What exactly is 200 hour yoga teacher training?

What exactly is 200 hour yoga teacher training?

Are you wondering what a 200 hour yoga teacher training is? Youre in the right place. We know that it may seem arbitrary why 200 hours? Why not more or less hours? And how does this make someone a yoga teacher?

200 hours is the amount of time Yoga Alliance, the worlds largest nonprofit association representing the yoga community, with over 7,000 Registered Yoga Schools (RYS) and more than 100,000 Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) as of April 2020, has designated 200 hours as the amount of time necessary for a yoga teacher to become a Yoga Alliance certified yoga teacher. 

While there are trainings for 50-hours or 100-hours, those do not certify you to teach yoga internationally, those are often considered continuing education for yoga teachers who already have 200 hours of education, or as introductory courses for those who wish to learn more about yoga but who are not sure that they want to be a yoga teacher themselves.

So what is a 200 hour yoga teacher training like? Where does this method come from? You have questions. We have answers. Read on!

A 200 hour yoga teacher training is a glimpse of experiencing Indian traditional culture under the Gurukul system and its vast spiritual practices. India is a land of seekers and spirituality, the world has recognized that India is a country of ancient spiritual wisdom and traditions. In India, many yogis regardless of caste and religion were born and they went beyond the physical and psychological dimensions and attained moksha (liberation) towards the end of their physical lives. 

India is the land on Earth where Shiva, the Adiyogi, understood the highest life force or pranic energy which resides in Shunya state. Shunya state has the highest life force compared to any other state. His vibrations are also experienced today in several parts of India in various forms. He is also known as the creator of yoga and the first teacher of yoga. Therefore any part of India you go to, you can not miss out on spirituality and mysticism. 

In old times Brahmins would have a Gurukul (the house of a guru) system which includes the studies of the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Shastras which contain profound knowledge of all aspects of the body, mind, and beyond.

The system usually engaged yoga disciples in a routine where they would spend several hours working on asana, pranayama, kriyas, dhyana, study with the master, and karma yoga. The whole objective of that system was designed for seekers and not for common people.

A 200 hour yoga teacher training is a replica of that particular system. Since life in modern times is fast paced it is not easy and not always possible for everyone to be devoted to such practices. For those who have not been living satisfactorily in the materialistic world and the nature of their inquiry is strong, then they are ready to take the course of a 200 hours yoga teacher training, where they will come to understand the life not limited to only body and mind but much beyond. 

A 200 hours teachers training course is an essence and compilation of Gurukul  parampara (lineage) system where a student stays at an ashram style environment under a lead teacher whose goal is also to realize its true self and who has knowledge from his guru. 

The teachers training course also includes studies of asana, pranayama, yogic kriyas, yoga philosophy, yoga nidra, human anatomy and physiology, meditation with an intention to grow the seed for spiritual growth. This style of discipline is an eye opener and teaches one to differentiate between what is material and spiritual. 

The difference between spiritual world and material world

Material world: The life force or pranic force of an individual acts mostly outward in the material world. In the material world, we act to survive, create and sustain, by doing so, with time, we believe and store it as a reality and ultimate thing, one entangles himself in a complex web of sufferings. 

Spiritual world: It is within every individual. The life force of a human being acts inward for self knowledge or knowing the ultimate. It is totally an inward process. The one who attains true self knowledge gets control over its energies and hence can act efficiently in the material world.

So the ultimate reality of a 200 hours yoga teacher training course is that it's an essence of the system that has been passed down to us from our spiritual masters who followed such a routine for several years and attained realization. As previously mentioned, years of study is not usually possible for a yoga teacher, thus in the modern world the practice has been modified to a point where it can be accessible and understandable for any individual. 

Obtaining a certificate, taking exams, the practical and theoretical elements of a yoga teacher training are just the attributes of the YTTC program which have their relevance and are also important. 

A yoga teacher training course is indeed, a life changing program and has the ability to transform one's life. 

If you have any more questions about what a yoga teacher training is, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Will A 200 Hours Yoga Teacher Training Make Me A Yoga Teacher?

Nowadays in the yoga world, many traditions of yoga have started debating the Yoga Teacher Training YTT certification and its legitimacy. It is a legitimate question why do yoga teacher training schools provide a yoga teacher certificate just after doing a one-month-long yoga teacher training course? Or after completing 200 hours of study?

The world is moving faster than ever. The guru-disciple relationship used to be considered a lifelong process, and a life-long commitment. A student would stay in Gurukul settings (the house of guru) to progress with self-development knowledge through spiritual practices for years.

Practically it is not possible for every human being to be going to a Gurukul system in this period of time. 

Today, yoga is for everyone. It is not just for those who cloister themselves in ashrams or with a guru. Therefore, there are certain short-term courses in yoga that have been formulated to compile the knowledge of yoga, which comes from generations, to provide one a glimpse of how yoga was practiced. A 200-hour yoga teacher training course is a beautiful compilation of ancient knowledge.

One should not say that the yogic practice is my way or your way. It is what it is. Even the knowledge from the lineage (passing from one to another generation) can not be considered as the only way to attend the spiritual path. That is what has been happening in the present world that one lineage is unable to accept the other in a harmonious way. 

First, we need to understand why are we practicing yoga?

Yoga is not merely a performance of asana (postures) as how it is presented in today's world. With millions of photos of yoga asana on social media or on Google, it has been misleading. While yoga undoubtedly does have the ability and tendency to make ones body open up to its deepest level and to bring a sense of calmness in the mind, but here the topic goes a bit deeper: 

A soul which acquires a physical body and gains a human life, carries impressions which we call samskaras, which are the form of various desires or pending tasks.

As in school if we do not complete our homework the teacher will not let us proceed to the next subject, similarly, the samskaras are our pending homework that are due to be completed, before we can progress. The only challenge here is to know what they are, as once a condition is diagnosed then only cure is possible. To recognize that the practice of yoga comes into play. 

Any branch of yoga you choose, its literal job is to create and develop an incredible sense of awareness within oneself. This awareness one develops does all the required job for our soul. Whether it is meditation, asana, pranayama, yoga Nidra, or a yoga philosophy you pick whichever you wish and its ultimate job is to build awareness. 

For example Buddha mostly meditated during his life, and to make the most out of it he did the necessary changes to free himself from old impressions. We rarely talk about his deep longing and intensity to know himself.

The process of building such awareness requires enormous self-work and a deep longing within oneself. Its intensity is much much dense than anything. It is something that is incomparable. The burning of this knowing is the only way to truly transform a human life. 

Now comes the important question& can a 200 hours yoga teachers training, a master degree, or five years of continuous asana practice, or 10 years of living in complete silence, or a life long sanyasi or a monk life, will that be enough to achieve this? 

Honestly speaking any of the above or beyond can take you there. It only matters which path you connect with. 

There is no system that guarantees a return in yoga. It is totally your investment to know yourself. 

The founder of Punyah Yoga, Hemant Singh, deeply feels that the 200 hours of yoga teacher training course has been misunderstood by many. 

When you undertake any 200-hour yoga teacher training program or course, is shows you a way of living to make yourself disciplined towards yourself. It is done through waking up early in the morning, following the curriculum physical exercise, breath, theory, wakeful rest, dhyana etc. 

Not to forget again that these are all tools to develop heightened awareness to look within.

The rewards are offered after accomplishing the four weeks of intense training and it simply announces to the world that a person has completed a certain number of hours under a lead teacher. A seeker (lead teacher) knows that those hours are the guidelines to follow when he isn't there. He has shown you the way, walking on the path is entirely up to you.

The one who undergoes the 200 hour yoga teacher training must naturally understand that 200 hours are not there only to make you a yoga teacher, but as a tool to work upon yourself daily and to complete the pending homework from previous lives. During that process, perhaps you share a bit to the world in the form of teaching. 

But these days a bit too much emphasis is given to this. A 200 hours yoga teacher trainig course is not enough to become a yoga teacher. We firmly believe that a course such as this goes beyond just enabling you to be a yoga teacher.

Ashtanga Yoga At Punyah Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga At Punyah Yoga

There are many yoga studios and shalas in Rishikesh that offer Ashtanga courses. However, not all strictly teach according to tradition and lineage.

At Punyah Yoga, we are one of the few in Rishikesh that teach Ashtanga Yoga stringently as taught by Pattabhi Jois. We teach as it was taught with no modifications. We do not skip postures, nor do we change asanas.

Students of our Ashtanga classes are expected to attempt every asana - even the most difficult postures. There is also Sanskrit counting and focus is on the breath and on gazing points.

The founder of Punyah Yoga, Hemant Singh, wants to remind students that yoga is a breathing exercise with awareness. Ashtanga is no different.

Yoga is an internal practice. The rest is just a circus. Sri K. Pattabhi Jois

What Is Ashtanga?

Ever wondered what Ashtanga Yoga is? Let us fill you in!

Ashtanga Yoga was founded in the 20th century by Pattabhi Jois in India. With his guru, Krishnacharya, Pattabhi Jois developed four series of asanas: the Primary, the Intermediate, Advanced Series A and Advanced Series B. The primary series is called Yoga Chikitsa, which translates as yoga therapy. The intermediate series, Nadi Shodhana, means the nerve purifier. Lastly, the advanced series A and B, Sthina Bhaga, means centering of strength.

Each series is comprised of a set sequence of asanas which students memorize.

Ashtanga Yoga is known to be very athletic and energetic as asanas are linked with breathing. Its a highly specific yoga practice in which every count, every inhale, every exhale is accounted for.

What Are Ashtanga Classes Like?

There are two different ways Ashtanga Yoga is taught: led and Mysore style.

In led classes, the teacher stands at the front of the class and announces the sequence of asanas while counting to pace the students. The teacher also occasionally offers hands-on adjustments.

In Mysore style classes, the teacher simply says, Begin. Sometimes, the students all begin with a mantra and then the teacher says, Begin. After that utterance, each student individually starts the sequence at the pace of their own breath. Printed out charts of the sequence will sometimes be provided for reference.

Whats In A Name?

The name Mysore Style was taken from the town where Pattabhi Jois lived and taught Ashtanga in India. His grandson, Sharath Jois, still lives and teaches Ashtanga in Mysore. He is keeping the purity of traditional Ashtanga Yoga alive!

Why should you choose Punyah Yoga as your yoga teacher training school?

If youve landed here on this page, it means that youre trying to decide which yoga teacher training school is right for you. We know and understand that this is a difficult decision. There are thousands of yoga schools around the world, and hundreds of yoga schools here in Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. We know that this is a life-changing decision and that the information can feel overwhelming.

If youd like to find out why you would choose Punyah Yoga over other yoga teacher training schools you are in the right place. And we couldnt be happier that youre here.

Punyah Yoga is located in Rishikesh, India and was founded by devout yoga practitioner Hemant Singh. The school opened in January 2019 with the mission to share the wisdom of yogic practices that Hemant has experienced himself, to minimize the suffering of body and mind which the world faces today and to guide every individual to the deepest self, which only happens when one recognizes their innermost ignorances that they are carrying within them for several years or even generations. 

Once this has been is worked out, and worked through, a person will experience a miracle in their lives and will be able to live in harmony. 

Here at Punyah Yoga the studies of physical practice (asanas), breathing practices (pranayama), theoretical teaching (yoga philosophy through Patanjali yoga sutras, the Vedanta, and the Bhagavad Gita), practices of stillness (dhayna and yoga nidra) are purely traditional. 

All of our teachers have devoted themselves to the path of yoga and are experts in their fields. 

What is devoted practitioner? When an action performed purely with heart, mind and soul, it becomes devotional. 

The one who practices becomes a living example of that practice, a devotee or devoted practitioner. 

Our teachers are highly qualified in academics, as well as their indivdiual spiritual practice. Before teaching to the world, they have gone through their own self practices for several years and after having been initiated by their teachers, then they begun teaching.

Our names are Hemant Singh, Sandeep Kumar, Pratap Singh, Chandra Ji, Almudena Ji, Anil Kumar, Swami Atma Ji, Swami Venu Ji. 

And we do not call ourselves yogis, which are enlightened or realized beings, yet we are slowly walking on that path. 

Our team is a team of mature teachers who are mostly married or sanyasi and living grahstha life (family life), which is one of 4 stages of life i.e, brahamcharya, grahstha, vanaprastha, and sannyasa. 

The Grahstha life of an individual is a test of patience, character and responsibility. It is one the most difficult life stages. 

That itself ensures our teachers are mature, responsible, grounded, care deeply, and have enormous patience.

We are not from Rishikesh but we belong to Rishikesh: 

It is a big coincidence that all of our teachers are from different parts of India. During our journey in spiritually, our paths have all crossed in Rishikesh and it is here that we have made our home.

Hemant Singh is a native of Kashipur, a small town in Uttarakhand. He first came to Rishikesh in 2013 and studied under Sivananda. 

Sandeep Kumar was born and brought up in Haryana. He first landed in Rishikesh in 2013 and also studied under Sivananda. 

Pratap Singh is a native of Dehradun, the capital town of Uttarakhand. He first landed in Rishikesh in 2015 as a student for yoga graduation and part time work. 

Chandra Singh is the elder sister of Hemant born and brought up in the same town as Hemant Singh. She first came to Rishikesh in 2015 with her fiancé, who later became her husband, Sandeep, during his time in yoga training. 

Swami Atma Ji is a native of Kochi, Kerala. He has been residing in Rishikesh for 15 years. He is a scholar in Ayurveda and English literature. 

Venu ji is a native of Varkala, Kerala from gods own country to the land of gods, Uttarakhand. He traveled the Himalayas barefoot for 7 years. 

Anil is a native of a small village nearby Rishikesh. He is working to obtain his Master in Yoga and he is the youngest practitioner on our team. 

We are fluent in English language, which is unique compared to other yoga teacher training schools in Rishikesh and in India as a whole.

Hemant studied in London, Sandeep worked overseas, Chandra has a masters in English, and Almudena, Swami Atma, and Venu Ji all have exceptional English speaking skills standards due to their academics and exposure to travel. 

What gives us satisfaction:

When a student is committed to working as hard as we do.

When a student is ready for self-transformation and puts in effort.

Our ultimate satisfaction is the growth of our students in spiritual studies.

We invite you to join us at Punyah Yoga. We hope you now have a glimpse into what makes Punyah Yoga special, and why it could be the right teacher training school for your yoga certification.

If you have any questions, we are at your service.

Are you struggling to choose the right school for a yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India?

Are you struggling to choose the right school for a yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India?

In Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world, there are over 500 yoga teacher training schools. Which yoga school is right for you? We understand how much time it takes to visit all the websites, read all the reviews, and then to still realize that there are 490 schools you havent even looked at yet! 

Dont worry. We are here to help, and to guide you in understanding a few basics that will help you find the right yoga school in Rishikesh.

For starters, have you heard of the Yoga Alliance? The Yoga Alliance is where yoga schools and teachers all over the world register their programs, trainings, and certifications. This means that the schools must follow the Yoga Alliance standards, and that the trainings and certifications issued by that school are recognized globally. 

Deciding whether or not that is important to you is a good first step. The next step would be to decide which style of yoga you would like to be trained in. As Rishikesh yoga schools offer a multitude of yoga styles its important to figure out which style is right for you!

1- Choose a style that you resonate with the most

Which yoga style is right for you? Have you taken classes in hatha yoga, vinyasa yoga, Ashtanga yoga, etc? Have you tried different yoga styles with different yoga teachers? We recommend trying out different yoga styles at your local studios or through online offerings to figure out which style of yoga resonates with you the most. 

2- Word of mouth:

Recommendations from people you know works like a magic wand. You trust your colleagues or friends who have already been to Rishikesh, did Yoga Teacher Training or took drop-in classes or courses with a yoga teacher. If you dont know anyone yourself who went to Rishikesh and did a yoga teacher training, consider reaching out to online communities like Facebook Groups or you can always search on Instagram using certain hashtags like #rishikeshyogateachertraining

3- Take Drop-In classes if you can:

If you have a flexible schedule and are able to come to Rishikesh early, drop-in classes are one of the most powerful ways to get to know about the school, teachers, facilities, food, rooms, location, etc. 

The most valuable thing is the teaching of the schools lead teacher through which we connect with the most. 

A real teacher may not pamper you but show your bitter side in order to bring the best out of you. He knows you more than you do. At times it may feel he is not the right one for you but he is the one you need the most. 

So ultimately the overall experience of your class will provide an edge to choose the right teacher training for yourself.

4- Take online classes or engage online with yoga schools in Rishikesh

Youtube, Instagram, and TikTok are popular social media channels where you can see what is happening daily in Rishikesh yoga schools, what kind of teaching is being offered, how curriculum goes, and much more. Engage with different schools and ask questions to the school or to its past students. 

Some Rishikesh yoga schools even offer online classes whether they are pre-recorded or held live. Taking an online class can help you decide which yoga school is right for you! It gives a great sense of the teachers style and presence.

5- Keep an eye on lead teacher

There are many Rishikesh yoga schools who offer Yoga Teacher Trainings without having an E-RYT (a teacher who has completed at least 1000 hours of teaching and is registered with Yoga Alliance). Kindly refrain yourself from choosing those schools, as an inexperienced lead teacher is detrimental to your learning. 

Always always always look upon your lead teachers( usually the founder or the owner of the yoga school) and review their credentials. Check to see if they are an E-RYT, and look at the other yoga teachers as well, to see if they have the credentials of RYT and what their experience in their subjects is like. 

We hope that these five tips will help you make the right decision in choosing a yoga school in Rishikesh. We know that its a big decision, and making the right one is of the utmost importance to you! Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. We are here to help you on your path of yoga and your path on deciding which Rishikesh yoga school is right for you!

Significance of Sattvic Meal

Who is cooking your food?

All of our teacher training certification programs and courses come with food and accommodation included. Punyah Yoga provides two meals a day for our students: brunch and dinner. These two meals are substantial and are part of the yogic diet. We know you might have some qualms or worries about the food here, so we wanted to share more about the provided meals and about who is cooking your food.

Meet The Head Chef Who Cooks Up A Storm!

1. The Lotus Pose

Meet Chandra Adhikari. Chandra, who commonly goes by her nickname Channa, is the mastermind behind all the culinary delights at Punyah Yoga. She learned to cook from her mother and eventually fell in love with the kitchen at twelve years old. Channa has a vast wealth of knowledge about every ingredient she cooks with. Able to adapt to almost any dietary restriction, she also knows how to prepare food that is nourishing to the yogic body.

Chandra takes immense care to prepare food for the students that will keep them healthy and sustain them for their intensive yoga practice and study. She is thoroughly educated in Ayurvedic cooking and is actively conscious of every ingredient she uses. Thus, she does not cook with onion or garlic because they are 'Rajasik food'. In Ayurveda, Rajasik food is believed to agitate the mind and is counterproductive to the practice of meditation and yoga.

What Is The Food Like?

Food served at Punyah Yoga is not spicy, usually is not fried in oil, devoid of garlic and onion, and is prepared according to Ayurvedic beliefs and practices. You can expect your meals to be filling and immensely nourishing. They are predominantly vegan meals, with only the occasional dish including curd, a milk product. If a student has a specific dietary restriction (vegan, gluten-free or has any allergies), Chandra is able to cater to those needs.

Chandra uses specific ingredients to alkalize food such as digestive seeds and herbs. She is conscious of what type of metal pot she cooks in to make sure the food retains its minerals, as per Ayurvedas belief system.

Chandra also sources most of her ingredients from nearby Himalayan villages. She only purchases products that have been made in India and tries to purchase as many organic and locally sourced ingredients as possible.

What Our Students Say

Our students habitually rave about the cooking here. We keep hearing 'feeling full while not feeling heavy'. They usually make comments of surprise about how two meals are enough and how they dont feel hungry but they dont feel overly full. Chandra has achieved the perfect balance in her cooking to sustain the students through their yoga teacher training course.

Chandra is also happy to teach cooking classes to her students and to share her knowledge of Ayurveda and Indian cuisine.

The Story Behind The Name "Punyah Yoga"

How did Punyah Yoga Get its Name

When the founders of Punyah Yoga decided to open a yoga shala in Rishikesh, they had quite a brainstorming session! What would be the perfect name for the shala? There were many different ideas on the table and weeks went by as they discussed the merits of different options. But when the word Punyah was brought up one day, it was immediately seen as the perfect fit.

In India, the word punyah is very common. Most parents will say it to their children every day. When they are going to visit a temple, or do a puja ceremony, or are fasting for a purpose - they will say that they are doing punyah karma. It can also be used while engaging in service, prayer, or charity work.

Punyah is Sanskrit for Supremely Pure.

In the end, we decided to name our yoga shala Punyah Yoga so that we can dedicate ourselves to supremely pure yoga practice and eminently pure yoga teachings. We can all aspire to have punyah karma, punyah thoughts, and punyah actions. By naming the shala this way, we strive to be capable to carry the weight of this word.

Here at Punyah Yoga, we all believe in conscious thinking and mindful living. From the organic vegan/vegetarian food we prepare to the design of the yoga shala, we have made conscious efforts so that all who enter the doors of Punyah Yoga feel at home. May you join us here at Punyah Yoga shala, in our clean and spiritual space, and feel the energies we work to instil in this place.

Is A Yoga Teacher Training In India Right For You?

Is A Yoga Teacher Training In India Right For You?

What should I expect? is one of the many questions people around the world ask before booking a course with us or before coming to a class. We know that India is likely very far from your home. Australia, Russia and the United States are indeed quite far away, and its natural to have a lot of questions before making a commitment to coming to India.

Here at Punyah yoga, we prioritize the comfort of our students and strive to create an environment that is relaxing and serene while also stimulating the spiritual side of our students with the atmosphere and with open discussions. We want to accommodate our students who are used to western cleanliness and comforts, so our facilities are all clean and westernized, complete with hot water and proper toilets.

So you ask, Is a yoga teacher training in India right for me? Well, it depends on your priorities and your inclinations. If you are excited to complete your course in a city that is often referred to as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh, then youre in the right place. You are in India, yes, but our shala faces the mountainside and is just a 5 minute walk from the Ganges River. The whole city is very walkable and not too overwhelming. When tourists think about India, there can certainly be some very overwhelming images that come to mind, right? Rishikesh is a holy city and is a touristy city, so it is a bit more westernized. Nearly everyone speaks very good English, and our community here is accustomed to hundreds, if not thousands of Western travellers visiting and staying in Rishikesh. Therefore, it is safer than many other places in India. You will be safe here.

Again you think, Is a yoga teacher training in India right for me? Well, consider learning yoga from teachers rooted in a long lineage. Teachers who truly embody yoga. Yoga is not a one or two hour a day workout routine. Yoga is a 24/7 practice, lifestyle, and philosophy to incorporate into your life until it becomes your life, on and off the mat. These teachers can teach you about true, deep, real, authentic yoga.

We acknowledge that coming all the way to Rishikesh from Cairo or Paris or Barcelona can be nerve-wracking. We will do everything in our power to make you feel at home here. We guarantee you will leave our courses changed for the better. With your body, heart, and mind expanded in a way that will make you a better student, teacher, and person.

Is a yoga teacher training in India right for me? We hope the answer is yes.

Namaste.
The Punyah Yoga Family

Yoga Teacher Trainings Opens The Door to Ultimate Reality

In yoga ignorance literally means lack of knowledge. 

The question arises, what is lack of knowledge?

In yoga a popular mantra give us a profound understanding of the same:

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Om Asato Maa Sad-Gamaya |

Tamaso Maa Jyotir-Gamaya |

Mrtyor-Maa Amrtam Gamaya |

Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih |

The mantra, this prayer holds a deep meaning in itself. 

It means not knowing the ultimate wisdom of mortal and immortal, darkness and light, non-living and living, non-lasting and everlasting, perishable and imperishable. 

One prays the source of creation to rise him above it. An action performed without establishing ourselves with the ultimate reality of the creation comes under Ignorance. 

As the world consists of many sensual and worldly pleasures. In many ways, we run our lives under the influence of those worldy pleasures and sense disers. As the senses are heaving dominated by the ignorant mind or vice versa, we are unable to see true reality. 

The inability to see reality is a life of illusion and ignorance.

Illusionary and ignorant life may seem pleasing and comforting but it's never fulfilling and satisfying.

Deep indulgence in it results in various forms of suffering that the world faces today. 

We may not be hungry, but we tend to eat through sight, smell, and tongue. We may not need much money but seeing other people having it and supposedly enjoying it, we tend to crave it in our minds. Not only that, influences can be in any form not only physical activity but also mental. Overthinking is an example of nonphysical acting which may lead our precious life in misery as the mind starts believing in results that have not occurred yet.

This is not an enhanced way of living life for human beings, is it?

Now the question comes, how can we overcome it and live in boundless possibility?

When we build a constant practice of enquiring what we are truly looking for, this becomes a long-lasting solution for ignorance. 

The other way around, we get to understand ignorance by going in circles of sensual pleasure and running behind chasing a memory or a dream, there a time comes when our inner voice began to speak up and we start uncovering the ultimate truth about what lasts and what doesn't.

Achieving it takes some amount of self-practice, which we believe to be performed through asana, yoga nidra, meditation or just a moment of awareness. The ultimate of above all is to take us to the deepest level of chitta. 

Once you are able to achieve it you are just out of the rat race and various influences the world contains. You are the same person with a different perspective which is higher and nothing challenges it. The awareness will itself clear the cloud and the sky is clear.

Our yoga teacher training here in the birthplace of yoga in Rishikesh does not only offer a 200-hour yoga training schedule.  It is an opportunity for a student to develop themselves into their true real beings. The only reality sits high and it is not comparable. 

The founder of our yoga school and yoga shala, Hemant Singh, deeply believes that the value of investing ourselves in gaining self-knowledge never gets old. It is something that is way beyond anything. 

Just like water becomes alive when it comes in touch with earth, the soil. 

Similarly, when we feel disconnected from ourselves in the material world, the 200 hours yoga teacher training wisdom is an invaluable tool that works inward and makes us alive and aware again.

We hope you consider joining us for a 200-hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh. It would be an honor to have you join us.

Get to Know Punyah senior Yoga Teacher: Pratap Rawat

Certifications completed: 

Masters in yoga science from Uttarakhand Sanskrit university 

500 Hours TTC from Rishikesh 

Main Style Practiced: 

Ashtanga vinyasa and hatha yoga practice 

How many years have you been practicing?  

I have been practicing since the beginning of 2015. 

I practiced for two years in university where I learned traditional hatha yoga, and studied yoga philosophy, anatomy, and various therapies and kriyas.

After that, I did a 200 hours TTC in ashtanga yoga then I started practicing Ashtanga yoga. 

I have completed my 300 hours yoga training in hatha and ashtanga.

What does your practice include? 

My practice starts in the early morning, which includes yogic kriyas. 

I start with morning rituals such as prayer, and chanting mantras before sunrise is called Brahma Muhurtham, which means that it is the time to worship God.  At that time, all the people are in a deep sleep and nobody will disturb you.

After that, I begin practicing ashtanga yoga and some breathing practices.  I do a short meditation before and after my practice as well.

Why do you practice yoga or meditation? 

I practice because yoga brings discipline and energy in me, makes me grounded, and brings balance in my physical and mental bodies. 

What benefits have you received from your practice? 

My yoga practice has helped me to make myself more disciplined, to grow my wisdom, and to build my faith on a strong foundation for my practice. It has also helped me to develop clarity in the body and mind.

What skills do you have (anatomy, massage, etc?) 

I studied the Fundamental Principle of Yoga Anatomy which is important in asana practice.

What makes your class different from "exercise" classes? 

It is an exercise when you do yoga only in the physical levels, but yoga asana is beyond exercise because in asana we go from external to internal with the help of breath.

In yoga practice connection to our physical and mental body is the breath. 

What makes you passionate about yoga?

As we know Rishikesh is the world capital of yoga, the healing power of the Ganges is strong here. Rishikesh has been a magnet for spiritual seekers. Therefore this environment helps and motivates me to do yoga.

What makes you happy? 

Doing my duties for my yoga journey.

What's the best advice you could give to a seeker? 

Do your duties every day for your physical and mental health. 

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Yoga Alliance Teacher: Yes or No? Yes

How to know if you are ready for yoga training in Rishikesh? Are you ready for a YTTC?

In chapter 1 samadi pada, the first sutra 1.1 of Patanjali says: 

"Atha yoganushasanam"

It is translated as: Now, yoga.

Or 

Now, we learn the discipline of yoga.

The sage patanjali is a renowned and celebrated author of the Patanjali yoga sutras.

In the very first sutra, he begins with the word "NOW," which is unusual to comprehend thee literal meaning of it.

The question arises, why such an intellectual sage like Patanjali would use this particular word to commence of a profound text.

When translated by scholars, they understood that he intentionally used the word NOW as an "eligibility" to enter into yoga.

As we live in material world, there are certain qualification or eligibility required for entering in a particular field like university education, sports, government job, marriage, etcetra and without a required qualification getting into those fields or stages of life is not possible. 

Similarly, Patanjali explains the eligibility of being ready to begin the practice of yoga is taking place. 

When you do not feel satisfaction or pleasure within after you try external pleasures, your mind is ready to live a meaningful life with joy and pure awareness. 

When you are truly desiring to be free six enemies of mind i.e, kama (lustful desire), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), mada (arrogance), moha (delusion), matsarya (jealousy), which distract us hence take us away from attaining our ultimate self then you are ready to live a meaningful life with joy and pure awareness.

Such person is ready and eligible commence the path of yoga or to practice the yoga discipline. For such person the sage Patanjali said, "Now when you have a mind like this, then only yoga will blossom.

A true practice of yoga begins with NOW. How pure and sharp the intellect of sages like Patanjali, that they could explain things in such a pure and simple manner.

In yoga teacher trainings whether your intent is to live in highest well-being or to be a yoga teacher, a real yoga begins when you have characteristics explained above. However, if that you have not experienced this yet in life, yoga will still happen in a beautiful way although such level of surrendering may take time.

A commitment will become easy when you are ready for a yoga training. There will be no hardship or difficulty in getting into discipline, determination, dedication or bringing focus, this all becomes as simple as having a cup of tea. For those who aren't ready yet they may find difficulties arise immediately.

Yoga teacher trainings to learn real yoga with us in Rishikesh consists of instrumental subjects like traditional ashtanga yoga practice, pranayama, philosophy to deepen our understanding, meditation to change our perception, yoga Nidra to uplift our level of awareness, mantra chanting to create energy within and around, ayurveda to become aware of what to put in and leave out. 

To absorb everything fully one must have a characteristics of such person explained by sage Patanjali.

Here we come to an understanding and it gives us a sense of enquiry within that are we really ready to take real yoga or we need to sit relax, be patient and let time pass until we are ready to undertake a yoga teacher training. 

If reading this blog you felt something awaken in you, arise in you, then perhaps you are ready to undertake a yoga teacher training in Rishikesh with us.

If you are wondering: Am I ready to do a yoga teacher training? The answer lies within your heart. You are the only one who can answer this question.

If you are still wondering: Am I ready to do a yoga teacher training? Then sit in silence, in meditation and wait for this answer to blossom inside of the quietness of your mind.

If you still cannot find the answer to the question: Am I ready to do a yoga teacher training? Then continue to sit in stillness day after day, week after week until you can hear the answer inside of your mind and your heart. Not all answers arise quickly. Not everything in our life is supposed to be fast. Not everything is instantly gratifying. Your truth is already inside of you. Be still. Be patient. Listen.

If you have any questions, comments, or anything else youd like to speak with us about our team here at Punyah Yoga is at your service.

Rishikesh the Yoga Capital of the World

Rishikesh the Yoga Capital of the World

Rishikesh is commonly referred to as the Yoga Capital of the World. But to some, Rishikesh is just another city in India a far-off country that can be intimidating to imagine visiting.

Some people also, when thinking of doing yoga in India, are unsure of what the teaching style will be like. They may only be familiar with yoga classes in the West with Western teachers. It can be difficult to imagine showing up in a new country, with new teachers, at a new yoga shala unsure of what to expect.

We here at Punyah Yoga wanted to share our thoughts on what yoga in Rishikesh is really like. Whether you sign up for a course with us or not, we thought this information could provide a bit of insight into what yoga in Rishikesh is really like!

1. The Layout

Rishikesh is divided into three separate areas: Laxman Jhula, Tapovan, and Ram Jhula. They are all separated by bridges and the beloved Ganges River. Laxman Jhula runs along the river and is the smallest part of Rishikesh, just one Main Street that follows the river. Tapovan sits on a hill and is a dense area. And Ram Jhula is more sprawling and spread out and has lots of narrow side streets that lead you into a bit of a maze.

All three areas of Rishikesh are equally known for yoga and likely have the same amount of yoga studios. Not one part of the city is better than the other, it just depends on the vibes youre looking for!

The Yoga Studios

There have to be hundreds, if not thousands, of yoga studios in Rishikesh. The whole city is filled to the brim with yoga studios. You really cant walk 10 meters without seeing a yoga studio. It can be hard to decide which yoga studio to go to, so definitely check out the websites or read reviews. Each yoga studio might focus on a different style of yoga, such as Iyengar, Ashtanga, Hatha, or Vinyasa. Punyah Yogas main focus is Ashtanga Yoga with a secondary focus on Hatha Yoga.

The Yoga Teachers

Yoga teachers in Rishikesh vary, but they generally do have a very good command of the English language, so you dont have to worry about not understanding your teacher! There also is a level of expectation that a teacher has for a student, of being fully present and committed to the practice. You might find that the teachers are more strict than Western teachers, that there is a stronger more intense presence of the teacher in the room. However, the level of teaching is so incredible and authentic. The depth of knowledge that a teacher has about each asana is incredible! Expect life-changing asana adjustments!

The Yoga Energy

Since most of the travellers who come to Rishikesh, come for yoga, you can expect to be surrounded by wonderful like-minded people from around the world. Sitting in any cafe or restaurant, its likely that youll find yourself in conversation with all the people around you. Youll be chatting about yoga teacher trainings, different teachers, and about spiritual teachings. If you dont join in on the conversation yourself, youll hear words about yoga and spirituality swirling all around you. Its a magical place for connecting with other people!

The Yoga Teacher Trainings

Most yoga teacher trainings in Rishikesh are intensive, in that they are conducted usually for about 10 hours a day for 30 days. That is, if youre doing a 200 hour teacher training course. Expect breaks for meals and a day off a week that will be full of rest or of adventuring around the area. There will be hours of asana practice each day, philosophy, meditation, history, anatomy, etc. It is intense on the body and the mind, but it is incredible stimulating and rewarding. You dive in so deeply to the world of yoga, youre totally immersed. You feel full to the brim of yoga knowledge. Its powerful, trust us.

We hope that this information about what yoga in Rishikesh is really like proves useful to you! We also, of course, hope you consider Punyah Yoga when youre thinking of doing courses and trainings! We are proud to be one of the leading yoga shalas in the area and we would love the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of yoga, and to guide your yoga journey.

Do you have more thoughts or questions on what yoga in Rishikesh is really like? Drop us a message via email or send us a message on social media!