About Us
Who We Are
Our Motto is simple: Relax – Rejuvenate – Re-Energise!
Background
Ananda Sanga Educational Institute (ASEI) is an academic institute in South Africa dedicated to spreading the ancient Art and Science of Yoga to humanity. The Centre, in Somerset West, was started by Dr Anne & Dr Martin Combrinck in 1991.
Somerset West, which lies at the foot of the Helderberg mountains in the Western Cape, South Africa. Ananda Sanga, started in 1991, is inspired by he spiritual teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the spiritual classic “Autobiography of a Yogi“. We offer Kriya Yoga courses, based on the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda.
South Africa, Ananda Sanga maintains and honours the ancient yoga teachings, while making them relevant and practical in the present day and age, for the integration of “body, mind and soul. “
Our Vision and Commitment
# We are devoted to nurturing a path of Yoga that is inclusive, ethical, and rooted in unity – honouring all traditions, cultures, and communities with respect and reverence.
# Through high-quality, holistic yoga education and training – both nationally and internationally – we offer sincere seekers the timeless wisdom of Yoga. Our teachings guide each individual toward an integrated way of living, where body, mind, and soul move in harmony.
# While we hold the ancient teachings in deep regard, we also understand the needs of our modern world. With care and authenticity, we make these sacred practices accessible, relevant, and alive for today’s generation – so that Yoga may continue to uplift, transform, and connect us all.
Our Yoga Style
Our teaching style is spiritually based with Integral & Vinyasa Hatha Yoga traditions. This yoga teaching is that of classical hatha yoga within a framework of Integral Yoga, based on the teachings of Swami Sivananda (1887 – 1963) and the Vinyasa Krama principles of Sri Krishnamacharya.
Integral Yoga is based on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra and is all encompassing: – all religions, castes, creeds. Vinyasa is a flow style of yoga asana building up to a crescendo (most difficult pose in the class time), then calming down to relaxation, pranayama and yoga nidra. It uses synchronisation of breath, movement and mind resulting in a healthier person along with a perceptual shift of life and world.
What is taught to the student is relevant at that specific time, place, season/weather and age (Ayurveda principles). This means anyone can practice our yoga style. It is a practice that develops us from the inside, strengthening our weaknesses, supporting our emotions, and re-connecting us to universal consciousness or spirit.
