Yoga has transitioned from an ancient art into a global phenomenon. This sacred art originated in India 5000 years ago. Various ancient scriptures claim that Lord Shiva was the original yogi who taught this art to his wife, Goddess Parvati who was also his first disciple. If you want to understand everything about this sacred art, enroll in one of the certified yoga schools in India.
You might ask – Why India? As stated above, India has had a long history with yoga, being its birthplace. It makes it easier for you to find the best yoga training to learn this sacred art. The yoga schools in India offer you theory and practical knowledge of yoga. Moreover, you learn this art from those who have adopted the yogic lifestyle.
Yoga Expert’s Tips On Finding The Best Yoga Schools
From learning about yoga anatomy, physiology, to exploring numerous traditions and principles; there is a lot that yoga offers apart from the numerous asanas.
Therefore, to make it easier for you to find the best yoga school, yoga experts have come up with some easy-to-follow tips.
1. The Curriculum
You have to be sure the yoga training curriculum matches to what you want to learn. A typical yoga training includes lessons on yoga anatomy, asana, philosophy, and yoga teaching methods. Make sure the yoga school contains these basic elements of yoga training.
2. The Style Of Yoga
As yoga transitioned from an ancient art into a global phenomenon; there also came up a variety of yoga styles like Kundalini, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Hatha, and Yin yoga. Remember, the best yoga schools provide options when it comes to learning yoga. In other words, always prefer a yoga school that offers different yoga styles in their curriculum.
3. The Teachers
You have to find out for how much time the teachers at the yoga school have been teaching yoga. Try attending some of their classes as it gives you an idea about their level of knowledge. It also helps you understand their teaching methodology, and style of yoga practice.
4. The Cost
There is no doubt that you will find some of the best yoga schools in India where you can learn everything about yoga. However, one thing you do have to keep in mind when looking for a yoga teacher training is the cost of the program. Remember, you do want to learn yoga but after emptying your entire bank balance.
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Also, when you decide on a particular yoga school; remember, there are three important questions you must ask the school staff before signing in on any form.
1. Is The Course Yoga Alliance Certified?
Yoga Alliance is a non-profit organization that has established the standards for yoga teaching around the world. If you want to become a certified yoga teacher, you must enroll in a Registered Yoga School (RYS) which falls under the ambit of Yoga Alliance. This establishes you as someone with true and complete knowledge of yoga.
2. What Is The Number Of Students Per Class?
To get complete and authentic yoga knowledge you have to be the part of a vibrant yoga group. Yoga experts recommend you ask about the number of students in every class. You can join in a group of 25 students or less. This ensures every student in the class gets due attention from the lead teachers. In short, look for yoga schools with less number of students per class.
3. How Long Will Be The Training?
Yoga training can range from 6-month to an year. These can be weekly or just on the weekends. You must consider your commitments towards work and family before deciding to join a yoga training program.
With that said, yoga experts have come up with a list of the best yoga schools in India.
Top 5 Best Yoga Schools In India
The yoga schools mentioned below offer in-depth sessions on yoga including its theoretical and practical aspects.
1. Bihar School Of Yoga
Founded in 1964 by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, the Bihar School Of Yoga is one of the best yoga schools to help you dive deeper into the yogic lifestyle. This yoga school offers lessons on traditional yoga poses, breathing exercises, and numerous meditation techniques. It is one of the best yoga schools in India if you want to take up yoga as a lifestyle.
2. Svadhyaya Kosha
Located on the banks of the holy river Ganges and in the lap of mighty Himalayas, Svadhyaya Kosha is the best place for you to learn everything about yoga. Here, you learn not just the physical but also the mental and spiritual aspects of this ancient art.
Svadhyaya Kosha also offers a variety of yoga teacher training programs and each of them is Yoga Alliance certified. If you are looking for the best yoga schools in India, this is it.
3. Parmarth Niketan
Located in the holy city of Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan has 1000 rooms on a sprawling 8-acre campus. This is one of the best yoga schools for every type of yoga practitioner, be it beginner, intermediate or an advanced yoga practitioner. If you are someone with an interest in Vedic spirituality, enroll in Parmarth Niketan.
4. Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute
Started by BKS Iyengar in 1975 in Maharashtra, this is a popular yoga school. The Ramamani Yoga Institute offers a variety of yoga courses suitable for individuals of all age groups. In short, it is amongst the best yoga schools to learn a variety of yoga styles.
5. Yoga Institute
Located in the economic capital of India, Yoga Institute organizes numerous workshops and health camps. The institute also organizes special classes for children as well as pre-natal and post-natal mothers.
Also Read: 12 Basic Yoga Poses For Beginners
Conclusion
Want to take your understanding of yoga to another level? You should look for the best yoga schools in India. India has had a long history with yoga and is also its birthplace. It is here you would get complete and authentic knowledge of yoga.