Which country is best for Yoga study? – Does this question bother or confuse you? In this blog let’s understand the importance of learning Yoga in India which will help you take the right decision in your Yogic Journey.
Why Yoga in India?
India is known as the birthplace of yoga, and for good reason. It is here that the ancient practice of yoga was developed and refined over thousands of years, and it is still considered one of the best places in the world to study and practice yoga today. For those looking to become internationally certified yoga teachers, India offers a wide range of teacher training programs that provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to teach yoga professionally, both in India and abroad.
One of the main advantages of studying yoga in India is the opportunity to learn from experienced teachers who have been practicing and teaching yoga for many years. India is home to some of the most renowned yoga teachers in the world, many of whom have studied directly under the most respected gurus and masters of the tradition. These teachers bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their teaching and provide students with a deep understanding of the principles and practices of yoga.
In addition to the high-quality teaching, yoga teacher training programs in India also offer a unique cultural experience. Students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Indian culture and learn about the rich history and traditions of yoga. They can explore the local markets, taste the delicious food, and visit the many temples and historical sites that India has to offer. This cultural immersion can deepen students’ understanding of yoga and provide them with a unique perspective on the practice.
When considering an internationally certified yoga teacher training program in India, it is important to choose a program that is registered with Yoga Alliance, the largest international nonprofit association representing the yoga community. Yoga Alliance sets standards for yoga teacher training programs and certifies teachers who meet those standards. By choosing a Yoga Alliance certified program, students can be confident that they are receiving a high-quality education that meets international standards.
There are many yoga teacher training programs in India that are registered with Yoga Alliance, and they vary in length, intensity, and focus. Some programs are intensive, residential programs that last for several weeks, while others are part-time programs that can be completed over a longer period of time. Some programs focus on specific styles of yoga, such as Ashtanga or Hatha yoga, while others offer a more comprehensive curriculum that covers a range of styles and practices.
Internationally certified Yoga Teacher Training Course in India is very popular for their multi-style Yoga coverage.
Below are some of the styles mostly covered by the Registered Yoga Schools
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa Krama is a dynamic and progressive method of practicing yoga that emphasizes the integration of breath and movement, with a focus on proper alignment and sequencing. Developed by Sri T. Krishnamacharya, one of the most influential yoga masters of the 20th century, Vinyasa Krama is a holistic approach to yoga that combines the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the practice. Vinyasa Krama translates to “wise progression” and refers to the art of sequencing yoga postures in a gradual and intelligent way, building up to more complex and challenging poses. In Vinyasa Krama, each pose is approached with careful attention to alignment and breath and is practiced in a sequence that prepares the body and mind for the next pose. The sequences are designed to be adaptable to the individual needs of each practitioner and can be modified to suit different levels of experience and ability.
One of the unique features of Vinyasa Krama is the use of vinyasas, or linking movements, that connect the poses together. The vinyasas are based on the breath and are used to create a flowing and meditative practice. Each vinyasa has a specific purpose and is designed to move the body in a way that prepares it for the next pose in the sequence. In Vinyasa Krama, the emphasis is on the process of the practice, rather than the end result. The goal is not to achieve a perfect pose, but rather to cultivate awareness and understanding of the body and breath. Through the practice, students develop strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as mental clarity and focus.
Vinyasa Krama is suitable for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced students. The method can be adapted to suit the individual needs of each practitioner and can be modified to accommodate injuries or other physical limitations. The sequences can be challenging but are designed to be accessible to anyone who is willing to work with patience and dedication. Overall, Vinyasa Krama is a powerful and transformative method of practicing yoga that emphasizes the integration of breath, movement, and awareness. By practicing with attention and intention, students can develop a deeper understanding of their bodies and minds, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and harmony that can be carried off the mat and into everyday life.
In the Yoga Teacher training courses, not only do you get the opportunity to practice Vinyasa Yoga, but also teach it to fellow participants as a part of the evaluation process.
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashta (eight ) Anga (Limbs) Yoga is a dynamic and rigorous style of yoga that emphasizes strength, flexibility, and breath control. It was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in the early 20th century, and has since become one of the most popular and widely practiced styles of yoga around the world. Ashtanga Yoga is based on a set sequence of postures, or asanas, that are performed in a specific order. The sequence is designed to be physically challenging, with a focus on building strength and stamina, as well as improving flexibility and balance. The practice is also designed to promote mental clarity and focus, using a specific breathing technique known as Ujjayi breath.
In Ashtanga Yoga, the emphasis is on moving with the breath and maintaining a steady and controlled pace throughout the practice. The practice is typically performed in a meditative state, with a focus on cultivating inner awareness and mindfulness. Ashtanga Yoga is a physically demanding practice and can be challenging for beginners or those with physical limitations. However, the practice can be modified to suit individual needs, and practitioners are encouraged to work at their own pace and level of ability. Ashtanga Yoga is known for its transformative effects on both the body and mind. The practice can help improve flexibility, strength, and endurance, as well as reduce stress and promote mental clarity. Regular practice of Ashtanga Yoga can also help cultivate a sense of inner peace and balance, as well as increase overall health and wellbeing.
The practice is divided into six series, each with a different focus and level of difficulty. The first series, known as the Primary Series, is designed to build a strong foundation of strength and flexibility and includes a variety of standing and seated postures, as well as inversions and backbends. In Registered Yoga Schools, this is usually a part of the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training course. Whereas in 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training course, the Primary series and intermediate series are covered by
Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga is a traditional style of yoga that is focused on the practice of physical postures, or asanas, as well as breathing techniques, or pranayama. The term “Hatha” is derived from two Sanskrit words, “ha” meaning sun, and “tha” meaning moon, representing the balance of opposing forces within the body. Hatha Yoga is a gentle and slow-paced practice, with an emphasis on proper alignment, breathing, and relaxation. The practice is designed to help bring balance and harmony to the body and mind, by promoting physical strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. In Hatha Yoga, each pose is held for a longer period of time, allowing the practitioner to focus on their breath and sensations in the body. The practice is typically performed in a meditative state, with a focus on cultivating inner awareness and mindfulness. The practice can be adapted to suit individual needs and abilities, and is suitable for practitioners of all levels, including beginners.
Hatha Yoga includes a variety of postures, ranging from gentle stretching to more challenging poses. The practice also includes a variety of breathing techniques, including deep breathing and alternate nostril breathing, which are designed to help calm the mind and promote relaxation. The benefits of Hatha Yoga are numerous, both for the body and mind. The practice can help improve flexibility, balance, and strength, as well as reduce stress and promote relaxation. Regular practice of Hatha Yoga can also help improve overall health and wellbeing, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Hatha Yoga is a gentle and accessible practice that emphasizes the integration of breath, movement, and mindfulness. Through the practice of Hatha Yoga, practitioners can develop a deeper understanding of their bodies and minds, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and harmony that can be carried off the mat and into everyday life.
As a part of Yoga teacher training courses in India, some of the schools provide pure Hatha based courses whereas some choose to include it as a part of Multi-style Yoga course
Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is a slow-paced and meditative style of yoga that focuses on holding postures for an extended period of time, typically ranging from 3 to 5 minutes. The practice is designed to target the connective tissues of the body, including ligaments, tendons, and fascia, as well as the joints and bones.
Unlike more dynamic styles of yoga, which focus on building strength and flexibility through movement and flow, Yin Yoga is a passive practice, in which the practitioner relaxes into the postures and allows gravity to do the work. The practice is typically performed in a meditative state, with a focus on cultivating inner awareness and mindfulness.
Yin Yoga postures are often seated or reclined, and are designed to be held for an extended period of time, in order to encourage a deep release of tension and stress in the body. The practice also includes a variety of breathing techniques, including deep breathing and alternate nostril breathing, which are designed to help calm the mind and promote relaxation.
The benefits of Yin Yoga are numerous, both for the body and mind. The practice can help improve flexibility, balance, and mobility, as well as reduce stress and promote relaxation. Regular practice of Yin Yoga can also help improve circulation and digestion, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system.
Yin Yoga is a gentle and accessible practice, suitable for practitioners of all levels, including beginners. The practice can be modified to suit individual needs and abilities and can be especially beneficial for those with injuries or chronic pain.
Yogic Philosophy
Along with practicing Asana, it is important to also integrate Yogic philosophy as part of the practice of yoga, and as it provides a framework for understanding the relationship between the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the practice. Asana, pranayama, and dhyana are three key elements of the yoga practice that are closely linked to yogic philosophy.
Asana, or physical postures, are an important part of the yoga practice, and are designed to help prepare the body for deeper spiritual practices. In yogic philosophy, the practice of asana is seen as a way to purify the body and prepare it for the deeper practice of meditation. Through the practice of asana, practitioners can cultivate a sense of physical strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as develop a deeper understanding of their bodies and the relationship between body and mind.
Pranayama, or breath control, is another key element of the yoga practice, and is designed to help cultivate awareness of the breath and the relationship between breath and the mind. In yogic philosophy, the breath is seen as a bridge between the physical and mental aspects of the practice, and the practice of pranayama is seen as a way to purify the mind and prepare it for deeper spiritual practices. Through the practice of pranayama, practitioners can cultivate a sense of calm and focus, as well as develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between breath, body, and mind.
Dhyana, or meditation, is the ultimate goal of the yoga practice, and is designed to help cultivate a sense of inner peace, harmony, and enlightenment. In yogic philosophy, the practice of meditation is seen as a way to connect with the divine and transcend the limitations of the ego. Through the practice of meditation, practitioners can cultivate a sense of inner awareness, clarity, and understanding, as well as develop a deeper understanding of the nature of reality and the relationship between self and the universe.
Yogic philosophy provides a rich and nuanced framework for understanding the relationship between the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the yoga practice. Through the practice of asana, pranayama, and dhyana, practitioners can cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world, as well as develop a deeper sense of peace, harmony, and enlightenment.
Vinyasa Yoga Ashram offers such Yoga certifications at the international level to help you upskill your Yogic profile. The 200 hour YTTC, 300 hour YTTC, Pre and Post Natal YTTC and Aerial YTTC will help you become one of the best international Yoga teachers. Contact us for more details.
