An Ashram in ancient
India was a
Hindu hermitage where sages lived in
peace and tranquility amidst
nature. Today, the term ashram is usually used to refer to an
intentional community formed primarily for spiritual upliftment of its members, often headed by a religious leader or mystic.Traditionally, ashrams were usually located far from human habitation, in
forests or
mountainous regions, amidst refreshing natural surroundings conducive to spiritual instruction and
meditation. Spiritual and physical exercises, such as the various forms of
Yoga, were regularly performed by the residents of an ashram. Other sacrifices and penances, such as
Yajnas were also performed. Many Ashrams also served as
Gurukuls or residential schools for children. The word ashram is derived from the
Sanskrit term "aashraya", which means protection.
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