Celebrating World Yoga Day in Rishikesh
June 21st marks the Summer Solstice, which has now been globally recognized as ‘World Yoga Day’ thanks to an initiative led by the Prime Minister of India. There’s no better place to celebrate than Rishikesh, India, known as the ‘World Capital of Yoga.’ As the sun rises for the solstice, we gather outside the Rishikul Yogshala building. The energy is palpable as we, halfway through our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, join other yoga students and local school children for this momentous occasion.
Dressed in white, we embark on a silent, mindful walk through the typically bustling streets of Rishikesh, promoting peace and harmony through the health benefits of yoga. Our route takes us past curious onlookers and over the iconic Ram Jhula Bridge, practicing our meditative walking in unison. After an hour, we arrive at Ganga Beach, adorned with colorful flags. Following a brief rest, we arrange our mats in rows of seven, ready for guidance from Hatha Master Yogi Prashant for 108 rounds of Surya Namaskara.
Surya Namaskara, or Sun Salutations, is a dynamic sequence of asanas. The term ‘Namaskar’ comes from ‘Namas,’ meaning “to bow to” or “to adore,” which translates to “Salute to the Sun.”
We start with a mantra from Prashant to enhance our energy and ground ourselves on the Ganga sands. As we begin the first round of Surya Namaskara, the oppressive heat of the Indian summer is momentarily tempered by threatening rain clouds that thankfully hold off.
The process involves a continuous cycle of inhaling and exhaling as we move through the poses:
- ONE INHALE
- TWO EXHALE
- THREE RIGHT LEG INHALE
- FOUR DOWN TO EIGHT LIMBS
- FIVE INHALE TO THE MOUNTAIN
- SIX EXHALE RIGHT LEG
- SEVEN INHALE
- EIGHT EXHALE
- NINE INHALE
- TEN EXHALE
- ELEVEN INHALE
- TWELVE EXHALE
Inhale, exhale, inhale.
Prashant counts us down in intervals of 12, allowing us to rest and be present in the moment. We take deep breaths, swinging our arms and legs, repeating the sequence 108 times. This ritual, performed on the banks of the holy Ganga, connects us with the energy of the river and the essence of yoga.
Upon completing the 108 rounds, we cheer and move our mats closer for Savasana and meditation. The cows and dogs join us, and the Indian tourists disperse. We then meditate by the river, absorbing the holy Ganga’s energy and taking a refreshing dip in its murky waters.
In this sacred ritual, we find peace and harmony, united through yoga. Having completed 108 Sun Salutations, we reflect on our connection with the world through this profound practice. Later that evening, we will gather for a satsang in this spiritual town.
Conclusion
Participating in World Yoga Day in Rishikesh is a transformative experience, deeply rooted in the traditions of yoga and spirituality. As we performed 108 Surya Namaskaras on the banks of the Ganga, we connected with the essence of yoga and celebrated its global impact. This ritual not only honored the sun but also strengthened our bonds with each other and the world. For those seeking a deeper connection with yoga and spirituality, consider joining our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training, or 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training. Embrace the holistic journey of yoga with our Ayurveda Retreat or Yoga Retreat and immerse yourself in the serenity of Rishikesh.
