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.

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.

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.

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!

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!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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.

If you’re wondering how you could begin doing it, we have a simple solution for you; yoga. Yoga has numerous asanas or poses which will guide your entire body to become steady and well balanced on your feet. Not only will that, but the right performance of these poses help you achieve a significant degree of mental and soulful balance as well.  There is nothing more wholesome than the six yoga sequences we’ll discuss below, to get you on your feet, literally!

Tadasana

1. Begin by standing on the floor with your heels slightly apart from each other. Rock and Sway a little bit and then gradually bring yourself to a standstill, balancing your weight on your feet.
2. Place your attention on a particular spot in your line of vision, or you can also close your eyes and focus on your breath. Focusing is important to gain physical as well as mental balance.
3. Firm your thigh muscles and lift your knee cap without hardening your lower belly.
4. Start working towards your chest and begin lifting it up. Push your shoulder blades back and then raise your head in order to lengthen your neck.
5. As you breathe in, raise your toes gently in order to balance your body on your heels. Hold this pose for 5-10 seconds and then come out of it as you slowly exhale

Read Also:  5 Excellent Health Benefits of Tadasana 

Vrksasana

1. Stand with both your feet on the floor and your weight distributed equally on both of them.
2. Now slowly start shifting all your weight on your right leg and lift your left foot off from the floor. Make sure that when you keep your right leg straight you don’t lock your knee.
3. Place your left foot on your inner right thigh and lace your focus on a distant thing or your own breath.
4. Hold this pose for 5-10 seconds. Then come out of it and repeat it from the other side.

Natarajasana

1. Begin by standing upright on your feet placed on the floor.
2. Lift your left foot in such a way that the heel is placed towards your left buttock. Shift your entire weight on the right foot.
3. Keep your torso upright and grab your left foot from the outside with the left hand.  Make sure your pubis is lifted towards your navel.
4. Begin lifting your left foot up, bringing your left thigh parallel to the floor. Stretch your right arm forward to bring it to parallel to the floor as well.
5. Hold this pose for 10-15 seconds. Then release and repeat from the other side.

Ardha Chandrasana

1. Stand on the floor upright with your feet a little apart from each other.
2. Now slowly bring your right hand to the floor, and make sure to keep your legs straight. Now lift the left leg off the floor and make sure that it is parallel to the floor.
3. Twist your upper torso towards your left and place your left hand on your left hip.
4. Maintain your balance with the help of the foot and the hand which is on the floor.
5. Hold this pose for a few seconds and then repeat it from the other side.

Read Also:  Top 7 Health benefits of Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose) 

Garudasana

1. Begin by standing straight on your feet. Then bend your right knee and wrap your left leg around your right one so that the knees are placed over each other.
2. Raise your arms and wrap your right hand around the left. Make sure that both your both elbows are straight.
3. Keep your legs straight and try to find your balance. Hold this pose for 5-10 seconds. Release it and repeat the sequence with the other leg and hands.

Read Also:  What are the health benefits of Garudasana (Eagle Pose) 

Utkatasana

1. Stand upright and place your feet slightly apart from each other
2. Stretch your arms forward and make your palms face downwards while making sure that your elbows don’t bend
3. Bend your knees and push your pelvis down in a way that it looks like you are sitting on an imaginary chair.
4. Stay focused and keep your spine straight. Hold the pose for up to a minute. Exhale as you come out of it and bring yourself in the sitting position.

Read Also:  How To Do Chair Pose (Utkatasana) 

Practice these asanas to have a wholesome, happy and well balanced life.