Yoga is an ancient practice, and a time-honoured one, and has been an important part of Indian heritage. And amongst the various states having a form of it, exclusive to them, one stands apart. Here we are talking about Kerala, where yoga is a way of life. Today, we will delve into the aspects that make yoga training and practice different in Kerala. Let us also know about its historical roots and practical tips to practice yoga in modern times. You can take the opportunity to join the best yoga school in Kerala, after you have got a fair idea of the place.
Yoga In Kerala – The History Behind The Practice
When you join a yoga teacher training in Kerala, you will be waking up every day to the sounds of the waves from the Arabian Sea. Then, there will be the gentle rustle of the palm trees’ leaves to give you company. Apart from that, Kerala’s landscape as a whole will simply make you breathless. You will just enjoy the views of the horizon, the moment you step out of your resort or yoga school. To add to this enigma, is Kerala’s culture which is still prevalent throughout the state. You cannot find any resident individual, no matter how old or young, not following Kerala’s ancient practices. Your mental state, physical state and spirituality will be deeply affected by the traditions, culture, and lifestyle choices of Kerala.
So, when you take a look at history and scripts related to the old era, one name comes up, in the realm of yoga. It is none other than Sri Narayana Guru. He was a spiritual gem of a person who laid stress on the union of all religious groups through yoga. Various dynasties which ruled Kerala have shaped what Kerala is today. And the place is also quite famous for its dance forms, like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The local cuisine also reflects the region’s attributes, with fresh ingredients like coconut and curry leaves being used.
Kerala is so deeply ingrained in the psyche of Kerala residents that the government is planning to create an entire yoga village. Kerala stands for secularism in all aspects including yoga, without any religious bias. The multi-cultural environment comprising different religions is evidence of that.
Most Practiced Yoga Forms In Kerala At The Best Yoga School In Kerala
- Hatha Yoga – It is one of the forms that tops every yoga realm, and Kerala is no different. If you are a beginner in yoga, then this is the form, which you need to practice. This is the basic form of yoga practice, in which stability and balance are the keys. You have to breathe normally, while holding the poses for a certain length of time.
- Vinyasa Yoga – This one is basically for all those who want a bit of speed in their lives. The movements and breath will be linked together, in this practice. If you are a gym person and want to switch to yoga, this is a good option. Get the training in Kerala, where the teacher guides you through the practice. And slowly, you will learn to create your own sequences.
- Ashtanga Yoga – It is one of the most elaborate yoga forms, comprising six series, from beginner to advanced levels. And, you can only move onto the next level, starting from the basic one, when you have mastered the basic form.
- Iyengar Yoga – It is one of the forms which is widely practiced in Kerala. And the main stress is on the alignments. Therefore, you will be seeing more prop usage in this form. The pace of this practice is also slow, so you will find people of all ages practicing this yoga form.
How To Choose The Right Yoga School In Kerala, India?
Before you join just any 200 Hour yoga teacher training in Kerala, you have to consider a few aspects. Not every school may be matching up to your expectations that is the reason why you must do so.
- You must choose the course carefully. There is a 100 hr yoga TTC and a 200 hr Yoga TTC. You can choose either of them, depending on how much time you can spend in Kerala. The on-site courses are the best option, so you need to take some time, like a few weeks off, to attend the course. The school’s vision must align with your goals, as well.
- You must be able to align yourself with the local culture. The rich cultural heritage of Kerala is something the people are proud of. And you have to be able to respect the same.
- Moreover, you have to look for a course that offers certification. The normal route for those who complete the 200 hrs YTTC, is to apply for RYT 200 after the completion. And you can only take up yoga professionally, when you have got this certification. Those looking for self-enrichment can also do the same.
- Regular practice is very important, when you have to make yoga a lifestyle choice. You must check the duration and routine of yoga classes as a part of the course. The school plays a very important role in shaping up the person you are and going to be. So, make sure to check the practice schedule.
- The school of yoga must also be a registered one, otherwise, you will not be able to get any proper certification. And the syllabus will not be a standard one. So, keep note of that.
- The best yoga school in Kerala will also integrate Ayurveda in the syllabus, as both ancient sciences go hand-in-hand. You will be learning about daily rituals and practices, which will make you a complete person. Moreover, you will learn about body types that are also important.
- The yoga course must also include meditation and purification techniques, as they complete the yoga practice. Yoga is more about an inward journey, rather than asana practice. And the kriyas mentioned do just that.
Final Thought
Join the best yoga school in Kerala, if you want to learn authentic yoga in India. The transformation within you will be inevitable. So, check the above aspects and join a life-changing yoga program in ‘God Own Country’.
