You cannot always control what goes on outside, but you can control what goes on inside.
Something about Yoga...
Yoga helps you do just that. Its origins are often traced back to the 5th and 6th century BCE and it is an Indian practise or discipline that helps interconnect the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of yourself. Meditation is an important part of yoga. Meditation helps relax your mind. You find your body de-stress itself as the tensed up knots in your shoulders loosen with each inhale and exhale of fresh air. The different postures or asanas of yoga increase your muscle flexibility. To sum it up, Yoga is rejuvenating and refreshing. Doing yoga every day is bound to keep you healthier, younger and fitter. If you honestly ask yourself, there is no reason why you should not be doing yoga every day.
The benefits of yoga are many and the basic health benefits are known by all. In the country that is considered the birthplace of Yoga, the pressing question would be, which is the ultimate yoga destination? That one place is a haven for a Yoga lover. The answer to this would be Rishikesh.
Something about Rishikesh...
A pristine city, Rishikesh is located in the enigmatic state of Uttarakhand. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, this city is riddled with breathtaking panoramic landscapes wherever you look. Beautiful rivers running through the city with relaxing beaches, all along the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas make this an ideal holiday destination. Not only does it offer beautiful sights to behold, but it’s also a city riddled with various adventure sports so that you’re entertained to the fullest. White water rafting, hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, rappelling and bungee jumping are just some of the thrilling sports Rishikesh lets you indulge in. Along with all of this, there is something else that Rishikesh is well known for and that is Yoga. Rishikesh is known as the land of Yoga, so much so that it has been nicknamed ‘The World Capital of Yoga.’
Yoga and Rishikesh...
“Yoga is almost like music in a way, there’s no end to it” - Sting
Ever since the famous rock band The Beatles visited the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in 1968, Rishikesh’s reputation as a Yoga hub has been on the rise. Since then this city has seen many Yoga centres crop up. Often cropping up along the foothills of the Himalayas, these yoga retreats offer you a relaxing environment, amidst the glorious mountain backdrop, with nothing but the sounds of crickets and nature surrounding you. Rishikesh’s location, with the snow peaks, trees, nature, soft sun and gushing water makes it an ideal destination for a yoga retreat. Far away from the pressures of urban life, Rishikesh’s Yoga retreats offer you a chance to get in touch with yourself and find inner peace. A dip in the holy river that flows through it gives you a chance to attain Moksha, the ultimate stage of human life. If you’re a yoga enthusiast, then the annual International Yoga Festival that is held every year in Rishikesh is your place to be.
Many celebrities like Uma Thurman, Jeremy Piven have found their way to Rishikesh and the Yoga ashrams for a spiritual journey. Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh Yoga Peet are just some of the famous Yoga retreats in Rishikesh.
Even if you’re not an avid Yoga enthusiast, a trip to the Yoga centres of Rishikesh is a must. At least once in your life, it’s important to leave behind all your material possessions and get in touch with the roots of nature and yourself, even if it happens to be just for a few days. So don’t wait anymore, just pack your bags and head on to Rishikesh and begin your spiritual journey that will bring you closer to yourself.