 4 hours of service daily in the running of the ashram and our sister project Heart & Soul Retreats.
The only financial request is a student bond to ensure facilities and the learning context is well respected, which will be returned to the student upon course completion.
Apply to Study
Ideal Applicant
Committed to learning for a minimum of 4 months.
Genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to listen and learn, practice, and transform.
Keen to learn new skills as part of a daily practice in yoga, self-
development, and community engagement.
Serious about improving health and wellbeing - physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Prepared to observe the yogic rules and regulations for the duration of their stay, especially in regard to drugs, alcohol, and casual romantic relationships.
Committed to practicing a minimum of 28 hours of seva (selfless service) each week.
No previous yoga knowledge or practice required

What our students are saying
"I definitely believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience this beautiful
journey of self-discovery. At least once in their life, they should learn to confront
themselves and break free"
Sahar, 2024
"Doing so can have some profound positive impact on your consciousness, mind and body. Leaving you with more room within yourself to show up as the best version of you in every moment."
Ruby C, 2022
"I feel more clear-headed and purpose-driven than I’ve ever been.
Govinda Valley helped me find myself – the “me” that was always there but had gotten a little lost along the way – and for that, I’ll be forever grateful."
Jade Chen, 2018