Where to Deepen Your Spirituality in India

Some people believe that we all have our own psychic abilities buried deep within ourselves. It is simply a matter of getting in touch with that side of our psyche and slowing down long enough to hear ourselves think. What would yourself tell you? An ashram may very well be one of the greatest places on Earth to learn to sit in peace, and listen to the amazing conversation between our mind and our spirit.

What is an Ashram?

These quiet reprieves are dotted throughout India’s mountainous regions and forests. The secluded locations offer a peaceful environment for anyone who is seeking true enlightenment and inner tranquility. Usually founded and led by a teacher called a guru, these ashram leaders teach their seekers yoga, meditation, peacekeeping exercises and counsel on matters of the spirit.

The Guru

It seems that as humans we are destined to be led through life by our ego. A guru’s sole purpose is to guide us on the path to divinity instead of the selfish ego. It seems gurus are almost clairvoyant and can see things in us that we do not, and guide us down roads we did not even know existed. A guru can give us the knowledge we need to be a better version of ourselves—a higher version. Come on, who doesn’t want to be the absolute best they can be? Below are just a few of the many places in India where you can find true spiritual enlightenment.

Sathya Sai Baba Ashram

The strict spiritual leaders teaching in this ashram focus on a belief in God, moral living and being kind and helpful to others. It is located in Puttaparthi, which is northeast of Bangalore. Unlike most others, this ashram does not focus on one particular religion; rather, it allows its followers to believe in whichever path they have already chosen. As well, the courses offered are centered around pathways to God through singing, chanting and spiritual conversations.

Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram

The leader of this incredible ashram is often called “Hugging Mother” and “Amma, the Mother of All”. She focuses her teachings on love, compassion, the lack of love in the world and how we can restore it in ourselves and others. As well, her love is evident to all she meets, and her disciples have devoted their lives to serving the world. It is located in Kollam, Kerala, which is north of Trivandrum. Their courses include meditation, prayer and servicing the community.

Ganges River

What trip to India would be complete without a trip to the most sacred water source in the country? The Ganges River has been the focus of love and admiration in Hindu culture for thousands of years. They believe it to be the healing water of the gods and deeply value the rituals they perform with even the smallest amount of the religious liquid. Although heavily polluted and not too advisable for swimming, it is a beautiful, spiritual sight to watch the people who so highly revere it.
Whether you are seeking to heighten your buried psychic and intuitive abilities or just learn to slow down and be peaceful, India has many spiritual places to offer. Your mind is a vast, limitless pool of information—most of which is untapped. How far into your spirit and mind would you be willing to go?

Jane, psychic from England and tarot reading expert.