12-Day Meditation & Pranayama Immersion in Varkala, India

A 12 day residential meditation and pranayama program in Varkala, Kerala, India

The gift of learning to meditate is the greatest gift you can give yourself in this life.

Sogyal Rinpoche
Tibetan Dzogchen Master

12 day residential program

6 days of structured silence and 6 days of interactive practice

Part of TTC

This program is the first phase of the 200-hour teacher training

Multi-style meditation

Wide array of meditation, pranayama, asana techniques

Varkala, Kerala, India

Practice in a peaceful surf town near the Arabian sea

From €900

All-inclusive for the full program

3 January 2027

to 24 November 2026

A 12-day meditation immersion for practitioners ready to go deeper

The 12 Day Meditation & Pranayama Immersion at Omunity Meditation is a residential program in Varkala, Kerala, India, for practitioners who want to move beyond surface level practice and into sustained, structured inner work.

Over 12 days of daily meditation, pranayama, supportive asana, philosophy, and six days of noble silence, you will build a meditation practice that cannot be built in a weekend, an online course, or a drop-in class. This program is designed for people with some prior experience in meditation or yoga who are ready for daily discipline, silence, and self inquiry within a non-dogmatic, multi-tradition framework.

This is the same program that forms Phase 1 of our 200H Meditation & Pranayama Teacher Training in Varkala. The curriculum, the teachers, the structure, and the depth are identical. The only difference: here, the focus is entirely on your own practice. There is no teaching component, no certification, and no expectation beyond showing up fully, every day, for 12 days.

The immersion as the first step toward Yoga Alliance certification

This immersion covers the same ground as Phase 1 of the 200H Meditation & Pranayama Teacher Training at Omunity Meditation in Varkala. If during or after the program you feel called to continue into teaching methodology, you can join Phase 2 and complete the full Yoga Alliance RYS 200 certification.

Learn more

What you'll gain from 12 days of intensive meditation and pranayama

This immersion is designed to give you both depth and stillness. Here is what the 12 days are built to deliver.

A wide toolkit of meditation & pranayama techniques

Practice meditation techniques from yoga, Zen, non-dual, and tantric traditions, alongside classical pranayama practices like Nadi Shodhana, Kapalabhati, Bhastrika, and Ujjayi. You will learn the mechanics of attention, awareness, and concentration, and understand which technique serves which state of mind.

A foundation you can build on

Whether you continue into the full 200H teacher training, return to daily life with a stronger practice, or simply carry what you have learned into how you move through the world, this meditation immersion gives you a foundation that holds. The techniques, the discipline, and the self knowledge stay with you.

A stable, personal daily practice

Through 12 days of consistent morning meditation, pranayama, and asana practice, including six days of structured noble silence, you will move from effort to ease. The immersive residential format in Varkala, Kerala allows your practice to settle in ways that shorter programs, weekend workshops, or online meditation courses simply cannot replicate.

A deeper relationship with yourself

Through guided self inquiry, journaling, philosophy study, and sustained silence, you will develop the kind of inner clarity that does not come from reading about meditation. It comes from doing the work, day after day, without distraction. Six days of noble silence create the conditions for genuine introspection.

This program is designed for you if...

This program asks for commitment and dedication. Read through the points below and see whether they resonate.

You want to go beyond asana and explore the subtler limbs of yoga, including meditation, pranayama, pratyahara, in a serious, structured environment

You are ready to commit to 12 days of daily practice, including periods of silence and device-free living

You want hands-on tools and techniques you can apply in your own life

You want to step away from daily life and give yourself the time and space to practice consistently, without rushing back

You are looking for a multi-tradition, non-dogmatic meditation program rather than a single method or lineage

You're willing to meet habitual patterns and inner resistance directly, within a supportive structure

Curriculum: meditation techniques, pranayama, philosophy, and creativity

The curriculum is structured around the Eight Limbs of Yoga, within a modern, tradition-agnostic, non-dogmatic framework that integrates practice, study, and self reflection. Meditation and pranayama are at the core. The following elements are pillars that recur throughout the 12 day immersion in Varkala, Kerala.

Meditation Techniques & Traditions

Meditation is explored through a broad, non-dogmatic lens. You will be introduced to techniques from multiple traditions, giving you different entry points into practice and helping you develop clarity about your own. The aim is mastery of each technique and a clear understanding of its benefits and when to apply it.

Techniques covered include:

  • Yoga meditation traditions (Dharana, Dhyana)
  • Metta and loving kindness
  • Self inquiry
  • Nonduality
  • Zen-inspired practices
  • Walking and movement-based meditation
  • Nada Yoga and visualisation
  • Creative meditation

and more.

Pranayama Techniques & Traditions

Breath is the bridge between body and mind.

In this pranayama course in Kerala, you will study classical yogic breathing techniques in depth. Not just how to practice them. But how and why they work.

Some examples of techniques you will learn: 

  • Nadi Shodhana
  • Kapalabhati
  • Bhastrika
  • Ujjayi
  • ...

You will understand prana, the subtle body, nadis, and energetic regulation. You will study the physiological effects of breathwork on the nervous system. When to stimulate. When to calm. When to balance.

Through daily practice, you will develop mastery, sensitivity, and precision. You will leave with the ability to design structured pranayama sequences for meditation, yoga classes, or private sessions.

Yoga asana for meditation

Daily Hatha yoga classes are designed with one purpose: to prepare the body for meditation. The focus is on postures and techniques that support seated practice, breath awareness, and nervous system regulation. You will not be training for advanced postures. You will be training a body that can sit still.

Classes draw from:

  • Hatha and restorative approaches
  • Yoga Nidra
  • Postures specifically for meditation
  • Bandhas and mudras
  • Jala Neti (nasal cleansing)
  • Kriyas

Sense withdrawal & self-inquiry

Six days of the training are obligatory silence days. No devices, no social conversation. Silence is the core environment in which meditation deepens, and this course gives you structured exposure to it so you can learn to use it as a tool rather than endure it as a condition.

Alongside the silence days, this part of the curriculum includes:

  • Eating meditation
  • Walking meditation
  • Ethical self inquiry (Niyamas)
  • Journaling and self study
  • Group discussions and workshops
  • Optional Seva (service) opportunities

Philosophy & history of meditation

This module covers the intellectual and philosophical foundations of meditation practice. You will explore the major traditions that shaped the methods taught in this training:

  • Advaita Vedanta and Sri Vidya
  • Classical Yoga and Hatha
  • Zen
  • Buddhism
  • Taoism

You will also study the yogic map of the human being: Panchakoshas (the five sheaths), Pranas, nadis, and chakras. These are taught as working frameworks for understanding your own practice and explaining it clearly to future students.

Psychology & Neuroscience of meditation

This module looks at what contemporary research shows about meditation and pranayama: how sustained practice affects the brain, nervous system, and behavior, and where the evidence is strong versus where it is overstated.

The goal is to give a scientific understanding behind meditation. Research is growing, especially recently on this exciting topic.

Anatomy & biomechanics of meditation

Covers the physical mechanics of seated postures, breathing, and the conditions that support or obstruct long-term practice. The approach is applied: you will learn enough anatomy to understand what your students are experiencing in their bodies and adjust your teaching accordingly.

1:1 mentoring

Every day throughout the training, you will have the opportunity to sit with a mentor for individual guidance and coaching. Whether you have questions about your personal practice, your progress, or what comes next, there is space for it.

Support does not stop when the training ends. After graduation, students continue to have access to 1:1 mentoring as they begin building their teaching practice.

A day in the life at the Omunity Meditation Immersion 

This is a sample schedule to sketch an idea of what you can expect a day to look like during this program. It may be susceptible to changes.

06:30 - 07:00
Sunrise & Kriya
07:00 - 08:00
Pranayama & Meditation
08:00 - 09:00
Yoga Asana
09:00 - 10:00
Silent Breakfast
10:00 - 13:00
Theory / Workshop
13:00 - 16:00
Silent Lunch & Self - Reflection
16:00 - 18:00
Workshop
18:00 - 19:00
Meditation
19:00 - 20:00
Silent Dinner
20:00 - 21:00
Meditation
22:00 - ...
Lights off

Omunity Meditation was founded by a community of yoga and meditation teachers who kept encountering the same gap...

 while many yoga teacher trainings focus heavily on asana, and while traditional ashrams often follow a single method, there was little room for a structured yet non-dogmatic program dedicated to the deeper practices of meditation and pranayama. This training was created to fill that space: a dedicated environment where practitioners can step away from daily distractions, commit to practice within a supportive structure, and explore multiple traditions without being confined to one.

Meet your teachers

Here to guide you in your journey to you. Our teachers are highly qualified, with at least 7 years of experience in their respective field of expertise. Above being carefully selected for the training, they are also themselves deeply inspired and practitioners of meditation & pranayama.

Devvrat

Meditation & Philosophy

Abhishek

Pranayama & Asana

Jadu

Anatomy & Meditation

Louise

Meditation

Explore other meditation programs at Omunity Meditation

Whether you want the full teacher training path or a shorter, silence-focused retreat, Omunity Meditation offers programs for different stages and intentions.

Extend the meditation immersion to 21 days and learn to teach as well.

6-day silent retreat

Get back to yourself in full silence.

Residential campus & accommodation in Varkala, Kerala

The training will take place in Varkala, Kerala. The heart of Ayurveda, Kalari and more spiritual practices. Omunity Meditation is located close to the Arabian Sea, in the centre of Varkala. An oasis, only reachable by long stairs, offers a place of peace and calm, while being easy to get to.

What's included in this program

What’s not included: Transportation to and from the campus, visa

All classes

Accommodation for 12 days on the Omunity campus in Varkala

Vegetarian Sattvic buffet meals, three times daily

Course materials and reading resources

1:1 mentoring with experienced meditation teachers

Welcome kit and equipment

Tea and filtered water throughout the day

Pricing and accommodation options for the 12-day immersion

All prices are all inclusive: accommodation, classes, meals, mentoring, and course materials.

10% discount

Twin shared room

Twin shared room and private bathroom. AC optional

1100
10% discount

Private double room

Private double room with private bathroom. AC optional.

1350

Upcoming immersion dates in Varkala, India

New dates are added regularly. Programs run during Kerala's dry season (October to March).

Apply for the Meditation Immersion here

Fill out this short form to start your meditation & pranayama journey. Our admissions director will personally review your application and get back to you within 24 hours.

Note: Applying is free, non-binding, and helps you secure your place early for your preferred month. Any questions before applying? Contact us here.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior meditation experience to join the 12-Day Immersion?

Some prior exposure to meditation or yoga is helpful, but you do not need to be advanced. The program is designed for practitioners with humility and commitment, whether you have a few months or several years of experience. What matters most is your willingness to show up daily for 12 days of structured practice and silence.

Do I receive a certificate after completing the immersion?

No. The 12-Day Meditation and Pranayama Immersion does not include certification. It is a practice program, not a teacher training. If you decide later that you want to teach, the immersion counts as Phase 1 of the 200H Teacher Training at Omunity Meditation. You can join Phase 2 after the immersion without repeating any content and earn your Yoga Alliance RYS 200 certification.

What is the difference between this immersion and the 200H Teacher Training?

The 12-Day Immersion is identical to Phase 1 of the 200H Teacher Training. The curriculum, teachers, and daily structure are the same. The difference is that the immersion focuses entirely on your personal practice. There is no teaching methodology, no certification, and no exam. If you want depth without the teaching path, this is the right program. If you later decide to teach, you can continue directly into Phase 2.

Can I join the 200H Teacher Training after completing this immersion?

Yes. The immersion is Phase 1 of the 200H Meditation and Pranayama Teacher Training at Omunity Meditation. If you complete the immersion and decide to continue, you join Phase 2, which is nine additional days of teaching methodology, without repeating any content. Upon completion of Phase 2, you receive your Yoga Alliance RYS 200 certification.

How is this different from a vipassana retreat?

Vipassana retreats, such as those in the Goenka tradition, follow a single meditation method in complete silence for 10 days. This immersion draws from multiple traditions and is not bound to a single method. You will practice techniques from yoga, Zen, non-dual, and tantric traditions, as well as classical pranayama. The program includes six days of structured silence, daily Hatha Yoga, philosophy lectures, group discussion, and 1:1 mentoring. The approach is broader, more varied, and includes interactive learning alongside silent practice.

How is Omunity Meditation different from a traditional ashram?

Traditional ashrams typically follow a single lineage, teacher, or method. Omunity Meditation is a meditation school, not an ashram. The curriculum draws from multiple traditions including classical yoga, Zen, non-dual, tantric, and Buddhist practices. Every day follows a clear schedule with defined learning objectives. You receive 1:1 mentoring, study philosophy and anatomy alongside practice, and live in a comfortable residential facility in Varkala, Kerala.

Is this a wellness retreat or a relaxation program?

No. This is a structured meditation and pranayama program with early mornings, a full daily schedule, and six days of silence and living without devices. It is designed for learning and practice, not leisure. If you are looking for a spa experience, massage, or an unstructured holiday, this is not the right program.

What does noble silence mean in daily practice?

Noble silence means no speaking, no phone use, and minimal eye contact during designated silence days. It is a deliberate practice tool, not a punishment. It allows you to observe mental habits and reactions without social or digital distraction. During silence days, you still attend scheduled classes and share meals with the group. The silence is held within a supportive structure.

What should I bring?

Comfortable, modest clothing for yoga and meditation practice. A reusable water bottle. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for walks in the Kerala sun. Yoga mats, props, and all creative supplies including journals and drawing materials are provided by Omunity Meditation. A detailed packing list is shared after your booking is confirmed.

What is included in the price?

The fee covers 12 nights of accommodation on the Omunity Meditation campus in Varkala, three vegetarian Sattvic meals daily, all meditation, pranayama, asana, and philosophy classes, course materials, and 1:1 mentoring. Transportation to and from the campus and visa costs are not included.

How much does the 12-Day Immersion cost?

The immersion is priced by accommodation type. A private single room with a shared bathroom and no air conditioning is €900. A twin shared room with a private bathroom and air conditioning optional is €1,100. A private double room with a private bathroom and air conditioning optional is €1,350. All prices are all inclusive. A 10% early booking discount is available on all tiers if booked at least 90 days in advance.

What is the refund and cancellation policy?

The €300 deposit is not refundable. If your plans change and you inform us at least 30 days before the program start date, your deposit can be transferred to a future training date. The remaining balance is due before the program begins. If you leave mid-course, no partial refund is issued.

Yoga mats, props, course materials, and creative supplies (for the retreat) are provided by Omunity Meditation.

You will be asked to store your phone and digital devices during silence days.

A detailed packing list will be shared after your booking is confirmed.

How do I book my spot?

Fill out the application form on this page. The application is free and not binding. Once you receive your confirmation, you secure your place by paying the €300 deposit. Your preferred accommodation and dates are confirmed upon receipt of the deposit. The remaining balance is due before the program begins.

What visa do I need to travel to India?

A tourist visa is sufficient. We recommend applying for a 60-day tourist e-Visa, which gives you comfortable time to travel before and after the program. A 30-day e-Visa is also valid. When applying, list sightseeing as your purpose of visit. Do not apply for a student visa or mention yoga training. Most European passport holders can apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. Apply at least three weeks before your departure date.

Is there ongoing support after the immersion ends?

Yes. After the program, you join an ongoing online community with weekly check-ins to support your continued practice. You will have access to a WhatsApp community with regular updates, inspiration, and encouragement. 1:1 online mentoring with your teachers is also available for any further support you need.

Any other questions? Feel free to contact us here.

From the Omunity Meditation journal

Articles on meditation techniques, pranayama, yoga philosophy, and the practice of teaching. Written by members of the community at Omunity Meditation in Varkala, India.