Why should you choose Rishikesh for your Yoga Teacher Training?

Practicing Yoga at a serene place and natural surroundings can enhance the effects of your learning and practice. This is the reason Yoga enthusiasts hunt for such places to either initiate or deepen their practice. When it comes to tranquility and spirituality, Rishikesh comes to the mind almost immediately and rightly so. Rishikesh is regarded as the Yoga capital of the world due to its spiritual roots, ancient temples and ashrams, the picturesque location, and a peaceful vibe. The city in the hill state of Uttarakhand, is fast gaining popularity among all kinds of tourists and is finding favour from both spiritual and adventure seekers alike. Situated at the banks of the river Ganges and foothills of Himalayas, one look at the city is sure to set the pace for your Yoga practice. 

While there is no dearth of naturally beautiful destinations across the globe, but there are very few cities that can match Rishikesh when it comes to being the perfect blend of tranquility and spiritual vibes. If you are looking for a place where you can disconnect yourself from the mundane life and carve a routine for Yoga practice, Rishikesh could be one of the better choices. Your day could comprise of – a walk near Triveni ghat, a stroll at Ram Jhula, a journey to Neelkanth, a meditation session at an ashram or a life-changing discussion with a saint.

People who aspire to pursue Yoga Teacher Training course should look for a location where they get the right atmosphere – be it a group of wise people, great vibes, temples, serenity and the soothing sound of an ancient river. If Rishikesh is anywhere close to what you are looking for your Yoga Teacher Training course, we tell you why you should go ahead with your instinct.

Here are 5 reasons why you should choose Rishikesh for your Yoga Teacher Training  

1. Spiritual significance

There is a reason why people from all over the world head to Rishikesh for attaining moksha or starting their spiritual practice. Many saints and sages have believed to do their penance in the city and progressed in their spiritual path. As per a legend, Lord Rama performed penance in this city after killing demon king Ravana. Lakshman Jhula that collapsed in the year 2020 and has been rebuilt now tells the tale of Rama’s brother Laxman crossing the river Ganges with two jute ropes at the location of the bridge. Similarly, at the sight of Ram Jhula also mentioned as Indrakund in Skanda Purana, Lord Indra took holy bath to remove a curse on himself. 

 

2. Ganga Aarti

Mantra and rituals are known to create powerful vibes in a place and Ganga Aarti is one such ritual that lends a strong spiritual vibe to the city. The Maha Aarti is performed in the evening here at Triveni Ghat. The chanting of mantra, the divine light of diyas, and the rituals that cleanse your soul at the bank of the sacred river can truly set the tone of the Yoga practice. Spending your evening every day here can leave a deep spiritual imprint on you and encourage you to keep going on this path. When you are more tuned in to your inner self, the process of delving deeper is slightly eased.

 

3. Ashrams and temples

The spiritual journey isn’t complete without visiting the sites of some important temples and ashrams that are the source of mystical energy. Parmarth Niketan, Trayambakeshwar Temple, Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, ISKCON Temple-Madhuban Ashram, Lakshman Temple, Raghunath Temple are some of the temples that you must visit while practicing Yoga in Rishikesh to strengthen your Chakras and aura. There are different mythological tales attached to each of these temples. For instance, Trayambakeshwar Temple, also known as ‘Tera Manzil Temple is known for having many jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. As per another mythological tale, Lord Shiva rested at Bhootnath temple for a while before his nuptials with Goddess Sita.

 

4. Natural beauty at its best

The world comes to a standstill as you listen to the chirping of birds and the flowing rivers while admiring the majestic Himalayas. When your mind is still, you find a connect with your inner self and your meditation practice is strengthened. The natural sound of the river and the pious vibe of the city act as a catalyst to all Yoga practices. 

 

5. Sages and saints for guidance

Rishikesh is still a home to many mystical saints and sages who possess the knowledge of spirituality and religion. Seekers and Yoga teachers can learn from their experiences and imbibe their way of life to improve their practice. There are many old and new ashrams where you find enlightened people who came to Rishikesh and found a deep connection with the Supreme here. From time immemorial, saints and sages have attained nirvana in the holy place of Rishikesh and guided others to find the Ultimate Truth.