200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training Certification in India
What Is Kundalini Yoga?
As discussed in Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Shiva Samhita, Kundalini Yoga is the practice of dissolution of a human being into the cosmic energy through awakening of the power-core pre-existent in a human body.
This power-core is also known as the ‘Kundalini’. Kundalini is the invincible source of limitless power – both intuitive and creative in nature.
A power that lies dormant during the entire duration of an existence can only be activated through deep learning and practices of KUNDALINI YOGA.
One of the most mystical yogic forms, Kundalini Yoga primarily comprises of Hatha Yoga and Tantra Yoga practices, along with Chakra and Nadi Systems, Pranayama, Meditation, Bandhas and various Mantra Chanting practices – all projected in unison towards awakening of the Kundalini Energy.
Course Highlights
- Our teaching is rooted in the traditional scriptures such as Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita, Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Yoga Upanishads, and Tantric scriptures.
- Everyday itinerary consists of a balanced blend of in-depth discussion on the nuances of Kundalini yoga philosophy and practical techniques on Chakras and Nadi Systems.
- This is ideal program for yoga teachers, practitioners of meditation and Kundalini Yoga.
- There are 3 practical sessions and 3 theory workshops each day on the system of Tantra philosophy, Kundalini Yoga, Chakra system and techniques of Kriya, Kundalini and Chakra meditations.
- Teachers of Rishikesh Yogis participating/teaching in Kundalini yoga teacher training course carry a vast experience of living and teaching the system of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga in ashram environment.
- We will provide useful and informative handouts on chakras, various kriya and Kundalini Yoga techniques and practices for each chakra.
- On request our centre will also organize dedicated additional complementary sessions for those who are new to this tradition of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga.
- Modules created in 200 hour kundalini yoga teacher training course incorporate innovative workshops sessions on Yantra meditation and visualization, Chakras and their psychotherapeutic significance, learning how to create different yoga programs to influence the energies of the chakras, intensive training workshop sessions on chakra activation, integrated chakra meditation session, Chakra Yoga Nidra and Tantric Dharana meditations.
- Dedicated workshops sessions on each chakra; discussing psychotherapeutic, spiritual and Pranic dimensions of chakra system.
Features Of Kundalini And Kriya Yoga Teacher Training Course
- 1. Our teaching is rooted in the traditional scriptures such as Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita, Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Yoga Upanishads, and Tantric scriptures.
- 2. Everyday itinerary consists of a balanced blend of in-depth discussion on the nuances of Kundalini yoga philosophy and practical techniques on Chakras and Nadi Systems.
- 3. This is ideal program for yoga teachers, practitioners of meditation and Kundalini Yoga.
- 4. There are 3 practical sessions and 3 theory workshops each day on the system of Tantra philosophy, Kundalini Yoga, Chakra system and techniques of Kriya, Kundalini and Chakra meditations.
- 5. Teachers of Rishikesh Yogis participating/teaching in Kundalini yoga teacher training course carry a vast experience of living and teaching the system of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga in ashram environment.
- 6. We will provide useful and informative handouts on chakras, various kriya and Kundalini Yoga techniques and practices for each chakra.
- 7. On request our centre will also organize dedicated additional complementary sessions for those who are new to this tradition of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga.
- 8. Modules created in 200 hour kundalini yoga teacher training course incorporate innovative workshops sessions on Yantra meditation and visualization, Chakras and their psychotherapeutic significance, learning how to create different yoga programs to influence the energies of the chakras, intensive training workshop sessions on chakra activation, integrated chakra meditation session, Chakra Yoga Nidra and Tantric Dharana meditations.
- 9. Dedicated workshops sessions on each chakra; discussing psychotherapeutic, spiritual and Pranic dimensions of chakra system.
Aim Of Kundalini Yoga TTC
- Teaching in 200 hour Kundalini and Kriya Yoga Teacher Training course intends to lay a strong foundation in the traditions of Tantra Yoga, Kundalini and Kriya Yoga, Hatha Yoga and Classical Raja Yoga systems.
- To deepen the understanding of the participants through intensive workshop sessions on theoretical and metaphysical principles of Tantra Philosophy, Kriya techniques and Kundalini Yoga tradition.
- Teaching of various Kriyas in order to harness the energies of the Chakras and Nadi (subtle energy lines) system.
- Facilitating an environment in which learning penetrates the various layers of awareness and not just restricted to intellectual understanding of the subject.
Kundalini Yoga TTC Course Curriculum
The entire course content of 200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training Course is divided into three components. Each component comprises 9-10 days of teaching. We strictly follow the format of curriculum prescribed by Yoga Alliance USA; with deeper exposure to Kundalini Yoga Philosophy, practices and techniques. Here is detailed description of various topics and papers covered through three components of study:
Component-1 (Foundation)
Paper I: Techniques, Training and Practice
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 in component-1 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 Kriyas.
Training Modules:
- Practical (Hatha Yoga)
- 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-Vinnyasa 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, NasikagraDhristi
- Shatkriya: Neti and VamanDhauti (Kunjal Kriya)
Practical (Meditation):
Meditation techniques covered during component-1 systematically train the participants into process of meditation. The techniques taught during the component gradually familiarize one with the aspects of Kundalini Yoga meditation process.
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Techniques Taught:
- 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 Chakra Activation Session- Trataka (intense concetration) on Dot, Yantra (archetypal symbol), Nose tip gazing technique, Shambhavi Mudra with Om mantra chanting, Ajna Space Visualization Technique)
Paper-2 : Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle and Ethics for Yoga Teachers
Paper-2 in component-1 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.
Topics Taught:
- Foundation of Yoga Philosophy
- Definition, Historical Sketch, Branches, Classical System of Raja Yoga of Patanjali: Background of Samkhya Philosophy, History and Origin of Raja Yoga
- Tradition of Hatha Yoga
- Historical and Philosophical background of Hatha Yoga, Purpose and Literature. 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.
Paper-3: Anatomy and Physiology
In Anatomy and Physiology 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) etc.
Topics Taught:
- Yogic 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.
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Component-2 (Level-Intermediate)
Component-2 of the course entails intermediate level of practices and understanding of the system of Kundalini Yoga. In this component, each paper helps to delve into deeper layers of knowledge and practice of Kundalini Yoga.
Paper I: Techniques, Training and Practice
Practical teaching of traditional Hatha Yoga introduces one to the concept of spiritual sadhana and incorporating the practical dimension of energy in the forms of mantra into the practices. Various kriyas, mudra and bandhas of advanced nature are introduced in the classes. And even deeper level of bodily cleansing is done through the technique of intense yogic intestinal wash (Laghoo Shakha Prakshalana).
Practical (Hatha Yoga)
Hatha Yoga techniques covered during component-2 train the participants into practical dimensions of Hatha Yoga style. The techniques taught during the component gradually familiarize one with the aspects of Kundalini Yoga with reference to Hatha Yoga practices.
Techniques Taught:
- Asana: Introducing the concept of Sadhana, Surya Namaskar and Chandra
- Namaskar: Emphasizing on the elements of flow, rhythm etc. with the breath and Mantras
- Pranayama: Nadishodhana with Antarkumbhaka, Kapalbhati, Bhastrika, Ujjayi with Khechari Mudra and Agnisara Kriya
- Mudra and Bandha: Incorporating bandhas and mudras in pranayama sessions, Kaya (Postural) Mudra, Mula bandha, Vazroli/Sahjoli Mudra, Ashwini Mudra, uddiyana bandha in standing and sitting
- Shatkriya :Laghoo-ShankhaPrakshalana, Kunjal and Neti
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Practical (Meditation)
Each of the meditation techniques in component-2 incorporates more intense and deeper stages of mind, psyche and energy exploration. Each of the techniques taught in this component are practiced and experienced in light of chakra awareness and dimension of energies. Special dedicated sessions on chakra activation will be taught in the program during this component. Teachings of these practices will help the prospective teacher to understand as how to incorporate various Kriyas and Hatha Yoga tool in Kundalini Yoga sessions.
Techniques Taught:
- AntarMouna: Stages: 3
- Trataka as Pratyahara
- Chidakasha Dharana
- Ajapa Japa: stage-3
- Yoga Nidra: Stage: Intermediate (Visualization of psychic passages, chakras)
- Manipura Chakra Activation Session: PM2 series of Asana; Incorporating relevant asanas for Manipura Chakra, Manipura Chakra and Ksetram (trigger point) location session, ManipuraShuddhi (Purification), Agnisara Kriya, Uddiyana bandha and Madhyama, vama, DakshinaNauli.
- Anahata Chakra Activation Session: Incorporating relevant preparatory asanas for Anahata Chakra activation, Anahata Chakra and Ksetram (trigger point) location session, Anahata Chakra purification, Ajapa Japa and Intensive Heart Chakra and Hear space Harmonization Technique (Dharana Practice)
- Muladhara Chakra Activation Session: Mula Bandha, Vazroli/Sahjoli Mudra, Ashwini Mudra, Chakra andKshetram (trigger-point) Location session, Nasikagra Drishti.
- Swadhisthana Chakra Activation Session: Shakribandha Series, Incorporating relevant asanas for Swadhisthana Chakra, Swadhisthana Chakra and Ksetram (trigger point) location session, Ashwini Mudra, vazroli and Sahjoli Mudra.
Paper II: Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle and Ethics for Yoga Teachers
This paper of philosophy intends to shed light on the foundation of Tantra philosophy and Kundalini Yoga Tradition. An in-depth discussion on Tantra Philosophy and Kundalini yoga tradition will help the practitioner to associate deeply with the practical techniques learnt in the practice sessions.
Topics Taught:
- Traditions of Tantra
- Concept and Origin of Tantra, Basic Postulates of Tantra. Concept of Shiva and Shakti. Tantric concept of creation. Concept of 36 elements in Tantras. Tantric traditions. Tools of Tantras- Mantra, Yantra and Mandala.
- Tradition of Kundalini Yoga
- Concept of Kundalini Yoga: Tantras as the philosophical background of Kundalini yoga, concept of Kundalini. Concept of chakras, their location and psycho-physical significance, Method of Kundalini Sadhana and Effects of Kundalini awakening.
- The Neuro-Musculoskeletal System
- Muscles; kinds of muscles and functions. Skeletal system; functions of bones and various kinds of joints in yoga postures. Musculoskeletal system in yogic practice. The Nervous system: Functions of nervous system and brain (in light of yogic practices)
- The Respiratory and Cardiovascular system (in light of yogic breathing)
- Muscles of respiration, physiology of respiration and effects of different yogic breathing patterns on human physiology, effects of yogic practices on cardiovascular system.
Paper III: Anatomy and Physiology
Anatomy and Physiology session in component-2 encompasses talks on bodily systems and their functioning. Each of the topics of Anatomy and Physiology lectures is taught in light of Yogic practices and process. Intention of this study is to deepen one's understanding of yogic practices and their influence on the physical systems and organs.
Topics Taught:
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Component-3 (Level-Advanced)
This last component comprises of sessions developing teaching skills and understanding in prospective teachers. Topics incorporated in each of the papers in component-3 intend to equip the participants with exhaustive knowledge and skills required to teach a quality class.
Paper I: Techniques, Training and Practice
Practical (Hatha Yoga)
Hatha Yoga techniques covered during component-III completely train the participants into practical dimensions of Hatha Yoga style directed towards awakening the Kundalini Energy.
Techniques Taught:
Asana
- Incorporating subtle and intense kriyas into yoga program with insight and purpose to intensify the experiences of yogic practices.
- Group Work Assessment and Discussion: student teaching as well as observing and assisting in Classes taught by others. May be a combination of supervised and unsupervised.
- Instilling the ideas of using Hatha Yoga tools in Kundalini Yoga classes. Understanding the various Traditional Kundalini Kriyas and using them in yoga classes.
- Expanding the idea of sadhana in Hatha and Kundalini yoga classes. Identifying and working on one Kriya as personal sadhana and maintaining spiritual diary. .
Pranayama
Nadi shodhana with advanced retention, Kapalbhati, Bhramari with awareness of Chakras, Bhastrika-Advanced and Agnisar Kriya
Mudra and Bandha
- Advanced pranayama with Maha Bandha, moorcha pranayama and other advanced kriyas
- Introduction to Kriya Yoga- Vipreet-karani Mudra, rotation of consciousness in the psychic pathways
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Shatkriya
- Laghoo-Shankhaprakshalana, Kunjal, Nauli and Neti
- Yoga Nidra: stage: Advanced (Awareness of chakras, Tattvas and symbols)
- Trataka (As a Dharana Practice) )
- Chakra Dharana Staged A and B)
- Vishuddhi Chakra Activation Session: Incorporating relevant preparatory asanas and Mudras for Vishuddhi Chakra activation, Vishuddhi Chakra and Ksetram (trigger point) location session, Vishuddhi Chakra purification)
- Bindu-Visarga Chakra Activation Session: Trance-Breath Attitude technique, Vazroli Mudra with awareness of Bindu, Meditation on Subtle sound, Yoni Mudra)
- Integrated Chakra Awareness Module: Integrated Chakra Meditation, Nada (subtle sound) Chakra Meditation, Chaturtha Pranayama, Chakra Yoga Nidra, Unmani Mudra, Bija Mantra Rotation and Drawing the Chakra energies. )
- Tradition of Kriya Yoga
- Definition, History and Scriptural references, Purpose, Three specific plans of Kriya Yoga, Tools of Kriya Yoga, Approach and attitude towards the practice and tradition.
- Ethics for a Yoga Teacher (the prerequisites)
- Ethics for yoga teachers, 'living the Life of the Yogi', teacher-student relationship; cautions and pitfalls of Teaching Tantras and Kundalini Yoga in west, concept of seva. Yogic life style: Concept of Kundalini Sadhana for a teacher, Yoga as a life style, concept of spiritual diary.
- Elements of effective class planning/management
- Focus of module is to enhance the process of learning in the class through application of effective planning and class management
- Elements of an effective class presentation
- Enhancing the effectiveness of teacher in class on the levels of presentation and delivery of the session
- Business aspects of teaching yoga
- Discussion on various ways to enhance business and marketing the brand of yoga center and teacher
- Establishing one’s own teaching brand: Identifying the relevant teaching styles and practices, streamlining the teaching, creating an effective website, using social media and print media for marketing, penetrating the yoga community, managing financials and Studio Management.
- Group work: Teaching in small group, giving and receiving feedback under the supervision of lead instructor; assessment of teaching on various parameters of class teaching
- Presentations: Participants will be given topics to prepare presentations individually as well as in groups. Intention is to facilitate a class environment to polish, refine and apply the knowledge acquired in class teachings.
- Use of aids (Visual and Audio in the class)
- Preparing and conducting work-shops in small group on chosen topics from Kundalini and Kriya Yoga.
Practical (Meditation)
Meditation techniques in Component-III incorporate the most intense and deepest stages of mind, psyche and energy exploration. Each of the techniques taught in this component are practiced and experienced in light of chakra awareness and dimension of energies in utmost detail.
Techniques taught:
Paper II: Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle and Ethics for Yoga Teachers
Paper III: Teaching Methodology
Paper IV: Practicum
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200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Training Course Schedule
The entire 200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training Course is divided into three components. The modules of the curriculum are created in such a way; each module from 1st Component leads you to the next one in a very progressive and systematic fashion.
There is a subtle blend of various elements of teachings which a recognized Yoga Teacher Training Program in India must entail. We have listed topics of our curriculum in the curriculum section.
This itinerary gives you a glimpse of activities on a typical day at our centre during 200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training Program in Rishikesh, India. There will be three practice and three theory sessions every day to reflect equal emphasis on practical as well as theoretical aspects of teachings.
0600-0630 am : Herbal Infusion
Every morning before the session, herbal infusions are prepared. These infusions are highly healing and rejuvenating in nature and, are 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.
06:30-08:00 pm: 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 (Yogic Cleansing Works) chosen from Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gherand Samhita and Kriya Yoga manuals.
08:00-09:30 am: 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.
09:30-10:30 pm: Theory workshop on Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle and Ethics for Yoga Teachers
In 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 given represents the idea as how deep and intense your study will be through three components.
10:45-11:45 am: Theory Workshop on Anatomy and Physiology, Teaching Methodology
In this afternoon theory workshop session, a diverse range of topics will be discussed. This session will be dedicated for Anatomy and Physiology and Teaching Methodology lectures and talks. This session intends to polish the teaching skills and deepen the understanding of Yogic Anatomy and Physiology.
03:15-04:00 pm: Theory and Practical Workshops- Teaching Methodology
In this theory and practical workshop session, teaching methodology prepares you for the practical class teachings. This session entails teachings and practices of practical tools and techniques of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga and, how to teach them systematically in class. There will be intensive dedicated sessions on each Chakra, using Tantric visualization techniques, Hatha and Kundalini Kriyas, relevant preparatory Asanas (postures), Mudras (energy channelling techniques) and Bandhas (energy/psychic locks) used in traditions of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga to activate the chakras. Subsequently, participants will be prepared gradually to teach them in class.
12:00-01:00 pm: Lunch
Food served at lunch is pure vegetarian, sattvik, vitalizing, wholesome and nutritious. The food prepared in our kitchen includes most vegetables, ghee (clarified butter), fruits, legumes, and whole grains. These are ingredients that enhance clarity and lightness, keeping the body light and nourished and the mind clear. Time to time during the course we change the nature of the food according to the yoga practices you perform.
1:00-3:00 pm: Leisure and Self study
03:00-03:15pm: Herbal Tea
04:15-05:45 pm: 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.
06:00-07:00 pm: 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. Meditation techniques taught in our classes are sourced from most authentic traditions of Kriya Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Tantra Yoga.
07:00-08:00 pm: Dinner
During your stay with us at our centre, 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.
10:00 pm:Lights out
2200 Hours: Lights out
08:00-10:00 pm: Swadhyaya (Self-Study and Contemplation)
Excursions & Activities
Outcomes Of Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training Course
- A deeper understanding and experience of the system of Tantra Philosophy, Kundalini Yoga Tradition and Chakra system.
- Broader understanding of a wide range of Kundalini and Kriya techniques and traditional meditation practices from Raja Yoga with reference to the issues of different Chakras.
- Enriching one’s knowledge of theoretical and practical Kundalini and Chakra Meditation techniques and Kriyas.
- Ability to incorporate knowledge of Kundalini Yoga and Kriyas in one’s traditional Kundalini Yoga or Hatha Yoga class program, to make it more intense, enriching and transformative.
What Our Student 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.
Chrissy Dickie
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
Jacinta Kemp
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.
Nikolina Maneva
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
Cherie Gauci Holton
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.
Raelene Madden
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!
Tania Emiliani
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.
Adding to my years of practice, yet what you taught was unlike anything else I had experienced.
Loving India as I do, having traveled here twice a year for many years, this was my first time to Rishikesh & what an amazing, special, unique, beautiful place this is. Quite unlike anywhere I have ever experienced on my travels in the world. It truly speaks to your soul & has left a mark on me and within my thoughts & heart everyday.
I continue my yoga practice back home, but truly miss your teachings, voice, chants, music & essence of this experience you shared with us.
Also how it can transform & live within us on a daily basis when we practice these teachings & accept our growth, intuition, strengths, vulnerabilities, weaknesses, love & the power to let it be...
I speak with gratitude & love for the experience of having the daily teachings with you guys & cannot wait to return to Rishikesh...
Emma Strauss
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
Duangruedee Maneepak
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.
Natasha Tiamaria-Kimberley Richardson
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
Sandra Compain
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!!
Celeste Fourie
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!