Yasodhara Ashram Society in Kootenay Bay, BC is seeking apprentices for the 2020 growing season!
About Yasodhara Ashram Society
Yasodhara Ashram is a yoga retreat and study centre set on 115 acres in the beautiful mountains of southeastern British Columbia. We invite people of all ages and backgrounds to retreat with us and discover the promise of yoga!
Yasodhara Ashram has an organic mixed market garden, growing a variety of fruits and vegetables on 2.5 acres of land that has been in production for over 30 years.
The focus is on sustainability and stewardship of the land — from seeding to harvesting to preparation of food for serving in our on-site commercial kitchen and preservation of food for the winter months.
Our garden produces 20% of the food we eat, 11,000 meals out of the 55,000 we serve annually. Ashram menus are based on what is available seasonally from our garden. We also winter store, freeze, dry and preserve as much produce as possible.
In an aim to reduce our carbon footprint and support the local economy, the Ashram purchases vegetables, fruit, honey, eggs and cheese from local farmers and orchardists. We support many local growers through CSA programs (community supported agriculture) and work trade.
The kitchen-garden team keeps updated on food sustainability initiatives that are happening locally and globally. We are actively engaged in seed saving, companion planting, composting and permaculture principles. Our guiding ideal behind the garden is a reverence for life.
Read more about our food policy which is part of our commitment to sustainable environmental practices and consider how you could fit within our team.
Requirements & Tasks
Some gardening experience and familiarity with organic production methods is preferred but not essential. Important qualities are an open mind, a positive disposition and interest in living and learning within a spiritual community.
Students in education, agriculture, environmental sciences, and related fields are encouraged to apply.
Read more about individual programme requirements and tasks for the different apprenticeship streams:
Education
Take this opportunity to experience yoga and work in a truly transformative way! Founded on the principle of service, the Ashram is a living example of a generosity-based intergenerational community.
Learning Residents participate in Karma Yoga five days a week spending 75% of their time in their chosen area. You will receive the support of an Ashram liaison person, in addition to your area mentor. Weekly workshops, daily reflection, morning yoga classes, and evening satsangs enrich this program.
Additional Learning Resources
We have a library which has a wide range of material to support learning. We also have a well developed network of farmers and producers in the wider community.
Apprenticeship Details
Term: This is a three month position, with the opportunity to extend.
Intake dates are:
Mar 31 – Jun 22
May 26 – Aug 17
Jul 21 – Oct 12
Hours per Week: We practice Karma Yoga – selfless service – 5 days per week 6-8 hours per day
Room & Board
While these are not paid staff positions, they are spiritual and career/life development opportunities. Learning Residents receive meals and accommodation for the length of their stay, at a value of $1400 per month. Seasonal and primarily locally sourced meals are provided, with our kitchen able to cater to numerous dietary requirements.
Most rooms are shared with one other person and most bathrooms are also shared. All linens and towels are provided.
We encourage guests to remain on the property for the duration of the program to receive the maximum benefit from their time here.
A ‘day away’ each month (after the first month is completed)
A weekend course to be taken after three months (or within the third month)
How to Apply:
Download an application form here.
Deadline: Applications are accepted any time, please call if you have any questions: Shakti 250-227-9224
When applying, please indicate that you saw this posting at Youngagrarians.org.
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