The Art and Science of Raja Yoga Course
Find lasting happiness? Remain calm in the face of challenges? Maintain physical and emotional well-being? Understand the value behind life’s experiences? The science of yoga is ancient, proven, universally true, and gives all this and much more.
You will learn how to apply the timeless principles of “Raja” (royal) yoga to every aspect of your life: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
This course is an immersion into the experience and understanding of Raja Yoga, during which we explore and experience the heart of how life really works and why.
When is the Raja Yoga course offered?
Raja Yoga is offered each Fall as a 1 week full-immersion program at Ananda Center at Laurelwood. Click here for the next program.
Enjoy living in the vibration of spiritual community, eating delicious, uplifting healthy cuisine and truly immersing yourself in the teachings and practices during this special week.
Art and Science of Raja Yoga Series – offered as a 14-week course at the Ananda Portland Temple and Teaching Center in Beaverton, OR. This format provides more time to integrate the lessons into your daily life over time and fits in with busy life and work schedules.)
The Value of Raja Yoga
Beginning with the history of yoga and the yogic view of what is happening on the planet right now, the course provides a thorough understanding how happiness and fulfillment can be found in today’s world. Experience meditation, yoga postures, breathing exercises, diet, health and well-being, stress reduction and more. Understand the power of affirmation to change our experience and perspective of life. See how energy and magnetism can be developed positively. Discover your inner anatomy and how subtle influences can be used to define your life more positively.
The art of applying these principles to daily life is challenging, endlessly inspiring and the purpose behind our existence. The course is filled with tools to help you deal with real-life situations in a way that reflects your highest self.
For those who are seeking the blessings of Kriya Yoga, the first two techniques in the system of Kriya Yoga, as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda, will be taught and explored in depth as part of this program: Hong-Sau, an ancient technique of concentration; Energization Exercises, a technique for increasing conscious awareness and control of divine life force.
“This is truly a life-changing program. I have more understanding about life and how to find enduring happiness and wholeness than I ever dreamed possible. Thank you for making this possible.” -EG
About the Raja Yoga Text

Topics from the Text:
- The History of Yoga and the Cycles of Time Explore the origins of yoga.
- The Paths of Yoga Yoga serves every individual.
- Patanjali’s Ashtanga Yoga Learn the steps of spiritual development that everyone must take on the path to spiritual awakening.
- Yama Explore the meaning of self-control. How can we use it to achieve our highest potential?
- Niyama Develop a deeper understanding of qualities such as contentment and self-study.
- Life is a Battlefield Learn about the law of duality, and how to take advantage of it. Develop inner peace in the midst of life’s chaos.
- Affirmations How do affirmations work? Practice techniques to help you break down subconscious blocks and achieve your goals.
Course Presenters

Nayaswamis Daiva and Gangamata
Approximate Course Schedule for Week-long Intensive
- Dinner 6pm
- Introduction 7pm
- Evening Meditation 9pm (optional)
- Yoga and Meditation Practices 6-8am
- Breakfast 8am
- Class 10am-Noon
- Noon Meditation
Lunch 12:45
- Afternoon Class or Activity 2pm
- Yoga and Meditation Practices 4:30-6pm
- Dinner 6pm
- Evening Program 7pm
- Evening Chanting and Meditation 9:00pm
- Yoga and Meditation Practices 6-8am
- Breakfast 8am
- Closing 10am-Noon
- Noon Meditation
- Lunch 12:45
Our Retreat Center
In the supportive and beautiful retreat center at Ananda Center at Laurelwood, you have the opportunity to explore your own understanding of life, see new possibilities and develop new habits that will bring you well-being and the experience of wholeness from within. Located southwest of Portland in a beautiful pastoral valley, there are numerous places to walk and connect with nature throughout our gardens, orchards, and grounds. Our guest rooms are simple, decorated to create an uplifting space to rejuvenate. Each room has its own sink with bathrooms just down the hall. Three delicious vegetarian meals each day are included as part of your stay.