International Art of Living Centre

Nourish mind, body, and spirit.

Canada Québec paid

The International Art of Living Centre in Québec offers a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern techniques for navigating daily life. Founded by humanitarian and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, this center was the first of its kind established by him in Canada, dating back to 1991. Visitors can immerse themselves in workshops designed to quiet the mind and foster presence, often featuring the powerful Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique. Set amidst the serene Mauricie region, the center provides a sanctuary for those looking to reconnect with nature and themselves, offering a holistic approach to well-being that extends beyond the meditation hall to include organic gardens, Ayurvedic treatments, and nourishing sattvic cuisine. It's a place where the art of living is truly nurtured and developed.

Highlights

Pioneering center, first opened by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Canada
Features the powerful Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique
Offers Ayurvedic massages at an on-site spa
Extensive organic gardens and orchards provide fresh produce
Delicious sattvic cuisine caters to various dietary needs

Good for

beginnersyoga practitionersnature loversstress reductionspiritual seekers

Setting

set in the pristine Mauricie region of Québec, the center is surrounded by numerous freshwater lakes and nature trails, offering a tranquil escape. The atmosphere is one of peaceful immersion in nature, complemented by extensive organic gardens and orchards that contribute to the center's holistic environment.

The practice

While the specific tradition isn't named, the center focuses on timeless wisdom and practical techniques to quiet the mind and foster presence. The core practice often involves the Sudarshan Kriya, a powerful breathing technique developed by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, designed to bring deep rest and inner peace. Beginners can expect workshops that are concise yet packed with insights for daily life.

A typical day

Daily life at the center revolves around structured meal times, with breakfast from 8:30-9:30, lunch from 13:00-14:00, and dinner from 18:00-19:30. Beyond meals, the schedule includes sessions in the serene meditation hall for yoga, meditation, and ceremonies, though the exact daily rhythm can vary by program.

Accommodation

Information about specific accommodation types is not provided, but the center offers a serene environment for retreat participants.

What to bring

Pack comfortable clothing suitable for yoga and meditation, as well as layers for outdoor activities in Québec's varied climate. Given the potential for spotty data signals, it's wise to bring offline maps or printed directions.

Address 13 Chemin de l`infinité, Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc, Québec, Canada

How to get there

To reach the center, set your GPS to 13 Chemin de L’Infinite, St-Mathieu-du-Parc, QC G0X 1N0. It's important to note that from Rte 351, you should not turn into Chemin du Lac Gareau. Instead, drive to the yellow sign at the center's entrance and turn onto Chemin de L’Harmonie, driving about 1 km to reception.

Nearest airport: Massena International Airport Richards Field (MSS) (20 km)

Airport transfer is available from Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), located 135 km away, for CAD 80 per person.

Nearest city: Massena

Languages

English

Pricing

Pricing starts from USD 39, with additional charges potentially applying depending on the program or services chosen.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food is served at the center?

The center serves delicious sattvic cuisine, and they are able to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, along with drinks.

Is the center suitable for beginners in meditation or yoga?

Yes, the center offers short, concise workshops packed with timeless wisdom and tried-and-tested techniques, making it suitable for those new to meditation and yoga practices.

What are the options for getting to the center from the airport?

The recommended airport is Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), which is about 135 km away. The center offers airport transfer services from YUL for CAD 80 per person.

What amenities are available on-site?

The center provides free WiFi, a spa offering Ayurvedic massages, towels, free parking, a kitchen, coffee/tea, a cafe, and a yoga studio. There's also an outdoor fire pit for cool evenings.

What should I bring for my stay?

Given the natural setting, comfortable clothing suitable for both indoor practices and outdoor walks on nature trails would be beneficial. As data signal can be spotty, it's recommended to save directions offline or print them out. Specific packing details may vary by program, so check with the center.