TOTAL KNOWLEDGE:
Bringing the Gita to Life
May 3-8, 2026 | Hilltown Commons
Rensselaerville, NY
About this program:
Together with our friends at Hilltown Commons, we’re delighted to welcome back Ravi and Sheela Shankar of Yoga Nidhi for a five-day meditation retreat exploring the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita.
Through an immersive study of Chapter 2 of this sacred text, students will engage with the heart and essence of Krishna’s teachings. Often described as the chapter that contains the entire Gita in condensed form, it offers timeless guidance on dharma, purpose, devotion, and inner mastery.
Together, Sheela—a master chanter—and Ravi—an expert in yoga philosophy and asana—will guide participants through all 72 verses, using chanting, inquiry, physical postures, breathwork, and meditation to illuminate core themes including:
The true nature of the atma, the eternal Self
Dharma and sva-dharma, or one’s personal purpose
Karma Yoga and acting without attachment
Bhakti (devotion), discipline, and mastery of the senses
The qualities of one who lives with steady wisdom
Each day blends study with yoga asana, pranayama, and meditation, offering a grounded and accessible way to live with courage, devotion, and discernment.
Your Teachers
Learn more about the retreat, including tuition, sample schedule, and a deeper look at Ravi & Sheela’s bios through our partners, Hilltown Commons: