Reopening soon

Mind and Body

location
2 - 2 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Outstanding 5  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Below average response rate

Highlights

  • Uncover yoga’s ancient South Asian roots, and how its age-old practices compare to the new global phenomenon.
  • Learn about spirituality by the banks of the mighty Ganga.
  • Challenge yourself and hike into the Himalayas, the majestic mountain range that has inspired many of India’s spiritual traditions.

Highlights

  • Uncover yoga’s ancient South Asian roots, and how its age-old practices compare to the new global phenomenon.
  • Learn about spirituality by the banks of the mighty Ganga.
  • Challenge yourself and hike into the Himalayas, the majestic mountain range that has inspired many of India’s spiritual traditions.
  • Explore Tibetan Buddhism practices and how spiritual pursuit interacts with service through practical exploration of “seva”.
  • This program will help you find the tradition that inspires you to develop and build your own practice of meditation, yoga, or other wellness practices!


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Explore the South Asian roots of yoga and meditation and the effects of globalization on these ancient traditions.

    Yoga and meditation have become global phenomena. These millennia-old practices have evolved to fit modern lifestyles, create new patterns of consumption and commercialization, and define new ideas around well-being. This modernization has been so rapid that it’s easy to forget that these are ...

    About the program

    Yoga and meditation have become global phenomena. These millennia-old practices have evolved to fit modern lifestyles, create new patterns of consumption and commercialization, and define new ideas around well-being. This modernization has been so rapid that it’s easy to forget that these are Indian traditions. Our Mind & Body program will explore the true and ancient roots of yoga and meditation while also exposing the effects of globalization on culture and tradition.

    Our volunteer programs take a learning-first approach. We combine an educational program with collaborative community service so that travellers can explore the local history, context, and challenges while contributing to local solutions. Here are some of the community projects we will be involved in on this program:

    Parmarth Niketan is an Ashram situated in the banks of the holy Indian River Ganga, where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place. As an important contemporary spiritual centre, Parmarth is engaged in many spiritual and interreligious activities, as well as addressing social and environmental issues in and around Rishikesh. They frequently host special cultural and spiritual programs given by visiting revered saints, acclaimed musicians, spiritual and social leaders and others.

    Tibet World is an incredible organization with the goal of supporting the Tibetan Refugee community, and with a particular focus on creating dialogue between Tibetans and the rest of the world. They do this through a variety of methods, from free language courses, to cultural events, to the workshop they’ll be running for us, designed specially for the Mind & Body programs, as an opportunity to support Tibet World’s growth into new areas that more directly speak to its mission!


    Typical day

    * This is a preliminary itinerary. The final itinerary may change a little based on the needs of our partners and new opportunities which present themselves. This should give you a really good idea of what the program will look and feel like.

    Day 1-2: Orientation at the Ganga

    After your arrival in ...

    Typical day

    * This is a preliminary itinerary. The final itinerary may change a little based on the needs of our partners and new opportunities which present themselves. This should give you a really good idea of what the program will look and feel like.

    Day 1-2: Orientation at the Ganga

    After your arrival in Delhi, we'll get out of the hustle and bustle of the big city and head straight to Rishikesh for our orientation. In one of India's holiest cities, we'll settle in and acclimatize to our new surroundings on the banks of the Ganga. The eastern edge of Uttarakhand, often referred to as 'Land of the Gods', has been a centre of spiritual practice for hundreds of years and will be the perfect place to begin our Mind & Body adventure. 

    Day 3-7: Exploration and Ashrams in Rishikesh

    Over the next 5 five days, we'll explore the diversity of traditions practice and taught in Rishikesh. We'll engage in meaningful and thought-provoking discussions with people who are trying to tackle the question of how modern, ancient, secular and religious traditions fit together and inform each other. We'll also enjoy a number of daily meditation and yoga classes, of course! 

    From there, we head over to the Parmath Niketan Ashram for an exploration into how these ancient spiritual centres function today. We'll also have time to hang out by the Ganga, wander the often-crowed streets of Rishikesh, and soak up this holy city which many Indians may only visit once in a lifetime, if at all.

    Day 8-9: The Dhauladhar Challenge

    After an overnight bus ride, we'll arrive in Dharamsala with a few hours to get ready for our first big physical challenge. Triund is the crown of Dharamsala and a rite of passage for travellers to the region. The ridge gentle wraps around the beautiful Dhauladhar range that rises above it providing incredible views of the mountains above and Kangra Valley below. 

    We'll being our 10 km/6.2 mi. climb in Mcleod Ganj at 2,082 m./6,830 ft., passing mixed forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron before ascending to the camp of Triund. If we're feeling particularly adventurous, we'll continue on up to the snowline at about 3,400 m./11,154 ft. It's going to be an unforgettable adventure that will simply take your breath away. Get ready to stand in complete awe of the Himalaya!

    Day 10-12: Tibetan Buddhism Practices in 'Little Lhasa'

    We will dive into the unique cultural side of Dharamsala to help us explore how Indian traditions have grown and changed in Tibet. During our time together, we'll have the opportunity to work alongside the Tibetan refugee community located around the Dalai Lama's temple in Mcleod Ganj. It'll be an enriching experience bursting with lessons. We'll get a first-hand look at how Tibetan organizations support the study and practice of these traditions while also applying them to community service. 

    Day 13-15: Disorientation

    After a jam-packed two weeks, we'll slow down for two days of "disorientation". A staple of every OG program, this is an opportunity to relax, unpack, and reflect on our adventure. We'll kick back together in Dharamsala for one more day, celebrating all our new memories, new friendships, and new perspectives on some of South Asia's most ancient traditions.

    We'll then travel overnight to Delhi for our final day together. In this busy metropolis, we'll pay heed to our practices and enjoy the sunset with a rooftop meal in Paharganj. Then it's off to the airport for some tearful goodbyes!

    Free-time activities

    When we aren’t learning and working with our incredible grassroots partners, we have planned all kinds of fun activities and excursions to integrate ourselves in the local culture. We have also scheduled plenty of time for you to explore your own interests. 

    Some examples of activities:
    - A sunrise ...

    Free-time activities

    When we aren’t learning and working with our incredible grassroots partners, we have planned all kinds of fun activities and excursions to integrate ourselves in the local culture. We have also scheduled plenty of time for you to explore your own interests. 

    Some examples of activities:
    - A sunrise hike to a waterfall
    - White-water raft down India's holiest river
    - Early morning meditation class
    - An Ayurvedic cooking class

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Operation Groundswell

    Each of our programs include:

    • A comprehensive program itinerary and educational curriculum focused on the issues facing your specific region

    • Experienced, thoughtful and caring program leaders and facilitators with you 24 hours a day

    • All lodging and accommodations, carefully chosen to reflect the place and program

    • Three local meals a day 

    • All group tours, entrance fees, and excursions like cooking and language classes

    • All group transportation on the ground in vetted (and varied) modes of getting around

    • Regular discussions and workshops to help you internalize and reflect on your experience

    • Support from OGHQ whenever you need it, however you need it from financial assistance to flights

    Airport Pickup at Indira Gandhi International Airport

    Your program leaders will pick you up on the first day of the program at Indira Gandhi International Airport and transport you a short ways to our hostel in Rishikesh. Your program leaders will also drop you off at the same airport on the last day of program. 

    Accommodation

    With OG, you live like the locals. We will be sleeping and eating as a team in locally-run hostels, family homestays, and community guesthouses that reflect a backpacker’s ethos. Grassroots travel and homestays will allow us to fully immerse in the local culture, but life on the trail means living without some of the comforts to which we may be accustomed. Creepy crawlies are common, while comfy beds can’t always be guaranteed – so come prepared. Expect tents on the treks and cold days in the mountains! And, of course, be ready to share the wonders of life in India!

    Food & Beverages

    We provide at least three local meals a day that showcase regional cuisine from meals homemade by our friends to the favourite restaurant down the street, as well as all the potable drinking water you can drink. You are responsible for any other snacks and drinks. We do our best to accommodate for all dietary needs. 

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi. We assist you to find cheap flights to India. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for India provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in India you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for India. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    • DECEMBER 3 - DECEMBER 16, 2023
    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    2 weeks 1,980€
    Average fees 990€/week

    Program fees

    990€ per week 2 - 2 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 2 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Operation Groundswell during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Operation Groundswell

    Outstanding 5 rating (26 reviews)

    Agency - founded in 2016

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Below average response rate

    Coordinated by

    Evelyn

    About the project

    We go backpacking with a purpose! Our programs combine cross-cultural dialogue, critical learning, community service, and of course, travel and adventure!

    Meet your organization

    Is voluntourism helping or hurting what people called ‘the developing world’? Is there a way for visitors to positively contribute to local initiatives while also thinking critically about international development? What’s the best ice cream flavour, really?

    In 2006, we boarded a flight to Accra, Ghana seeking answers to these questions and so many more. When we touched down, we were hit with a barrage of sights, sounds, and smells that shattered our preconceived notions of the ‘global south’. Rather than stumbling into a crumbling landscape, we were greeted by a beautiful, bustling city, rich with culture and brimming with innovation.

    At the same time, we could see some of the challenges local communities were grappling with. Why does poverty continue to plague so much of the world while billionaires multiply and millions pour into international development projects that don’t seem to make a difference? We heard that governments, charities, and international organizations often pushed their own agendas without consulting the communities they said they were ‘helping.’

    We learned that projects were much more likely to succeed if they were carried out in collaboration with the community. Not as a handout, not as charity – but in solidarity.

    We started talking to local NGOs and community leaders about what their real needs were. We cultivated relationships with grassroots organizations, community leaders, and local governments. We began to build a program that wouldn’t just plop a volunteer into a project they knew little about. Instead, we would take a learning-first approach. We would combine an educational program with collaborative community service so that travellers could explore the local history, context, and challenges while contributing to local solutions.

    Since that first pilot program in West Africa, OG has run hundreds of programs in more than 20 countries around the world. With all of this experience, we have expertly designed programs that navigate the inherent risks that come with embarking on such an awesome adventure. We bring cool, caring people together who want to explore the world while actively learning to change it for the better. We’re sparking a movement of globally active and socially conscious travellers.

    Accessible, responsible and immersive travel is our mission. Go to our website to learn about our financial support options including our Financial Needs Grants that can cover up to 25% of your program fee.

    Email us to join our mail list or for the application for our Financial Needs Grant: mail@operationgroundswell.com.

    26 reviews · rating5

    Treva Appugliese rating5

    2017 at Mind and Body

    One of the most impressionable 2 weeks of my life will be the time spent in northern India with Operation Groundswell. After traveling several times with a volunteer abroad organization over the years I was initially drawn to OG’s “traveling with a purpose” message as that is something I ...
    Katherine rating5

    2017 at Mind and Body

    I enrolled on the India: Mind and body program without really knowing what to expect. I was simply hoping to be thrown out of my comfort zone... and oh boy, was I ever! OG puts a lot of emphasis on cultural immersion and traveling in a simple and humble way. So, our accommodations were modest and ...
    I will remember this trip for the rest of my life. My partner and I planned to go 2 years ago, we actually won an Instagram contest haha but it was cancelled due to COVID. We finally made it happen April 23 - May 1! I remember sitting in a coffee shop, submitting our applications and being both ...
    Susie Jones rating5

    2021 at Sustainable Agriculture in the Andes

    Over the course of 9 days I had an experience of a lifetime. OG provides experiential learning opportunities with off the beaten path adventures. I was able to be part of a dynamic group of individuals and explore a whole a new region abroad. I was able to live on a farm and live the slow life while ...
    Laura rating5

    2019 at Explore Mayan Culture

    Traveling with Operation Groundswell to Guatemala was truly one of the most valuable experiences I have had. I learned more in those 15 days than could ever be possible in my 4 years of University in a classroom setting. I have long been searching for a volunteer program that doesn't feel like the ...
    Lauren rating5

    2019 at Seed to Shelf

    As a fairly experienced traveller before my program with OG, I was worried that I wouldn't get a lot out of the program. I was worried I'd resent the group dynamic, that I wouldn't learn much, and that the promises of real and intimate connections with locals simply couldn't be achieved in this ...

    Location

    Asia > Southern Asia > India > Dharamshala

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