Words can't describe how ingenuine people truly are at Ananda Ashram, but I'll try to in a nutshell…read moredescribe this kind of experience.
Ananda meaning Bliss, does not live up to it's name. At one point in time, it might have. That had to be about twenty or more years ago, when the founder was still alive. His teachings were powerful, thought provoking, but alas his followers, staff, and others that continue to support his image being portrayed alike to a Cult Leader are spiritually devoid and lost in themselves doing so...
The grounds are beautifully preserved, with a nice community garden. Hit or miss, sums it up for the cleanliness of the entire place, especially the bathrooms. Even their most expensive room offerings are lackluster, with stained linens and sheets covered with dust. Alas, the property has it's history, and it's longtime followers.
The yoga studio for what it's worth needs a MAJOR upgrade. For this place to be called, "The Yoga Society of New York," the actual yoga studio is less than impressive. On top of it's hospitality instability, (good luck getting help checking in when their office is closed), the long time followers/staff can be seen bickering and exhibiting quite strange personal dynamics. This is actually what I observed more than occasionally, and experienced interpersonally, during my few solid weeks stay there. Things of this nature absolutely do not lend towards the courtesy for guests, human beings, or even provide a genuine yogic experience for their visitors!
By the way, if you're a halfway decent youngish looking woman, be prepared to be suggestively and explicitly bothered by the creepy male manager there. He's beyond what anyone can call appropriate with his social antics ... On another Note, Need extra towels? Forget about it! Good coffee, nope! Fake smiles, got those! Bugs in the sheets? Yep, them too. And last but not least, Actual Covid- Positive yoga teachers still teaching with Covid... This is Real Truth, Not lies. Not sure if this aptly describes YOUR version of "Bliss"... but if it does Merriam Webster will need an update on the definition stat!!
You're better off at Omega, Om Shanti.