A Day in the Life at Rishikul Yogshala: 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training
5:10 AM: My alarm goes off, and after a quick snooze, I roll out of bed and head to the bathroom. I splash cold water on my face, brush my teeth, and put on my yoga pants.
For those who prefer a little more sleep, there’s ginger tea at 5:30 AM, with class starting at 5:45 AM. This option is becoming increasingly popular as the course progresses—sleep is precious!
Daily Routine At Rishikul Yogshala:
Morning Yoga Session
Our first lesson is Hatha Yoga, the perfect way to awaken the body and start the day. The stiffness quickly melts away, and the sun salutations become smoother and more fluid. We move into a strength-building sequence, focusing on our shoulders and upper back. Before I know it, we’re in Savasana, and it’s 7:15 AM—time for a refreshment and bathroom break.
Pranayama
From 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM, we focus on Pranayama. After working on our bodies, it’s time to balance our breath and energy. The first half of the lesson involves learning a new technique, while the second half is dedicated to practice. Most of our group of 17 people is new to Pranayama, so it’s great to learn together.
Breakfast
By breakfast, my tummy is rumbling. Each day offers a different selection, but always includes fresh fruits and a traditional Indian dish. This morning, it’s onion paratha—delicious and just enough for a second helping!
Some students chat over sweet chai, while others explore Laxman Jhula for handmade jewelry and colorful clothing. I head to my room for a shower and then relax in a hammock under the mango trees, reading a book.
Midday Lessons
At 10:30 AM, it’s time for our next lessons. Initially, we covered teaching methodology and mantra chanting, but these have now shifted to anatomy, alignment, and adjustment. The range of topics is impressive, and while it’s challenging to keep up, I take notes diligently.
Tea Break
A welcome tea break provides a chance to stretch our legs. Though sitting cross-legged is part of the routine, it’s refreshing to get the blood flowing. The heat builds up during our alignment and adjustment session, but we all cope with a shared sense of determination.
Lunch
Lunch at 1 PM features a buffet of tasty dishes.Holy status means no meat or alcohol, so we enjoy lentils, curried vegetables, and rice, always with a unique twist, colorful salad, and fresh roti.
Feeling full and battling the afternoon heat, I join some fellow students for a walk to a local café. We enjoy iced coffees and mango lassis while watching the Ganga.
Yoga Philosophy
At 3 PM, we gather for Yoga Philosophy. I was unsure what to expect, but I’m becoming increasingly engrossed. The ancient Sanskrit texts reveal the deeper meanings of yoga, offering insight into my own mind and goals for the course.
Ashtanga Vinyasa
After a 15-minute break, we dive into Ashtanga Vinyasa. Our instructor, Prashant, guides us with precision, pushing us to our limits. The 1 hour 45-minute class is intense, leaving us drenched in sweat, but it’s an exhilarating experience.
Meditation
The day concludes with meditation. We explore various techniques, each person discovering what resonates with them. For me, Trataka (concentration on a single point or candle flame) feels particularly meaningful. Remember to apply mosquito repellent before meditation, as dusk brings out the bugs!
Dinner and Reflection
At 7:30 PM, we gather for dinner, chanting our food mantra. Over the meal, we share our experiences and reflections on the day’s lessons. The atmosphere varies from lively to calm, but there’s always enthusiasm for our collective journey.
After a second shower, I review my notes and set my alarm for the next morning. Finally, I drift off to sleep, ready to repeat the cycle.
Conclusion
A day at Rishikul Yogshala’s 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training is a rich blend of yoga practice, learning, and personal growth. From the early morning Hatha Yoga to the evening meditation, each moment is designed to enhance your understanding and practice of yoga. Whether you’re exploring the depths of Pranayama, delving into Yoga Philosophy, or enjoying the local culture, this immersive experience is both challenging and rewarding. Embrace the journey, and let each day transform you.
