Latest news with #YogaSutras
Time of India
6 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Gurukulam revival: Recreating the foundations of Indian Education
Credit: Istock India's ancient system of education, the Gurukulam, was never simply about learning. It was about sharing wisdom, imparting discipline, and building human character in balance with nature and the self. In an age when education is all about markets and measures, the gentle resurgence of the Gurukulam model is a compelling counter-trend: not backward, but restorative. In recreating the Gurukulam, we are not doing so out of mere nostalgia. We are awakening a timeless principle that continues to be relevant to this very day. This system of education, conceived by our rishis and formalized in the yogic system by Sage Patanjali, is based on self-realization, humility, and the love of truth. Education as inner mastery Sage Patanjali, in his Yoga Sutras, established the premise for an integral life philosophy wherein the mind (citta) has to be purified and cleansed so that one may attain real knowledge. The second very sutra of his book describes yoga as "yogas citta-vrtti-nirodhah", the stopping of the fluctuations of the mind. Education in this vision does not mean accumulation of information but developing mental alertness, equanimity, and moral living. The Gurukulam aligns seamlessly with organisations like Patanjali's ideals. The emphasis on meditation, silence, discipline (niyama), and ethical values (yama) ensures that learning is not divorced from life. The student doesn't just 'study' under a guru; they live, serve, observe, and transform in the guru's presence. The Gurukulam becomes both a school and a sanctuary. This is not an escape from the modern world but a return to essence, cultivating young minds with quiet in a world filled with noise. A cultural imperative, not a business trend In contrast with institutionalized education that tends to compartmentalize learning and values, the Gurukulam upraises both together. Sanskrit chanting, yogic sadhana, seva (selfless service), and routine rituals are all used as means of character-building just as much as mind-building. It must be stressed that this revival is not being thrust through showy campaigns or corporate systems. It's happening quietly, in forests, ashrams, and spirituality retreats, driven by honesty and a desire to preserve what is sacred. Lives touched: Voices from within the revival This living tradition is already having a transformative impact, particularly on families and teachers who have fully engaged in the revitalised gurukulam experience. Prema Pathak; Homemaker " My children are not only growing in wisdom, but in grace and inner confidence. They've begun waking up early, practicing yoga with enthusiasm, and chanting with all heart. The rhythm of the gurukulam has changed our entire family's way of life." Saroj Pandey; A Teacher "Here, teaching is a form of worship. We're not just imparting information; we're living it. Every student is treated as an individual on a path. I have never felt more in tune with my calling." The revival of Gurukulam is no project, no product, no trend. It is a going back, to dharma, to simplicity, to the essence of education. This is not about rejecting science or progress. It is about remembering who we are as a civilisation, and teaching our children to live, learn, and grow from that space of inner wisdom.
Time Business News
12-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
10 Key Topics for Yoga Teacher Training
Asana, the third limb of yoga, forms the foundation of most teacher training programs. In this module, students explore the structure and alignment of classical and modern yoga postures. The focus is not on achieving perfect shapes but on understanding the functional alignment for different bodies. Trainees learn how to use props, adjust safely, and sequence poses logically. Through daily practice and in-depth posture clinics, students build both personal embodiment and teaching skill. The goal is to move beyond imitation and cultivate intelligent, intuitive movement that honors the uniqueness of every practitioner. A solid understanding of anatomy empowers yoga teachers to instruct safely and effectively. This topic covers the skeletal and muscular systems, joints, fascia, the spine, and key organs. Students also explore the breath and nervous system — learning how yoga impacts physiology on both physical and energetic levels. By integrating functional anatomy into asana practice, trainees develop the ability to prevent injuries, offer smart modifications, and guide students with diverse needs. This knowledge helps bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern movement science. Pranayama is the yogic art of regulating life force (prana) through the breath. Students are introduced to essential techniques such as Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath), and Ujjayi (victorious breath). Beyond technique, this module explores the physiological and energetic impact of breathing practices — calming the nervous system, increasing vitality, and preparing the mind for meditation. Trainees learn when and how to integrate pranayama into their own practice and teaching, cultivating breath as a bridge between body, mind, and spirit. Meditation is the heart of yoga. This topic introduces students to various meditation styles: silent sitting, mantra repetition, visualization, breath awareness, and mindfulness techniques. The training emphasizes consistent personal practice, developing presence, concentration, and emotional regulation. Students also explore the science behind meditation, including its effects on the brain and stress response. Through direct experience and reflective journaling, future teachers learn how to guide meditation confidently and support students in cultivating inner stillness and awareness. Rooted in ancient texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita, yoga philosophy offers a framework for living a conscious, purposeful life. This module explores the Eight Limbs of Yoga, including Yamas and Niyamas (ethical observances), and dives into concepts such as karma, dharma, gunas, and liberation (moksha). Students learn how to embody philosophy on and off the mat — not as dogma, but as a living, breathing path. Discussions, storytelling, and modern applications make these ancient teachings deeply relevant for today's world. Beyond muscles and bones, yoga works with the subtle body — an energetic map that includes chakras, nadis (energy channels), prana vayus (energy flows), and koshas (layers of being). This module helps students explore the multidimensional nature of the self through visualization, mantra, mudra, and energetic awareness in asana. Understanding energy anatomy deepens personal practice and adds depth to teaching. Trainees also gain tools for self-regulation, emotional balance, and spiritual awakening through subtle energy awareness. Becoming a yoga teacher requires more than knowledge — it's about how you share it. In this core topic, students learn the art of cueing, sequencing, and theming classes. They explore how to hold space, teach inclusively, and adapt for different levels and needs. Role-playing, peer teaching, and feedback sessions help trainees develop confidence and clarity. This module also covers class structure, pacing, verbal and non-verbal communication, and the sacred responsibility of being in the role of guide and facilitator. Yoga is not just a practice — it's a way of life. This module covers the ethical foundations of yoga, including the Yamas and Niyamas, and how they apply to personal conduct and professional boundaries. Students are encouraged to reflect on topics like non-harming, truthfulness, integrity, and conscious consumption. The training also explores the yogic diet (sattvic eating), daily self-care rituals, and eco-conscious living — especially relevant in Bali's natural environment. Trainees are supported in aligning their outer actions with inner values to walk the talk of yoga. Teaching yoga is a form of embodied communication. In this module, students learn how to use their voice with confidence, clarity, and authenticity. They explore the tone, tempo, and rhythm of speech, as well as energetic presence and body language. Practices include voice activation exercises, breath support for speaking, and managing nervousness. Trainees also learn to read the energy of a room, hold space, and guide students with clarity and compassion — qualities that define a truly impactful teacher. Sharing yoga in the modern world also means navigating the business side with wisdom and integrity. This topic covers foundational skills such as creating a teaching bio, setting class prices, building an online presence, and managing logistics. Students explore ethical marketing, creating workshops or retreats, and understanding legal and financial considerations. Whether trainees want to teach locally or globally, this module helps them approach their career with confidence, purpose, and authenticity — staying rooted in service while thriving professionally. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Korea Herald
08-07-2025
- Health
- Korea Herald
India marks Yoga Day in Seoul
The Indian Embassy in Seoul celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21. The United Nations General Assembly designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, with the support of 175 member states. This year's theme, 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health,' emphasized the interconnectedness between personal well-being and the health of the planet. According to the embassy, yoga's origins trace back approximately 3,000 years, with its principles codified in the "Yoga Sutras" by Hindu sage Patanjali around 200 BC. Patanjali, known as the father of modern yoga, wrote the "Yoga Sutras," a collection of Sanskrit aphorisms on the theory and practices of ancient yoga. Speaking at the event, Indian Ambassador to Korea Amit Kumar said that Yoga teaches us that we are not isolated individuals but integral parts of nature. The health of every entity on Earth is interconnected. Yoga transitions us from "Me to We," Kumar said, echoing the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sharing a press release with The Korea Herald after the event, the embassy highlighted partnerships with Wonkwang Digital University and Busan University of Foreign Studies, which offer advanced academic programs in yoga and wellness, and degrees up to doctoral level. The event was attended by more than 700 yoga enthusiasts, comprising Koreans, embassy officials and members of the Indian community and diplomatic corps. sanjaykumar@
Hans India
29-06-2025
- General
- Hans India
Longing is the cry of your heart
Longing, when directed toward the Divine, becomes a powerful force that energizes and uplifts the heart. It transforms into devotion, bringing joy, compassion, and a deep sense of connection. Embracing this sacred yearning leads to inner peace and spiritual growth The quality of longing itself is Divine. When we long for the ephemeral, for things of the world, it tires us and makes us inert. But when this longing turns toward the Infinite, it fills us with energy, joy, and a deep sense of liveliness. Yet, this very longing carries a sweet pain. And in trying to run away from this pain, we often try to shut down the longing altogether. We distract ourselves, our hearts stiffen up, and we look for shortcuts to bypass the ache. But the secret is this: don't shorten the longing. Let it be long! After all, that's why it's called loooonging! (Laughter) To bear the pain of longing is a great skill. When we stop resisting it, this longing itself takes us into moments of bliss. It uplifts the heart and makes the spirit dance. It is possible to have this bliss in human life, and it is what even the angels long for. That's why, in the ancient days, longing was not suppressed—it was nurtured. People would sing, listen to stories, and immerse themselves in kathas and music, just to keep that flame alive. When longing in you matures, it becomes the bridge between the individual and the Universal. It transcends personal relationships. It rises above jealousy, craving, and all negative emotions. Only with wisdom and self-knowledge can one truly transcend these bindings and step into a space of pure, sacred longing. Many people think wisdom is dry, devoid of emotion, but that is a misconception. True wisdom is juicy! It deepens the longing and makes life vibrant. And here is the secret- the longing within you is nothing but God. That yearning in your heart is Divine itself calling you inward. Longing gives you the strength to bless others. It connects you to the whole creation with tenderness and compassion. Longing flowers into devotion. Devotion, too, is a gift, a rare blessing. You cannot say, 'I am so devoted.' You cannot take credit for devotion. If it is there in you, it is by the grace of the Divine. Devotion is the very state of your being. It brings immense joy, deep love, and even Siddhis. Siddhi is when your desires or needs get fulfilled even before they arise or just as they arise. The Yoga Sutras say, Samadhi siddhir Ishwarapranidhanat—perfection in meditation comes through devotion to the Divine. When devotion flowers, life becomes sacred. Your meditation becomes serene. Your prayers become powerful. Do not trade your devotion for mud. What do we usually do? We lose our devotion over small, trivial matters. A little blame, a missed opportunity, a lost job, or a failed relationship—and our devotion gets shaken up. Think about it. A doctor treats many patients. Sometimes the medicine works, sometimes it doesn't. Similarly, in life, some things will work out, others may not. But don't let that shake your devotion. And if it seems to you that your devotion is slipping away, don't worry. All you need to do is relax and pray for it. Become grateful for all that you have received in life. You will find the devotion is right there. And when it returns, feel blessed and keep the prayer alive: 'Let this stay with me forever.' Devotion is a blessing you have been bestowed with. You cannot take mileage out of it. The moment you start taking pride in your being a devotee, it starts slipping away. When you realize such a feeling is coming up, just become like a child, feel grateful. That is when devotion truly grows, moment by moment.
Indian Express
20-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Unroll your mat, open a book: 7 yoga books for mind, body & soul
On June 21, for the 11th consecutive year, practitioners around the world will spread out their yoga mats, and perform a bevvy of poses – from the warrior pose (virabhadrasana) to downward facing dog (adho mukha svanasana) – in a tribute to the ancient Indian discipline of yoga. When the United Nations declared an International Day of Yoga in 2014 (though it was observed for the first time in 2015), people in the West were already flocking to classes on hot yoga, aerial yoga, and Bikram yoga. The practice, one of the few that focuses on holistic wellbeing (bridging the conscious and unconscious), is arguably India's most influential cultural export. Before yoga studios opened around every corner, enthusiasts would turn to illustrated books to learn the postures and understand their benefits. Indeed, finding a book or two on yoga was commonplace in Indian middle-class households. Here are six books that might serve as faithful companions on the journey to mastering the practice and embracing the philosophy of yoga. If one were to pinpoint the moment the ancient Indian practice of yoga captured the western imagination, it would be Swami Vivekananda's speech at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. This volume compiles the spiritual leader's teachings on the four main paths of yoga—karma (spiritual liberation through duty to others), bhakti (devotion), jnana (self-realisation), and Raja (control of body and mind). Drawing from ancient scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita and Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, the helps explain the philosophical and spiritual foundations of yoga. Muthanna, who runs a popular yoga school in Bengaluru carries out workshops across the world, blending tradition and modern wellness in her book. She melds the wisdom of ancient Sanskrit texts with contemporary lifestyle needs. In the book, she offers 21 yoga routines designed to address several common maladies. The book, which is also inspired by Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, demystifies yogic philosophy while offering visual guides and practical tools for those navigating busy schedules. Focussing on yoga tailored to the individual (viniyoga), the book outlines a step-by-step sequence to develop a customised yoga routine taking into account the practitioner's health, age, occupation and lifestyle. Desikachar – the son of Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, the father of modern yoga – draws from his father's teachings as well as his own practical approach. In his own words, he offers 'a programme for the spine at every level: physical, mental, and spiritual.' Desikachar discusses all the elements of yoga, including, but not limited to poses and counterposes, conscious breathing, meditation, and philosophy. For those going for the latest edition, the book now comes with 32 poems of Krishnamacharya that capture the essence of his teachings. Iyengar – Krishnamacharya's brother-in-law – gave the world 'Iyengar Yoga', a form of Hatha yoga that reinforces precise body alignment and encourages learners to use props to achieve proper posture. His students famously include the violinist Yehudi Menuhin and Standard Oil heiress Rebekah Harkness. His 1996 book, Light On Yoga, is recommended reading for beginners as it serves as a comprehensive introduction to the discipline. Iyengar breaks down poses into steps allowing students to practice yoga on their own. He explains the meaning of yoga, asanas and kriyas and dedicates a whole section to Pranayam and its effects. The Latvian actor, Eugenie Peterson, better known by her stage name Indra Devi, was once known as the First Lady of Yoga. Another disciple of Krishnamacharya, she is known to have taught Hollywood actors such as Greta Garbo and Gloria Swanson. Her guide for her American audience, who she said needed yoga the most, victims as they were of a competitive, tension-ridden society suffering from its own 'superabundance.' With obesity, 'underactivity,' and psychosomatic illness becoming common outside the continent, one might crack the spine of her book, which includes introductory FAQs (Frequently-asked-questions), illustrations, diets, and advice for those suffering from arthritis, asthma, and overweight. In Swami Satchidananda, a widely respected yoga master and spiritual teacher, presents Patanjali's Yoga Sutras with English transliteration, translation, and analysis. The book is structured as a manual for self-discipline and mental clarity, covering the eight limbs of yoga, from ethical living (yamas and niyamas) to meditation (dhyana) and bliss (samadhi). This book serves as a meditative companion for both seasoned seekers and those new to the spiritual path. Known for his mastery over Hatha Yoga techniques (asanas, pranayamas, mudras, bandhas, and kriyas), Vishnu-Devananda was a discipline of Swami Sivananda and trained under him at an ashram in Rishikesh before he set up yoga centers across the United States and Canada, establishing the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta headquarters in Montreal. First published in 1960, the book comprises photos of different yoga poses and touches upon a variety of allied philosophies, including the conquest of old age and the astral body.
