Sivananda Lineage

A living tradition of wisdom and service

The Sivananda lineage is a stream of knowledge passed from Guru to disciple. It begins with Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh, a saint known for his kindness, clarity and tireless service. His main disciple, Swami Vishnudevananda, carried these teachings across the world and opened the first Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres and Ashrams.

This lineage continues in India and in many countries today. Every class, every chant and every act of service carries the blessing of this simple tradition: serve, love, give, purify and meditate.

Swami Sivananda

Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate

A doctor by profession and a spiritual teacher by nature, Swami Sivananda lived a life of compassion. His words were simple and his purpose was steady. He taught that the goal of life is to realise the Self and that this is reached through steady practice and a pure heart.

Highlights of his teaching

  • Live a life of service
  • Keep the mind calm and clear
  • Practise kindness in thought, word and action
  • Bring Yoga into daily life

Swami Vishnudevananda

Health is Wealth. Peace of Mind is Happiness. Yoga shows the way

Swami Vishnudevananda was sent by his Guru to spread Yoga in the world. With deep discipline and a joyful spirit, he brought classical Hatha Yoga and Vedanta to thousands. He founded the Teachers Training Course and created Ashrams and Centres that continue to serve students today.

Highlights of his mission

  • Bring classical Yoga to all
  • Train sincere seekers to teach
  • Live with discipline and devotion
  • Work for peace and unity

The Teachings Today

The teachings of the lineage are practised every day in the Sivananda Ashrams and Centres. Students experience Yoga in a simple and direct way. They learn to care for the body, steady the breath, focus the mind and open the heart.

How the teachings flow today

  • Daily satsang and mantra chanting
  • Classical Hatha Yoga classes
  • Karma Yoga and community life
  • Study of Yoga philosophy and self-discipline

The Four Paths of Yoga

A complete way to grow through action, devotion, knowledge and meditation.

The Five Points of Yoga

A practical guide to health, balance and inner strength.