Embracing Silence Retreat

John Sellinger has been involved in yoga since early childhood, having practiced first under the guidance of his parents. While travelling the world continuously with his family from the age of one-year, yoga meditation and philosophy became a unifying force for them. In his late teens, he began serious and regular practice of meditation, which had a great impact on his life as a student in the medical field. From 2010 until recently, he lived in Rishikesh, India, in the ashram of his family’s spiritual guide, Swami Veda Bharati. During this time, he had the privilege of practicing under the guidance of many renowned teachers, with a focus on meditation and silence. He began teaching early on in India and continues to share practices and philosophy of the Himalayan Tradition with students in many countries. He now lives in Australia and Switzerland with his wife and young son.

Michael Kissener, born in 1953, is a self-described part-time hermit, lifetime student of the Himalayan Yoga Tradition and disciple of Swami Rāma of the Himalayas and Swami Veda Bhāratī. Michael is also a student of Tulku Kyabje Dzogchen Pema Kalzang Rinpoche - Kham, Tibet. From 1987-2019 Michael served as director of Yoga-Zentrum Innsbruck (Austria) as well as serving as director of EYU-500 Yoga Teacher Training and Advanced Teacher Training. From 1995-2001 Michael served as Chair of Yoga Austria - BYO (professional association of yoga teachers in Austria). From 1998-2009 Michael served as Austrian representative for the European Yoga Union (EYU). A few highlights of Michael’s experience in meditating practice and teaching include:  Over 45 years of experience in yoga meditation practice and teaching.  Intensive study of psychology and practice of Eastern and Western wisdom traditions.  Regular and extended periods of practice and study in India, Sri Lanka, and Tibet, among other places.  Many decades of experience in leading training and continuing education courses for yoga teachers, silent retreats, etc.  1987: Founded the Yoga Center Innsbruck  Served as chairman of YOGA AUSTRIA - BYO (Professional Association of Yoga Teachers in Austria) for six years during its early stages.  Long-time representative of Austria in the European Yoga Union (EYU).  Authorized as a mantra initiator in the tradition of the Himalayan Yoga Tradition.  Teaching focus: Adapting the psychology and practice of yoga meditation to the needs and abilities of the students