Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “Yuj”, meaning to unite or unite. It is a common understanding that yoga is a form of physical change, but it is not just limited to that. The main purpose of yoga in Rishikesh is to help a person connect with their inner soul, which is connected with the universal spirit of God. Yoga harmonizes the body and mind and provides self-enlightenment. Yoga brings strength to the body and strength to bad habits. Yoga uses a variety of movements, breathing, relaxation, and meditation to achieve the ultimate goal. Yoga involves living a grounded and active life and changing the way of life. It is the union of mind, body, and spirit.
Rishikesh – Best town for yoga and meditation
Rishikesh is world famous as the ‘YOGA CAPITAL’ of India. It is home to many yoga ashrams and retreats. These yoga centers in Rishikesh attract many spiritual gurus as well as fitness enthusiasts from all around the globe. If you are seeking salvation and solitude; then these yoga retreats can be a major help for your unresolved search. In today’s day and life; it is always recommended that we nurture our inner soul to shove off all negativities around.
Rishikesh has a positive aura that resonates strongly all around the world. As nectar is for butterflies; Rishikesh is for those who are looking for a map to bliss in this lost mundane world. Rishikesh has its own charm. When you set foot in the city; it welcomes you with a symphony of religious hums; musky and intense incense notes; a myriad of holy seekers and some funny monkeys bordering the lines of the gurgling river.
Yoga in Rishikesh general has proved to be a very beneficial factor for those who want to increase their focus exponentially and also lead a healthy lifestyle. Yoga is beneficial for our body, mind, and soul. It has been a part of Indian culture for thousands of years. Practicing yoga every day will not only keep our bodies healthy and disease-free, but it will also keep our minds clear.
There are a multitude of yoga ashrams and resorts in Rishikesh that provide daily yoga classes in Rishikesh. Some of them are listed below
1. CAMP BROOK
Camp Brook is one of the most luxurious camping sites in Rishikesh. This property provides many contemporary amenities that cater to all your needs. Camp Brook also provides yoga and meditation sessions. There are various yoga and meditation retreats organized by Camp Brook. This property not only strives for a comfortable stay but also offers various activities. The kitchen has a menu with satvik food as well. Food can be customized as per your interest and taste buds. The yoga classes here are to vouch for; from inner peace and meditation to vigorous exercises amidst its serene environment, this makes a thing that one must experience.
2. PARMARTH NIKETAN
Located on the banks of the sacred Ganges in Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan is one of India’s top yoga retreats and the largest ashram in the region. The 8-acre campus has 1,000 rooms and prices are based on standard accommodation and views. A maximum of 15 days is allowed for the first stay. The price includes two yoga sessions and three meals a day. The ashram also conducts a variety of yoga, Vedic heritage, and spiritual practices, as well as teacher training.
3. SIVANANDA ASHRAM
Sivananda Ashram is another top yoga center in India founded by Swami Sivananda and managed by the Divine Life Society. The teaching is based on the five elements of yoga posture, breathing, relaxation, meditation, and nutrition. Free yoga and meditation classes are offered daily.
4. OMKARANANDAN GANGA SADAN
Omkarananda Ganga Sadan is the guesthouse of the Omkarananda Ashram in the Himalayas and houses the Patanjala Yoga Kendra Yoga Centre. Iyengar yoga classes are unique out there. The center is located in the Muni-ki-Reti district of Rishikesh, on the banks of the Ganges. It has its own parade and daily aarti shows. Every day (except Sunday) yoga classes are open to everyone, but intensive yoga classes must be booked in advance.
5. SWAMI DAYANANDA ASHRAM
The temple was founded in 1960 by the internationally recognized Vedanta teacher and Sanskrit scholar Swami Dayananda Saraswati. It is nicely located about a 10-minute walk from the Ram Jhula area. In-house classes focusing on the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads are held regularly. Vedic chants are also taught during the lesson. Guest instructors also lead Iyengar and Hatha yoga retreats (for beginners and intermediate students) at the resort.
More than 150 en suite rooms are available for students.
For those who want to continue practicing yoga for a longer period of time; there are many yoga classes in Rishikesh. These are perfect for the locals and the residents of Rishikesh. Even the school-going students must practice yoga; as it serves as a stress buster and is also feels like an instant vacation. Some of them are enlisted below
- Rishikesh Vinyasa Yoga School
- Ayuskama Ayurveda Yoga Center
- Yoganga healing
- Yoga Vini
- Real Happiness
- Ekam Yogashala
- Arogya yoga school
- Samadhi yoga ashram
- Akshi yoga shala
- Sattya yoga
Also Read: Ashrams and temples in Rishikesh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans India’s rich spiritual character has influenced and changed the lives of many people around the world. No matter what country you live in, there is always a spiritual place nearby that offers yoga and meditation. But if there’s one place that stands out and has become the yoga and meditation capital of India and the world, it’s Rishikesh. Also known as Yoganagari, meaning “Yoga City”, this religious and historical city has over the years been home to countless believers, intellectuals, and candidates, especially the Beatles, who went to Swiss SKIS to take time for self-reflection. It was 50 years ago. With yoga becoming a global phenomenon, Rishikesh is once again gaining attention as one of the best places to visit in India for the art of yoga and spirituality.
Ans There are many places where you can practice yoga in Rishikesh. Amongst which if you want it within the premises of your stay for better comfort; you can opt for Campbrook. Also if you want to visit the ashram, Parmarth Niketan ashram is one of the best for preaching and practicing yoga.
Ans Some ashrams provide facility of free yoga in Rishikesh; while others charge a very reasonable amount depending on the tenure of the classes.
Ans The birthplace of yoga is yet unknown. Although Rishikesh has extensively preached and permeated the entire world; regarding the practice of Yoga. It has made yoga highly famous amongst all fitness enthusiasts and those seeking spiritual salvation. Because of its rich history of sages and saints; Rishikesh indeed is solely credited for introducing this world; with the practices and methods of Yoga.
