Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Berks County, Pennsylvania, Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram is quietly reshaping what it means to live a spiritual life in today’s world. More than just a yoga center, the ashram serves as a nonprofit sanctuary for both local and global communities, supports meaningful causes, fosters creative solutions and encourages inclusive spiritual exploration.

“We are an interfaith, inclusive space root ed in the principles of Sanatana Dharma— a universal perspective of truth, goodness, service and nonviolence. The work we do is summoned by our sincere calling to make the world a little more welcoming, a little less intimidating, and life more radiant and peaceful,” explains Swamini Shraddhanan da Saraswati, affectionately known as SwaminiJi. Founded in 2015 by SwaminiJi and her husband, Ed RamaChandra Allitt (now deceased), the ashram is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, with offerings available both in person and online.

One of the ashram’s most beloved offerings is chanting—a practice rooted in yogic tradition. “The music and mantras are filled with messages of love and peace,” SwaminiJi observes. “We teach mantra from the beginning. We start with the history, work through the pronunciation and cultivate the bhav, the sweetest intention of devotion.” SwaminiJi personally leads the chanting training programs, which focus on either a traditional method called veda or a more modern approach. “When we chant, we witness people relax—their faces and nervous systems soften. It’s transformative physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.” Chanting is offered both online and in person. 

For those seeking an in-person experience, the ashram offers wellness and themed retreats, professional trainings in leadership and yoga and serene outdoor spaces—including a koi pond, meditation path and labyrinth, library and several spots for personal quiet time. “Mindfulness and quietude are important,” SwaminiJi emphasizes. “Our silent retreats, offered by donation twice yearly, provide people with an opportunity to explore both."

The ashram is deeply committed to sustainable living and is increasingly off-grid. T he original structure was built in 1932, and an additional wing was added in 1954. Since acquiring the property, SwaminiJi has overseen the installation of HVAC units to offset heating oil use; a solar system that generates up to 130 percent of the ashram’s energy needs; two geodesic green houses and 54 outdoor raised garden beds to support food production; and a café that serves wholesome, gluten-free, vegan food, offered by donation. 

“The human heart is constantly looking for ways to heal through connection— with ourselves, with Source and with each other. We serve others to ease the incessant searching and empower the actual discovery,” SwaminiJi reflects. “May there be more places of peace, more spaces for healing.”

Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ash ram stands as a powerful reminder of our inherent potential as humans to explore, rediscover and empower spiritual growth, purpose and unity. 

For more information about Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati and Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram, located at 17 Basket Rd. in Reading, PA, call 484-509-5073 ext. 1 or visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org. ❧

---