Yoga is a subject that has intrigued many. As people come to realize the holistic benefits of this ancient science, embracing it has become common. Moreover, you must have noticed the huge rush to enrol for the yoga teacher training. India is the best place to learn yoga, and there is no debate about that. Yoga is more popular at places near the foothills of the Himalayas, however, the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Varkala has been rising in popularity in recent times.
So, how is yoga in the southern part of the country different from yoga in the Northern part? Let us take this journey together.
Yoga Traditions In The South Of India
The south Indian state, Kerala has a long standing history of Yoga and Ayurveda. And there is of course the world-renowned Kalaripayattu. If you happen to travel to this place, you will find a fine mix of these practices in every home. It is a part of the culture. The ancient practice in itself dates back at least 5,000 years ago. Some of the evidence ranges from the classical Hatha Yoga verses to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Kerala’s temples and ashrams still continue with the old traditions.
As you start to explore the best yoga TTC in Kerala, you will come across traditional Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga practices. One of the prominent figures in the genre of Yoga in Kerala is Sree Narayana Guru, who was a spiritual leader. He used to emphasize equality and brotherhood. Additionally, he propagated the practice of yoga for both personal and spiritual transformation. Even today, Yoga continues to thrive and grow in Kerala. There are numerous yoga schools which have preserved the authenticity of yoga through their unique curriculum. Local communities are dedicated towards the preservation of this holistic science and also known for arranging free sessions from time to time. You will find many groups practicing yoga on the beach in places like Varkala. The people celebrate yoga from the sunrise till sunset in the region.
Additionally, Kerala is also famous all over the world for Ayurveda. It is the science of life, which governs the very existence of man. Ayurveda and Yoga go hand-in-hand in Kerala. You can find courses being offered at the renowned schools as well. Kerala also hosts several yoga festivals that attract yoga students and enthusiasts from all over the globe. Tourists also stay back at times, as they get to know about the wholesome benefits of 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Varkala.
Yoga In The Himalayas
You must know that yoga is also a part of the Himalayan tradition. It is not a hidden fact that the Himalayas have been home to many seers for ages. There were great sages and seers who got the knowledge of yoga from Lord Shiva, himself. In the Himalayas, there is a lot of emphasis on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and the Tantra philosophy. The knowledge has been passed on through many generations, some details about which may have been lost. Apart from the best yoga TTC in Kerala, if there is any other place where you can get introduced to authentic yoga, it is in the Himalayas.
You can also choose the 200 hrs YTTC in the Himalayas. Places like Rishikesh are quite famous for providing yoga education. You will come across the same subjects like yoga asanas, meditation and pranayama in the Himalayas as well. Rishikesh is located near another holy town, Haridwar which is a pilgrimage site. And that is why, it is frequented by Hindus and the spiritually-inclined. Moreover, yoga in Rishikesh has gained a lot of prominence, as it is near the NCR, which is connected with the rest of the world quite well.
Let us find out the differences between yoga being taught at the two places.
Difference Between Yoga in The North Vs Yoga In The South
In Himalayan tradition, there is a lot of emphasis on the asanas, breath control techniques, and meditation. Yoga is being promoted for mental wellness and spiritual wellness. The Himalayas is one of the perfect places for meditation and such activities, as it is quite serene and divine. The natural environment gives an impetus to yogic practices. The Himalayan tradition gives a lot importance to lineage. Moreover, you will find a Gurukul-like learning model at the ashrams in the North. You will find a lot of importance being given to mental relaxation. The weather is also very conducive to recuperation, as doctors’ advice patients to head there, for the same.
On the other hand, Yoga down South offers it in the form of therapy. There is a very strong connection with Ayurveda practices as well. You will also come across the panchakarma practices performed at all yoga schools and retreats. In fact, in the south, Yoga and Ayurveda are inseparable. You will find a lot of emphasis on the use of Ayurveda herbs at the schools and ashrams as well. Healing is the mainstay of yoga. More prevalent forms down south are Iyengar Yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, rather than Vinyasa Yoga and Kundalini Yoga. You can join the classes and understand very well what the classes are like. In Kerala, disease management through Yoga and allied sciences assumes a lot of importance.
So, the choice is yours. There are different perspectives to learning yoga. While the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Varkala, is very popular, you can still weigh the pros and cons.
Conclusion
You can choose the best yoga school for the YTTC, in Kerala. Varkala is a picturesque place as well. You will be able to practice on the beach, with the sea for company. The topography of the region is also good. The environment is also quite calm and serene. There are many cultural programs that you can be a part of as well. Above all, you can master the intricacies of Ayurveda there. That is one of the reasons why many yoga students are attracted towards Varkala, in Kerala.