Understanding Traditional Yoga Through Jeevatman Yogshala
Understanding Traditional Yoga Through Jeevatman Yogshala
Blog Article
Yoga today is practiced around the world, but its essence—rooted in ancient Indian philosophy—can sometimes get lost in modern interpretations. At its core, yoga is a path toward self-understanding, balance, and spiritual insight. Institutions that hold onto this original intent of yoga help maintain its depth and integrity. One such institution is Jeevatman Yogshala, a traditional yoga school located in Rishikesh, India.
The Sanskrit word Jeevatman refers to the individual soul—the conscious self that seeks union with the universal truth. This concept lies at the heart of yogic philosophy, where the aim is not only physical well-being, but also the realization of the self's true nature.
Yoga as a System of Learning
Yoga is not limited to asanas (postures). It includes breath control, meditation, ethical living, and philosophical inquiry. Jeevatman Yogshala presents yoga in its entirety through structured programs that integrate both practice and theory. These include foundational and advanced training courses, as well as specialized programs.
The school offers three main certification levels, each registered with Yoga Alliance USA, which is widely recognized around the world.
200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh: An entry-level course for those beginning their study of traditional yoga.
300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training: A continuation course that deepens understanding through advanced techniques and teaching experience.
500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training: An intensive program combining both foundational and advanced teachings.
These courses are not just designed for aspiring teachers—they also serve those who want to study yoga more seriously, regardless of their intention to teach.
Practice and Theory
A distinguishing feature of this approach is the emphasis on both sadhana (personal discipline) and shastra (scriptural knowledge). Students engage in daily asana and meditation practice while also studying yogic texts, human anatomy, and teaching methodology.
Classical systems such as Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga are the core physical disciplines taught, with supporting practices like pranayama, meditation, and mantra chanting. This structure reflects the holistic nature of yoga as it was traditionally taught in India.
The course format includes lectures, guided practices, peer teaching sessions, and time for reflection. Practical teaching experience is part of the curriculum, especially at the 300- and 500-hour levels.
Short-Term Retreats
Not everyone is looking for long-term certification. Some are seeking short periods of quiet, practice, and self-inquiry. For this, there are two structured retreat options:
7-Day Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh: A week-long introduction to yoga practice, breath awareness, and relaxation.
14-Day Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh: A deeper immersion for those with a bit more time and interest.
Retreats like these offer a break from daily routines and allow participants to engage with yoga without the pressures of formal study or evaluation.
Specialized Courses
Beyond general training, Jeevatman Yogshala also offers programs that apply yogic principles to specific populations and healing traditions.
Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga Teacher Training: Focused on guiding expectant and new mothers through safe and effective yoga practices.
Kids Yoga Teacher Training: Designed to introduce yoga to children in age-appropriate and creative ways.
Sound Healing Course: Based on the use of sound as a form of therapy, using instruments like Tibetan singing bowls and gongs.
Each of these courses draws from both tradition and contemporary application, offering tools to address different dimensions of human well-being.
Setting and Daily Life
The learning environment contributes significantly to the yogic experience. Rishikesh, with its riverside setting and spiritual history, creates a natural backdrop for yoga practice. Students stay close to the Ganga River, surrounded by hills, temples, and ashrams.
Jeevatman Yogshala provides simple accommodation, sattvic vegetarian meals, and a structured routine that includes meditation, asana, study, and rest. The focus is on discipline and awareness—not performance or achievement. This encourages students to develop inner stillness alongside physical strength.
Orientation and Guidance
For those new to international travel or yoga study in India, the school provides information and support through its FAQ section, including guidance on:
Course structure and prerequisites
Visa and travel support
Meals and facilities
Certification process
Interested individuals can also learn more about the teaching faculty and the school’s values through the About Us page.
If direct communication is needed, the Contact page includes phone numbers, email, and location details for anyone with questions about course content, accommodation, or logistics.
Closing Thoughts
Yoga, in its traditional form, is a system of self-study, observation, and practice. The structure offered by schools like Jeevatman Yogshala allows students to explore these dimensions in a disciplined and respectful way. Whether through formal teacher training or quiet retreats, the aim is consistent: to bring the individual closer to clarity, stability, and awareness.
In learning yoga in this way, one doesn’t simply collect techniques—they begin to understand the system as a whole.
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