Rishikul Yogshala Blog https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog Revealing the wisdom and its cause Fri, 15 Dec 2023 05:59:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/cropped-ms-icon-310x310-1-32x32.png Rishikul Yogshala Blog https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog 32 32 The Spiritual Power Of Chanting Gayatri Mantra (गायत्री मंत्र) https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/the-spiritual-power-of-chanting-gayatri-mantra-%e0%a4%97%e0%a4%be%e0%a4%af%e0%a4%a4%e0%a5%8d%e0%a4%b0%e0%a5%80-%e0%a4%ae%e0%a4%82%e0%a4%a4%e0%a5%8d%e0%a4%b0/ https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/the-spiritual-power-of-chanting-gayatri-mantra-%e0%a4%97%e0%a4%be%e0%a4%af%e0%a4%a4%e0%a5%8d%e0%a4%b0%e0%a5%80-%e0%a4%ae%e0%a4%82%e0%a4%a4%e0%a5%8d%e0%a4%b0/#respond Fri, 20 Oct 2023 10:03:04 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/?p=16159

A mantra is not just a sequence of words but a meaningful and purposeful assembly of sounds!

Do you know what the Gayatri Mantra is? If not, no worries! Rishikul Yogshala has prepared a complete guide to help you know everything about “Gayatri Mahamantra.” In this blog, you will explore Gayatri Mantra Meaning, Gayatri Mantra Benefits, and its spiritual power.

Gayatri Mantra Origin 

The Gayatri Mantra finds its origin in the Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, believed to have been composed over 3,000 years ago. The mantra is dedicated to Goddess Gayatri, the personification of the divine and universal mother. 

Significance Of Gayatri MahaMantra

The Gayatri Mantra is a profound devotion to the Supreme Cosmic Being, referred to as Savitur, who represents the life-giving sun and the dispeller of darkness. The mantra’s practice invokes the inner light, the spiritual sun within, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of the soul. Chanting this mantra is believed to bring divine blessings, intellect, and enlightenment. It is a prayer to the universal consciousness to guide one’s mind and illuminate the path of righteousness and truth.

Gayatri Mantra Meaning

The Gayatri Mantra is a verse composed of 24 syllables, each with its unique significance. The mantra is chanted during various occasions, including pooja ceremonies, religious rituals, and meditation practices.

Let’s understand the Gayatri Mantra Lyrics with their meaning:

Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha

Tat Savitur Varenyam

Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi

Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat.

Gayatri Mantra in hindi:

(१) ॐ

(२) भूर्भव: स्व:

(३) तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो यो न: प्रचोदयात्।

Om” (ॐ): The mantra begins with the heavenly sound “Om,” representing the unlimited, all-encompassing, and unchanging reality. It signifies the ultimate truth and the oneness of all existence.

“Bhur Bhuvah Swaha” (भूर्भुवःस्वः): Subsequently, the text delves into the foundation of the Gayatri Mantra and are an essential part of all Vedic mantras. They represent the physical, mental, and spiritual realms. “Bhur” signifies the physical realm, “Bhuvah” the mental, and “Swaha” the spiritual. Together, they encompass the entirety of existence.

“Tat Savitur Varenyam” (तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं): Tat Savitur Varenyam is an invocation to the divine light, Savitur, symbolizing the sun. It seeks the blessings of the illuminating and enlightening aspect of the Divine.

“Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi” (भर्गोदेवस्यधीमहि): This section encourages meditation upon the divine light, aiming its guidance and wisdom.

“Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat” (धियोयोनःप्रचोदयात्): The mantra concludes by asking for the enlightenment of our mind and consciousness.

Benefits Of Gayatri Mahamantra (गायत्री मंत्र)

The Gayatri Mantra is filled with spiritual power that can bring about profound changes in one’s life. It serves as a bridge between the individual soul and the universal consciousness. The regular recitation of Gayatri Mantra can lead to the following benefits:

  1. Spiritual Awakening: The Gayatri Mahamantra is a beacon of spiritual enlightenment. Chanting it with devotion can awaken the inner divine consciousness, leading to a deeper understanding of one’s true self and the ultimate truth.
  2. Academic Brilliance: This mantra is believed to enhance one’s intellectual abilities, promoting clarity of thought, wisdom, and the pursuit of knowledge.
  3. Moral Transformation: Regular Gayatri Mantra recitation inspires individuals to cultivate righteous qualities and lead a life guided by truth, morality, and ethical principles.
  4. Protection and Guidance: The Gayatri Mahamantra is considered a protective shield against negative energies. It offers guidance on the path of righteousness and serves as a source of spiritual protection.
  5. Emotional Balance: Chanting this mantra can help individuals achieve emotional equilibrium, reducing stress and anxiety and fostering inner peace and serenity.
  6. Cultivating Inner Light: It invokes the inner light, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of the soul. This inner radiance guides one towards spiritual wisdom and truth.
  7. Enhancing Focus: Chanting the mantra enhances concentration and mental clarity, facilitating better decision-making and cognitive performance.
  8. Promoting a Balanced Life: It harmonizes the body’s energy centers, promoting overall balance in one’s physical, mental, and spiritual aspects.
  9. Personal Transformation: Regular practice can lead to a transformation of character, promoting a virtuous and ethical way of living.
  10. Accessing Universal Wisdom: The Gayatri Mahamantra opens the doorway to universal wisdom and spiritual insight, deepening one’s connection with the divine.

Conclusion

The Gayatri Mantra (गायत्री मंत्र), with its rich history and profound spiritual significance, stands as a pillar of divine wisdom and inner illumination in Hinduism. Chanting this sacred mantra has the potential to transform the seeker’s mind, instill wisdom, and guide one on the path of righteousness. As you immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of the Gayatri Mantra, you can experience a deeper connection with the universal consciousness and unlock the spiritual power that resides within.

If you want to deepen your knowledge of Mantra and Meditation and feel their effects, our Meditation Teacher Training in Kerala is for you! 

Get in touch via:

Phone: +91-8433225327

Email: info@rishikulyogshala.org

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Yoga for Immunity: Best Yoga Poses to Boost Immunity https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/yoga-for-immunity-best-yoga-poses-to-boost-immunity/ https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/yoga-for-immunity-best-yoga-poses-to-boost-immunity/#respond Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:24:55 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/?p=15632

Yoga is one of the most effective ways to boost immunity. Especially the monsoon season gets with it a slew of infections and diseases. To counteract this, you must improve the functioning of your immune system. On the other hand, many people are unaware that practicing yoga for immunity is very helpful. So to experience the benefits of yoga, roll out your yoga mat and practice pranayama, meditation, and yoga to boost immunity.

In this blog, Rishikul Yogashala has listed some yoga poses that will provide you with the added benefit of increased immunity. These yoga poses to boost immunity include breathing exercises and stretching the body, which improves blood circulation and stimulates overall body functions. So, let us begin the journey of improving the immune system through yoga.

5 Best Yoga Poses To Boost Immunity

Yoga is a “movement linked with breath.” Therefore, we can significantly strengthen our body’s ability to fight illness by incorporating yoga into our routines. Here are a few of the most effective poses in yoga for immunity that will not only increase your immunity but also de-stress the nervous system and help calm the mind while supporting the body in fighting illness.

1. Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana)

This pose is highly beneficial to the nervous system and is excellent for dealing with anxiety and depression. It’s a restorative yin posture, which means it doesn’t require much from the body, and it’s excellent to do in the morning because it energizes and calms the mind. In addition, sphinx massages the lower abdomen and helps relieve stomach pain.

Tips for your practice: 

Begin by lying on your stomach and lifting your shoulders. Next, extend your hands forward, elbows bent, and relax your glutes while lifting your neck. Allow your body to settle into this restorative pose, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth.

2. Revolved Chair Pose (Parivrtta Utkatasana)

Twisted postures in yoga are beneficial to the body’s overall health. The revolving chair pose, in particular, provides a deeper “ringing out” of the kidneys and digestive organs, resulting in internal detoxification. This posture is also very grounding and good for deepening your breath.

Tips for your practice: 

Find grounded stillness in the legs and allow the breath to anchor this posture. Use the elbows against the thighs to deepen the twist and release with breath as you raise your arms in prayer.

3. Standing Backbend (Anuvittasana)

Backbends are particularly detoxifying for the adrenal glands, which can become overworked due to stress. A standing backbend is a modified Camel pose that is especially beneficial for opening up the respiratory system. Use a standing backbend during the cold season to strengthen the lungs and keep the nasal passage open for breathing.

Tips for your practice: 

Standing in the mountain pose first, use your core to lift your upper body upright and back. Next, place your hands directly above your glutes on your lower back. Inhale deeply and allow your body to lift and extend backward. Hold a few deep breaths, then slowly come up, as backbends can cause dizziness.

4. Eagle Pose (Garudasana) 

By squeezing pressure points, this balancing pose helps stimulate fresh blood flow throughout the body, giving the body a jolt of immunity-boosting fluid. In addition, the squeezing motion in the legs and arms promotes circulation and the release of toxins.

Tips for your practice: 

Breathing is essential for keeping the body grounded and still because this is a balancing posture that requires standing. In addition, this increased breathing stimulates circulation throughout the body and mind, assisting in the release of tension and inactive energy.

5. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana) 

Physically, this pose strengthens the legs and core, but it also helps open the hips and relieve shoulder tension. Because this pose is considered therapeutic, there is some general release within the body. The triangle pose also helps to breathe by stretching the fascia around the lungs. Because it is an opening posture, it is ideal for those with hip tension. The Triangle pose allows for a deep opening and release of energy.

Tips for your practice: 

Exhale as you move your leading hand towards the front of your mat, keeping your front knee bent. As you roll your ribs open, be gentle on them and work to equalize the feeling of length in your torso.

The Final Word

Yoga can be one of our most powerful tools for building a robust immune system and keeping our body’s systems functioning optimally to avoid illness (or help us recover quicker). We can support, nourish, strengthen, and build our health, immunity, energy, and overall quality of life by cultivating balance in our bodies and their systems. These simple yoga poses to boost immunity are great things to start!

If you’re seeking yoga classes to boost your immunity, Rishikul Yogashala is here to support you with a range of vital and advantageous yoga poses. Our expert instructors can guide you through a variety of immune-boosting asanas that promote overall well-being. Additionally, you have the option to join our immersive yoga teacher training programs in Bali, such as the 200-Hour Yoga TTC Bali or 500-Hour Yoga TTC Bali. These comprehensive training courses not only deepen your understanding of yoga but also provide tools to enhance your mental health and focus. 

So what’s stopping you from joining our yoga teacher training courses in Bali that will improve your immunity as well as overall health? Contact us at +62 812-3814-775 or email your query to info@rishikulyogshala.org to embark on the journey of yoga!

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Yoga For Runners: 10 Best Yoga Poses For Runners https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/yoga-for-runners/ https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/yoga-for-runners/#respond Thu, 21 Sep 2023 11:51:34 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/?p=15615

Yoga and running can form a cooperative partnership, complementing each other in your fitness journey. While running focuses on repetitive movements, yoga emphasizes the importance of expanding your range of motion. So, when yoga and running are practiced together, they create a holistic approach to fitness that can benefit you in several ways.

At Rishikul Yogashala, we understand the unique needs of runners and the transformative power of yoga. We have compiled a list of the best yoga poses for runners that will enhance your running performance. So, let yoga be the yin to your running yang, nurturing your body, soothing your mind, and elevating your running experience to new heights.

Benefits Of Yoga For Runners

Running offers numerous physical and mental benefits but can also take a toll on your body, leading to muscle tightness, imbalances, and even injuries. That’s where yoga comes in. Yoga is the perfect counterpart to your running routine, providing balance and enhancing your overall running performance. So, let’s dive into the benefits of yoga for runners:

  1. Increased flexibility and range of motion: Yoga improves flexibility and joint mobility, reducing the risk of muscle tightness and imbalances. When yoga and running are practiced together, it enhances running performance and lowers the chance of injuries.
  2. Improved strength and stability: Yoga strengthens major muscle groups and stabilizes muscles, enhancing overall strength and stability. This supports proper running form, reduces the risk of injuries, and promotes better posture.
  3. Enhanced breathing and oxygen intake: Yoga incorporates deep breathing techniques that increase lung capacity and oxygen intake. This improves endurance, helps runners breathe efficiently during runs, and regulates energy expenditure.
  4. Mental focus and clarity: Yoga cultivates mindfulness and mental focus, aiding runners in staying present and overcoming mental obstacles during runs. The meditative aspects of yoga promote stress reduction and a sense of well-being; hence, yoga and running jointly can positively impact running performance.
  5. Injury prevention and faster recovery: Yoga addresses muscular imbalances, promotes body awareness, and reduces the risk of overuse injuries. It also aids in faster recovery by reducing muscle soreness, promoting relaxation, and supporting the body’s healing processes.

10 Best Yoga Poses For Runners

Here is the list of the most effective yoga poses for runners compiled by Rishikul Yogashala, the best yoga school in Kerala.

1. Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Downward-Facing Dog is an excellent pose of yoga for runners as it stretches and strengthens multiple muscle groups simultaneously. It stretches the calves, hamstrings, and Achilles tendons, which tend to get tight from running. This pose also opens up the shoulders, chest, and back, improving posture and relieving tension. It helps runners improve their overall flexibility, prevent injuries, and enhance their running performance.

How To Do Downward-Facing Dog Pose:

  • Start on your hands and knees.
  • Spread your fingers wide and push your palms into the mat.
  • Lift your knees off the ground and straighten your legs to form an inverted “V” shape with your body.
  • Press your heels toward the ground and lengthen your spine, relaxing your head and neck.
  • Hold the pose for several breaths, focusing on deepening your stretch and maintaining stability.

2. Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)

Standing Forward Bend is a rejuvenating pose that targets the hamstrings, calves, and lower back. Runners often experience tightness in these areas, and this pose provides a deep stretch, releasing tension and increasing flexibility. Uttanasana also calms the mind, relieving stress and anxiety. By allowing the head to hang, this pose promotes relaxation and encourages blood flow to the brain, improving mental clarity and focus. Incorporating the Standing Forward Bend into a runner’s routine can help improve stride length, prevent muscle imbalances, and promote a sense of grounding and balance.

How To Do Standing Forward Bend:

  • Stand with your feet hip-width apart.
  • Exhale and fold forward from your hips, holding your legs straight.
  • Place your hands on the ground or hold onto your elbows.
  • Allow your head and neck to relax, and let gravity pull your torso toward your thighs.
  • Maintain the pose for a few breaths, feeling the stretch in the back of your legs.

3. Low Lunge (Anjaneyasana)

Low Lunge is a dynamic pose that stretches the hip flexors, quadriceps, and hamstrings. It also engages the core muscles and promotes balance and stability. Runners often have tight hip flexors due to the repetitive motion of running, and a Low Lunge helps to open up these muscles and release tension. This pose also activates the glutes, which are essential for maintaining proper running form and preventing injuries. Performing Low Lunge can help runners improve their hip mobility, prevent muscle imbalances, and enhance their overall running performance.

How To Do Low Lunge:

  • Begin in a high plank position.
  • Step your right foot forward between your hands, keeping your knee directly above your ankle.
  • Place the top of your left foot on the mat and lower your left knee to the ground.
  • Engage your core and lift your torso upright, extending your arms overhead.

4. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)

Bridge Pose is a backbend that supports the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back muscles. It also opens up the chest and shoulders, counteracting the hunched posture that can occur from prolonged running. Regular practice of Bridge Pose can help runners build strength in the posterior chain, enhance their running efficiency, and prevent common running-related injuries.

How To Do Bridge Pose:

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart, flat on the ground.
  • Press your feet into the mat, engage your glutes, and lift your hips off the ground.
  • Place your fingers together beneath you and then gently roll your shoulders backward to expand and open up your chest area.
  • Keep your thighs parallel to each other and lengthen your tailbone toward your knees.
  • Hold the pose for several breaths, feeling the stretch in your chest, hips, and thighs.

5. Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)

Warrior II is a powerful pose that targets the hips, thighs, and shoulders. It builds strength and stability in the lower body while improving overall body awareness. This pose stretches the hip flexors, which can become tight from running, and strengthens the quadriceps and glutes. This pose can help runners improve their stride length, strengthen the muscles supporting the knees, and cultivate mental focus and determination on their running journey.

How To Do Warrior II Pose:

  • Start in a standing position with your feet separated.
  • Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and align your heel with the arch of your left foot.
  • Bend your right knee directly over your ankle and extend your arms to the sides. Gaze over your right fingertips and engage your core muscles.
  • Hold the pose for several breaths, feeling the strength and stability in your legs and the stretch in your hips.
  • Repeat on the other side.

6. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)

The triangle Pose is a standing pose that provides a deep stretch for the hamstrings, hips, and side body. It also improves harmony and strengthens the legs and core muscles. Runners often experience tightness in the hamstrings and hips, and the Triangle Pose helps to lengthen and release tension in these areas. This pose also opens the chest and shoulders, promoting better breathing and lung capacity during runs. Regular practice of Triangle Pose can help runners improve their flexibility, prevent muscle imbalances, and enhance their overall running performance.

How To Do Triangle Pose:

  • Stand with your feet wide apart, one foot facing forward and the other foot turned out to the side.
  • Extend your arms out to the sides, parallel to the ground.
  • Hinge at your hip and reach forward with your forward hand, placing it on your shin, ankle, or the floor.
  • Extend your other arm toward the ceiling, keeping your gaze directed upward.
  • Make sure to keep a straight line from your extended arm to your back foot.
  • Hold the pose for several breaths, feeling the stretch in your legs and sides of the body.

7. Reclining Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana)

The reclining Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose is a restorative pose that stretches the hamstrings and calves. It also helps to relieve tightness in the lower back and hips. This pose is particularly beneficial for runners as it allows for a deep and passive stretch without putting excessive strain on the muscles. Daily exercise in this pose can help runners improve their flexibility, aid in muscle recovery, and create a sense of ease and balance in the body.

How To Do Reclining Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose:

  • Lie on your back with your legs extended.
  • Bend your right knee and bring your right thigh toward your chest.
  • Wrap a strap or towel around the arch of your right foot and grasp the ends with your hands.
  • Extend your right leg upward, keeping it straight and the foot flexed.
  • Relax your shoulders and neck, and breathe deeply.
  • Hold the pose for several breaths, feeling the stretch in your hamstrings and calf muscles.
  • Repeat on the other side.

8. Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)

Pigeon Pose is a deep hip opener that targets the glutes, hips, and lower back. It releases tension in the hip flexors and piriformis muscles, which can become tight and imbalanced from running. Pigeon Pose also helps to increase hip mobility and alleviate any discomfort or tightness in the hips and lower back. This pose encourages relaxation and can help runners release emotional stress and tension stored in the hips. 

How To Do Pigeon Pose:

  • Start in a high plank position.
  • Bring your right knee forward and place it behind your right wrist.
  • Extend your left leg straight back, keeping your hips squared.
  • Slowly lower your upper body toward the ground, resting on your forearms or placing a block under your chest for support.
  • Breathe deeply and relax into the pose, feeling the stretch in your hip and glute muscles.
  • Hold the pose for several breaths, then repeat on the other side.

9. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)

The Seated Forward Bend is a calming yoga pose that stretches the entire back body, including the hamstrings, calves, and spine. It also helps to release tension in the shoulders and neck. This pose is beneficial for runners as it lengthens the muscles of the back body, improving overall flexibility and reducing the risk of muscle imbalances.

A Seated Forward Bend also calms the nervous system, promotes relaxation, and helps runners improve their running posture, prevent lower back pain, and create a sense of grounding and tranquility.

How To Do Seated Forward Bend:

  • Sit on the ground with your legs extended in front of you.
  • Inhale and lengthen your spine, then exhale and fold forward from your hips.
  • Reach for your feet, ankles, or shins, depending on your flexibility.
  • Keep your back straight and avoid rounding your spine.
  • Breathe deeply and relax into the stretch, feeling the lengthening in your hamstrings and spine.
  • Hold the pose for several breaths, gradually deepening the stretch.

10. Corpse Pose (Savasana)

Corpse Pose is a deeply relaxing pose that allows the body and mind to unwind fully and integrate the benefits of the yoga practice. It involves lying on the back, with the arms and legs relaxed, and focusing on conscious relaxation and deep breathing. Savasana helps to reduce physical and mental tension, promoting a state of deep relaxation and rejuvenation. This pose is particularly important for runners as it allows the body to recover and restore itself after a run.

Routine exercise of Corpse Pose can help runners enhance their recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and cultivate a sense of inner calm and peace.

How To Do Corpse Pose:

  • Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms relaxed. Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths.
  • Allow your body to relax, releasing any tension or tightness fully.
  • Focus on letting go of any thoughts or distractions, entering a state of complete relaxation.
  • Remain in this pose for several minutes, enjoying the sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Conclusion

As a runner, integrating yoga and running into your training regimen can be a game-changer. By incorporating the top 10 yoga poses for runners into your training routine, you can experience a significant boost in your running performance. 

The benefits of yoga for runners are numerous, ranging from improved performance and injury prevention to enhanced mental focus and overall well-being. At Rishikul Yogashala in Kerala, we are dedicated to helping runners like you discover the transformative power of yoga. So, you can join our short-term yoga courses or yoga retreats in Kerala and unlock your full running potential while fostering a deep connection with your body and mind. To embark on this transformative journey and take your running to the next level, contact us at +91 8433225327 or email us at info@rishikulyogshala.org.

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How to Keep Your Calm and Shun Off Anxiety amid Coronavirus Scare https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/how-to-keep-your-calm-and-shun-off-anxiety-amid-coronavirus-scare/ Mon, 23 Mar 2020 08:28:08 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/?p=11932 how-to-keep-your-calm

The pandemic of Coronavirus has gripped the entire world in fear, panic and anxiety. Almost all the countries of the world are going into lockdown and people are advised to stay inside their homes. But some of us are still not taking the pandemic seriously and the other half are way too worried about the situation. We must agree to the fact that this is a pandemic situation, and one has to take the measures to stay safe, but this doesn’t mean that one needs to get anxious and afraid.

Fear of the COVID-19 can take you on an emotional troll, but this is not the right time to take stress and burden the mind further. So here are some bits of advice that can help you keep calm and away from all the unnecessary stress and anxieties.

But First, Focus On The Essential Things You Can Control

Let’s be honest, the COVID-19 is spreading rapidly all over the world and these are times when our individual efforts can make a huge difference. In order to stay safe and keep others safe from the clutches of this virus, there are a few important things that we all must adhere to:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Stay inside your house.
  • Keep at least 3 feet distancefrom other people.
  • Stay home, isolate yourself if you show some symptoms.
  • Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or tissue while sneezing or coughing, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Avoid attending gatherings and parties.
  • Disinfect and clean the frequently touched surfaces with hand sanitizers daily.

Take Good Care Of Your Spirit And Body

This is an extraordinarily high time, where all the true and tried stress control approaches apply such as getting loads of sleep, eating healthy food, meditating and sweating out daily. Here are some of the tips to shun away the anxieties by fostering calmness within.

  • Maintain A Healthy Routine:
    Even if you feel trapped in your home, try to hold on to your daily routine of sleeping, eating, and working from home on time. Doing this will help you feel less fatigued, and you will start to maintain a feeling of normalcy.
  • Give Time To Your Favorite Hobbies:
    Listen to music, learn to play the guitar, read a book, watch your favorite movies, or do something creative – whether a piece of art, a craft, or new recipe. It doesn’t matter what you embrace unless it takesall your fears and worries out.
  • Be Generous To Yourself:
    Try to go soft on yourself in case you are experiencing anxiety and depression. And it is okay to be anxious because you are not alone in this situation.  Everyone is passing through uncertainty and fear regarding their safety and the safety of their loved ones. You might be going through a lot lately, have trouble sleeping, but keep this thing in mind that we are all together in this.
  • Continue Your Practice:
    Staying fresh and active will help control your mood, relieve stress, and release anxiety. While the yoga studio and schools are shut, you can still workout at home. There are plenty of yoga videos available online and you can even take part in online classes. Majority of the schools are now turning to online classes to allow their students to continue their practice. If you are already a professional, you can continue your yoga practice at home and even involve your family in the practice.
  • Pursue Your Hobbies:
    Now that you’re stuck at home, this is a wonderful opportunity to once again pursue your hobbies. Be it reading, writing, playing an instrument or creating something interesting, this is your chance to get engaged and enjoy your time. Also, keeping yourself engaged in activities will keep your mind distracted and free from stress.
  • Practice Mindful Techniques:
    When all the worries and stresses drive your nervous system out of balance, mindfulness techniques like meditation and pranayama can help bring back the calmness and tranquilityto your mind and body. Daily practice can deliver a lot of benefits, so make sure you take some time out every day.
  • Get Some Fresh Air And Sunshine:
    Fresh air and sunshine are the two most important things which are required to stay healthy and fit. Even if you have been advised to lock yourself down inside your home, ensure that you spend some time in sunlight and breathe in the fresh air. You can sit in your balcony or take some strolls in your terrace. But always keep yourself distanced from other people.

Keep In Touch With Your Family And Friends And Look After Them As Well

Keep in touch with your family and friends as it might benefit you to relieve the anxiety and stress caused by the outbreak of Coronavirus. Sharing your feelings and concerns may help you find techniques to deal with daily challenges. Also receiving the same love and support from others might bring back a feeling of stability and comfort. Helping each other in times of necessity can benefit all equally.

Stay Informed But Don’t Spread Rumors

At this time, it is very vital to stay acquainted, but stay away from rumors and wrong messages. You can follow some deliberate safety measures and do your bit in slowing the spread of COVID-19. But there are a lot of half-truths going around the world that only feeds into a panic. So, it is always important to be prudent about what you watch and read.

  • Constantly watching social media and news channels can immediately turn counterproductive and compulsive, resulting in feeding stress and anxiety than helping it. So limit your watch time accordingly.
  • Always stick to authentic and trustworthy sources.
  • Also, be careful of what you are sharing to others as we all require to do our bit by spreading the genuine news and avoiding unnecessary rumors.
  • If you are thinking of avoiding the media completely then ask someone you have faith in to pass on the ongoing updates and news.

Remember, we are all in this together. The situation may worsen further or it can improve. But as of now we need to fight this COVID-19 with solidarity and lend our support to the government initiatives. These are tough times for all of us and without each other’s support, we will not be able to win over the situation.

So stay safe, adhere to all that the government asks from and you and focus on the positives. We will surely turn out victorious in this war.

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11 Tips To Make Your Yoga Teaching Smooth Like A Vinyasa Flow https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/11-effective-yoga-teaching-tips/ Mon, 16 Mar 2020 10:07:37 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/?p=11812

Is It Hard To Be A Yoga Teacher?

It is fun to be a student and be responsible for only yourself while following the teacher’s instructions. But does the class appear the same on the other side? Certainly not. As a teacher in any field, whether a yoga teacher or any other teacher, you are responsible for a whole class with several students, be they children or adults.

Teachers may find it hard to say that teaching is easy, but they surely find it fulfilling to learn and impart the gained knowledge to their students. Teaching yoga is the same, where you strive to keep evolving. You must have a beginner mindset with a tendency towards improving to a higher version of yourself.

To gain an in-depth understanding of effective teaching methodologies and practical teaching experience to amplify your quality of teaching, you can join Our Yoga Teacher Training In Kerala, a place well known for having the most suitable learning environment that will make you a yoga teacher everyone admires.

Now, let’s take some weight off your shoulders from your daily responsibilities as a Yoga Teacher. 

11 Effective Yoga Teaching Tips

With these effective tips, your yoga teaching will become as effortless as a vinyasa flow!

Identify Your Purpose/ Why

Defining your purpose is the crucial first step in driving your enthusiasm to keep walking on your chosen path.

Before starting your career as a yoga teacher, ask yourself, “Why do I want to teach Yoga?” Find answers to your why, identify what drives you, and fuel your motivation to keep going on your yoga journey.

Here are some questions you can reflect on:

  • Why do I want to become a Yoga Teacher and not anything else?
  • What does it take to be a Yoga Teacher?
  • Would you like to spend your life teaching Yoga?
  • Are you willing to serve others through teaching Yoga?
  • Why do you admire Yoga?

Answering such questions will build your vision and help guide you through the times you lose focus or feel like quitting. 

Keep Practicing

For any yoga teacher or yoga instructor, other than teaching, it is equally vital that you carry out self-regulated yoga sessions to keep your muscles greased and your strength and flexibility maintained. It’s only when your mind and body are in perfect harmony that you will be able to teach others how to find balance within their bodies and mind.

Remember, “You cannot pour from an empty cup,” so you must keep refilling your cup to give to others. 

Know The Different Ways Of Teaching

Yoga is an art, a lifestyle unique to everyone. There is no one way to teach yoga. Every teacher has a distinctive way of teaching it. 

You may remember the time when you were a learner. How is your teaching different from the teacher you gained your education from? Indeed, there would be things you learned apart from your yoga training, maybe from your own student or in a yoga club.

There are as many ways of teaching yoga as there are yoga teachers. And you can learn something from everyone. So keep yourself open to learning and exploring, and surprise yourself with the numerous ways you can implement your yoga teaching. 

Expand your abilities as a diverse yoga teacher by enrolling in Our Yoga Retreat Program In Kerala Now!

Do Not Compare Yourself With Others

Imagine you just established your yoga institute and are eager to begin your first lesson with your students. You received a message from one of your fellow yoga club friends, congratulating you and inviting you to visit their yoga institute. You discovered their well-renowned institute online, brimming with numerous learners and began comparing your progress to theirs, feeling disappointed.

Did you notice how eager you were to get started before the message came? Then what changed your attitude? The answer is how you responded to the message. Instead, you can choose to admire your friend’s yoga institution and at the same time celebrate your own wins and progress. 

It is easy to compare ourselves with others and feel we are not enough. However, you must always remember that everyone’s progress level is different. Those who have achieved something were at your level once, and somewhere, someone still aspires to be where you stand.  

Take your time to get to a position where you aspire to be, but at the same time, do not have high and unrealistic expectations of yourself. 

Grounding 

Grounding is an ancient exercise that helps reconnect and realign one’s energies to the Earth, promoting mental, physical, and emotional well-being and receiving positive energy. 

It connects us with the Earth ‘physically’ – through asanas such as Mountain Pose, Tree Pose, Corpse Pose, Child’s Pose, and Easy Pose – and ‘spiritually’ through meditation and pranayama.

But how does it actually feel to ground yourself? Let us show you how. 

  • The first technique is earthing, where you place your bare feet on the Earth to absorb its positive grounding energy.
  • Another method involves sitting in a chair with your feet planted firmly on the ground while closing your eyes.

Take a deep breath in and visualize roots growing from your feet into the Earth, and your crown opening to a white light. As you do this, you ground yourself in the Earth and open yourself to the spiritual realm.

Grounding before and after teaching a yoga class will maintain an equilibrium between your body and mind to preserve harmony within.

Maintain And Protect Your Energy

While teaching yoga, there is a tendency to absorb other people’s energies, which can make you exhausted. The techniques of grounding mentioned above will be helpful, but in order to protect your energy, you can use the following technique.

Ask your students to turn their heads towards you and feet away from you while they are performing the Shavasana pose. It is because their energy is leaving their body through their feet, so by pointing their feet away from you, it will not get absorbed by your energy field.

Maintain A Schedule

Everyone needs a change of air and some time to wind down from constantly doing the same thing. Hence, structuring a schedule is vital to set some time for a break where you refresh your mind with hobbies or things you enjoy doing other than what you always do.

It could mean spending valuable time with your near ones, meditating, thoroughly enjoying a healthy meal or a warm cup of tea with all your senses, getting enough sleep, taking on some physical activities such as hiking, bike riding, camping, swimming and so on.

Or How About Joining Our Ayurveda Retreat In Kerala? A 7-day transformative journey with a genuine promise to rejuvenate, revitalize, and deeply immerse you into a soothing experience that awaits you. Enroll Now!

Expand Your Income

Let’s be honest. Earning is hard when you teach in a single studio with limited students. It is okay to think about expanding your source of income to become financially more stable and gain enhanced freedom and peace. 

Ways you can earn other than from your typical yoga class: 

  • Start a Yoga Podcast
  • Create a Yoga YouTube Channel
  • Start a Yoga Blog and monetize it
  • Offer Private Yoga Classes
  • Create and sell products that represent the Yoga Community

These passive income sources will not just build you financially stronger but give you more personal time for rewinding and self-training. 

Yogi With A Plan

Remember to do your homework before you show up in class. You shouldn’t seem lost about what the next asana shall be in front of your students. Have a plan in mind, but be flexible with it. Always have a plan B and change your plans according to the students and energy level of the class. 

Be Open To Feedback

When you enter the class, leave your footwear and your ego outside. Inside the class, all are equal, all are learners, and anyone can teach you something new. You can either have an attitude of ‘I know better’ or be the first to learn and grow. You should be willing and open to feedback from your students, whether it comes verbally or online. 

You can ask questions to your students like:

  • “Did you like today’s session?” 
  • “Which part of the session do you like the most?”
  • “Do you have any difficulty after yesterday’s session?” 
  • “Which part of today’s session did you find the most difficult?”

Build a connection with your students. Take feedback on your stride and be motivated to learn and improve yourself. 

Final Words

Being a yoga teacher is no easy thing. It requires time, effort, dedication, authenticity, and, most importantly, love for yoga.

To become a successful yoga teacher, you need to work on yourself in different ways, push your boundaries, and expand your abilities. The above tips can certainly guide you, but you must sincerely implement them to become an effective Yoga Teacher.

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How to Prepare for Yoga Teacher Training: A Beginner’s Guide https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/how-to-prepare-for-yoga-teacher-training-a-beginners-guide/ Thu, 05 Mar 2020 10:25:39 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/?p=11789 Yoga enthusiasts who are thinking of becoming a yoga teacher look forward to their yoga teacher training from a well-known yoga school. This is not only true because an expert yoga teacher training gives them the expertise, knowledge and skills to teach others in a safe and secure environment. But also because of the fact that the training gives them the much needed exposure to explore the ancient science from different aspects and increase their awareness.

However before you step into this life-evolving journey, a lot of planning and preparations need to be done. And that’s exactly what you are going to learn here. Here you will learn and understand how to prepare for yoga teacher training.

In this blog, you will get the answer to your questions, what to do for yoga teacher training so that you can earn the most out of it without missing sleep over it.

So Let’s Get Started And Make You All Set To Take On A Yoga Teacher Training Course Like A Pro!

Go Deep into the Literature

Many people begin their yoga journey without digging in its root and only thinking that yoga is just about modifications and asanas. However, this is not true. Going deep and understanding the origins of yoga is really important so as to become a knowledgeable yoga teacher that learners can look up to. Hence, search the web or invest in some books about the history of the ancient art of yoga, the philosophy behind it, and how it has emerged over time. If you know the roots, you will surely open new spiritual boundaries, and it will be easy for you to connect deeply with the traditional practice of yoga.

Begin with the Right Expectations

A lot of striving yoga instructors look at yoga practice as the way to a high paying profession. Some also dream of teaching a huge amount of students just after completing their 200-hour yoga training. Beginning your professional course with such mislaid theories can lead to disappointment. Setting up the right expectations before joining yoga training will help you stay centered and focused on your practice in the long run and also help you arise as a yoga expert.

Prepare Mentally and Physically

 Your typical day at a yoga teacher training starts at around 5.30 in the morning and ends by 8 in the evening. During the day, you will go through multiple grueling sessions of yoga that are practiced under the watchful eyes of professional yoga experts. In addition to that, you will also undergo various other activities and theory sessions to strengthen your practice.

So, be ready to be a part of exhilarating yoga days by starting a fitness routine, making a habit of eating healthy, and also by reading the yoga training related blogs to prepare mentally and physically for the adventure. Beginning your adventure without preparation will drive you to missed chances.

Start with the Daily Practice, Now

It really doesn’t matter if you are going to join 200 hours, 300 hours, or 500 hours yoga training course. All of them will test your patience and comfort with the traditional art of yoga. This is the reason why ambitious yoga teachers start their practice before so as to prepare for the yoga teacher training course.

Also by making your yoga sessions more frequent and longer will help you achieve a better understanding of your weaknesses and strengths. This will also help you become aware of the things you need to put more focus in and the questions you need to ask during your training.

Look for Various Yoga Schools

As you must know, there is no shortage of yoga schools out there. There might be a million or two yoga academies and schools across the world but they all are different from one another in style, positive reviews, school’s vision, teacher expertise, teacher training fee, and many more things.

But look for yoga schools where trainers and teachers are highly educated with university degrees. This brings professionalism in the curriculum of yoga training program and promises a surrounding centered on growth. Also, look for schools that are yoga Alliance certified as to get yourself an authentic certification.

Shortlist Your Destination

The yoga teacher training journey will be a lifetime experience, so think carefully before choosing your destination. While there are schools across the globe but some locations are considered purer than others. Such as Rishikesh, a small holy town in India, also the birthplace for yoga, and has been attracting many yoga lovers to its vibrant energy and spirituality.

Since yoga is a spiritual force that unites you with yourself, choosing the best destination is really important where there are ample mountains, greenery, and also peace of mind. So make sure to finalize the destination that gives you positive vibes.

Give a Thought to Various Yoga Styles

Yoga has different styles and forms which suit a person, depending on his expertise, goals, and agility. While Vinyasa yoga is ideal for people who are more into fast transitions, Hatha is the perfect form for newcomers. On the other hand, there is Iyengar Yoga, which only concentrates on body adjustments and is also loved by people who have a history with injuries.

Also, most yoga schools teach a mixture of yoga styles and form to their pupils. This introduces learners to multiple forms and helps them determine which styles perfectly fit them and their personality. Hence, exploring various yoga styles is eventually a good way to prepare yourself for yoga training.

Ready to Face the Unknown

Your yoga teacher training program will be a spiritual roller coaster with tons of new learning’s every single day. While your yoga schedule will be planned in advance, be ready for anything that comes your way. Some days you will feel a little distracted, you will feel that everything is going above your head and some will be more energetic, more peaceful, and knowledgeable. Don’t give up and remember to keep going because the end will be fruitful.

Rethink About your Dietary Habits

Yoga is a spiritual practice of self-awareness. The practice has its roots in the Hindu traditions and Vedas, which are led by the beliefs of uniting with eternal power. Since the flesh and meat doesn’t have a place in the Hindu religion, it is also not served in Indian yoga schools. If you consume meat on a daily basis, then it is time to cut short your diet to vegetarian or plant based food since 99% of yoga ashrams and schools will only serve vegan or vegetarian meals.

While almost every yoga school doesn’t serve meat, there are vegetarian foods and fruits that are highly recommended as they contain keeps you away from dehydration and help you on the yoga mat.

Self-Learning

If you go for the 200-hour yoga teacher training course, which is the most popular course among aspiring yogis, it will give you a month of comprehensive yoga activity and learning. But in between your days at the yoga teacher training, you need to give yourself time to practice to get into the details. Almost every school gives time to their students for self-practice as to let them know their mistakes and to come up with more queries to discuss it with the experts. 

Now you are good to go as you have all the tips and techniques before you start your yoga teacher training course. The one thing is to be sure of is that this teacher training program will surely bring you closer to knowing who you are. Your training process will include dealing with various things, meeting new people, building new connections, going through different flows, but it will all eventually lead you to live and teach your yoga.

And the last thing to keep in mind is to never leave your practice once you have begun the journey. Even after the completion of your course, keep your practice on as to enhance your movements and you can also begin with teaching a small group of people.

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9 Important Things to Consider Before Becoming a Yoga Teacher https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/9-important-things-to-consider-before-becoming-a-yoga-teacher/ Fri, 28 Feb 2020 12:50:51 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/?p=11767 If you are a practicing yogi, a student undergoing yoga teacher training, or an avid admirer of the ancient science of healing, in all likelihood, the thought to transform into a yoga teacher would have crossed your mind. Well, there is no greater service than becoming a yoga teacher and serving mankind selflessly.

But, there are blurry lines as to what is the real meaning of being a yoga teacher.  For many, being a yoga teacher equals to teaching a group of student yoga asanas, pranayama, and meditation. For others a yoga teacher is one who spends days traveling around the globe practicing sadhna with the aim of attaining salvation.

We Have Decoded For You The Real Meaning Of Being A Yoga Teacher!

Inspire. Teach. Propagate. These three golden words define the world of a yoga teacher.

A yoga teacher is a one who doesn’t just make the students master the art of contorting the body into postures, but make them understand how each posture heals the tissues, cells, and organs of the body.

A yoga instructor doesn’t just guide a practicing yogi to sit in meditation for tranquilizing the mind waves but encourage the students to walk on the path of spirituality where they come in close contact with peace, contentment and joy.

A yoga master doesn’t just teach yoga to the yoga enthusiasts but make the students live and breathe a yogic life characterized by the Yamas, Niyamas, and the golden teachings of great yogic souls.

Like others if you are undergoing yoga teacher training in India (the motherland of yoga), and eager to take a leap towards the dream of becoming a yoga teacher. Then, we are pleased to be sharing this piece of writing with you.

As said, being a yoga teacher extends much beyond teaching the number of postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. Therefore, such a noble job demands consideration. And to help all the yoga practitioners wishing to become a yoga teacher, we have listed down a few things to consider before becoming a yoga teacher.

Let’s Enroute The Yogic Voyage!

9 Important Things to Consider Before Becoming a Yoga Teacher

Explore the Science of Yoga:

Let’s just be honest that knowing or practicing one-two yoga asanas and a few breathing and meditation exercises will not make you a yoga teacher. Exploration, dedication, and practice will. The science of yoga has a rich long history, great pioneers, and many layers. Unfold each layer, read about the magnificent history, and explore the various dimensions of yoga, practice asana, pranayama, meditation regularly.  Read the yoga manuals, books on yoga by great teachers, start to incorporate Yamas and Niyamas into your life. And, if you are able to understand and connect with yoga, then you are ready to further walk down the path of being a yoga teacher.  Here is a list of reads:

  • Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
  • Hatha Yoga Pradipika
  • The Upanishads
  • The Yamas and Niyamas
  • Bhagvad Gita

Develop Love & Passion For Yoga:

Once you have started exploring the fathomable sea of the yogic science, and you think you are ready to become a yoga teacher, we advise you to rethink. Besides the understanding and practice of yogic science, love and passion for this art is necessary. Patience, love and strong character are the jewels of a yoga teacher. Only if it comes from the bottom of your heart, you can endure the process of transforming from a practitioner to a yoga teacher. During the process of exploring and understanding, if you develop love and passion for yoga, do take the step further.

Learn and Master the Science of Yoga:

As a yoga teacher, you need to hone your skills. And the veritable route to master the science of yoga is to enroll in a 200 hour yoga teacher training India.  It is a beginner-level yoga course to learn the basics of yoga. After successful completion of 200-hour YTTC, you become eligible to enroll in a 300-hour (intermediate level) and 500-hour (advance level) yoga teacher training course that hones your yogic skills perfectly. After successful completion of each course, you are rewarded with a certificate that verifies you as a yoga teacher. That very moment, your journey of a yoga teacher begins.

  • 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training: The entry level course where you will learn primary yoga series
  • 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training: The intermediate level course where you will learn secondary yoga series
  • 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training: The highest level course where you will learn advanced yoga series

Gain Validity and Authenticity:

Across the globe, many yoga schools provide yoga teacher training programs. But, not all are affiliated with Yoga Alliance– the non-profit organization representing the yoga community. The sole mission of this community is to promote and support the integrity and diversity of the teaching of yoga. So, if you desire to become a recognized and celebrated yoga teacher, enroll in a yoga school recognized with Yoga Alliance. The certificate provided by them to students upon successful completion of the course bears the stamp of Yoga Alliance, which will give you the recognition and honor of a yoga teacher across the globe. Another highlighting factor of choosing a Yoga Alliance certified school for an YTTC program is a detailed and comprehensive curriculum.

Associate with Affiliated Schools:

The real journey of being a yoga teacher begins now! You have successfully completed your yoga teacher training program from a reputed school. Congratulations! To turn your passion for yoga into a profession, you need to associate with an affiliated yoga school. Work as a yoga instructor in an affiliated yoga school because that’s where your journey started. Also, it is the best platform to escalate your practice to another level. You have learned a lot as a student, now learn as a teacher. There is so much to learn. And, a good teacher never stops learning.

Connect with Your Teaching Soul:

The yoga teacher training courses affiliated with Yoga Alliance organization offers an immersive curriculum with a balanced theoretical and practical approach.

  • Hatha Yoga: The yoga practice to balance the opposites
  • Ashtanga Yoga: The Mysore style of yoga asana practice
  • Kundalini Yoga: The practice of yoga to channelize the Kundalini through the Chakras
  • Pranayama: The art of controlling and expanding the life force
  • Meditation Techniques: The yogic technique to calm the body, mind, and soul
  • Shat-Kriyas: The yogic practice to cleanse and purify internal organs
  • Ayurvedic Knowledge: Introduction to the knowledge of health and life
  • Yogic Lifestyle: Living a pragmatic yogic lifestyle
  • Teaching Methodology: For learning the art and technique of taking a yoga class.

    And More….

As a teacher, you must find your niche. Are you more of a Hatha yogi or an Ashtanga yogi? Connect with your teaching soul, and then you will love teaching. Make a place of yours in a world of innumerable yoga teachers.

Preach The Science: 

Yoga is for the betterment of humankind. It does not differentiate between the young and old, male and female, healthy and unhealthy. Therefore, as a yoga teacher, why would you? Even when you are teaching yoga at a school or running your yoga shala, preach the science to all those who come in contact with you. Not only yoga, teach people to be humble, compassionate, and selfless in their acts.  Karma yoga is a type of yoga that allows the practitioner to work for the betterment of humanity. Teach and preach from a noble soul.

Empower Others:

A yoga teacher teaches asana, pranayama, and meditation. However, a great yoga teacher encourages and empowers his or her students. If you wish to become a great teacher, you need to understand the difference between teaching and empowering. Teaching is taking a class of half-an-hour or an hour. But, empowering is instilling the students with the confidence, guiding them at every step, and watching them transform into a yogic soul. Be a great yoga teacher and not just a teacher. And this is how you can empower your students:

  • Involve the students in practicum and group discussions
  • Take teaching methodology classes where they can conduct live sessions
  • Take them on excursions where they can explore.
  • Encourage them to lead a true yogic life
  • Be a source of inspiration to them

Be a Yogi:

Never cease to be a yogi, while teaching, practice every day. Deepen your practice. Explore the areas you haven’t while you were studying. Develop your signature style of teaching that gives you an identity. A true yogi never stops learning and teaching.

Evolve into a yoga teacher of greatness, righteousness, morality, and nobility. Illuminate the lives of all the earnest yoga students and practitioners with the wisdom of yoga. 

May You Live Your Dream!!!

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10 Reasons Why Choosing Yoga Teacher Training In India Is The Best Decision https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/yoga-teacher-training-in-india/ Tue, 25 Feb 2020 06:18:01 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/?p=11727

Your Ultimate Destination To Learn Yoga

Traveling through the ancient alleys of India, the realm of yoga has expanded throughout the world. Now, you can find an abundance of yoga studios, institutes, and yoga trainers accessible to everyone, unlike in olden times.

With numerous yoga assets around the corner, you might question, “Why go so far into learning yoga in India?”

It’s a brilliant question, indeed. But what if we say yoga teacher training can only be fulfilling and worthwhile in India and prove it?

India, the birthplace of yoga, is an ideal destination to attain your yoga teacher training from. It is a region with a spiritual and magical aura, rich in diverse cultures and traditions that offers an experience beyond mere yoga certifications and technicalities, introducing you to the original art form.

10 Reasons Why You Should Take Your Yoga Teacher Training In India

The Birthplace Of Yoga

The foundations of yogic teaching originated in ancient India with references in Indian philosophical texts like the Vedas and the Upanishads. From here, the knowledge altered and diverged to places outside India through its admirers and disciples, changing its natural form.

India, however, still carries the essence of the ancient yoga forms along with the modern styles of yoga, exposing you to a wholesome, in-depth, and complete learning of yoga as an art form.

Traditional Yoga Teaching Methods

The ancient Indian yoga teaching holds the legacy of yoga ashrams and emphasizes the importance of student life (known as Brahmacharya). By pursuing your yoga teacher training in India, you will have the opportunity to experience the authentic ways of living as a student of ancient times and gain knowledge from this time-honored tradition.

Living in a yoga ashram will mean following a disciplined and structured program based on yogic disciplines that will carve you into a master of yoga.

Here, you will learn in detail about yoga’s history and theory through authentic yoga teachings from sacred Indian texts, like the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita. India’s heritage and wisdom is next to none. It is a path you can rely on in your pursuit to become a qualified yoga instructor.

Guidance From The Yoga Gurus

India is the home of prominent yoga gurus and sages who have devoted their entire existence to the ancient art of yoga and have studied it in its purest form. Yoga professionals in India strive to serve the finest knowledge and training to their pupils.

You can receive the most pristine and authentic knowledge only from a wise sage, for the yoga tradition flows in his veins. He has lived yoga, and only he can teach you how to make it your lifestyle.

Spiritual Healing

Ayurveda is a traditional Hindu medical system developed over 5,000 years ago in India. Ayurveda includes healthy, balanced practices that use herbs, spices, and other natural elements to assist healing. India’s foundational yoga teaching and meditation courses typically include lessons on Ayurveda that encourage physical and spiritual healing.

Our 7-Day Ayurveda Retreat In Kerala is a beautiful opportunity to experience the enchanting effects of Ayurveda in your spiritual being, replenishing you from outside and within.

Connection With Like-Minded People 

India is one of the leading destinations for yoga teacher training. Pursuing your yoga teacher training in India means joining a group of people from all over the world. This diversity brings a variety of perspectives on life, broadening your mind as you engage, live, and learn together and build strong connections with each other.

Yoga Expeditions

In addition to deepening your yoga teaching practice, coming to India offers many other advantages. India is an ideal destination if you enjoy traveling and discovering new locations. It’s a country rich in traditions and cultures, bustling with people of all kinds, abundant with a variety of food, and adorned with some of the most brilliant landscapes.

You can choose your yoga learning journey from multiple famous destinations such as Rishikesh, Goa, Kerala, Bali, and many more; they are incredible places to explore!

How about discovering Rishikesh, the Land of Gods? Here, we provide a remarkable Yoga Teacher Training Program, surrounded by a spiritual landscape along the banks of Ganga, a perfect place to tap into your inner soul and dive deep into this ancient art form.

The Most Affordable Place 

One of the biggest reasons to take your yoga teacher training in India is that it is much affordable compared to other parts of the world. Almost all teacher training programs stay equipped with accommodation, food, and even local tours, all at reasonable prices without compromising the quality of education and yoga training.

Explore Our Yoga Teacher Training Course In Kerala, one of the most affordable yoga programs with the best accommodation and food facilities, where you will be trained by the finest yoga instructors amidst mesmerizing landscapes.

Delicious and Sattvik Yogi Food

India has diverse cultures and traditions, making it a junction of assorted cuisines. India is well known for its ayurvedic spices and herbs, adding flavorful magic to every food. It believes in the campaign – Healthy can be tasty. The sattvic food offered at spiritual places and yoga ashrams is a delightful feast; if you eat once, you will desire to enjoy it again and again.

Exciting Adventures

India is renowned for its sports and adventurous pursuits. In addition to being known as the birthplace of yoga, India is a hub of thrilling adventure activities such as river rafting and bungee jumping in Rishikesh; wildlife safaris, hiking, rock climbing, and parasailing in Kerala; windsurfing, water skiing, and flyboarding in Goa; mountain biking and underwater diving in Bali and many more.

Besides learning yoga, experience the stirring adventures that await you on your visit to India.

Certified Yoga Teacher Training Programs 

In India, there are several accredited schools with stunning locations and ideal surroundings that offer everything from in-depth scientific yoga lessons to intense practical yoga training, along with an array of additional events. They offer various yoga teacher training programs at different levels to suit individual needs.

At RishikulYogShala, we provide numerous courses ranging from basic yoga teacher training to more specialized courses in Hatha, Ashtanga, Kalaripayattu, Meditation, and Adjustment and Alignment courses available in different destinations like Rishikesh, Bali, Kerala, and Goa making it a versatile program you will love.

What Comes Next?

After completing the course, you can explore a wide range of career opportunities in India due to the high demand for refined yoga trainers.

In India, yoga instructors enjoy well-paying jobs with attractive benefits while simultaneously pursuing their teacher training courses. Demonstrating dedication and discipline during your studies may even provide you with the opportunity to teach and train at the same schools or ashrams from which you received your education.

Do you find these reasons compelling enough to pursue your yoga teacher training in India? We’re confident you do. So don’t wait any longer. Pack your bags for a trip to India, explore its culture, and pave your way to becoming a qualified Yoga trainer!

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7 Epic Destinations for 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in India https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/7-epic-destinations-for-200-hour-yoga-teacher-training-in-india/ Thu, 13 Feb 2020 08:22:44 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/?p=11564 It’s time to finish your search and finally get engaged in the practice of Yoga. Get this wholesome experience, and give a boost to your personal and professional growth. The 200-hour yoga teacher training is an opportunistic program that shapes you skillfully to become an established yoga teacher. If you are willing to take your yoga practice to a higher level, then it’s important to find the best destination where all the original teachings are being distributed. Since India is the birth land of Yoga, it has legitimate knowledge straight from the Vedas.

Take the Wellness Program at any of these 7 Best Destinations for 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in India.

Rishikesh

The most loved and famous yoga destination in the world! At the yoga capital, you will find plenty of benefitting reasons to visit this location like natural ambiance, highly experienced yoga gurus, a spiritual environment, and also the like-minded people. It is also considered a holy land since ancient times and has the sacred river, Ganga. This peaceful place has many historic sites and is religiously active. Rishikesh is located beautifully in the lap of the Himalayas in the northern part of India in the state of Uttarakhand. There are various yoga centers and ashrams here, where you can expand your knowledge of yoga, learn the physical forms like Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga under good expertise.

Rishikesh has all the rewarding elements that reform an individual with the practice of Yoga. Other than the 200 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, there are intermediate and advanced courses of 300 hours and 500-hours too. In the divinity of Rishikesh, you can create a balanced and harmonized self.

Kerala

7-epic-destination-kerala

Kerala is the home of Ayurvedic science and herbal medicine. The lush greenery and beautiful houseboats in the backwaters add more life to this city. People call it ‘God’s own abode’. It is an ideal destination for those who are seeking peace and healing. Some of the popular activities in Kerala are Ayurvedic retreats, treatments, therapies, massages, and Yoga. It is the perfect place to maintain mental and physical health. What else does a yogi need?

Kerala is situated in Malabar Coast and is also known for its tea and coffee plantations. So, there are a lot of things and places to explore while you are in Kerala. The most useful and valuable activity would certainly be the Yoga teacher training as Kerala has something more to offer in its YTT, the practice of Kalaripayattu – the ancient form of martial art in India.  

Goa

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Well, we are sure you have heard about this gorgeous tourist destination in India. It is undoubtedly the most happening place in the country, famous for its beach life, cafes, beach parties, and festivals. What most people aren’t aware of is that there is a completely different side to Goa – the one that takes you to a journey of self-discovery. Yoga in Goa is a unique opportunity to indulge in the practice of this ancient art under the guidance of some of the best teachers. Over the past few years, Goa has witnessed the emergence of numerous yoga teacher training centers and yoga retreats attracting people from different parts of the globe. The Portuguese style houses and landscape gardens of palm trees make the experience even more beautiful. Here, you can have the best of both worlds.

Goa has plenty of Yoga schools and retreat centers which are also focused on Ayurvedic practices. When monsoon season is over, the institutes are opened again for the yogi practitioners to enroll in.

Auroville

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Auroville is located in Puducherry, South India. This place is driven towards spiritual awakening and deep relaxation. It is home for integral yoga practices like Hatha Yoga, intense Meditation, dhyana, and sadhanas, and Pranayama activities. Teachings of Sri Aurobindo are still being taught in the city to share the ancient wisdom for mental peace, and maintenance of overall health. Yogis are naturally attracted to this peaceful place for its vibrant energy and spiritual vision.

It is a popular destination amongst the masses and seekers, especially for Matrimandir – a magnificent structure that symbolizes and encourages consciousness. Auroville is not a tourist destination, but rather a silent place towards spiritual discovery. Cut out from the world, just for a few days and live a simple life of a yogi here.

Dharamshala

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If you are a trekker and also a yogi, then there is nothing better than Dharamshala to bring back the lost Zen into your life. Here you can go for short or long treks in your day time and camp under the stars, and on the other hand you can practice and (maybe pose) on the top of the mountains. Travelers love McLeodganj which is in Dharamshala where you can find beautiful earthy cafes and libraries. This place is also cherished for its adapted Tibetan culture, brought up by his holiness, the Dalai Lama, as he chose to take refuge in Dharamshala out of all the places in the world. The elevated practice of Buddhism, yoga, meditation and mantra chanting in this quaint location, transfers the spiritual energy to the rest of the world in a joyful manner.

You can stay in budget as the place is comparatively cheaper, and still gain the optimum knowledge of Yoga. You will get to come across many monks who can share their personal way of inviting peace and happiness, which you can implement in your yogic practices. In the ‘land of Gods’ or Himachal Pradesh, one can really feel the pure vibe in the clean air.

Varanasi

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Varanasi is about 3000 years old when it comes to Indian tradition or history. It is a pilgrimage location where the intensity towards puja’s and aarti’s is highly energizing. Varanasi or Banaras is the holiest city of India for the Hindus and the sacred river Ganga flows by it. Varanasi is also the most-loved center for spiritualism, Yoga, mysticism, Ayurveda, and more. At this place, one can get rid of their negative energies, by purifying themselves with detoxification methods and cleansing operations under the specialized yoga gurus.

Varanasi has a variety of holy sites, temples like Shakti Peethas, Kashi Vishwanath temple, which are mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva. This place has housed many yoga schools over the years for yoga enthusiasts to flourish in a divine setting. Gain the traditional knowledge here, learn and master yoga by polishing your techniques and skills in an ambient environment.

Mysore

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Mysore is a part of South India and is considered as the birthplace of modern or 20th century Yoga. Mysore is one of the best destinations to learn 200-hour yoga teacher training because of its rich yogic lineage and in-depth understanding of ancient and modern Yoga. The globally recognized teachings of Sri Krishnamacharya and his students, more specifically Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and Sri BKS Iyengar have helped tremendously to shape the yogic practice in this beautiful city. They have been the root cause through which the yogic knowledge has gained the attention of the Western world. Ashtanga Yoga was founded by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois which has gained popularity worldwide.

There are beautiful palaces and temples in the city including the Mysore Palace. Chamundi Hill is another hill that is famous for its reflecting views. So, you can enjoy the surroundings while finessing your art of Yoga at this knowledgeable city of Ashtanga Yoga. Learn the various authentic forms and asanas directly under the lineage of the creators, as they are not commercially driven, but rather passionate to keep alive the true art of yoga.

Final Words

All of these destinations are highly appreciated by the people of India and western countries for the amount of wisdom they shower with the use of Yoga to make the lives of people better. The 200 hour Yoga teacher training is just a tool that harnesses your mental, physical, and spiritual being. This alignment is necessary for people to function in a more productive way. This training comes with certification, the most reputable one is the Yoga Alliance certificate because of its unbelievable push to kick-start your professional career in Yoga.

You may not realize the importance of destinations until you start your yoga practice and start craving for a quiet or isolated place with no disturbances whatsoever. Especially for beginners, the practice of Yoga should be done in a more peaceful region to nurture self-awareness and self-consciousness, which is the first step of Yoga. After they get the hang of it on how to control the mind, they can build the power to do yoga at any place regardless of noises and population. The benefits and rewards of Yoga come with patience and consistent practice. So, don’t lose hope in the middle, and keep exploring yourself and the spiritual world to magnify your potential, inner-power by bridging it with the universal force.

Pick your favorite destination, and start today!

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Rishikesh Tour: Exploring A Spiritual Paradise https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/blog/rishikesh-tour-a-spiritual-journey/ Wed, 12 Feb 2020 12:56:17 +0000 https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/?p=11540

A soothing view, a serene delight, an alluring charm to admire,
The emerald of forests, The amber of the Sun, and the sky's brilliant sapphire

Embellished with tradition and the burning lanterns
This is a place with a sense of calmness that inspires.

Rishikesh, a spiritual paradise through which the holy Ganga river flows, is a central tourist and pilgrimage town in northern India. It attracts people from across the world who come here with the singular purpose of finding peace. Despite being a small town, Rishikesh is always bustling with people and a continuous stream of activities keeps happening around the clock.

History Of Rishikesh

Rishikesh is well known as “The Yoga Capital of the World,” as the ancient practice of Yoga found its first roots here. Rishikesh serves as a sanctuary for yogis and saints who can be seen doing meditation and yoga at the ghats of the Ganga river in the early mornings.

It is a mythological belief in the Hindu religion that Lord Rama came here to seek atonement for the act of killing Ravana.

Another legend says that Rama’s younger brother Lakshman crossed the Ganga using two jute ropes, which marks the presence of the Lakshmana Jhula that still exist to this day, spanning across the Ganga river.

Curious to know more? Let’s move on to some unknown facts about Rishikesh that will surprise you and some activities that will lure you to this divine and enchanting destination.

Exploring Rishikesh

Welcome to your virtual Rishikesh tour, a trip that will open the doors to a spiritual paradise!

Yoga Capital Of The World

Rishikesh is the tapobhumi of the saints and yogis since ancient times, a place for unhindered severe meditation and intense yoga practices. It is a home to numerous ashrams and yoga institutions.

Every year, the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board organizes the International Yoga Festival, which draws several devotees and Yoga enthusiasts to join and celebrate this age-old practice together.

Many spiritual leaders and yoga gurus such as Swami Sivananda, Guru Vashishtha, Jatawale Baba, and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar have chosen the mesmerizing surroundings of Rishikesh to practice their spiritual awakening.

Since Rishikesh has such a deep spiritual heritage and rich lineage of yoga, it is a hub of popular yoga ashrams, yoga retreats, and yoga teacher training schools.

If this written portrait of Rishikesh inspired you enough to explore the magnificent landscape of Rishikesh in reality and embark on a highly fulfilling and calming journey towards becoming a Yoga teacher, do check out Our Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh!

The Ganga Aarti

A spiritual region is incomplete without a worshiping place. And every worshiping place becomes memorable with a special prayer.

Rishikesh is incomplete, too, without its divine Ganga Aarti held each day at the Triveni Ghat, a junction where the three holy rivers—the Ganga, the Saraswathi, and the Yamuna—converge.

The ritual begins in the morning as people pray, offer milk, perform Surya Namaskar, and feed fish on the ghat. This morning scene transforms into a breathtaking spectacle in the evening, as the golden hour from the setting sun bathes the scene in warm light. Slowly the entire ghat gets illuminated by burning lanterns floating on the river. Priests hold blazing fire lamps while chanting prayers, as hundreds of people gather here to be a part of the Maha Aarti.

Rishikesh Ashrams

The most striking aspect of Rishikesh, which breathes spirituality and calmness into it, is its ashrams and holy temples.

Among the Rishikesh ashrams, one of the most popular is the Beatles Ashram, which gained worldwide popularity in the 1980s when the legendary pop band visited the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Ashram to learn transcendental meditation in Rishikesh. Soon after, the place became well-known for yoga and meditation by the name ‘Beatles Ashram.’

It is one of the most peaceful places that attracts tourists to its purity and tranquility. It is an incredible spot to hang out with friends, with the ashram walls adorned with decorative graffiti offering an aesthetic backdrop for your selfies. The Beatles ashram is one of the best offbeat places to explore in Rishikesh.

Rishikesh is also famous for its 133-year-old Kailash Ashram Brahmavidyapitham, established by Swami Dhanraj Giri in 1880. This ashram is dedicated to promoting and preserving the classical Vedanta studies of ancient times. Many inspirational leaders such as Swami Rana Tirtha, Swami Vivekananda, and Swami Sivananda recieved their education in this revered place.

Temples and Traditional Sing-Alongs

A spiritual place can never be devoid of a divine place of worship. The temples in Rishikesh are its soul that carefully preserves its traditions and culture. They radiate an ancient aura, a profound spiritual sensation, comparable to none. The ongoing chants, the playing of instruments, and the soothing ambiance will transport you to a state of immense serenity.

Tourists visit these places to calm down and relax their nerves as they dwell, listening to the traditional classical music played by professionals and locals. The heritage instruments used here represent India’s beautiful culture and music.

Adventure Sports In Rishikesh

Bungee jumping

You heard it right! Bungee jumping, the well-known extreme adventure sport in Rishikesh, is one of its specialities, with the highest jump of 83 meters in India.

Gather some friends for your Rishikesh tour and get ready for a thrilling freefall. This gripping adventure sport in Rishikesh will help you conquer your greatest fears and create unforgettable memories, as well as strengthen your friendships.

Bonus Fact: Rishikesh also owns the longest flying fox in Asia, with a length of 1 km, speeding at 140 km/hr. Another exciting adventure sport in Rishikesh that is worth giving a go.

River Rafting

When you see a river and a rafting boat, don’t think twice and go river rafting!

Can you please take your eyes off the scenery for a while and dive into this thrilling adventure sport of river rafting?! Your Rishikesh tour will definitely be incomplete without taking the salty taste of the river. Don’t regret it later! The best time for rafting is all months except the monsoon season, so keep that in mind.

Paragliding

Enough walking through the Rishikesh landscape; how about we glide over it, up and above the clouds and mountains? Curious to know how? Through Paragliding! One of the most popular aerial activities to try with friends, family, and even alone. You can enjoy this adventure sport in Rishikesh at any time of the year except for the monsoon season (from July to September).

Feel your lungs screaming your heart pumping, and satisfy your adrenaline appetite as you engage in these extreme activities amidst the lush green landscape of Rishikesh.

Alcohol-Free, Authentic Pure Vegetarian Indian Cuisine

A spiritual and pious region like Rishikesh has no place for irreverent food and activities. Hence, it completely forbids alcohol and non-vegetarian food.

The dining places you will find in Rishikesh purely serve authentic, healthy, vegetarian Indian cuisines with the addition of ayurvedic herbs and spices. There are numerous cafes and restaurants with a diverse variety of Indian food that will spoil you for choice once you taste the flavorful food served here!

Finest Healthcare Services

As part of the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Government of India has established six healthcare facilities, one of which is the AIIMS Rishikesh.

AIIMS Rishikesh, one of the leading medical institutions in India, serves as the epicenter of research and innovation in the medical field. It offers a wide range of medical and healthcare services to patients, involving specialized treatment, surgeries, diagnostic services, and preventive care.

It has delivered several highly skilled and competent medical professionals to the nation.

Ayurvedic Therapies and Massages

India is the birthplace of Ayurveda, known for its authentic and trustworthy Ayurvedic and yoga practices. Rishikesh stands as one of the most spiritual places, preserving the ancient Ayurvedic traditions that originated here. In Rishikesh, you can experience a variety of Ayurvedic massages and treatments, helping your body and mind find balance and peace.

Ayurvedic courses are available year-round that you can enjoy at numerous Ayurveda retreat centers and ashrams. Speaking of Ayurveda, our 7 day Ayurveda Retreat In Kerala offers the best Ayurvedic experience involving soothing therapies and massages designed to rejuvenate and relax your body entirely.

Wildlife

Rishikesh is nestled amidst lush forest and abundant wildlife. The ‘Rajaji National Park and Tiger Reserve’ stands as one of the most alluring attractions of Rishikesh that promises a thrilling adventure where you get a chance to encounter a wide variety of flora and fauna up close.

Spotting a Bengal tiger and Asiatic elephants is a visual delight for tourists. Through a jeep safari, you can intimately experience the exotic and magnificent wilderness of the Rajaji National Park, becoming one with nature as you wander alongside both the gentle and fierce animals, all freely roaming in the expanse of their forest habitat.

Festivals

Festivals in Rishikesh means music, food, dance, colors, gatherings, and celebrations. It stirs the whole city with liveliness and joy.

Rishikesh hosts various festivals, the most renowned being the International Yoga Festival, held every year in March. Amidst the magnificent Himalayas, along the banks of the Ganga river, at Paramartha Niketan in Rishikesh, numerous yoga practitioners and enthusiasts join together to participate in this grand festival immersing themselves in deep spiritual tranquility.

Several Local Festivals like Kanwar Mela. Kumbh Mela, Makar Sankranti, Basant Panchmi, and Ganga Dussehra are held here with great vigor.

As the majority of Rishikesh’s population is Hindu, several Hindu festivals, including Holi, Diwali, Dussehra, and Navratri, are celebrated with great enthusiasm, even by non-Hindus.

Wrapping Up Your Rishikesh Tour

Rishikesh is more than just a place. It’s an experience that lingers within you long after you are gone. Its pleasing memories will beckon you to return to this serene place.

So when that inner calling arises, find yourself once again in the embrace of nature and the tranquil surroundings of Rishikesh. Remember, the Land of Gods keeps its gates open for its admirers at all times.

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