In challenging times, the true nature and power of the heart can be obscured by the weight of doubt, fear, sorrow, and the distractions of daily life. Winter blues, endless scrolling, and the pressures of modern life leave the heart feeling heavy and burdened. But what if we could pause, reflect, and reclaim our heart’s sacred brilliance?
Through our intention, the practice of yoga and meditation, and faith in our courage, clarity, and compassion—we can rediscover the heart’s innate power to heal, transform, and inspire.
Join us in the serene embrace of nature and a supportive community of like-minded practitioners to celebrate your own heart and its profound ability to awaken joy, resilience, and love. Guided by ancient wisdom and timeless yoga practices, you’ll uncover the heart’s sacred grandeur and its limitless potential.
What to Expect:
- Physical Yoga Practice: Strengthen and awaken your inner intelligence, releasing the grip of suffering.
- Breathing & Pranayama: Reset your nervous system, reclaim your inner wealth, and restore faith in yourself.
- Meditation: Cultivate inner stillness, clarity, and deep love.
- Contemplative Practices: Reflect on sacred passages from the Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita, Mahabharata, and Devi Mahatmyam.
- Time for Stillness and Connection: Immerse in nature, joy, and the healing power of shared experiences.
Custom Styles
Supportive Guidance
Supportive Guidance
Shari Friedrichsen, with 50+ years of yoga experience, is a key facilitator of the Himalayan Institute’s Vishoka Meditation programs. A student of the Himalayan Tradition for over 25 years, her teachings blend asana, pranayama, meditation, and breath awareness to nurture body, mind, heart, and soul.
Sacred Space
Sacred Space
The Sri Vidya Shrine serves as the spiritual heart of the Himalayan Institute campus. This spiritually-awakened sacred space is ideally suited to silent meditation and group spiritual practice, which has been a cornerstone of the Himalayan Tradition for thousands of years. The Sri Vidya Shrine is open to seekers from all spiritual traditions.
Award Winning Center
Award-Winning Center
For over 50 years, our stunning 400-acre campus in the Poconos has been a gathering place for people from around the globe seeking inspiration, healing, and inner balance. USA Today recently honored us as the #1 Yoga Retreat Center in the nation. Come savor for yourself the goodness our campus and community provide.
Nourishing Vegetarian Meals
Nourishing Meals
Our nutritionally balanced vegetarian meals are consciously prepared with the intention to nourish body, mind, and spirit. Our three daily meals are designed to be easily digestible and to support a meditative lifestyle. Meals are a catalyst for community and deep nourishment.
Rest in Nature
Rest in Nature
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Poconos in North East Pennsylvania, the Himalayan Institute’s 400-acre park-like campus offers breathtaking views, scenic hiking trails, and peaceful spaces for reflection and contemplation. Walking is a favorite activity here, either on our groomed hiking trails or on our meandering paved roads.
Wellness Center
Wellness Center
Our Pure Rejuv Wellness Center offers integrative health services and therapeutic treatments designed for accelerated healing, disease prevention, and long-lasting vitality. Explore our many Massage Therapy services and book your appointment. The Shirodhara Treatment is our most popular service, and is an excellent way to allow your mind to arrive here fully.
Treat Yourself
Treat Yourself
Our Himalayan Cafe offers the Institute’s signature chai tea, coffee, and homemade cookies and treats on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The Tea Lounge is open 24/7 for self-serve hot teas. The Moka Origins Factory, located on campus, is open daily from 9-4 and serves handcrafted, ethically sourced chocolate and coffee products. Free tours and tastings on Saturdays.
