Yoga retreats at Rishikesh
Yoga is not a mere concept of spiritual wellness. It is both— art and science. Yoga heals the wounds of your mind and body, and it helps you restore balance in life. With yoga, your mind gets a clear vision. Now, you have heard all of these before. But what you might not have heard is that the way yoga is practiced in India largely differs from the procedures followed in the west.
Western Yoga
Western yoga focuses mainly on your physical postures and asanas (sequences). On the other hand, in India, particularly in the traditional ashrams that we are about to mention, asanas are only one aspect of a wider whole. Yoga is considered an entirely different dimension, where the physical entity of the practitioner is merely a small part.
Indian yoga: A distinctive approach
Indian yogis pay greater emphasis on the need for meditation, breathing control, and spiritual cleansing techniques, combined with several devotional practices like mantra chanting, philosophy classes, and karma yoga; community service. So, if you are aiming to get into one of the Indian yoga retreats, you better stay ready to explore the unexpected.
To help you choose the right one, here is our list of the 5 best yoga and meditation retreats in India.
1. Rishikesh Yogpeeth, Abhayaranya
You cannot simply imagine a yoga retreat list without mentioning the name of Rishikesh Yogpeeth. It is indeed the best and most sought after yoga camp in Rishikesh. You can expect a spiritually fulfilling seven days inner exploration journey in an area surrounded by divine natural beauty. The freshness of the air, call of the mountains, and a soothing atmosphere filled with like-minded people, Rishikesh Yogpeeth is certainly one of those meditation retreats in Rishikesh that you must visit.
2. Bihar School of Yoga, Munger
Bihar is the land where Lord Buddha was enlightened. As a result, many locals are still inspired by his spiritual feats. Today, you visit Bihar’s specific places and expect to come across some of the most sought after meditation camps. The School of Yoga in Bihar teaches its students principles of yoga and meditation and also emphasizes on the real-life practice aspect. Days typically start at 4 am here, and during the day, you get to explore your inner spirit.
3. Purple Valley, Goa
You thought Goa is a place dedicated to party and nightlife? Well, you are mistaken in some ways. What if we told you that the party capital of India also has a meditation and yoga camp? That would surprise you, we are sure about it. But the next time you go to Goa and feel lost in your mind after spending meaningless nights in exhaustive rave parties, consider visiting the Purple Valley. The experience will certainly soothe your mind and also enable you to know who you truly are.
4. Kaivalyadhama Ashram, Mumbai
Mumbai is one of those rare cities in the world that offers you nearly everything. Whether you are out looking for sea beaches or islands, spree markets, or expensive shopping malls, you get all of them under the same sky. But one more thing that Mumbai specializes in, but not many people notice, is spirituality. How could you not expect a world-class spiritual camp in a world-class city like India’s financial capital? The Kaivalyadhama Ashram is situated in Lonavala and spreads across a massive 180-acre land. If you are looking for a diploma and certificate yoga courses, this is the perfect ashram for you. However, if you are short on time and want to participate in the smaller courses, that is also possible.
5. Mysore Krishnamachar Yoga Shala, Karnataka
Those of you haven’t heard about Yogi Krishnamachar; he was considered to be the super-guru of yoga. The current trainer in the Yoga Shala had learned the principles of yoga under Krishnamachar for 38 years. Today, he is transferring the sacred knowledge to the younger generation. You can, too, take part in this divine journey. Claim a piece of the spiritual pie. Believe in the power of yoga, and your obstacles are no longer existent.
We are sure that you are delighted to know so many yoga centers and camps in India. Now, depending upon your proximity, you should choose a location that suits you the most. However, we would like to tell you one thing. When you are practicing yoga, practice it in a place where the original ancient yogis used to do; the Himalayan foothills. In that case, Rishikesh can be the perfect destination for you.
