Between Yoga And Gym

Choosing Between Yoga and the Gym: What’s Right for Your Health Goals?

by Yoga

Gym and Yoga are the two most often considered choices regarding good health. With changing diets and routines, people are struggling with increasing health issues and depleting quality of life. With the choice of healthy practices, the issue can be resolved. However, it is tough to choose between the two. 

If you are someone who also struggles to choose between the two, then this blog is for you. In this blog, we will be sharing everything that can help you make a wise decision as per your body requirements and goals. So without any further ado, let’s jump onto it and understand which is better for your health goal Gym or Yoga.  

Gym Vs Yoga

Gym and Yoga are both great options when it comes to physical fitness. However, there are many factors that people consider before making a decision. Some of these factors are convenience, time constraints, consistency, faster results and many others. These factors are not countable when it comes to maintaining good health. So we will be skipping these pointers and only focus on how things can be on the healthier side if you choose Yoga or Gym. 

Both Gym and Yoga offer a variety of different benefits that can help you with your body goals. To understand it better let’s check out the difference in details. 

Types of Workouts in Gym

  • Strength training
  • Cardio
  • Weight lifting
  • Pilates
  • Aerobics
  • Zumba
  • Crossfit

Benefits of Gym

There are many benefits of a Gym irrespective of gender, Individuals can observe improvement in strength, improved diet, better stability and toned muscles. However, based on the goals of the individual the training plan can change.

For strength training and muscle building, the training and diet plan would be different as compared to the weight loss plan. For individuals who are just starting, the gym can be a great option as in the beginning the results can be achieved in less time as compared to the intermediate or advanced level trainee. 

Drawback of Gym

With a great option to make the body fit, there are negatives to the gym as well. Gym is ideal for people of a certain age group as it requires physical strength and movement which requires the body in ideal condition. While in the past there have been cases where the trainee had cardiac arrest during the workout. 

Apart from these, a critical issue that majority of the gym goers face is that after a long break from the gym, the body starts to fade and lost muscles can be seen. The body that individuals have worked so hard for, starts to deplete within a few months of not training. 

Apart from these, there are many other drawbacks like body fatigue, risk of injuries, no proper guidance (additional cost for personal training), affected posture, and others. 

Now let’s look at Yoga’s benefits and drawbacks: 

Different Yoga Styles

  • Ashtanga Yoga 
  • Hatha Yoga
  • Vinyasa Yoga 
  • Iyengar Yoga 
  • Kundalini Yoga 
  • Power Yoga 
  • Air Yoga
  • Pranayama
  • Meditation

Benefits of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice for improving overall health and connection between mind, body & soul. The practice involves a variety of styles and movements where practitioners learn to master each posture with regular practice under the expert. To learn yoga, one needs to enrol in the course at Yoga School Rishikesh to avail maximum benefits of the practice and learn the authentic practice. 

Unlike Gym, Yoga can be very simple and tough depending on which level of practice the individual is. The practice of Yoga offers a greater benefit to the body while strengthening with each day of practice. There are many benefits of performing or practicing Yoga regularly. Practitioners can observe improved strength, stability, flexibility, better connection between mind and body, improved reflex, toned body, quickness in the body, and energy. 

With yoga, based on your body goal and condition, students can choose the style and follow it. With continuous practice of each style apart from a healthier body, the improvement in internal organs can also be felt. With time students can observe an improved immune system with better blood circulation and calmness in breathing. 

The benefits list could go long, however, these are some of the common benefits that can be observed irrespective of which style you are practicing. 

Drawback of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice that requires the students to learn it from an expert teacher. Now when choosing the right yoga school the students will have to do a deep research and choose only the yoga school which is accredited by the Yoga Alliance, USA. Apart from finding an authentic yoga school, there are no drawbacks to practicing yoga. It is considered the most feasible and ideal option for each individual irrespective of their age. 

Who should choose the Gym? 

If you are someone who wishes to achieve your dream physique quickly, then Gym is definitely your go-to option. The training plan can be adjusted based on your body goals and the time frame that you have. However, there can be negatives to achieving goals in less time. 

Apart from the time constraint, for people who wish to lose weight and build a muscular physique, the Gym is a great option. The proximity of Gyms and availability of the majority of the required equipment make it ideal to choose and work on your body goals. 

Who should choose Yoga? 

Yoga is a holistic approach to improving overall health while introspecting into your body and mind. The process as compared to the Gym is longer and slower. However, each day can be observed as new learning and improvement in the body. 

The process of yogic practice is great for people who wish to choose a healthier life where mental and physical wellness is the priority. The practice of yoga involves many aspects where you cleanse the body while practicing different posture. The overall practice is great for health and long-term benefits. So if you are someone who wishes to adopt healthy practice into your lifestyle and can practice it at your home with ease, yoga can be a great choice for you. 

Conclusion on Gym Vs Yoga: Which is better? 

Both Gym and Yoga are great options to meet body goals. However, the benefits that Yoga offers and the minimum of drawbacks make it an ideal option for every individual. There are times when people aged 50 and above search for healthy practices to adopt. In other cases like during the time of pregnancy, to cure depression, improve diet and have overall better health, Yoga is a great option to choose. 

Gurukul Yogashala offers a complete range of yoga courses where you can learn and adapt to a healthier lifestyle under the guidance of expert teachers. We are among the top yoga schools in Rishikesh who offer authentic and traditional knowledge to students with our courses. Other than the course, there are options like retreats where students can experience the yogic lifestyle in a short duration of time (3,7,14 and 21 days).

Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training

Difference Between Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training

by Yoga

Practicing yoga isn’t just following a few postures or meditation. There are many styles associated with yoga that offer great benefits. Now each style is different and offers different benefits. While, the majority of the practitioners at the beginning don’t know this, which is why this blog will help you in understanding the styles of yoga. 

Ashtanga and Vinayasa yoga teacher training are the two most pursued courses for all levels of practitioners. However, deciding on which course to choose is solely dependent on the practitioner’s body goals, learning and preference of yoga style. Based on that one can easily make the decision and pursue the course. 

Now to make the decision easier with complete knowledge about Vinyasa and Ashtanga yoga teacher training in Rishikesh read the blog till the end. In this blog, we have briefly explained each yoga style, how it benefits and which one you should choose. So without any further ado, let’s first understand both styles. 

What is Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh?

Ashtanga yoga is considered as the most powerful yoga style. This style unlike the other includes higher physical endurance and mental strength to perform the postures. The style includes long duration holds on the posture making it even tougher to maintain stability. However, with practice and guidance, this yoga form can be a great game changer for a student’s health as well as for learning. 

The Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh is a great opportunity for students or practitioners who wish to learn this style and experience the beauty of a yogic lifestyle. With a dedicated course based on the student experience and skills, each student will get a unique learning experience to upscale their journey. 

As the name suggests, Ashtanga Yoga will be the primary subject in the course while all the other subjects associated with yoga will be secondary. To offer an overall learning experience students will be taught each style under the guidance of an expert teacher. Other than the learning experience, students will be offered an ideal space to experience the yogic lifestyle firsthand. The course with its accommodation and food facility included making sure that the learning and experience go hand in hand. 

The Benefit of Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh

Improves Physical Strength- The variety of asanas or postures involved in the course helps in building overall strength and stability in the body. The long duration of position hold and advanced level poses are the reason behind the gradual strength increase. The course initially trains the students to hold for less duration, while eventually for a longer duration enhancing the strength. The practitioners who wish to elevate their practice can pursue this course. After completing the course, the practitioners will be ready for the advanced level of practice and longer duration holds. 

Pain Relief- The next benefit of the Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh is pain relief. This might seem very unusual, but in reality, this is the most observed trait of this course. The longer position helps in stretching the muscles and improves flexibility. The improvement in the body helps in reducing pain and improving mobility in the entire body.

Pain relief is just the first phase, with regular practice students and practitioners can observe better endurance and less pain with regular activity as the flexibility is improved. 

Helps in Weight Loss- With regular practice and a dedicated diet plan, the students will observe transforming into a healthy overall body. The practice will help in reducing excessive fat from the body and regaining the muscles to a stronger overall physique. 

Future opportunities- After completing the course, students will unlock future opportunities to start as a certified yoga instructor. The learning and skill set will help in training other aspirants from across the globe and have a stable career. Students or practitioners who are passionate about the practice and wish to spend their lives with the rules of yoga can have a career and spend time with the yogic belief. 

What is Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh? 

Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, unlike the other courses, is very different. This yoga style focuses on fast movement while switching to different poses continuously. The practice of this yoga style takes years to reach perfection while constantly improving breathing and physical endurance. 

The changes in the poses and asana are followed by rhythmic breathing. This enhances blood circulation while allowing the body to connect better with the mind. Other than synchronised breathing, the style also includes controlling the breath as per the posture or asanas. The student will learn the synchronised changes and the sequence of the posture to follow. 

Benefits of Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh

Enhanced Core Stability: The continued poses practice helps in improving stability and core strength. With regular practice, students can observe great impact and better stability. 

Better Heart Health: Controlling the breath and high-intensity training helps in improving heart health. Maintaining a good heart in today’s world is a tough task, but with regular practice of Vinyasa yoga students can learn the art of improving it. With the majority of the non-exercising people suffering from heart issues. The people practicing Vinyasa can observe a greater benefit and a healthy lifestyle throughout. 

Increase Lung Capacity: As part of the Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, students will learn to control their breath and synchronise it as per the requirement of the flow. This practice apart from improving blood circulation and oxygen flow in the body will also improve the capacity of the lungs. In the long run, this would help in maintaining health with an improved inhale and exhalation process that helps in removing toxins through the air. 

Future Opportunities: The last benefit of Vinyasa YTT in Rishikesh is that after the course students can start their careers as certified yoga teachers. The learnings and skills will help them in their journey, while the Yoga Alliance, USA certificate will work as an accreditation that helps in working in any part of the world. 

Concluding the Difference between Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh

Choosing the style of yoga to pursue can be easy if you know about the style and your future aspirations. However, many find this answer later when they have completed the beginner course. With this blog, we hope that we have helped you in finding out the major difference between the two yoga styles and their benefits. With complete knowledge about the style, you will be able to choose wisely as per your preferences and future goals. 

Ashtanga yoga school in Rishikesh

How to Choose the Right School for Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Certification in India

by Yoga

Ashtanga yoga school in Rishikesh is the getaway to become a certified yoga teacher. Becoming a teacher requires lifelong learning for some while others might take years, but with the right school and learning, the time can be reduced. Yoga schools and their offerings are crucial in affecting practitioners’ journeys. It is the only way by which a student can learn the lineage of multiple yog gurus from across the globe and follow their ideology. 

India is known for its cultural beliefs and many healthy practices. Yoga is also among the practices which is renowned across the globe. For a new practitioner with less information about yoga schools, choosing the right school for Ashtanga yoga teacher certification would become very tough, which is why we have curated this blog. After reading this blog, you will be able to assess and choose the right Ashtanga yoga school for your 100-Hour and 200-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training Rishikesh. So without any further ado let’s first take a look at the importance of choosing the right yoga school. 

Importance of Choosing the Right Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training School

Ashtanga yoga is one of the toughest forms of yoga which requires years of practice under the guru who has spent decades practicing and learning. To reach perfection and obtain maximum benefits from the practice takes hard work and dedication. A practitioner who wishes to achieve it themselves should follow the path where guidance and practice go hand in hand. Apart from this, following a routine where regular practice and a healthy routine are prioritized. 

Yoga school plays an important role in shaping the learning journey of the practitioners. The school in partnership with teachers offers a great environment where learning both theoretical and practical subjects are prioritized. With a dedicated curriculum for learning and routine to follow, the environment itself makes the student inclined towards positive and healthy practices. 

While the most important is learning, by enrolling on courses in yoga school students get the advantage of the lineage. The course is not just offering the learning of teachers but is offering the opportunity to learn and experience the beauty of century-old knowledge and skills that have been passed on to generations and are now passed on to the student through the courses. 

Now, it is clear that yoga school plays an important role in the journey of a practitioner or a student. Let’s now take a look at the benefits of choosing the Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training course.

How does Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training help in elevating the learning journey?

Unlike any other course that offers Ashtanga training, the yoga teacher training course is very different. The course is designed in such a way that it helps the student in their transitional journey of becoming a certified teacher. With years of research and acknowledgement from renowned yoga organizations, the course is prepared and delivered to the students. Yoga enthusiasts who wish to start a career in the field of yoga, as acknowledged by the Yoga Alliance, USA certification, can take this course. 

Apart from just offering the best learning experience with the yoga subjects, the course is designed to convert the individual into a teacher who is experienced. With the practice of teaching and dedicated classes to polish your skills, The course is a great way to start your journey as a teacher from one step ahead. 

However, there are a few courses that offer certification based on the level of knowledge, time duration and other factors. Below we have shared a brief about each yoga teacher training course to help you get a better understanding of each. 

Types of Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training Course 

Here are the different courses under the Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training, you can choose the course based on your experience, skill, understanding and time availability. Read below to learn more about the course: 

100-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training Course- The 100-Hour Ashtanga YTT is ideal for students or practitioners who are just starting. The course is aimed to help with the basics of each subject while helping with the knowledge and ideology of yoga. With this course, students will experience the lifestyle of a yogi and understand how our body is affected by healthy practices. 

200-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training Course- The 200-Hour Ashtanga YTT is an advanced course compared to the 100-Hour as it prepares the student for the transition towards secondary learning. However, it is important to note that to pursue a 200-hour course the student should have completed the 100-hour course. Also, as the name suggests it requires a longer duration to complete, so be prepared before choosing the course. 

300-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training Course- For the students or practitioners who wish to pursue the most advanced learning of Ashtanga yoga, then 300-Hour YTT is the ideal course for them. The course offers a recap of the primary series and a complete learning of the secondary series. The years of practice of the teachers help in obtaining the right posture throughout the practice without harming the body and moving towards perfection. This course can only be pursued if a 200-hour course is completed. 

500-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training Course- Students who wish to learn and start their career with one course can opt for the 500-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training course. This course is a blend of 200 and 300-hour as it offers both primary and secondary learning for the student. After spending these 500 hours under the guidance of expert teachers, the student can mark the beginning of their new career in the field of yoga as a certified yoga instructor who too specializes in Ashtanga style. However, for pursuing this course, it is necessary to complete the 100-Hour YTT course. 

These were the courses that you as a practitioner or student can opt for to learn and start your journey as a teacher. However, there are a few factors that you should consider before choosing a yoga school. Scroll down to the next section to check those factors. 

Factors to consider before choosing the right school for Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training

As a practitioner or a student, you only wish to get the best learning experience and value for money. However, before choosing any yoga school there are a few factors that need to be considered and checked. To make your research easier, we have listed down the important factors to consider below for choosing the right school for Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training. 

Learning environment: The environment of the school is one of the most important aspects to consider as it will determine whether the learning will be as per the standards or not. Be it the classes, location or the routine that is followed everything together creates an environment where the student’s journey of learning is elevated. 

Course offerings: As a student, it is important to understand what the course offers in terms of learning. Be it theoretical or practical, the course should cover the majority of the subjects offering an in-depth knowledge of the subjects. 

Teachers: The next important factor to consider is the teachers. For the course, teachers are the medium by which the student will learn and grow. It is important to know the experience and expertise of the teachers in advance before making a decision. 

Certification: Final and the most important factor to consider is certification as it is essential to start a career in the field of yoga. The certification offered by the yoga school should be from the renowned organization that marks the achievement and learning of the students. The most acclaimed certification is from the Yoga Alliance, USA. 

Conclusion

Now that you have read all the pointers and benefits of the Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, you can easily choose the best yoga school for your learning journey and check if your future goals align with the course. With knowledge about the course and factors, you can make sure that you are making the right decision with the course as well as the yoga school. We hope that we helped you with the relevant information about the topic. If there are any other queries or confusion regarding the same, please feel free to leave a comment. Our expert team will try and help you with all your concerns. 

best yoga school in rishikesh

Best Yoga School for Yoga Teacher Training Course in Rishikesh, India

by Yoga

The Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh is the most versatile course where students learn in-depth about yogic practices in the traditional and most authentic ways. However, choosing the best yoga school for a Yoga Teacher Training course is important to elevate the learning experience and get the best education from expert teachers. 

Many yoga schools in Rishikesh offer teacher training in yoga, though it is necessary to check all the pointers before choosing the yoga school and starting the course. Many factors help in improving the experience and impacting the learning positively. Some pointers include the effect of yoga school on yoga teacher training and characteristics that make yoga school important. 

In this blog, we will be sharing all the pointers that will help all the practitioners who wish to elevate their learning journey and become a certified teacher in the field of yoga. Below we have shared how yoga school impacts the journey of a learner or practitioner. Additionally the pointers on what are the ideal scenario for choosing the best yoga school. So without any further ado, let’s deep dive into how yoga schools affect the learning journey. 

How does yoga school impact the learning journey?

Yoga is one of the oldest traditional arts that requires expertise and experience to help in sharing exactly what the best practices are. For yoga enthusiasts, it is a must to find a good yoga school where they can start their learning journey and experience the ideal yogic environment the same as what our ancestors did. 

Learning and practicing yoga without the knowledge and expertise is like studying without school. The journey with yoga school is more refined and curated by the experts which helps in creating a step-by-step guide for the students as per their goal in terms of learning or starting a new career in this field. 

The teachers as part of the yoga school are the ideal guides with years of practice and experience in elevating the learning journey of thousands of students. With the help of the environment and the right teachers, students will get access to the ideal learning environment where they will not only practice the best techniques but will also learn in-depth about the subjects and how it has impacted the lives of humans. 

Now with the perfect environment and learning pathway, the students with yoga school can easily devote their time effectively. Unlike learning and practicing yourself, the student can opt for courses that are curated for the goals of the students and the constraints. Irrespective of whether your goal is to start a career in the field of yoga or improve learning and excel in practice, the best yoga school will always have a course that delivers to your needs. 

After knowing the importance of a yoga school, it becomes important to choose the best yoga school. However, unlike just going or choosing one yoga school isn’t enough, there are many factors involved in making this decision. To help all the enthusiasts and practitioners make the right decision, we have listed down some of the notable factors in choosing the best yoga school in Rishikesh. So jump on to the next section to know more about the factors in detail and make the best decision for your yogic journey.

What are the factors that make a yoga school best?

For choosing the best yoga school in Rishikesh there are many factors to consider as a student or practitioner. Here below we have shared some of the main factors to consider before making a decision. The pointers below are based on the things that make the experience of the students better and offer the authentic and traditional learning that real yogis have experienced in Rishikesh. So let’s deep dive into the factors for easy decision-making. 

  • History of the school: Understanding and knowing in detail about the yoga school is very important. This is the first step when looking out for the best yoga school in Rishikesh. There are times when you will encounter a list of yoga schools but are confused about which school should be picked. So the best and the first way is to check the history. 

With history, it is not just about the year the school was founded, but it is about how experienced the faculty is, how long the yoga school training is, and how many students have been trained by the school. All these factors make it easier to judge and understand whether the promises made by the school are reasonable or not. 

Once you are done analyzing the yoga school and its history, then checking the other factors would help you easily make the decision. 

  • Courses offered: The next step or factor to consider is the courses offered at the yoga school. There are times when students find the yoga that is reputed but not the course that they are aiming to pursue. So it is essential to consider the yoga school which offers the ideal course based on time constraints, learning, and certification. 

There are many courses divided based on the time, certification and level of experience or skills. Students can easily choose from that and start their learning journey with the yoga school. 

  • Teachers: Now after considering both the school and course, teachers are the medium by which the learning journey of students is upscaled. The years of experience of teachers, and the methodology they follow make it easier for the students to learn and grow in the field of yoga. 

As a student, you would want a teacher who is great at teaching and has experience in the field. So it becomes necessary to do the background check on the website of the yoga school and understand how well-versed the teachers are. Some schools might be old and have a curriculum but new or not much-experienced teachers affect the learning experience of the students for which they have taken our time and spent money. 

  • Curriculum: Another crucial factor to consider is the curriculum of the course. The course which is offered at the yoga school follows a curriculum that defines how, what and when the students will learn during the course period. This routine justifies whether the curriculum is great in accelerating the learning process or making it harder for the student. 

Having the right curriculum is as important as having the right teacher. Even with the greatest of teachers, learning becomes easier if there is a plan of action. So students should check the curriculum and compare it with other shortlisted yoga schools to have a better and clearer idea of the perfect curriculum. Also, based on their career or learning goal, students can easily judge whether the curriculum is justifying it or not. 

  • Environment: Environment is another factor that helps in elevating the learning experience of the students. As a student who wishes to practice the traditional way away from the daily life hustle and bustle, it becomes important to make the right decision. The environment consists of various things like the atmosphere around the school which includes the location. Other factors include the ambience, offerings, routine, and others. 

These small factors impact the learning during the course a lot. We have observed how positive and fruitful the journey of learning becomes when these small aspects are also considered. So based on your preference you can choose and make a decision. 

  • Additional offerings: The last factor to consider for the best yoga school in Rishikesh is the additional offerings. There are times when the student just gets classes included in the course fees. However, many yoga schools offer accommodation, food, retreats, excursions and many other things as part of the course fee making it an ideal choice and value-for-money option for the students. Gurukul Yogashala is a great example of offering the best services and options to the student to make their learning experience the best. 

So as a student who wishes to have a great learning experience, it is important to consider these offering factors as part of the research. 

Conclusion

Learning the art of yoga is only beneficial when done at the best yoga school in Rishikesh. The journey of finding a yoga school that suits your requirements and fulfills the learning expectations is very hard. However, with the above-mentioned factors it would become very easy for the students to research and decide which yoga school to choose for their yogic learning journey. We hope that we have helped you with all the necessary information on finding the best yoga school in Rishikesh. If there are any other concerns or questions, please leave a comment down below. We will try and help you out for the same. 

Ayurvedic Diet plan for Weight Loss

Ayurvedic Diet Plan for Weight Loss Journey

by Yoga

Increased weight or obesity is an invitation to diseases and is a sign of an unhealthy lifestyle. The changes in the routine and modern-day requirements have led to these drastic changes in our habits. These habits have led to unhealthy eating preferences, nutritious food and many adverse effects on the body. 

We at Gurukul Yogashala understand the need for food that offers the required nutrients and helps keep the body fit and active. With our yoga teacher training course in Rishikesh, we educate practitioners about the practices that are healthy and help them adapt them to their daily routines. 

The limited information and plethora of options have led to a confusing state for all the people out there. To clarify and provide a solution to excess weight or increased fat is the Ayurvedic diet. It is scientifically proven and tested by our ancestors which makes it the most reliable option to follow. Now to understand the diet better and follow it in your daily routine we have mentioned a complete guide for you. So without any further ado, let’s take a look at the Ayurvedic diet and its importance first. 

Ayurvedic Diet and its Importance

The Ayurvedic diet is based on the principles of Ayurveda which focuses on balancing the body’s requirements with natural and pure foods. The diet is prepared using fruits and vegetables that offer the required nutrients to the body for functioning effectively and efficiently. As this diet offers the optimum benefits to the body it is also very important for the body to adapt. Here is why the Ayurvedic Diet is important: 

  • Healthy body and mind: The Ayurvedic diet fulfills the nutrient requirement of our body which helps to maintain good overall health. The body’s requirement makes the process or the functioning of the body easier. Less stress on the organs makes the process easier resulting in an overall improved process. 
  • Improved Digestion: In order to provide the body with the required nutrients, it is important that the food is being digested properly. Now the ayurvedic diet and its unique process of food preparation help make it an ideal fuel for the body. The food prepared is easy to digest and is filled with nutrients. Unlike the usual method, the nutrients are preserved for optimal health of the body. 
  • Personalized Diet: With great options to choose from, preferences and personalisation options are always available. With a variety, practitioners get enough options to choose from and keep their interest in healthy food. 
  • Following Nature: Natural ingredients are beneficial for the human body and with Ayurveda, the benefits are preserved in various ways making the body fit and healthy. With the Ayurvedic diet as well, the ingredients used are best to keep the body healthy and used with the correct technique. 
  • Detox: Apart from just helping the body in getting better and healthier, the Ayurvedic diet also helps in removing toxins from the body. With stored toxins, the health might seem to be improving, but in reality, the state is concerning, which is why with the right diet you can observe an overall improvement in the health and functioning of the body. 

Plan your diet according to Ayurveda.

Ayurvedic diet plan is prepared based on the dosha (Imbalances) of the body. It is personalized to meet the required level to get back to the balanced state where body functionality is ideal. To create an Ayurvedic diet plan, you might have to consult a certified Ayurvedic practitioner. 

However, apart from balancing the imbalances, the diet involves consuming whole grains, warm that are easily digestible. Unlike the cold, processed, raw foods that are hard to digest and absorb nutrients. 

As per the Ayurvedic diet, a person should not give up on eating, instead should practice improving food preferences and make healthy choices to restore balance. 

Ideal Ayurvedic Routine for Weight Loss

Following a routine helps in keeping the body aligned with a healthy lifestyle. With the Ayurvedic routine followed with consistency, individuals can observe calmness in the body functioning while efficiency in nervous systems and lowered stress levels. Here are a few pointers that you as a practitioner can adopt from the ayurvedic routine into your daily routine. 

  • Prioritize rest: For the human body rest is as important as consuming healthy food and following a healthy routine. During that time, the human body recovers and replenishes the muscles and tissue that are damaged during the day’s work. Other than this the body and mind also refresh for the next day with less stress and fatigue. According to the Ayurvedic lifestyle, it is important to follow a routine where priority is given to sleep followed by a set timings of sleep. As recommended, 10 p.m. is the ideal time for sleep and 6 a.m. is the time to wake up. 
  • Maintaining healthy habits: Now with an improved sleep schedule, the results can be seen in better mood, more energy and less fatigue. However, with the daily routine of life, it is important to devote some time towards healthy practices. According to the Ayurvedic routine, exercising for at least 15-20 minutes daily can help you in elevating your physical fitness while maintaining a healthy balance. Once the routine is set for regular exercise, the practitioners can gradually increase the time to 45 minutes or 60 minutes daily.  
  • Following strict timeline: Last and the most important aspect of the Ayurvedic routine is to stick to timelines and routines. As part of the routine, we must follow a timeline for meals, workouts and sleep. With the fixed time, our body adapts to it and functions smoothly.
Learn-the-Breath-Awareness-Meditation

Learn the Breath Awareness Meditation Techniques to Overcome Stress and Anxiety

by Yoga

Stress is associated with many major health issues. According to psychologists, it is important to monitor and try to avoid taking stress over things that are not in control. However, it has been observed that even after trying, people find it difficult to relieve stress. Now this has become a common issue nowadays, which is why we at Gurukul Yogashala are here to help you with breath awareness meditation techniques to overcome stress and anxiety. 

With the changing lifestyles and preferences, health has been adversely affected. Even if you think to choose a better and a healthier option there are very few that you can follow as a routine. We understand the urgency and importance of choosing healthy habits and with the help of this article, we will share about a renowned practice of yoga which is beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety while improving overall health and alignment of body & mind. 

Power Breathing Awareness Meditation

Power Breathing Awareness Meditation is a technique of yoga where the practitioners concentrate on the breathing pattern while eliminating all the thoughts from the mind. With this practice, calmness to the mind is offered and it soothes the nervous system to develop a sense of peace and calmness. Stress and Anxiety are the two major problems nowadays that are associated with the mind. 

The right practice of power breathing awareness meditation can help in curing stress and anxiety. However, it is important to perform it accurately. To help you with the right technique, we have listed down the steps to perform breath awareness meditation. 

Right Technique to follow for practicing Breath Awareness Meditation

All the practitioners who wish to learn the correct technique to relieve stress and anxiety through Breath Awareness Meditation can follow the steps mentioned below. 

  • Get comfortable: The most important thing is to get into a comfortable position, where you can easily relax and concentrate. Use a cushion or a chair if needed for comfort. Now keep your spine straight and tall with relaxed shoulders and hands resting on your knees or lap. This position might initially feel discomfort but it is the ideal position which one should practice to adapt. With this position, there will be minimum strain on the body and help keep an upright position. 
  • Close your eyes: Now that you are in the ideal position to start, the next step is to gently close your eyes and take a few moments to settle in and collect your thoughts together. 
  • Shift focus towards breathing: Now that you have closed your eyes, your brain starts to think randomly about everything. You need to shift your focus on the breathing pattern. Observe how things change when you inhale or exhale. This practice of concentrating on one thing will help you remove other thoughts from your mind. 
  • Observe the process: As you further proceed with focusing on the breathing, after some time you might feel random thoughts clouding up and hindering your concentration. However, it is necessary to concentrate and focus on breathing and just observe the process without thinking about anything. 

This is the simple procedure to follow for breath awareness meditation. This technique will take some time to master, however with regular practice and consistency you can easily master it. While incorporating this practice into your lifestyle, here are a few tips to start with. 

Tips to incorporate Breath Awareness Meditation in Daily life

Consistency and regular practice is the key to mastering a skill. The same is true with breath awareness meditation. With regular practice, you can follow the path of a healthy lifestyle with less stress and anxiety. Here is how you can do that: 

  • Step by Step changes: Drastic change in the routine is not good for the body and mind. After a few days of continuous practice, the routine will feel boring and the mind will start to look for alternatives. So it is better to start slowly and gradually increase the duration as the body and mind adapt to the new changes in the routine. 
  • Be consistent: Spending time regularly will help you build a habit. With regular efforts and consistent practice, you will not only build habits but will also observe mindful changes that bloom positivity in your routine. 
  • Experiment and understand your body: There may be instances when you will find discomfort or distress in concentrating on breathing, that is when you will have to experiment and understand the body. Instead of just focusing on the breathing, you can even try and focus on how the diaphragm moves when you inhale or exhale, or how the nostrils move during this process. These other changes during breathing can help concentrate and shift your focus to a new process. 

Now that you have adopted new habits of mindfulness and relieving stress, here is what will change during the process of regular practice of breath awareness meditation. 

How does Breath Awareness Meditation help the body? 

With regular practice and time devoted towards breath awareness meditation, many health benefits can be observed in the body. Here are a few of the health benefits offered by this yoga technique. 

  • Reduced Stress
  • Relief in Anxiety
  • Better Concentration
  • Improved self-awareness
  • Better mind and body connection

These are some of the benefits of performing breath awareness meditation. Yoga is a journey where you learn about the body following various techniques and posters. If you are passionate about following a yogic lifestyle and want to learn, we at Gurukul Yogashala offer the best yoga teacher training courses in Rishikesh. Our courses are based on Vedic learning and traditional concepts that blend perfectly with modern-day routines. To know more about our course and yoga school.

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Discover the Best Yoga Center in Rishikesh

by Yoga

Rishikesh is the yoga capital of the world. It is the place where yoga originated from the Hindu mythological gods and is practised by renowned practitioners across the globe. If you are a practitioner looking for the best yoga centre in Rishikesh, this is the right blog for you. 

With changing times the popularity of yoga has grown across the globe. Earlier, it was limited to India and some places where the yoga gurus visited. But now, practitioners and enthusiasts from across the globe come and practice yoga in the holy city of Rishikesh. The positivity in the air, at the banks of the holy river Ganga and the foothills of the mighty Himalayas make it an ideal place to practise and dive into the spirituality realm. 

Apart from this city’s magic, many factors are associated with choosing the best yoga centre in Rishikesh. Be it the education, location, stay, inclusion, courses, teachers and certification. Covering all these manually would be very tough for an individual, so we have made it easier for you to enrol in the best yoga school in Rishikesh. Keep reading the blog to learn more about the yoga school in Rishikesh. 

Things to Check before Enrolling in Yoga School Rishikesh

There are many factors involved in making the right decision about the best yoga school in Rishikesh. People tend to make the mistake of not analyzing the offering and environment. We don’t want that to happen to you which is why, here are the things to check: 

Authenticity: The most important factor or the pointer that needs to be verified is the authenticity of the yoga school. Now with increasing popularity and trends, numerous yoga schools have started operating recently. As a practitioner, you should check whether the yoga school is old and how it has been doing since its establishment. The school which is offering courses regularly for a long duration would be ideal to trust as it has been in the industry. 

Also, apart from the years of establishment, check whether the data that has been shown to you is correct or not by verifying it through multiple sources. There are times when the data is forged to fool the practitioners. 

Curriculum: Now once the authenticity is verified and you are satisfied with the presence of the yoga school, the next step is to check the curriculum. The learning journey or the experience is dependent on the curriculum and what methodology they follow. 

Based on the curriculum, you can judge whether the learning and your goals are associated or not. Also, with the curriculum, it can be easily checked what subjects are being included in the course and if it is justified to pursue the course. 

Teachers: Teachers are the most important factor as they are the ones who will be guiding you throughout the course. Experience, expertise in the field and reviews about the teachers are very important aspects when it comes to choosing the best yoga centre in Rishikesh. There are times when the course is beautifully designed but the teachers are not trained to deliver the required information and then when the experience of students is hampered. 

While checking the yoga school check the details about the teachers including their experience, expertise in the subject, certification and others. These verification pointers will help you in justifying the cost that you will be paying for the course. 

Courses: Now that all the checkpoints are being verified, to find the best yoga centre in Rishikesh it is important to check the courses as well. Check if there are courses that suit your requirements or interest in practice. There might be cases where you would witness that the course or the particular subject that you wish to study is included in a different set of courses. So it is advised to check with the sources and then make a decision. 

Certification: As part of course completion the students are offered a certificate. Two types of certificates can be offered. So as a student, it is necessary to verify and check whether the certificates offered are from a recognised organisation or association or not. Yoga Alliance, USA is a world-renowned organisation for yoga school and certification. They verify and check whether the curriculum and school are offering experience based on the set standards. 

Based on that the school gets recognition and the students after graduating get a certification recognised by Yoga Alliance. So before making the decision check about the certification as it helps in becoming a certified yoga instructor and starting a new career in the field of yoga. 

Other offerings: While the above pointers are enough to determine whether the yoga school is an ideal option for you or not. However, there are a few additional features or offerings that you can consider to elevate your experience and have a fruitful time while learning. 

Many yoga schools apart from just offering the learning experience, also offered retreats to different spiritual and holy places upscaling the experience. So if you are among those who wish to spend some time away from routine and explore then these offerings can be great for you. So while looking for the best yoga school in Rishikesh, you can consider this pointer as an additional add-on. 

Location: While at last, we would like to add location as a point to consider. Now, the location may not be the primary preference of students, but it can elevate the learning experience. Rishikesh is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga and is surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas. It offers some of the best scenic views with purity and spirituality in the air. What better place can you expect to be?

Choose the Best Yoga School in Rishikesh: Gurukul Yogashala

Now that you have gone through the list of pointers and understood how important it is to consider each and everything before making a decision. We at Gurukul Yogashala would like to invite every yoga enthusiast who wishes to learn the traditional and authentic techniques of yoga.

We with our 2 decades of experience and lifetime learning from the best yoga teachers of the country are aiming to preserve the purity and authenticity of this art while making it accessible and easy to learn for the students and enthusiasts. We, with our unique curriculum, offer a blend of modern and traditional learning where traditional learning can be used in the modern-day routine easily. To meet the expectations of the students, our expert teachers deliver the classes in the most easy yet informative way. So here is your chance to opt for the best yoga school in Rishikesh, i.e. Gurukul Yogashala. 

Conclusion

After reading all the pointers you must have understood how important it is to consider the factors and then make the decision. We at Gurukul Yogashala with our blog want to educate every enthusiast so that they don’t make any wrong decisions and fall for the false promises. We hope that this blog has helped you with all the required information. If you have any concerns or doubts, please leave a comment below or contact our team for further assistance with the courses. 

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Ayurveda Yoga Teacher Training Course: Begin your Journey of Learning at Gurukul Yogashala

by Yoga

Ayurveda and yoga are some of the oldest foundations of human life that have stuck with the evolution of humans and healthy living. The Ayurveda Yoga Teacher Training course in Rishikesh is a great option for students who wish to learn and grow. The health and fitness techniques derived from nature are among the best natural remedies for all the problems we face in the modern-day routine. 

The learning after the yoga teacher training course at Gurukul Yogashala will not only help in upscaling the level of knowledge and skills. Still, it will also carve a new path of opportunities for the practitioners where they can help others in their journey. After completing the course, the student will be awarded a certificate recognised by the Yoga Alliance, USA which marks the education and learning of an individual to start a new journey as a certified yoga instructor. 

This is just a short brief about Ayurvedic Yoga, there is a lot more when you enrol for the course. This blog will help you with all the necessary information about the course, benefits and who can start their journey with this course. So without any further ado, let’s directly jump onto the topic and understand in depth about the Ayurveda Yoga Teacher Training course in Rishikesh.

What is the Ayurveda Yoga Teacher Training Course? 

Yoga and Ayurveda originated in India 5000 years ago to cure life-threatening diseases using natural healers and practice to keep the body healthy. Ayurveda Yoga helps in developing a self-healing process that helps the body, mind and consciousness achieve optimum fitness using a variety of techniques to fight diseases and health issues. 

The combination of Ayurveda and Yoga promotes physical, mental and spiritual health. With the understanding of every individual’s body, the practice offers a customised plan to offer the best set of practices to overcome issues and empower the strength to fight diseases and stay healthy. 

This course at the Gurukul Yogashala, Rishikesh is curated and designed after years of research and with the help of partnered teachers, the course helps deliver the best and purest learning opportunity for students to learn and upscale for a new career opportunity in the field of yoga. 

Who can Study the Ayurveda Yoga Teacher Training Course? 

This course is ideal for all those who wish to upscale their learning and are enthusiasts to learn the traditional techniques to keep the body healthy and cure diseases using Ayurvedic techniques. There is no prior experience required for this course. Anyone, even a newbie who wishes to learn can join this course. 

The course is designed in such a way that it caters to all students irrespective of their level of knowledge and skills. With gradually elevating the level the course sits at a sweet spot of offering the best learning. 

The course will start with the basics to help every student have the same level of knowledge about the course, while gradually inclining towards the more advanced methods and techniques. Other than just offering the learning, the course will also prepare the students to become certified teachers with the level of experience and teaching practice. Our Ayurveda Yoga Teacher Training Course includes teaching methodology as a subject where our teacher will help every student choose the right steps and overcome the most common obstacles that are faced by new teachers.

The years of experience of our expert teacher and uniquely designed curriculum will help each student with personalised attention to learn and grow as an individual. So if you wish to learn the traditional techniques of yoga and Ayurveda, then this would be an ideal course for you. 

What makes the Course Special? 

The Ayurved Yoga Teacher Training course is the stepping stone to excelling in learning with traditional and pure techniques of ancient times. The course has some of the most unique offerings which makes it the best for learning and upscaling skills. Here are some of them: 

  • Experienced teacher- The years of experience and knowledge of our teachers is one of the reasons why this course becomes ideal for practitioners or students who wish to learn the traditional and purest techniques of Ayurveda Yoga. We at Gurukul Yogashala have partnered with the best and most reputed teachers in the country who have spent their lifetime learning and practising this art.

    For a student or practitioner, a guide or guru who can help with every obstacle and make the learning journey memorable is essential. We make sure that each student enrolled in our course experiences the best learning and gets the required attention and experience. 
  • Expert curated curriculum- The years of experience and learning from the most reputed yoga gurus, we have curated a curriculum that suits every individual irrespective of their knowledge and skills. We understand how important the learning experience is for each student which is why we at Gurukul Yogashala apart from offering learning, create an environment as part of our curriculum where like-minded people share the space during course duration so that each one of the students move together towards learning and growing together. 
  • Traditional practices- Gurukul Yogashala is one of the oldest traditional yoga schools that aims to preserve the purity and authenticity of traditional yogic practices. With each course curated by experts’ knowledge and authentic practices, we follow and deliver only the purest form of techniques and learning to the student. We assure you that each student who takes part in the course and starts a learning journey with us is among the students across the globe who know the traditional and authentic practices. Other than just following these practices during the classes, we emphasise a yogic routine based on the traditional method. Check the next pointer for more information. 
  • Yogic routine- Learning is incomplete without real and authentic practices. For students apart from offering the best learning make sure that the practices and learning other than classes are offered. Our school is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga and surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas creating an ideal environment for practice. To add the essence of yoga to it, we share a routine where following the rules of nature is a must with a healthy sattvic diet and healthy lifestyles are promoted. 

What are the Benefits of this Course? 

The course offers great benefits to the individual who completes the learning. Here are some of them:

Improved Practice- Whether you are new or experienced, the course is a great stepping stone to upscale your skill set and learning. With each day, new learning is offered by our teachers which at the end of the course turns out every individual as an advanced practitioner. This learning and practice help in improving the daily routine and overcoming modern day issues and health problems. 

Certification- The journey of learning just does not end after the course. In fact, a new journey begins afterwards. The course offers a great opportunity for students and practitioners to start their careers in the field of yoga as a certified yoga instructor. With the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course, you will become a perfect teacher to change the lives of others. With the recognition of the Yoga Alliance, USA students can pursue careers across the globe as it is among the most reputed yoga associations. 
Healthy Lifestyle- With the practice of a yogic lifestyle, the course offers some great habits that can be continued to a regular lifestyle building better and healthier practices. Just like waking up early and going to bed early is a great practice to deliver optimum rest to the body. While with the healthy sattvic food, the preference towards healthy food is built making it easier for you to choose healthy over junk or other food options.

Dolphin Plank Pose

Dolphin Plank Pose (Forearm Plank) : How To Do IT, Benefits & Precautions

by Yoga

Are you ready to take your yoga practice to the next level? Look no further than the Dolphin Plank Pose, also known as Forearm Plank! This challenging yet rewarding pose is a great way to build strength and stability in your core muscles. In this blog post, we will guide you through how to do the Dolphin Plank Pose correctly, outline its numerous benefits for both body and mind, and share some important precautions to keep in mind while practicing. Get ready to dive deep into this powerful pose and unleash your inner strength!

Introduction to the Dolphin Plank Pose:

The Dolphin Plank Pose, also known as the Forearm Plank, is a challenging yet highly beneficial yoga pose that targets multiple muscle groups in the body. This pose is a variation of the traditional plank pose and requires you to engage your core and upper body muscles while balancing on your forearms. It may seem daunting at first, but with practice and proper alignment, it can be mastered by yogis of all levels.

To perform this pose, start by coming onto all fours with your wrists directly under your shoulders and knees under hips. Then, lower down onto your forearms so that they are parallel to each other. Next, tuck your toes and lift your knees off the ground, straightening out both legs behind you. Your body should now be in a straight line from head to heels.

While holding this position, make sure to engage your core by drawing navel towards spine and lifting through the pelvic floor muscles. Your shoulders should be directly above your elbows, creating a 90-degree angle at the elbows. Keep gazing slightly ahead of you or towards your fingers.

Benefits of Practicing Dolphin Plank Pose

The Dolphin Plank Pose, also known as the Forearm Plank, is a challenging yet highly beneficial yoga pose that strengthens and tones multiple muscles in the body. In addition to building core strength and stability, this pose also offers numerous benefits for the mind and overall well-being.

Here are some of the key benefits of practicing Dolphin Plank Pose:

1. Strengthens the Core Muscles: The primary focus of this pose is on the core muscles, which include the abdominal muscles, lower back muscles, and glutes. Holding this pose for a longer duration helps to build strength in these muscle groups and improves overall posture.

2. Tones Arms and Shoulders: While performing Dolphin Plank Pose, your forearms support your body weight while your shoulders are engaged to keep you stable. This not only strengthens these areas but also helps in toning them.

3. Improves Balance and Stability: Balancing on your forearms while keeping your body straight requires concentration, which can improve balance and stability over time. It also activates smaller stabilizing muscles in the legs and feet.

4. Stimulates Digestion: The compression in the abdomen during this pose stimulates digestion by massaging internal organs such as stomach, liver, pancreas and intestines. This can help improve digestive health and alleviate symptoms of bloating or constipation.

5. Relieves Stress & Anxiety: Practicing Dolphin Plank Pose calms the mind by bringing awareness to breath control and releasing tension from various muscle groups in the body. This can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.

6. Increases Energy Levels: As with any yoga practice, Dolphin Plank Pose involves controlled breathing techniques that help increase oxygen flow throughout the body. This brings a sense of rejuvenation and boosts energy levels.

7.Uplifts Mood & Focus:A regular practice of Dolphin Plank Pose can uplift mood by reducing anxiety levels through deep breathing techniques while engaging with different muscles. It can also improve focus and concentration, leading to increased productivity.

Dolphin Plank Pose is a powerful yoga posture that offers both physical and mental benefits. However, it is essential to practice with caution and listen to your body’s limitations. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries, please consult a physician before trying this pose. With consistent practice, the Dolphin Plank Pose can bring immense benefits to your mind, body, and spirit.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Do It Correctly

1. Start by kneeling down on your yoga mat, with your knees hip-width apart and your hands placed in front of you.

2. Lower yourself onto your forearms, keeping them shoulder-width apart and parallel to each other.

3. Extend your legs behind you, resting on the balls of your feet with toes curled under.

4. Engage your core muscles by drawing your belly button towards your spine and tucking in your tailbone.

5. Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels, making sure not to let your hips sag or lift too high.

6. Gaze down at the floor between your forearms, lengthening through the back of your neck while keeping it aligned with the rest of the spine.

7. Hold this position for 30 seconds to a minute while focusing on deep breathing and maintaining proper form.

8. To come out of the pose, slowly lower yourself onto all fours and rest in Child’s Pose for a few breaths.

Precautions to Take Before Trying the Pose

Before attempting the Dolphin Plank Pose (Forearm Plank), it is important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and effective practice. This will not only prevent injuries but also help you to get the most out of this pose.

1. Warm up: It is essential to warm up your body before attempting any yoga pose, especially one that requires strength and balance like the Dolphin Plank Pose. A few rounds of Sun Salutations or some gentle stretches for your arms, shoulders, core, and legs can help prepare your muscles for the upcoming challenge.

2. Check for injuries: If you have any pre-existing injuries in your wrists, elbows, shoulders, or lower back, it is best to avoid this pose or consult with a doctor or certified yoga instructor before attempting it. The Dolphin Plank Pose puts pressure on these areas and could aggravate existing injuries if not performed correctly.

3. Engage your core muscles: The key to maintaining proper alignment in the Dolphin Plank Pose is engaging your core muscles throughout the entire duration of the pose. This will not only protect your lower back but also improve stability and control during the posture.

4. Use proper props: If you find yourself struggling to maintain proper alignment or feel discomfort in your wrists or elbows while in this pose, consider using props such as a folded blanket under your forearms or placing a block between your hands for extra support.

5. Listen to your body: As with any yoga practice, it is important to listen to your body and honor its limits. Do not push yourself too hard into this pose if you are feeling pain or discomfort. Instead, focus on finding a comfortable variation that works for you and gradually work towards building strength and flexibility over time.

6. Avoid holding breath: While holding the Dolphin Plank Pose may feel challenging at first, it is crucial to remember to breathe deeply and continuously throughout the posture. Holding breath can cause tension and reduce the benefits of the pose.

Taking these precautions before attempting the Dolphin Plank Pose will not only help you to avoid injuries but also allow you to perform the pose with proper alignment and technique, leading to a more effective practice. Remember to always be mindful of your body’s limitations and never force yourself into any pose that doesn’t feel right. With consistent practice, you will gradually build strength and flexibility, allowing you to fully experience the benefits of this powerful posture.

padangusthasana

Padangusthasana (Hand-To-Big-Toe Pose) : Step By Step Instructions, Benefits, Contraindications And Cautions.

by Yoga

Are you looking to bring balance and strength into your yoga practice? Look no further than Padangusthasana, also known as Hand-To-Big-Toe Pose. This powerful posture offers a multitude of benefits for both the body and mind, but it’s important to approach it with caution and awareness. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through step-by-step instructions, explore its many benefits, discuss contraindications, and provide essential cautions to help you master this pose safely. Get ready to elevate your practice with Padangusthasana!

Introduction to Padangusthasana

Padangusthasana, also known as Hand-To-Big-Toe Pose, is a standing yoga pose that offers numerous physical and mental benefits. It is derived from the Sanskrit words “pada” which means foot, “angusta” which means big toe, and “asana” which means pose. This pose requires one to stand on one leg while holding onto the other foot with both hands.

Padangusthasana may seem like a simple pose, but it actually requires strength, balance, flexibility, and concentration. It is commonly practiced in Hatha and Vinyasa yoga classes as a warm-up or preparation for more challenging poses.

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Perform the Pose:

1. Begin by standing in Tadasana (Mountain Pose) with your feet hip-width apart and your arms by your sides.

2. Shift your weight onto your left foot and lift your right foot off the ground, bringing your knee towards your chest.

3. Use both hands to grasp the big toe of your right foot, with the first two fingers and thumb holding onto the inside of the arch while the other fingers hold onto the outside of the big toe.

4. Straighten out your right leg, keeping it parallel to the ground and engaging your quadriceps muscles.

5. Make sure to keep a slight bend in your left knee for stability.

6. Keep your torso upright and lengthen through your spine as you continue to grip onto your toes.

7. If you have difficulty reaching for your toes, you can use a strap or towel around the ball of your foot for assistance.

8. Once you feel steady in this position, begin to straighten out both legs fully, bringing them into one straight line from head to heel.

9. Engage through both feet evenly, pressing firmly into all four corners of each foot.

10. As you inhale, lengthen through the crown of your head towards the ceiling and lift through your heart center.

11. Hold this pose for 5-10 breaths, focusing on maintaining balance and alignment throughout the body.

12. To release from Padangusthasana, slowly lower down with control back into Tadasana.

Tips:

– Keep a microbend in both knees to prevent locking them out and causing strain on joints

– Focus on keeping an active core engagement throughout this pose

– Use props such as blocks or a wall if needed for balance support

Modifications:

If you have tight hamstrings or find it difficult to reach for our toes comfortably, try using a strap or towel around the ball of your foot as mentioned in step 7. You can also keep a slight bend in your lifted leg to make the pose more accessible.

Benefits:

– Stretches and strengthens the legs, ankles, and feet

– Improves balance and focus

– Helps to improve digestion and relieve constipation

– Can help alleviate back pain and sciatica

Contraindications:

Avoid this pose if you have any recent or chronic injuries to the knees, hips, or shoulders. It is also not recommended for those with high blood pressure or low blood pressure. As always, it is important to listen to your body and modify or skip any poses that do not feel safe or comfortable for you.

Cautions:

If you experience any discomfort or pain while performing Padangusthasana, come out of the pose slowly and gently. It is always better to listen to your body and take breaks as needed rather than push through potential injuries.

Practice this pose regularly with proper alignment and modifications as needed to gain its full benefits. Remember to always warm up

Benefits of Practicing Padangusthasana

Padangusthasana, also known as the Hand-To-Big-Toe Pose, is a popular yoga posture that offers numerous benefits for the mind, body, and soul. This pose may seem simple at first glance but has many deep-seated advantages that can enhance one’s overall well-being. In this section, we will explore the various benefits of practicing Padangusthasana.

1. Improves balance and stability: Maintaining balance and stability is crucial in our daily lives to prevent falls and injuries. Practicing Padangusthasana helps to improve proprioception (the awareness of one’s body in space) by strengthening the muscles in the feet, ankles, legs, and core.

2. Increases flexibility: The primary focus of Padangusthasana is on stretching the hamstrings and calves. Regular practice of this pose helps to lengthen these muscles and improve overall flexibility in the lower body.

3. Tones abdominal muscles: As you reach forward to grab your big toe in this pose, you engage your core muscles which help strengthen and tone them over time. Strong abdominal muscles not only give you a toned appearance but also support proper posture.

4. Stimulates digestion: The compression on the abdomen created by this pose massages the digestive organs, promoting better digestion and relieving constipation.

5. Relieves stress and anxiety: Holding onto your big toe while balancing on one leg requires concentration and focus which helps calm an overactive mind. The combination of physical movement with mindful breathing can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.

6. Energizes the body: This standing pose requires effort from multiple muscle groups simultaneously, making it an excellent exercise for boosting energy levels throughout the day.

7. Stretches hips and thighs: In addition to targeting hamstrings and calves, Padangusthasana also stretches hip flexors (iliopsoas) which tend to become tight due to long periods of sitting.

8. Improves posture: Regular practice of this pose can improve posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine and promoting proper alignment of the body.

9. Enhances focus and concentration: Balancing on one leg while maintaining a steady gaze can help to improve focus and concentration, which is beneficial in daily life as well as other physical activities.

10. Builds self-confidence: As with any challenging yoga pose, mastering Padangusthasana can boost self-confidence and leave you feeling accomplished and empowered.

Practicing Padangusthasana offers numerous benefits for both the body and mind. It is a versatile pose that can be modified for different levels of flexibility and strength. Include this pose in your yoga practice to experience its many advantages and improve your overall well-being.

Conclusion: 

Padangusthasana is a powerful and beneficial pose that can greatly enhance your yoga practice. By incorporating this asana into your routine, you can experience various physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

The first and foremost benefit of Padangusthasana is its ability to improve balance and stability. This pose requires a strong engagement of the leg muscles and core, which helps in improving overall balance. It also strengthens the ankles and feet, making them more stable and less prone to injuries.

Furthermore, Padangusthasana helps in lengthening the hamstrings and calves while also stretching the spine. This makes it an excellent pose for those who spend long hours sitting or have tight muscles due to sedentary lifestyles. Regular practice of this asana can lead to improved flexibility in these areas, reducing the risk of back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.