Indovedic Psychology - Centro Studi Bhaktivedanta

Courses
in
Traditional Indian Sciences
Ancient Indian Psychology and Yoga disciplines, Ayurveda, Literature,
Philosophy, Spirituality, History and Art merge
with modern scientific discoveries.
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A Dialogue Between Eastern and Western
Experiences and Cultures
Centro Studi Bhaktivedanta - Academy of Traditional
Indian Sciences - is a non-profit Cultural Association
(CSB). It was founded by Marco Ferrini in 1995 and
is headquartered in Tuscany, from where it operates all
over Italy and abroad. CSB aims to spread universal
wisdom and values that help people know themselves
deeper, improve and resolve crisis and problems they
may run into, whether such difficulties concern the
family, the existential and professional spheres or are
related to different individual and social areas.
CSB organizes courses, also Master (MA) and
Doctorate Degrees (Ph.D.), that are flexible and
accessible to everyone no matter what age, which
allow to obtain certificates and skills to be used also
on the professional level.
The courses offer practical tools for improving
the quality of life. They deal with issues such as:
“How to re-harmonize relationships”; “How to
Marco Ferrini, Ph.D. Psychology
manage thoughts and emotions”; “The role of the
will in the transformation of unconscious contents;
“Betrayal, resentment and forgiveness”; “Freedom
from loneliness and suffering”; “Working out
through grief”; “Awakening talents by discovering
your inner resources and the ones hidden in others”.
In addition to the Courses in Traditional Indian
Sciences (www.centrostudibhaktivedanta.org), CSB
offers the opportunity to attend courses of Relational
Counseling (www.csbcounseling.org) and Yoga
Teachers Training Classes (www.insegnayoga.it).
Further, the Academy edits books, videos and audios
(www.csbstore.com). It also plans conferences,
seminars and Study Travels to India (www.
viaggidellanima.com). CSB has been organizing about
thirty E.C.M. training events (Continuing Medical
Education) in the major Italian Hospitals. These
events have been accredited by the Italian Ministry
of Health as refresher courses for Psychologists,
Doctors and Healthcare Professionals. Centro Studi
Bhaktivedanta classes held at Universities, have
been validated by the Italian Education Authority
as training courses for teachers at all levels. By
communicating the millenary wisdom of the Indian
Tradition through a contemporary language and
adapting the methodology to today’s problems and
people, CSB opens a dialogue between Eastern and
Western disciplines with the purpose to offer an
holistic approach of knowledge for the development of
Human Potential.
Marco Ferrini (Matsyavatara das) is the Founder and President
of Centro Studi Bhaktivedanta and Director of the Academy of
Traditional Indian Sciences (www.marcoferrini.net).
Researcher and spiritual guide, he is the author of essays and books
and of an extensive audio-visual production on philosophy, psychology,
science, art and spirituality, based on the themes of Yoga and Bhakti
Tradition in the context of the millennial knowledge of the Vedas, the
ancient wisdom texts recognized as World Heritage by Unesco.
In his courses, conferences and seminars, he provides the tools to
rediscover the inner resources and enhance them for a significant
development on a personal and social level.
In 2012, Marco Ferrini was honored by the Dev Sanskriti University
with the academic title of Doctor Honoris Causa Ph.D. in Philosophy.
The President of India and Chancellor of the University have jointly
awarded the gold medal and honor certificate to Marco Ferrini.
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Choose your individualized
study plan to
Recover and develop your resources
Optimize your social and professional acknowledgement
Improve and integrate your culture
Improve your relational and communicative skills
Learn in good company
Approach higher states of consciousness
Obtain an academic degree
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CSB Courses aim at the development
of human resources, through the acquisition
of knowledge and practical skills.
CSB Courses are flexible and
accessible to all. They open up to a deep
exploration of one’s inner dynamics and
offer a comfortable home study with tutor
guidance, to the advantage of students with
social and professional engagements.
conflicts but aims at the discovery of
who we really are beyond all convictions,
acquired identities and behavioural models,
which give us a false perception of our
inmost nature.
Apart from the theory, the Courses
include seminars with readings, meditation,
small groups workshops and personal
meetings with teachers, to help us reconnect
Today there are several hundred
students in Italy and abroad, of diverse age
and preparation. In the teaching we also
use the knowledge of modern psychology;
however, the aim of the work is not limited
to the resolution of our psychological
to our real identity, often forgotten due
to the innumerable conditionings we
have suffered. This deep and satisfactory
communication can be used for our
progress, on a personal and social level.
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Subject Areas
Indovedic Psychology
The psychological tradition of India includes the sciences Ayurvedic and Yoga which favour a
concrete and harmonious development of personality on its physical, psychological and spiritual levels.
Balancing these dimensions of the being represents the necessary requirement for restoringvglobal health
and experiencing a higher consciousness.
Indovedic Psychology – Major in Ayurveda
An inborn healing intelligence rules over body and mind. It is aimed at maintaining and Reestablishing one’s physical and mental health and helping one to experience harmony and self-healing
energy.
The Course explores theoretical and practical aspects of ancient Indian natural medicine. It offers
a first and fundamental knowledge of Ayurvedic wisdom and science, nowadays rediscovered and all the
more applied also in the West.
Indovedic Philosophy and Literature
In Indian Philosophy we find the roots of all doctrines on man and the universe. The ancient
Vedic sages regarded Philosophy as the instrument to gain a holistic vision of the world and a life practice
leading beyond the transience of matter. Students are taken through a wonderful journey into a universal
knowledge, still representing the widest and richest expression of the human intellect and spirit.
Indovedic Architecture, Archaeology, History and Art
A modern overview of ancient Indian history and art, rich in events and symbols of inspiration to
the individual and collective consciousness of all times. The study of the continuously evolving historicalarchaeological research stimulates an exploration of the self, through the discovery of the powerful
archetypes, underlying the artistic universe of India.
Vaishnava Theology
Vaishnava Theology represents a very influential element in traditional Indian culture. This
polymorphous monotheism fascinates for the richness of its contents and for its ardent devotion to God.
Life is a journey, Knowledge is the Way, Love is the Goal
A path to develop health and latent inner qualities
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your Course
and study at home
Choose
Students can comfortably study at home, on CSB texts, cds, audio and video tapes. During
seminars, phone or on-line tutorials and through CSB web forum, they can benefit from the full
support of the teaching staff, who provides clarifications and analyses on the subject matters. A
personal tutor guarantees the didactic support during the whole Course, aimed at getting practical
knowledge to handle emotions and thoughts, as well as develop one’s inner resources.
Through the chosen Course and a individualised study plan, students have the possibility of
focusing on the most interesting subjects, finding real answers to their personal needs.
Foreign students can easily take online examinations on the CSB website, at the date and
time agreed with the teacher.
DOCTORATE, Ph.D.
MASTER, M.A.
BACHELOR, B.A.
ASSOCIATE, A.A.
MASTER CSB
Advanced Course
Intermediate Course
Basic Course
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Faculty
Prof. Marco Ferrini
Ph.D. Philosophy
Founder and Director, Head of the
Department of Indovedic Psychology
Dr.ssa Manola Farabollini
Professor of Indovedic
Literature
Dr. Andrea Boni
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Director of International Studies
Dr.ssa Tania Zakharova Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Dr.ssa Beatrice Ungarelli
Dr.ssa Fabrizia Belcari Dott. Fabrizio Fittipaldi
Master in Indovedic Psychology
Docente di Arte Indovedica
Dr.ssa Daniela Scuderi
Dr. Carlo Oppecini
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Head of the Department of
Ayurvedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Literature
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Ayurvedic
Psychology
Dr. Daniele Tozzi
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Vaishnava
Theology
Dr. ssa Caterina Carloni
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology
Alessandro Chiaramonti
Master in Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology
Dr. Fabio Manfredi
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology and Philosophy
Dr. Fabio Pitti
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology
Dr. Carlos Cohen C.
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology
Dr. Luciano Besi
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Psychology
Dr. Laura Tenerelli
Ph.D. Indovedic Psychology
Professor of Indovedic
Philosophy
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Degrees
An Independent Religious College Authorized by the State of Florida
The Board of Directors of
Bhakti Yoga College
In recognition of the successful completion of the requisite course of study and
on nomination of the Faculty, by virtue of authority granted by the charter of the
Florida Department of Education
hereby confers upon
Daniele Tozzi
born in Modena on October 12nd 1958
the degree of
Doctorate Ph.D.
in Indovedic Psychology
with all the honors, rights, privileges there unto appertaining.
Witness this Diploma, signed by the authorized officers
and sealed with the corporate seal of the College,
Granted at Alachua, Florida, on the (day) of (Month)
in the year two thousand (year)
President
Dr. Fabio Pianigiani
Director of Study
Dr. Andrea Boni
Il valore Accademico dei Corsi
del Centro Studi Bhaktivedanta
è riconosciuto dall’Università Indiana
Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya University,
pienamente accreditata dal Governo Indiano.
The Academy of Traditional Indian
Sciences issues degrees for the Foundation
Course, Intermediate Course, Adva nced
Course and Master Course, which certify the
achievement of didactic aims in a specialized
cultural area.
Centro Studi Bhaktivedanta also issues
USA academic titles through its division
Bhakti Yoga College, in the State of Florida,
USA. It collaborates with nontraditional USA
Universities that acknowledge its competence
in teaching Indovedic culture1. All the above
certificates issued by the Academic Department
award formative credits, which can be used to
proceed with studies to obtain an academic
degree from the Universities in collaboration
with CSB.
According to USA laws, the degrees of
Bachelor B.A., Master M.A. and Doctorate
Ph.D., issued by CSB through the above
mentioned Institutions, are perfectly legitimate
academic titles for all intents and purposes,
sharing legal and academic equality with
the degrees issued by traditional American
Universities. Their value is defined by American
legislation; they confer the right to recognize
oneself and to be recognized as an expert
in a specif ic subject area (i.e.: Ph.D., Dr.
* With regard to this aspect you may read the documentation
available.
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in Indovedic Psychology). The titles can be
displayed in respect of their nature of American
titles and of the rights pertaining to those titles.
Doctorates, issued by American non-traditional
Universities, confer to the student the right
to be inserted in Guilds of Graduates in the
U.S.A., after the payment of a registration fee
(one time).
The Universities collaborating with
the Academy of Traditional Indian Sciences
a re nont r a d it ion a l, non re side nt i a l a nd
long-distance. The credits/titles issued are
unaccredited. This means that if a student wishes
to suspend his studies and automatically transfer
his credits/titles to
ot he r c ol le g e s or
u n i v e r s it i e s , t h i s
may not be feasible
because such credits/
titles are conferred
by Open Universities
t hat don’t require
admission exams.
In the USA, these
Un iver sit ie s a re
lega lly recognized
by the State of their
b e lon g i n g. T he y
qualif y for teaching, registering in all the
professional rolls pertaining to their competence
and are legitimated to issue diplomas.
The Master degree awarded by the
Academy of Traditional Indian Sciences is
not a university degree but validates the skills
acquired and certified by the exams taken.
Doctorate, Ph.D.
Master, M.A.
Bachelor, B.A.
Associate, A.A.
Degrees are issued by Bhakti Yoga College
or by the USA non-traditional Universities in
collaboration with the Academy of Traditional
Indian Sciences. These Universities acknowledge the
Academy’s competence in the teaching of Indovedic
culture.
Diplomas can be delivered
directly to your home
With major in:
-Indovedic Psychology
-Indovedic Psychology with Ayurveda major
-Philosophy and Literature
-Vaishnava Theology
-Architecture (Vastu), Archaeology, History
and Art
For all Courses and subjects details, please
request the Students’ Guidelines from our Secretary
offices.
Students who obtain the Doctorate title in
Psychology, can enroll in the American Psychological
Association (APA), scientifically and professionally one of
the world’s prime Associations in this sector.
By the title of Doctorate in Psychology with
Ayurveda major, students are qualified to become Board
certified Holistic Health Practitioners, by the American
Association of Drugless Practitioners (USA), which
grants professional qualification to Holistic Health
Practitioners: chiropractors, naturopaths, acupuncturists,
etc., providing drugless health care.
The enrollment in the American Association
of Drugless Practitioners allows access to a directory of
potential patients interested in alternative health care.
One is as recognized by the American Association of
Drugless Practitioners as a Board Certified Holistic
Healthcare practitioner, registered on an international
index.
Students who obtain the Doctorate title can join
programs held in the USA for the “Professional Certification
of Private Schools Teachers and Administrators”, provided
by the National Private Schools Accreditation Alliance,
which recognizes and credits the exams taken.
* If you wish to have more information about this aspect
you may consult the documentation available.
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CSB MASTER
With major in:
-Indovedic Psychology
-Indovedic Psychology with Ayurveda major
-Philosophy and Literature
Core subjects
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Karma and Reincarnation
Bhagavad-Gita Philosophy
Samkhya Philosophy
Upanishads Philosophy
-Vaishnava Theology
Vedanta Philosophy
-Architecture (Vastu), Archaeology, History
and Art
Philosophy of the six Darshanas
This is a specialization course for the attainment
of a Master diploma. The Course syllabus is the same as
in the Doctorate Ph.D. (nine core subjects specific to
each course and six optional ones, for a total of fifteen
subjects, and four optional seminars); the Diploma is
issued by the Academy of Traditional Indian Sciences..
Epic Literature: Ramayana
Vaishnava Theology
Indovedic Psychology
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Core subjects
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Introduction to Indian Psychological Thought
India and the West
Bhagavad-Gita Psychology
Samkhya Psychology
Yoga Psychology
Upanishads Psychology
Vedanta Psychology
Psychology of the Life Cycle
The role of Willpower
Epic Literature: Mahabharata
Core subjects
Bhagavad-Gita Philosophy
Upanishads Philosophy
Vedanta Philosophy I
Vaishnava Philosophy
The Way of Bhakti: Narada Bhaktisutras
Upadeshamrita The Nectar of Teaching
Upadeshamrita: The Nectar of Teaching
Mystic Literature
Indovedic Psychology with Ayurveda Major
Indovedic Architecture,
History and Art
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Introduction to Indian Psychological Thought
India and the West
History of Indian Civilization
Core subjects
Bhagavad-Gita Psychology
Samkhya Psychology
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Indovedic Philosophy and Literature
Archaeology,
Core subjects
Introduction to Vastu
The Universe in Architecture
Yoga Psychology
Karma and Architecture:
a practical application of Vastu
Upanishads Psychology
History of Indovedic Art
Yoga and Ayurveda
Vedic and Puranic Cosmogony
Ayurveda and Pancakarma
Vedic-Puranic Cosmogony
Psychology and Therapies
Indovedic Archaeology
Advanced Course
Indovedic Philosophy and Literature
Core subjects
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
With major in:
Karma and Reincarnation
-Indovedic Psychology
Bhagavad-Gita Philosophy
-Indovedic Psychology with Ayurveda major
Samkhya Philosophy
-Philosophy and Literature
-Vaishnava Theology
Upanishads Philosophy
Vedanta Philosophy
-Architecture (Vastu), Archaeology, History
and Art
Students can widen their knowledge of
Indovedic civilization by focusing on a specific subject
area of its culture. The Course comprises six core
subjects specific to each course and three optional
ones, for a total of nine subjects, and two optional
seminars.
Indovedic Psychology
Core subjects
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Introduction to Indian Psychological Thought
India and the West
Bhagavad-Gita Psychology
Samkhya Psychology
Yoga Psychology
Upanishads Psychology
Vaishnava Theology
Core subjects
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Bhagavad-Gita Philosophy
Upanishads Philosophy
Vedanta Philosophy
Vaishnava Philosophy
Indovedic Psychology with Ayurveda Major
The Way of Bhakti: Narada Bhaktisutras
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Indovedic Architecture,
History and Art
Core subjects
Introduction to Indian Psychological Thought
India and the West
Yoga Psychology
Yoga and Ayurveda
Ayurveda and Pancakarma
Psychology and Therapies
Archaeology,
Core subjects
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
History of Indian Civilization
Introduction to Vastu
Vedic-Puranic Cosmogony
Indovedic Archaeology
History of Indovedic Art
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Courses
with Final Diploma issued by the CSB Academy
Intermediate Course
With major in:
Yoga Psychology
Ayurvedic Psychology
Philosophy and Literature
Ecological Architecture (Vastu)
Archaeology, History and Art
Traditional Languages
Vaishnava Theology
Wellbeing Leadership Psychology
Five subjects and one optional seminar. The
module includes two core subjects (Context and Sources
of Vedic Literature + Karma and Reincarnation), two
majors and one optional subject.
Foundation Course
If you wish to approach the study on ancient
Indian culture, in this Course you can choose two subjects
among:
Divinity Humanity and Nature
in Indian Tradition
Karma and Reincarnation
Life, Death and Immortality
Context and Sources of Vedic Literature
Introduction to Indian Psychological Thought
India and the West
You can start from any Course level
Admission open all year round
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Subjects
Students can choose among 65
subjects taught in CSB Academy
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
Introduction to Indian Psychological Thought
India and the West
Bhagavad-Gita Psychology
Samkhya Psychology
Yoga Psychology I –Samadhi Pada
Yoga Psychology II–Sadhana Pada
Upanishad Psychology
Vedanta Psychology
Psychology of Buddhism
Psychology of the Life Cycle
Life Cycle Psychology
Psychology and Therapies
The function of Willpower
In the transformation of unconscious contents
Psychology of Wellbeing Leadership
Knowledge, Conduct, Management of human resources
Sound and the Psyche
Yoga and Ayurveda
Ayurveda and Pancakarma
Upanishad Philosophy
Bhagavad-gita Philosophy I
Bhagavad-gita Philosophy II
Samkhya Philosophy
Vedanta Philosophy I
Vedanta Philosophy II
Philosophy of the six Darshanas
Perspectives in Indian classical thought
Vaishnava Philosophy
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
Chandogya Upanishad
Shvetashvatara Upanishad
Aitareya Upanishad
Taittiriya Upanishad
Isha Upanishad
Karma and Reincarnation
Life, Death, Immortality in the Civilization of the Vedas
The Journey of the Soul after Death
Yoga and Holistic Health
Divinity Humanity and Nature in Indian Tradition
Thought, Action and Destiny
Freedom from Solitude and Suffering
Sociology and Anthropology
Pedagogy
The educational ideal in Traditional India
From Eros to Love
Karmic Affinities and Family Relationships
Betrayal Resentment Forgiveness
Vedic and Puranic Cosmogony
Indovedic Mythology and Symbolism
Ethics and Aesthetics
Introduction to Vastu
The universe in Architecture
Karma and Architecture: a practical application of Vastu
History of Indian Civilization
Indovedic Archaeology
History of Indovedic Art
Epic literature: Mahabharata
Epic literature: Ramayana
Mystic literature
Indian fables - Pancatantra
Puranic Literature I
Ancient Tales from the Bhagavata Purana
Puranic Literature II
Ancient Tales from the Bhagavata Purana
Elements of Sanskrit language
Elements of Classical Tamil language
The 26 qualities of a Spiritual Searcher
The Nectar of Devotion
Upadeshamrita
The Nectar of Teaching
The Science of Bhakti
Tattva Sandarbha
A treatise on Truth. Foundations of Vaishnava Theology
Narada Bhakti Sutras
Narada’s Sutras on bhakti
Harinama Cintamani
Meditation on the Divine Name
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Subjects Introduction
Context and Sources of Vedic literature
The millenary culture of India is based on the Vedas and represents the most ancient
wisdom of humanity. This knowledge, through the ages ever prestigious and fresh, and still in
our day of great topical interest, is vehicle of values and patterns to be applied with success in
individual and social life. The Vedas are not merely religious texts, but also vast bodies of symbols,
doctrines and existential proposals, representing the peak of ancient and modern thought. This
subject offers a clear and exhaustive synthesis of the whole of Vedic literature, presenting through
its main guidelines a worldview giving value to the inner quest and the harmony between the
human being and the universe.
Introduction to Indian Psychological Thought
India and the West
In the past, the subject matter of psychology was studied primarily by philosophers, in
the East as well as in the West; however, whereas Western psychology is a product of Western
philosophy and science, Indian psychology derives from Indian philosophy and introspective
experience.
The subject matter of Indian psychology is the real identity of the Self, pure consciousness,
the principal attribute of every form of life and very end of any expression of thought. The main
object of our study is first of all to highlight the differences and similarities between the two
psychological systems, through a brief comparison between the contributions offered by Western
philosophers, starting from Plato down to our modern times, and those introduced by the major
Schools of the ancient Vedic tradition.
Bhagavad-Gita Philosophy and Psychology
The conclusive teaching of the Bhagavad-Gita is bhakti, the pathway bringing each
individual to rediscover the eternal loving relationship that unites him to the Supreme Being.
This path goes through the complete reintegration of the human being within the socio-cosmic
order, giving him the opportunity to attain all of his earthly targets, while at the same time
rediscovering his own divine nature. The Bhagavad-Gita proposes a dynamic balance between the
opposites, action and non-action, obtainable through a superior knowledge which allows human
beings to achieve a high sense of their duty, in a spirit of renunciation of the ephemeral. Such
attitude is far from both an illusory adherence to immanence, as well as from an escape towards
an abstract transcendence, which denies earthly values and despises matter. The Bhagavad-Gita
on the contrary, urges people to act in a full yet detached way, efficiently yet without motivations
for power and possession; actions are to be offered with joyful devotion, in a religious way and as
a sacrifice to God.
Samkhya Philosophy and Psychology
Samkhya asserts the plurality of individual consciences (purusha), but concedes to the unity
in diversity, explaining that the difference of life condition between lower and higher organisms,
is entirely due to the degree of development of their consciousness, and to their threefold nature
or guna (sattvik, rajasik or tamasik). Samkhya claims the independent existence of matter, but
states its non-consciousness, and declares that all life is the combined product of Consciousness
(purusha) and matter (prakriti).
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Yoga Psychology
This is a systematic study of Patanjali’s School of Yoga, whose doctrine is centred on the celebrated
Yogasutras, a famous ancient collection of aphorisms on Yoga, most probably the first treatise on scientific
psychology. Yoga offers various types and degrees of instruments, which favour psychic and spiritual
evolution and make the intellect able to grasp concepts, forms and emotions otherwise inaccessible. Among
the most important and conclusive practices for the re-elaboration and sublimation of psychological
contents, are concentration (dharana) and meditation (dhyana), leading, when properly executed, to
the direct perception of reality, both physical and metaphysical (samadhi). Among the various forms of
meditation suggested by the rishis - the sages, the seers and chanters of Vedic revelation, messengers of the
Divine - the devoted abandonment to God (Ishvara-pranidhana) appears as the ideal internal inclination
for the achievement of the highest success in Yoga.
Upanishads Philosophy and Psychology
The culture of ancient India finds one of its most meaningful expressions in the philosophical
and psychological thought of the Upanishads, works of indisputable relevance in the multimillenary
Vedic literature. The Upanishads combine the depth of philosophical speculation with a symbolic and
fluent language, capable of granting everyone access to the physical and metaphysical knowledge of Vedic
texts. Upanishadic literature offers the opportunity to take off on a journey of knowledge inside and
outside oneself: it enquires the different dimensions of reality and identifies integrations, connections and
correspondences, providing in-depth explanations on the different states of consciousness for the being
and on the human personality in its various components.
Vedanta Philosophy and Psychology
Among the six astika Darshanas, Vedanta is certainly the best known, studied and commented; not
by chance, it constitutes the basis for the great majority of Hindu Schools of thought. The term Vedanta
means ‘conclusion of the Vedas’ and proves that this work, specifically dealing with the nature of supreme
Brahman, contains the distillate of all speculation of Indian sapiential literature. In the Philosophy
Course we shall analyze the main sutras with the commentary drawn from one of the main theologians of
Vedantic personalistic School; while in the Psychology Course the major elements of Vedanta Philosophy
will be interpreted psychologically according to two of the main Schools: Shankara’s Advaita-Vedanta and
Ramanuja’s Vishishta-Advaita.
Divinity Humanity and Nature
in Indian Tradition
An in-depth study of the Vaishnava model of Thought, which is rich in symbols and ethical values.
It is aimed at the understanding of its concrete and efficient influence on the harmonious development
of human personality, the integration of consciousness, the reconciliation of the opposites and the
harmonization of unconscious elements with the “I” and the self.
Psychology of the Life Cycle
The death phenomenon is an unavoidable fact in our life. It is usually perceived as the end of
everything, the dissolution and disappearance of our being, and is considered with a range of sentiments
including resignation, drama and tragedy. Yet, paradoxically enough, death does not exist as an entity
but just as a concept. In fact it is an abstraction. Only life is real, eternal and unchanging. In a journey
through profound consciousness, the person approaching this stage of life can face it while perceiving
one’s own identity as different from the body, and discovering ahead a new phase of his eternal existence,
entirely to be constructively planned.
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The function of Willpower in the transformation of unconscious contents
Willpower is very important and many know this to be a fact, especially those who lack it. But
through what methods is it possible to develop such precious faculty? Are there different kinds of will? How
can we distinguish them? How can our willpower win over our deep and unconscious tendencies? The text
offers an enquiry into the above and similar questions, providing examples, answers and connections to
the Western culture, on the basis of traditional Indian Psychology.
Psychology of Wellbeing Leadership
Knowledge, Conduct, Management of Human Resources
Even the less perspicacious are today starting to guess that we are perhaps paying for an illusory
as well as dangerous and unbearable wellbeing. The work that does not satisfy inwardly is pathological
in itself and neither holidays nor entertainments can be the remedy. They only hide the symptoms and
postpone the inevitable final burn-out, in the leaders also. The productivity does not require efforts when
strategy and action are enlightened by ethical foundations and a superior knowledge, when the leader
motivates others on such a level where reliability and credibility are experienced in the everyday life. The
real Well-being Leadership should allow to live and act in the well-being, as well as to produce it.
Sound and the Psyche
This course analyzes a dimension which is generally little known: the dimension of sound, a
dimension situated much above the normal perception and understanding of the world we live in, a
reality which according to the great traditions and the latest scientific discoveries, is at the very basis of
the generation of the universe. In the Vedic world, sound and the capacity to listen occupy a prominent
and privileged position: knowledge was in fact transmitted orally and it is not by chance that Sacred Texts
are named Shruti (what has been heard). The psyche is extremely easily influenced, and the strongest
influence which can affect it is sound vibrations, more than shape and colours. Through sound we can
make degrading or uplifting experiences, the sound can be therapy or nourish the schizophrenia and the
typical neurosis of the present time. When the sound vibration belongs to the transcendental dimension,
it becomes a means for purification, generates inner harmony and lead us back to that elevated realm.
Karma and Reincarnation
Does an individual come from nothing? What does the direction of his life from the beginning
depend upon? Is it a fortuitous event or a hereditary stock of thoughts, desires and actions that is bearing
fruit? A journey through human existence in the light of Vedic culture, that has elaborated and explained
the phenomenon of transmigration in a rigorous and scientific manner.
Yoga and Holistic Health
What does Yoga mean? How can our health be restored on the different anthropological levels: from
the physical level up to the mental one, in order to reach the dimension of the soul? We can gain precious
suggestions from the most ancient study on human nature, by the sage Patanjali, teaching how to recover
harmony and well-being by using simple and natural methods that lead us to a greater consciousness of
ourselves and the universe.
Freedom from Solitude and Suffering
Solitude represents perhaps the worst disease of our epoch, as well as the greatest paradox because,
at least formally, we find ourselves in a historical period where we are submerged with communication.
From solitude and existential uneasiness comes the deep suffering that devastates man and destroys joy
of life. This is a sociological and psychological analysis of certain dynamics in order to explore their rootcause and the ways to get out.
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Karmic Affinities and Family Relations
Man is a social being and relations are the salt of life. However, it is costly to build, develop and
maintain them. Are there reasons for individuals to decide and share one part of their path? Is it possible
to find basic formulae for well living and well sharing? How much can individual karma influence our
family and social choices?
From Eros to Love
As we know, the need to receive and to give love is intrinsic to the nature of each living being.
However, the meaning given nowadays to the term “love” requires an in-depth analysis of the social and
cultural changes that we are going through. A stimulating psychological and cultural journey to return to
the pure source of the true sentiment.
Indovedic Mythology and Symbolism
Vedic mythology describes in extremely vivid terms certain mental visions obtained through the
deep absorption which is the feature of every mystic experience. For the Vedic seers, the act of knowing
had an astonishing concreteness: their mind began to talk about itself, but instead of operating through
concepts, it dealt with mythical entities. This explains the profusion of images which remain impenetrable
to those who do not know that the waters of the bright ocean, flowing above the celestial vault, are the
same as those waving into the ocean of the heart, i.e. the waters of kama (desire), and the burning waters
of the psyche. The psychological myth of ancient India was thus born, and the Vedas reveal a mythological
form which is the highest representation that has been passed on to us since antiquity.
Philosophy of the six Darshanas
Perspectives in Indian Classical thought
The goal of philosophy is the knowledge of truth; in Indian literature this means vision or
darshana. Darshanas are perspectives on the world and on reality, which do not exclude one another but
mutually integrate. All six classical Darshanas (astika) accept the authority of the Vedas and are usually
studied in couples. They deal respectively with Logic and Physics (Nyaya and Vaisheshika), Metaphysics
and Psychology (Samkhya and Yoga), Liturgy and Theology (Purva Mimansa and Uttara Mimamsa or
Vedanta). The course considers all six schools with a particular deepening on Yoga and Vedanta.
Vedic Cosmogony
Vedic wisdom is expressed through the substantial continuity among the various planes of
existence, and through the large amount of interplay between micro- and macrocosm. In conformity
with the Indovedic tradition, our course introduces subjects such as the principle and purpose of the living
being and the creation, the genesis and structure of the cosmos and the laws that govern it: the doctrine of
karma, the three gunas, the dynamics of transmigration, time and space as paradigms of the creation, the
concepts of death, immortality and liberation.
Sociology and Anthropology
Vedic social thought constitutes the basis for the evolution of ancient and modern Indian civilization.
This course introduces the conceptual stands on which to analyze society and man according to Indovedic
tradition: topics of study are social organization and spiritual organization (varna and ashrama), individuals
and family, community and State, sacrifice and rituals, religion and spirituality.
Indeed, a well-rounded and structured social organization is considered of paramount importance
for the harmonious development of personality and for the evolution towards a relationship with God,
going beyond the individual aims (purusharta), through the paths of action (karma), knowledge (jnana)
and devotion (bhakti).
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Pedagogy
The educational ideal in Traditional India
By studying the Indovedic pedagogic model, the everlasting efficacy of educational ideals from
ancient India emerges very clearly, together with Indian remarkable contribution towards the development
of the noblest values in people and society. This subject takes into account the education of the individual
since its childhood, when the young enters the Gurukula, the school-house of the Guru, and ends when he
is a grown up person, with a complete training which enables him to carry out all his domestic and social
duties, at the same time progressing spiritually. Other elements analyzed are the role of the teacher, the
function of discipline in study and personal life, the contribution given by parents and society.
Epic literature: Mahabharata
According to the Indovedic tradition, the Mahabharata is the widest and most ancient epic ever
known in human history. Written in classical Sanskrit, it verily constitutes a literary monument of the
Indovedic civilization. Covering the history (Itihasa) of the ancient Bharata dinasty, the Mahabharata
collects gripping and instructive episodes describing peaks and abysses of the human existence, painting
in a vivid way noble and mean sides of the human personality which make up the whole anthropological
sphere. This course comprises a survey of the complete work (18 books or parvas) and an analysis of the
main characters and episodes.
Epic literature: Ramayana
This work, written in classical Sanskrit, is equivalent to Homer’s epics as for value, fame and
length. Ramayana’s influence on Indian life and culture has always been profound, and still is in the
present day. Together with Mahabharata, it makes up the Indian epic, Itihasa. Ramayana describes the
life and terrestrial adventures of Rama, who according to the Indovedic tradition is an avatar of God,
Vishnu-Krishna, playing the role of the ideal king, personification of Dharma. Banished because of his
stepmother, Rama lives as a hermit in the forest, together with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman,
engaging in adventures which will lead to his victory over the demon Ravana. This course analyses the
historical-literary context of the work, the main characters and episodes, and includes readings from the
text.
Mystic literature
This course is a study of the most important texts of prehistoric and historic Indian mysticism.
Attention will be focused on the mystic current of medieval and ancient bhakti and on its most representative
works and exponents, such as the Alvars, Ramanuja, Caitanya, Kabir and other great interpreters of
Bengali, Tamil and Hindi devotional literature.
Elements of Sanskrit Language
Sanskrit is a charming language, with a compelling capability to convey concepts and meanings in
their subtlest shades. For its structural and expressive perfection (it literally means ‘perfect’), it has always
been studied with great interest by glottologists, philologists and linguists. As a matter of fact, Sanskrit
constitutes the basis for every study in these fields. Students will learn the basic elements for writing and
reading classical Sanskrit. An outline of Vedic Sanskrit will also be given, with readings from original
texts.
Indovedic Archaeology
This study analyzes the main archaeological sites and monuments of ancient and medieval India:
Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, the best known sites among the many settlements witnessing the precious
and world-renowned culture of the Indus valley; Dvaraka: town celebrated in the Mahabharata and the
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Bhagavata-Purana, founded by Krishna, the highest authority of Vedic literature, now site of excavation
by an international team, excellent example of underwater dig; Pataliputra: fortress and palace of the
wide Maurya empire; the caves of Ellora: 34 Brahminical, Buddhist and Jainist sanctuaries witnessing
the tolerant policy of ancient India; Hampi: the biggest Indian archaeological site, once the capital of the
Vijayanagar empire, the latest of the large Hindu kingdoms of southern India; Mahabalipuram: striking
temple site of the Tamil royal capital between the 6th and the 8th century.
History of Indovedic Art
Indian art represents the unbroken quest for shaping the Divine form according to principles
unchanging throughout the centuries, yet conveyed via different styles. Topics of study will be: the Indus
civilization, whose artists worked with full knowledge of the three-dimensional perspective and a sharp
vision of the anatomical structure of nature; the Maurya civilization, with its plentiful production laying
the foundations for Hindu and Buddhist iconography; the Gupta civilization, whose formal expression
reached the highest aesthetical ideals, balancing outline and decoration. The artistic expression of the
Indian medieval civilization moves towards the complete representation of the religious experience,
through the symbolic trails of the temple, and through the divine image, offering itself as repository for
ritual devotional acts and as support for meditation.
The Universe in Architecture
The traditional sciences of India come together in a unified wisdom meant to free the individual from
a pathological condition of suffering, solitude, uneasiness. The specific knowledge of Vastu Architecture,
Ayurveda, Jyotisha Astrology and Yoga Psychology operates a sacred and foundational connection between
micro- and macrocosmo, between the individual consciousness and the cosmic one, between dwelling and
the universe.
The classical rules of Vastu can be translated in terms accessible to the scientific understanding
and measurements, such as electromagnetism, gravity, light, cosmic radiation. “Vibrations, waves, sound
and light” constitute the four parameters of Vastu to evaluate the nature and state of health of a dwelling,
qualities which can make it healthy or contaminated.
Karma and Architecture: the Practical Application of Vastu
The planetary configuration at the moment of birth manifests the qualities (gunas) and the
experiences (karma) of the individual and defines his position in the “net” of cosmic energy, characterizing
one’s preferences and choices.
In the Vastu analysis the house appears as a book open on the personality of those who reside in
it, as it represents symmetrically, in praises and lacks, one’s astral and energetic characteristics. In this
course we shall specifically examine: the planimetric form of the land and the house, the alignment to
the cardinal points, the direction of the front door, the disposition of the dwelling functions in the body
of the house in relation to the planetary directions, the presence of an energetic centre of gravity and the
permeability to light and air.
Indian Fables: Pancatantra
This work has over 200 versions translated in more than 50 languages; it has inspired numerous
collections of fables, from the One Thousand and One Nights to the tales by La Fontaine. The Pancatantra
duly captures the pedagogic aim of traditional Indian literature through the pleasing and immediate
language of the fable. Apparently meant for children, but a substantial incentive also to adults, the ancient
tales of Pancatantra are put side by side to stories by authors more familiar to the Western public, and
through a fresh and direct language convey the fundamentals of philosophy, psychology and sociology of
classical India, making them accessible to the most heterogeneous public.
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Thought, Action and Destiny
Is it possible to build our destiny and to plan our future? The forces of desire and thought have
this power. “Man is nothing but desire: as he wishes, so he becomes”, state the Upanishads and all the
Indovedic psychological sciences. We are the cause, remote or recent, of our own lives, of our social
belonging and our relationships. Everything that happens with us has its cause, we are where we decided
to be. Our future is being crystallized and manifested on a subtle level. That’s why in our present we are
able to modify the dynamics that are shaping it, through the guidance of the energy of thought.
Life Death and Immortality in the Civilization of the Vedas
In Western culture, life, death and immortality are considered as three separate phenomena,
distant one from the other, and are often subject of not very scientific interpretations, which are to say the
least disputable. The ancient Indian culture gives a precise classification of these phenomena and presents
them in terms of continuity. This course is an elaboration on these three important and interacting facts
connected to each individual, with the aim of understanding the nature of the self and the world.
The Journey of the Soul after Death
What happens to the vital principle, atman, once it is out of the body? What is death? What is the
transition? Are there specific stages on the path that the disincarnated soul goes through before reaching
the next incarnation? How much do the states of consciousness we have at the moment of leaving the body
influence our future conditions? On the basis of authoritative texts of the Indovedic tradition, this course
offers these and other answers to one of the most pressing questions that man enquires about: the afterlife.
The 26 Qualities of the Spiritual Researcher
In order to embark upon any kind of journey it necessary to be properly equipped, so as to make
the journey itself as comfortable as possible and also to have a minimum guarantee for the final attainment
of the desired destination. Things are not different for the journey which has the realization of the self
as its goal, but in this case the equipment is very special: the spiritual researcher does not venture in the
exploration of the external world, but the inner world, and in order to proceed with certainty and success,
he needs to develop all his noblest and highest qualities, and can thus regain his original splendor on the
fascinating path to self-realization.
Yoga and Ayurveda
Ayurveda, the ancient “Science of Life”, with its ways of interpreting life and consciousness, offers
holistic principles which are extremely topical, as they embrace a whole vision of body, mind and spirit.
This Science considers the physical body as the crystallization of mental tendencies deeply rooted in
the unconscious; this means, that is considers the mind as a depository of all the impressions, stored up
throughout countless experiences. Ayurveda acknowledges the existence of our real self, the immortal
nature of every living being, which is perceivable beyond the mind-body complex. On this basis, it
provides a real solution to the different health problems, a solution which can’t set aside the research for
a communion with the universe and the Divine within us. This research can succeed only after a solid
change in one’s life style, starting from the way we think to the performance of our actions.
Ayurveda and Pancakarma
The human body is characterized by the presence of a natural healing intelligence. Nonetheless,
when the improper use of mind and senses brings about a psychophysical unbalance, which causes the
formation of toxic impurities, ama, then this natural capacity of the body is inhibited. As a remedy to
this situation, Ayurveda offers the gift of panchakarma, the “science of rejuvenation” in five therapeutic
practices. In this process the body is purified from the degrading influences of external substances and put
in a position to naturally exercise its intrinsic rejuvenating functions.
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Psychology and its Therapies
In Indovedic tradition, the therapeutical approach teaches that the living being is a microcosm,
a self-contained universe. One’s existence is inseparable from the totality of the cosmic manifestation.
Health and “disease” are thus interpreted in a holistic key, taking into consideration the intrinsic relation
between the individual and the Cosmic Consciousness, between energy and matter. Rebalancing all the
bodily energies, the processes of physical deterioration and of diseases in general can be reduced and
relieved. The study draws important concepts on care and caring from the East and the West, stimulating
a wide and integrated understanding of traditional healing treatments.
Buddhism Psychology
India at the times of Buddha was the site of speculations on topics such as the nature and origin of the
soul and the universe, the nature of virtue and its results, the existence of other worlds. These uninhibited
speculations, led within an environment of great intellectual freedom, resulted in the formulation of the
most diverse religious, philosophical and psychological doctrines. Buddha chose to follow a different path:
refusing any sort of metaphysical speculation, he engaged in the solution of problems which we would
today call psychological. Buddha aimed at the deep understanding of conscious processes as a whole, and
at the discovery of methods to control their interplay, in order to avoid the onset of painful experiences.
His foremost methods were meditation on the four noble truths and knowledge of the ephemeral nature
of the phenomenal world.
Ethics and Aesthetics
Dharma, order and function of every being, is the attitude allowing the comprehension and the
harmonization of the diverse levels of every person and every experience. According to the Indovedic texts,
it is precisely this order which allows the vision of reality and the communication of the truth. Inspiration
is the essential constituent of the artistic experience, and its ultimate source lies in a positive relationship
between the individual self and the Divine. The authentic aim of every artistic experience is not mere
enjoyment of aesthetical beauty: it must rise above the emotional condition to reach the Divine vision.
This contact with the realm of transcendence is possible also through art: art as Yoga.
The Nectar of Devotion
The Nectar of Devotion is a summary of the work Bhakti-Rasamrita-Sindhu, written by Rupa
Gosvami about five hundred years ago. It enunciates the principles of devotional service (Bhakti), or
God worship. This relation is manifest in diverse spiritual modes or “tastes” (rasas), according to which
the devotee experiences and expresses various loving feelings for the Divine. Here love is meant as an
intrinsic characteristic of every living being and is defined amrita, immortal, as it is without beginning
and without end; it also confers immortality. The course introduces the most important philosophical
concepts of Vaishnava Theology, connected to the diverse functions of bhakti and to the theory of rasas.
It is a fundamental work to understand the teachings of Caitanya Mahaprabhu, the perfect preacher of
Vaishnava Bhakti.
Upadeshamrita
The Eleven Teachings by Rupa Gosvami
This work is a real jewel made up of eleven teachings (upadesha) situated beyond time and space,
and therefore defined “amrita”. Rupa Gosvami offers the most profound and esoteric teaching which
,when fully comprehended, allows for the realization of the fundamental principles of Vaishnava Theology,
those principles which can guide the human being to the ultimate goal of existence, the development of
pure love for God.
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The Science of Bhakti
The path of Bhakti can be pursued in two ways: one is through sadhana bhakti, devotional service
performed following defined rules, the other is through ragatmika bhakti, spontaneous devotional service.
The pursuit of the second path comes only when the spiritualist has been purified by going along the
path of sadhana (discipline), which allows him to gradually be freed from conditionings and material
identifications. In this course, following a scientific approach, we discuss the various ways of seva and the
corresponding psychological implications.
Tattva Sandarbha
A treatise on Truth. Foundations of Vaishnava Theology
Tattva Sandarbha, compiled by Jiva Gosvami five hundred years ago, is the first of six books
written by the same author (collectively known as Shad Sandarbha), which indicate the foundations of
Vaishnava Theology. In particular this text deals with the principles of Truth (Tattva) exposed by the great
Masters of Vaishnava School, for whom Jiva Gosvami is one of the main spreaders. It is an essential work
in order to deeply understand the Culture beneath the Vedic-vaishnava spiritual tradition.
Narada Bhakti Sutras
Narada Muni’s Sutras on Bhakti are a small gem in the Indovedic scene and in Vaishnava Culture
in particular. In this text, Bhakti is defined as “loving faith”. Love is the most intimate essence of every
living being, born to give and receive love. Here love has nothing to do with what we can experiment in
the material dimension; it transcends every connection to matter, as it has its origin and destination on the
Divine plane. The psychological commentary makes this ancient writing topical and useful to reinterpret
the concept of the feelings of love and devotion.
Ishopanishad
Ishopanishad is part of that category of the Upanishads with a personalistic connotation. It describes
Brahman as the perfect and complete Person, from whom infinite entities emanate, which are complete in
themselves. The One becomes many and yet remains complete in itself. Everything belongs to Him, and
represents His energy. Through the typical and fascinating language of the Upanishads, the text guides the
reader to the most intimate comprehension of the cosmic Reality and of the close connection between the
individual being and the Supreme Person.
Harinama Cintamani
Meditation on the Divine Name
This text was written in the 19th century by a great scholar and Master of Vaishnava Culture. His
name is Bhaktivinoda Thakura. The text describes a dialogue between Shri Krishna Caitanya Mahaprabhu
and one of His most intimate followers, Shrila Haridas Thakura, known as the Acarya of the Holy Name
(Nama Acarya), due to his attachment to the meditation practice on the Divine Names. The chanting of the
Mahamantra is here considered as the fundamental spiritual practice to dismantle negative unconscious
contents and operate a process of inner purification to access superior levels of consciousness. In order
for this practice to succeed, it must be executed with attention and following the proper rules of ethical
behaviour.
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Ancient Indian culture, rich in values that have perennially inspired
civilizations, and specifically scholars, nowadays continues
to be of great relevance to all of humanity, with values and contents
that can be practically realized in every day life.
Curriculum Vitae
We can provide you with an evaluation of your curriculum vitae, free of charge. You might be
able to obtain credits towards one of our Courses, based on your studies or professional experience.
With these credits and upon approval of the School board, it might be possible to reduce the
amount of examinations necessary for your degree. Please mail your curriculum to the Secretary’s
Office along with any other document useful for the evaluation or fill in and mail the following
form.
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Individualized Study Courses
With their varying levels and subjects, the courses are “tailor-made” for the student’s interests
and needs. This syllabus is individualized and there is no “standard Course”, as for length, subjects
and costs. If you are interested, you are invited to write or call CSB secretary, where you can receive
free detailed information from our personnel on the Courses, their costs and payment solutions,
including installments at zero interest rates.
Depending on the chosen Course, the student can participate in a set number of optional
seminars, and enjoys reductions also on all other activities organized by the School.
The knowledge of classical India, rich in values and practices that have perennially inspired
civilizations and scholars, nowadays continues to be of great relevance to all of humanity.
CSB Secretary’s Office
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