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The 10-day Kriya and Kundalini Yoga Retreat program offered by Rishikesh Yogis is one of the most intensive and insightful programs currently taught in Rishikesh, India. It is a very progressive program consisting of modules to deepen one’s awareness, experience and understanding of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga traditions in systematic fashion.
Highlights
Aim
Features
Curriculum
Paper-1
Paper-2
Paper-3
Paper-1 (Technique, Training and Practice) lays a strong foundation of traditional Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa yoga and meditation techniques sourced from authentic and time proven systems of Yoga traditions.
Purpose of these classes is to equip the practitioners with understanding and knowledge of the fundamental techniques of Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha and Hatha yoga cleansing techniques used in Kundalini and Kriya Yoga tradition.
Asana : PM Series 1, 2, 3 (Preliminary Hatha yoga movements), Standing and Balancing Asana Series, Backward Bending Series, Forward Bending Series, Vajrasana Series, Meditation Asana Series, Introduction to Sun Salutation, Astanga-Vinyasa flow
Pranayama: Pre-Pranayama techniques, Nadishodhana, Kapalbhati, Bhramari, Ujjayi and Bhastrika- Preparatory
Mudra and Bandha: Hand Mudras, Head Mudra, Prana Mudra with Full Yogic Breath (Awareness on physical level), Jalandhara Bandha, Shambavi Mudra, Nasikagra Dhristi
Shatkriya: Neti and Vaman Dhauti (Kunjal Kriya)
Meditation techniques covered during Kundalini Yoga retreat program; systematically train the participants into process of meditation. The techniques taught during the session gradually familiarize one with the aspects of Kundalini Yoga Meditation process.
Kaya-Sthairyam (Technique on Body-Awareness and Mental steadiness)
Antar Mouna (A technique on Mindfulness of Thoughts): Stages: 1, 2
Ajapa Japa: Stages: 1, 2 (Awareness of spontaneous repetition of mantra in energy passage)
Yoga Nidra (A technique of guided yogic relaxation) Stage: Beginner
Chakra Shuddhi (A technique of chakra cleansing) Ajna Chakra Activation Session-
Trataka (intense concetration) on Dot
Yantra (archetypal symbol) Meditation
Nose tip gazing technique
Shambhavi Mudra with Om mantra chanting
Ajna Space Visualization Technique
This session introduces one to founding principles of yoga philosophy, its branches, various approaches and affiliated metaphysical background. There is in-depth discussion on Classical system of Patanjali Raja Yoga and traditional Hatha Yoga. Understanding of both systems is essential in order to grasp the concept of Kundalini Yoga.
Definition, Historical sketch and branches of Yoga, brief outline of Classical System of Patanjali Yoga, Samkhya Philosophy and, History andOrigin of Raja Yoga
Historical and philosophical background of Hatha Yoga, Purpose and literatures, Aspects of Hatha Yoga with reference to Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gherand Samhita, Aspects and purposes of Asana (Posture), Pranayama (Breath-work), Mudra (psycho-physiological gestures), Bandha (energy-locks) and Shatkriyas (Cleansing) in light of Kundalini yoga tradition.
In this section, we first lay the foundation of Yogic Physiology. This helps to familiarize one with the understanding of Nadi system, Chakras, concept of Prana (energy principle), Prana Vayu (Pranic current), Tattvas (Elements) and their role in human energies, etc.
Structure of Pranic system: Concept of Prana, importance of Prana, Meaning and Concept of Nadi; classification of major Nadis, Nature of three major Nadis, functions of Nadis in Pranic system.
Meaning of Kundalini, Location and role in pranic system and spiritual evolution.
Chakras: Meaning, Location, Types and their various aspects, Role of Chakras, Nadis and Prana Vayus in health and disease.
Prana Vayu: Classification of major and minor Vayu, their functions and location in the body
Tattvas and Pancha Kosha: Their Role in Pranic system.
Itinerary
Herbal Infusion
Every morning before the session herbal infusions are prepared. These infusions are highly healing and rejuvenating in nature which is based on timeless wisdom of ancient Indian traditions of Ayurveda and Yoga. Purpose of taking these herbal infusions is to detoxify the body-mind complex and balance the doshas.
Practical Traditional Hatha and Kriya Yoga session
This session focuses on teaching traditional Hatha Yoga and Kriya Yoga techniques chosen from traditional scriptures of Kundalini and Kriya Yoga systems. This session intends to prepare the body and mind through physical, mental and psychic purification for intense practices of Kundalini and Kriya Yoga. Tools employed in the session are Traditional Asanas (Hatha Yoga postures), Pranayama (breath-work), Mudra (energy channeling tools), Bandha (psychic/energy locks) and Shatkriyas (physical cleansing) chosen from Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gherand Samhita and Kriya Yoga manuals
Breakfast
We provide nourishing and balanced breakfast every day. Breakfast prepared in our kitchen is nutritious, tasty, balanced and prepared from fresh nuts, vegetables, fruits and grains. During your stay with us, you would have an opportunity to taste traditional Indian breakfast, such as different kinds of porridges, Idli (savoury cake), poha (made from beaten rice), Upma (Wheat rava (Semolina) or coarse rice flour dish), Sprout salads and many more. In case you are on vegan diet, we can prepare breakfast separately for you upon request.
Theory workshops on Foundation of Kundalini and Hatha Yoga Tradition
In this Theory Workshop session, we will take you through the various aspects and dimensions of Yoga Traditions and systems. In three components, the topics will change from basic foundation to advanced system of Kriya, Kundalini and Tantra Yoga. The synopsis of curriculum is mentioned below to grasp the idea as how deep and intense your study will be. Foundation of Yoga philosophy Historical sketch and branches of Yoga, brief outline of Classical System of Patanjali Yoga, Samkhya Philosophy and, History and origin of raja yoga. Tradition of Hatha Yoga Historical and Philosophical background of Hatha Yoga, Purpose and literatures, Aspects of Hatha Yoga with reference to Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gherand Samhita, Aspects and purposes of Asana (Posture), Pranayama (Breath-work), Mudra (psycho-physiological gestures), Bandha (energy-locks) and Shatkriyas (Cleansing) in light of Kundalini Yoga tradition.
Practical Workshop
This session entails teachings and practices of practical tools and techniques of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga. Divided in three components, there will be intensive dedicated sessions on each Chakra using Tantric visualization techniques, Hatha and Kundalini Kriyas, Asanas, Mudras and Bandhas used in tradition to activate the chakras.
Lunch
Leisure and Self study
Herbal Tea
Theory Workshop
During this afternoon theory workshop session, a diverse range of topics will be discussed. This session will be dedicated to Yoga Anatomy and Physiology. This session intends to polish the teaching skills and deepen the understanding of yogic anatomy and physiology.
Structure of Pranic system: Concept of Prana, Nadis, Chakras, Prana Vayu, Pancha Tattvas and Pancha Kosha, Classification of Prana Vayu: their functions and location in the body, Role of Pranic system in life, Importance of Prana, Nadis, Vayu, Chakras, etc. in health and disease.
Human Anatomy with reference to Yogic Science, Understanding how to Avoid Injury during Asana practice, How to Perform Enhanced Yoga Poses with detailed study of the Human Body.
Practical Hatha Yoga Session on Alignment and Body Adjustment
This class is a potent alignment-oriented class that emphasizes the forms and actions within yoga postures. Traditional postures (asanas) are held in accurate alignment. Emphasis is placed on core strength, flexibility and balance as well as concentration and breath control. This class is based on physical postures (asanas), deep breathing, mindfulness and listening to the body. Purpose of this session is to enhance the awareness of emphasis areas of the body, organs and muscles during an asana and, further teaches how to avoid injuries during yoga practice. Body assisting helps you to settle deeper into the pose and experience the final position of the pose with enhanced awareness.
Meditation and Mantra Chanting session
Our evening Meditation and Mantra Chanting session intends to conclude the day with techniques to assimilate and absorb the vital energies activated through various techniques and practices of Hatha and Kundalini Yoga tools. Most of these meditation techniques taught in our classes are sourced from most authentic traditions of Kriya and Kundalini yoga. The following techniques will be taught in the evening session. Kaya-Sthairyam (Technique on Body-Awareness and Mental steadiness) Antar Mouna (A technique on Mindfulness of Thoughts): Stages: 1, 2 Ajapa Japa: Stages: 1, 2 (Awareness of spontaneous repetition of mantra) Yoga Nidra (A technique of guided yogic relaxation) Stage: Beginner Chakra Shuddhi (A technique of chakra cleansing) Ajna (third eye chakra) Chakra Activation Session- Trataka (intense concentration) on Dot, Yantra (archetypal symbol), Nose tip gazing technique, Shambhavi Mudra (process of channeling awareness to Ajna Chakra) with Om mantra chanting, Ajna Space Visualization Technique.
Dinner
07:00-08:00 pm: Dinner
Swadhyaya (Self-Study and Contemplation)
During your stay with us at our Ashram, we encourage you to maintain a spiritual journal/ diary. During intensive yoga study which is based on following complete yogic regimen; an inner transformation ensues. Maintaining a record of each and every change you go through, helps to make this journey more mindful, insightful and transformative.
Lights out
10:00 pm: Lights out
Activities
Outcomes
what people say
Beautiful souls teaching with such patience and in depth knowledge. I was fortunate enough to meet these amazing humans in India last year. Uttam helped find me a yoga school to do my 200hr Yoga Teacher Training at and then I had the pleasure of learning from him, Abhi & Sushant at the 10 day Spiritual retreat in Rishikesh. I speak so highly of them all as they deserve all the recognition in the world. I had some really big break throughs and believe this was the cherry on top of an amazing trip. If you are looking for kind & caring souls to take you on a journey of growth these gentlemen are who you need to spend time with. 🙌 I will forever cherish our time together and cannot wait to come back in the near future.
My opportunity to meet Sushant, Abhi and Uttam has opened my eyes to the scope to which the term Yoga really means. These humble and gracious men taught me about the ancient philosophies, meditation techniques , pranayama, asanas, chanting and in general we’re true examples of how to live a Yogic life. Beyond the organised classes I learnt many life lessons, had many many laughs and enjoyed the stories I was told. So many of the things I have learnt from these men have helped me move forward in my life and I will always be grateful. Thank you Rishikesh Yogis. See you when I return.
Thank you Uttam for this beautiful experience and helping and allowing me to further my personal yoga pratice,for teaching me different breathing techniques and welcoming me so warmly into your space. I feel so happy, energized and healthy since I left India and look forward to my next visit.
I had the most wonderful opportunity recently to spend time with Yogis Uttam, Abhi and Sushant of Rishikesh Yogis during a 10 day spiritual retreat in Rishikesh in April 2017. These beautiful souls exude such in-depth knowledge, patience, understanding and a passion for sharing and imparting what they know for the benefit of others. They live and embody the essence of true yoga and it clearly radiates from their very being. I was in awe of their teachings and by simply spending time with them, and being in their presence, I felt deep inspiration within myself to continue to grow and expand on my own personal and spiritual journey keeping their words of wisdom very close to my heart. I have met and worked with many yoga and spiritual teachers but I could not recommend these dear souls highly enough. I look forward to the day that I return to Rishikesh to reunite with my friends again. Feeling blessed. In love and light. Namaste
I had the pleasure of being taught by Uttam, Abhi and Sushant at a retreat I attended in Rishikesh. I had absolutely no experience with yoga or meditation before the retreat and these 3 amazing men managed to teach me so much in that time that my life will be changed forever. Like many westerners I was under the belief that yoga consisted of doing poses for an hour or so a day and meditation is sitting quietly trying to stop all your thoughts. I was so wrong! I was introduced to so many aspects of yoga and meditation I didn’t know existed, the intriguing indepth history, how yoga and meditation blend perfectly and how to incorporate it a into every part of my life to get endless benefits and break throughs in my personal life. The retreat had all levels of experience in it, but the teaching is so well done that I never felt like I was left behind. I cannot recommend these teachers high enough as their always happy, loving personalities match their 5 star knowledge and teaching.
I was blessed with the opportunity of learning yoga and meditation with Abhi, Uttam and Sushant in Rishikesh, India in April 2017 during a 10-day spiritual retreat. These three spiritual leaders are the epitome of what a Yogi should be; they have the warmth, compassion, humbleness, generosity, patience, understanding, enlightenment, embodiment and lived experience that is truly inspirational! They live and breathe (literally) their words of yoga philosophy by incorporating it into their daily practice with such ease. Just being in their presence is a tranquil pleasure as they bring such peace and joy in every interaction. Participating in their classes is a soul enriching experience, not only by being immersed in their depth of knowledge, powerful storytelling and incredible use of metaphors; but also as a witness to see these beautiful souls live their life’s calling in such an authentic and effortless way. They truly have a magical gift that they share without hesitation to everyone they come across. I can’t wait to see Abhi, Uttam and Sushant and learn from them again!
Well… It has taken some time to share my feelings & thoughts of what we experienced last month with these amazing teachers & healers, a connection I felt so deeply, the whole experience & how to put it in to words and express my gratitude has been a quandary. Uttam, Abhi & Sushant, the powerful impact you had on me and everyone in our group was amazing. However, I can only speak for myself and say what an incredible experience I had, fulfilled with your teachings, knowledge, wisdom, compassion and amazing insight to the world of yoga, meditation & spirituality. Your generosity of time, patience, wisdom, experience & knowledge shared is beyond what I imagined this retreat would bring. I speak with gratitude & love for the experience of having the daily teachings with you guys & cannot wait to return to Rishikesh…
To train yoga with Rishikesh Yogis is utterly fantastic. It’s great experience I ever had. I had 10 days yoga retreat which i learnt how to be detached and be balanced. Not only the asanas practice, yoga nidra and mantra but also warm welcome from everyone at Ashram Samanraya. I’m really grateful to be there, to join yoga retreat class. Particularly, guru Uttam, thank you to conduct the best class. Namaste
My time at RYY surpassed all expectations. It’s like Harvard or UCL for Yoga. The theoretical knowledge and practical learning ratio is as balanced and traditional as the teachers. With over 30 academic years of philosophical study at some of the worlds most renowned schools of yogic thought shared between the directors / teachers, you will be awakened to what the true essence of yoga really, noth theoretically and practically. You will also be equipped enough to deliver all you’ve learned back home with CONFIDENCE. This is the beginning of my journey with RYY, and the ancient traditions of yoga. Here’s to the future.
My 10 day retreat was a last minute decision to join my best friend Oil. It was the best decision I made as it was THE most beautiful, humbling experience I’ve ever had.Guru Uttam was so helpful from the very beginning, helping with visas, transportation, accommodation and excursions.From the moment I landed I had this overwhelming feeling of pure joy combined with excitement. Our days consisted of intense yoga (I say intense as I don’t practice very often), yoga Nidra, meditating, chanting, pranayama, reflection & silence, sunrise on a mountain and a walk to a beautiful waterfalls. Our hosts at the Ashram were so welcoming and friendly and made our stay so enjoyable. Being a catholic myself (who hasn’t been to church in a very long time-don’t tell my mum) it was heart warming to sit in the chapel every evening for either mass, prayers or chanting with these wonderful souls.The food was definitely a highlight during the stay. Home cooked vegetarian meals straight from the garden; it can’t get better than that.Our sweet host Guru Uttam is one of the most happy, positive people I’ve ever met. Never without a smile on his face, being in his presence was so calming for me. He was very informative and helpful and caring. A wonderful soul.I am forever grateful for this most wonderful experience and I will absolutely be returning for part 2. Namaste
Great yoga school that will for sure leave you with a once in a lifetime experience. Uttam is a great teacher that will guide you very proffessionaly through the training. He’s also one of the kindest and warmest people I’ve ever met. It’s an intense training but it’s all worth it! Thank you for a fantastic experience!
Wow where do I begin. This was one of the most authentic and life enhancing experiences I have ever had. In a very short month I learned more than I could ever imagine, and I owe it all the the incredible teachers. They truly are the absolute best in their field. I gained so much knowledge just from being in the teachers’ presence and by observing their lifestyles it is very clear that they truly practice what they preach. They are extremely dedicated to their students and put a lot of time and consideration into each and every lesson and practice. I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to study with such incredible teachers in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
