Advanced 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training

The 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal consists of the 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training and 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training programs joined right after each other. This course consists of complete. This is a complete advanced course that will give you complete knowledge and understanding of asanas, anatomy, physiology, the philosophy of yoga, teaching methodology, and sufficient practice to be able to start teaching with confidence. You’ll find Yoga centers and Yoga teacher training schools across the world but, what better than getting trained in the land of Yoga?

After completing this 500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Nepal Course Program you can feel the life-changing experience that will benefit you in a quite positive way. Specially designed for yoga seekers all around the world, this 500-Hour Yoga TTC in Nepal will take you to the depth of your knowledge of yoga. So at the end of this course, you will strengthen your practice and learning of yoga and build your existing skills in the yogic field.

Benefits of Join Advanced 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal

Our 500-hour Hatha Yoga teacher training program has been designed to assist you in walking through the yoga path. This course will guide you on a complete yoga path so you can transform your life and be in a complete spiritual life. You will be under the guidance of various professionals and experienced gurus who will guide you in every part of your learning and train you to be a true guru for yourself as well as the world. In summary, we have mentioned the key highlights of this Advanced 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal

• You will have advanced and abundant knowledge about yoga, meditation, kriyas, mantras, etc., so you can understand better.
• Understand the true significance of Yoga in your life under the guidance of gurus.
• You will be a registered and certified yoga teacher by the Yoga Alliance USA, allowing you to become a yoga teacher anywhere.
• Practice and develop your skills in yoga and can by participating in different competitions and being able to open your yoga studio.
• You are more suitable for the yoga teacher position in any yoga school or studio because you have more skills and knowledge to guide and train people than others.
• Find a family who will be in your memory forever providing joy of happiness in every moment of life.

With this combination of 200-hour yttc and 300-hour TTC, an advanced course, participants can experience the miracles of pranayama and meditation and learn more about the theoretical framework of yoga in in-depth philosophy classes. This 500-hour yoga teacher training in Nepal course consists of things like how we can apply yoga directly to healing in yoga therapy and Ayurveda classes. In short, a 500-hour YTTC is perfect for an intermediate yoga practitioner and/or a beginner or intermediate teacher who wishes to expand their knowledge, practice, and teaching of yoga.

Why Join this Advance 500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course with Himalayan Yoga Academy?

About our advanced 500 Yoga Teacher Training Course, we provide our students with all combinations of Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Dhyana Yoga, and many more. Students will be taught in detail about all the theories and philosophies from our expert gurus. In Nepal, there are many yoga schools everyone has their own significance and teaching practices. Here at Himalayan Yoga Academy, you will find many gurus having different levels of expertise and you will be learning various topics and various tips from a different perspective.

Our gurus have taught thousands of students all around the world and hence have gathered lots of experience working in various places with various gurus. For this amazing 500-hour yoga teacher training in Nepal, Himalayan Yoga Academy will be your second home far from home where you will be cared for and loved like a family and taught like a devotee and your will be learning like a Scholar. You will learn yoga, not in a physical way but also in a spiritual way which will guide you in every way of life.

Amazing Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea, Aprajita flower

Aprajita अपराजिता – Clitoria ternatea

अपराजिता ( Clitoria ternatea ), commonly known as blue pea or butterfly pea is a plant species belonging to the legume/bean family. In India and Nepal, it is considered a holy flower, used in daily puja rituals. The flowers of this plant are said to resemble the shape of human female genitals, thus named clitoris from the word “clitoris”. As the name suggests अपराजिता (meaning, Undefeated), according to Vastu shastra.  – Planting this plant in your home will purify the energies and will always protect you from various types of defeats in your day-to-day life.

In traditional Ayurveda, it is used for several ­­­purposes namely, memory enhancement, anti-stress, antidepressant, tranquilizing, and sedative properties. As per traditional Chinese medicine, this particular plant affects the female libido positively due to its similar appearance in shape. This flower also works as a natural dye for fibers and natural food coloring. Aprajita flower easily grows in households and is readily available at various stores. There are a huge number of benefits that this plant provides us, ranging from health to spiritual.

Amazing Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea- Aprajita flower – Butterfly Pea

1. It helps in curing Migraines – Consuming the seed and root of the Aprajita flower in equal quantities with water can help cure migraine.
2. It helps to improve eyesight and cure eye diseases- Consumption of Blue tea*, Aprajita flower tea, cures eye diseases and improves eyesight. Steps for preparing blue tea-

              Take a few Aprajita flowers and remove the green part.

              Boil these flower petals in water for a few minutes.

              Add a few drops­­ of lemon, strain, and enjoy the blue tea. Healing with taste.

3. It helps in Ear pain – The paste of Aprajita flower petal juice can help cure ear pain.

Steps for preparing the paste:

Take a few Aprajita petals, extract their juice and let the juice dry out.

Heat the juice and apply the ready paste around the ear, this will help to cure the pain.

4. It cures toothache– The paste of the root of the plant with black pepper can help cure toothache. Steps to prepare the paste:

Take the root of this plant and prepare its paste.

Add some black pepper to the paste and keep it in your mouth. This has shown extremely positive results in severe toothache.

5. It cures indigestion and acidity- Consuming powder of Aprajita’s root, mixed with either cow milk or cow’s clarified butter benefits indigestion and acidity problems.

6. It helps get relief from Arthritis- Using the ground leaves over the joints helps relieve Arthritis. Also, consuming 1-2 grams of powdered plant root with either water or milk 2-3 times a day helps to relieve Arthritis.

7. It stimulates hair growth and Reduces hair fall- Consumption of blue tea* on a daily basis can booth hair growth along with stopping hair fall.

8. It provides Glowing skin- Drinking a cup of warm blue tea* regularly eliminates undigested food particles from the system, proving us with healthy and glowing skin.

9. It helps uplift the mood – Consuming blue tea* busts the stress that may also help reduce symptoms of anxiety along with uplifting one’s mood and mental state.

Uttanasana is commonly defined as the intense deep forward bend pose that stretches the muscles of the leg, gluteus, and calves, along with the deep stretch of the lower and upper back. This asana is the beginner yoga pose that is also included in Sun Salutation. Also used in various types of Yoga such as Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, and Ashtanga yoga.

Although the pose looks simple and easy to do, it needs to be done with the proper guidance. It is not about touching the toes. If you understand the intention of the pose then you will be more comfortable with it. And can receive more benefits.

What is Uttanasana?

Uttanasana is the Sanskrit word. The beginning part consists of two parts; U means Intensity, and TAN means to extend or stretch. And the asana means the pose. So jointly it means a strong and intentional stretch. There is a misconception that Uttanasana is only about stretching the hamstrings, but the poses involve the body tissues from head to heels.

This asana has been practiced from generation to generation and also been written in the old text books by Krishnamacharya, B.K.S Lyengar, and Patthabi Jois.

Benefits of Uttanasana

The practicing of Uttanasana is the intense forward bend practiced to bring the balance between your upper body and lower body.

• Stretches lengthens, strengthens: The structure benefitted from the stretch includ
• Erector spine( back muscles alongside the spine)
• Gluteal muscles( butt)
• Hamstring muscles( back of thigh)
• Small deep muscles of the hip and spine

The fascia of the back body, particularly the thoracolumbar fascia.
Allowing the head and arms to relax in this pose may help you release the tension and stress in your neck and head and shoulders.
The forward folded position can also help by massaging the abdominal muscles and decompressing the spinal vertebrae.
The forward fold stimulates the sacral chakra or Swasdisthan Chakra. This chakra controls desires, sexuality, and pleasures and is related to the element of water and reproduction. The urinary tract, kidneys, testes, and ovaries may function well and be healthy if the energy flow at this Chakra is stimulated and balanced.

Caution for Uttanasana

Injuries might occur if you attempt to create a deep forward bending in your body. No one should ever force you farther into a stretch position, even when the changes made by your qualified teacher may help you establish a suitable and secure position. Additionally, you should avoid concentrating on putting your hands or your nose on the ground.

The goal of safe forward folds is to tilt the pelvis forward as far as your specific anatomy will allow.
However, you should seek medical advice before practicing the inverted pose if you have:
i. Hypertension
ii. Glaucoma or detached retina
You should also provide extra care to avoid stressing sensitive tissues if you experience:
i. Lower- back pain
ii. Spinal issues or sciatica
iii. Hamstring Injury

Also remember that back pain should be handled with care, yoga can also be a helpful tool for managing and relieving the chronic back pain

How to Practice Uttanasana?

• Place your feet either width apart or together as you stand on the mat.
• Exhale, then bend forward from the hips rather than the waist area.
• Reach your palms or fingertips towards the floor slightly in front of or beside your feet. Knees can be either bent or straight.
• Lift or lengthen the front torso just a little bit after with each inhalation, and with each exhalation, release more fully into the forward bend.
• Hold steadily and evenly breathe for as long as it is comfortable.
• To come out of the pose, bend your knees until your body hit your thighs. After then, plant your heels firmly on the ground and softly raise your spine. Your head and shoulders should be the last to rise.
• Improving your Uttanasana ( advanced pose)
• Reminder- The pose is not about touching the toes. The motive is an anterior pelvic tilt- hinging forward from the hips.
• Focus more on lengthening your front torso rather than curving it in towards the legs.
• Your heels should be firmly pressed towards the floor.
• Lift your sitting bones towards the ceiling.
• Turn the top of your thigh slightly inward.
• Let your head hand relax.

Modifications for Uttanasana

• Try the seated forward bend ( paschimottanasana) if you need a seated practice.
• If your hamstrings are tight or you have pain in your lower bk, bend your knees just a little.
• Try folding forward, bending the knees more and resting the chest on the front of the thighs.
• Use blocks or sturdy cushions to raise the floor to your hands for more support.
• Keep your pelvis tilted forwards and straighten your back by pressing your hands into these supports ( hinged forward from the hips).
• To generate greater space, try performing the posture with your feet hip – width apart.

Variations for Uttanasana

Big toe pose or Padangusthasana
Keep your big toes firmly in place after bending forward. Straighten your arms as you inhale, lifting your front torso away from your thighs, making your back as concave as possible. Inhale, and as you stretch down and forward with your elbows bent out to the sides, Exhale, reach for the floor with your crown of the head pulling your shoulders blades away from your ears.

Hand under foot pose or Padahastasana
Slide your hands, palms facing the floor, under the soles of your feet after bending forward into the Uttanasana position. Just as with the Big- toe pose mentioned above , raise and lower torso with breathe coordination.

One-legged standing forward bend or Eka pada Uttanasana
Step forward while standing with your feet hip-width apart. Put your left hand on the outside of your left foot and your right hand in the space between your feet. As you breathe in, shift your weight to your left foot and elevate your right leg up and back toward the ceiling. Reach the right foot’s ball up and out while firmly pressing your hands into the ground. Your nose should be pointed toward your left knee or shin.

Release your right foot to the ground, then switch to the opposite side.

4. Revolved standing forward bend or parivrtta Uttanasana
   Hold your left big toe with your right hand while standing forward bend, and your right big toe with your left hand (your right arm is crossing above your left arm). Inhale, stretch your spine, and slowly lower your crown to the ground. Exhale, then turn your upper body to the right. Reach with your left elbow toward the outside of your right knee or shin while looking up under your right arm.

Repeat on the other side, rotating to the left and raising your left arm higher than your right.

Uttanasana Summary

One of the most popular asanas in yoga practice, popular across various styles and sequences, is standing forward bend. With a concentrate on folding forward at the hips, it should be adapted and practiced as a purposeful stretch to the tissues of the back-body. You can adapt the stretch in numerous helpful ways to assist you to achieve this forward pelvic tilt and reap its intended advantages. During yoga teacher training in Nepal you will learn various amazing yoga poses under which this yoga pose comes. The proper guidance of our yoga teacher training Nepal trainers will guide you in making this yoga pose under proper alignment.

One of our true nature is Creativity. However, due to our hectic lives, our minds never take a day off from work. Whether it is ruminating on the past or the future, our minds are always straying. Stress is a factor that drains all of our energy. Most people spend their day working at an office desk, bending over a laptop, trying to meet a deadline unless they go on a long weekend. This causes stress because our minds are constantly distracted by one thing or another, in addition to giving us a sore back and bent shoulders. Open your mind with Yoga. Our minds are so preoccupied with our ideas while we are with friends and family that we fail to appreciate the moment fully.

When you step on the mat, you take all of your tension for a while and help to release all the tension you have been carrying with you. Daily practice of yoga helps improve your breathing and provides you with immediate relief. However, for beginners, yoga practice could be challenging as your body lacks flexibility but it increases with the practice. Moreover, there will be certain difficulties and uneasiness in certain body parts hence one should practice yoga under the supervision of an experienced yoga teacher.

Here are the top 5 yoga poses you can practice at home when you need to open your mind:

Standing forward fold (Paschimottanasana)

Keep your feet close together or hip-width apart as you stand erect. Exhale while bending forward and placing your hands close to your feet. Inhale while raising your arms above your head. As you take ten to twelve deep breaths, let your head hand loosely. If you`re just starting to hold, slightly bend your knees to prevent overstretching your back.

Standing with your back straight helps to calm your active thoughts and balance your neurological system. It builds mental fortitude and eases lower back stress. When your mind is overstimulated, it opens.

Fish pose (Matsyasana)

On your yoga mat, lie down with your legs extended and arms at your sides. As you breathe in, lift your back, chest, and neck off the mat and place your palm beneath your hips. While maintaining an elevated back, exhale while lowering your head`s crown. Maintain the position for at least 5 to 6 breaths before gently releasing.

The most meditative position for your brain is the fish posture. It improves blood flow to the brain, which helps to relieve tension and calms the brain.

Downward-facing dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Put your wrists under your shoulders, your knees under your hips, and assume a tabletop position. Deeply inhale and when you exhale, lift your hips and back off the ground, straighten your knees, and form an inverted V with your body. If your hamstrings are excessively tight, maintain a straight back and slightly flex your knees. Lengthen your neck and keep your ear away from your shoulder. At least five to six times, inhale deeply and then gently exhale.

One of the most restorative yoga poses you will encounter in any yoga class is the downward dog. Your entire body is engaged in this yoga stance, which stimulates your body`s organs. It enhances posture, boosts blood flow, and soothes the nervous system.

Cat and Cow Pose (Marjariasana)

Beginning in a tabletop position with the wrist beneath the shoulder and the knees beneath the hips. Now inhale deeply, arch your back, and look upwards (cow pose). Exhale, arching your back upwards and focusing on your navel. For at least 8 to 10 deep breaths, continue to move back and forth in the pose, then let go.

Se the cat/cow posture to give your spine a gentle massage and release any tension in your neck, back , and shoulders. Regular practice enhances the body`s general balance and posture.

Corpse pose (Shavasana)

On your yoga mat, lie down with your legs extended and your arms by your sides. As you breathe in and out, close your eyes and allow yourself to relax. Release after holding the position for at least five minutes.

At the conclusion of a yoga session, the corpse posture is a highly relaxing position. The secret is to pay attention to your breathing and let go of any tension while remaining completely conscious; this will help to clear your thoughts and give you a greater perspective.

In our Yoga teacher training in Nepal, we teach all our students different asanas and also their benefits on our body and mind accordingly. In our yoga teacher training Nepal course at Himalayan Yoga Academy. During both 200-hour yoga teacher training in Nepal as well as 300-hour yoga teacher training in Nepal, we teach our students different asanas under proper guidance. We teach them a way to connect their mind with the path of yoga. We teach our yoga teacher training students the best way to perform every asana. Also, we teach our different meditation techniques so that they can perform meditation with proper guidance and attain the path to a balanced state of body and mind.

Himalayan Yoga Academy is delighted to present a positive article on 8 tips to feel more relaxed during times of war COVID and uncertainty. After more than two years of the COVID pandemic, we all thought that things would gradually return to normal. However, unexpectedly and shockingly, we entered into war in Europe due to soaring energy prices and concern over unknowable repercussions. We are more prone than ever to worry, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. How do we manage the stress, tension, and negativity and force ourselves to find peace during the storm? We present 8 Tips to Feel more relaxed during times of war COVID and Uncertainty.

Here are some 8 Tips to Feel more relaxed during times of war COVID and Uncertainty

Be mindful not to overconsume news

Having an interest in current events and staying informed about human difficulties is acceptable, but if reading and watching the news takes up too much of your time, you’ll experience more despair, negativity, and confusion. The things you do and consume, whether they be media or food, have a profound impact on your life and well-being.

Setting a daily defined duration of 15 minutes can help you limit your usage (preferably not immediately after you wake up and also not during the evening before you go to sleep). You will become more lonely, and afraid if you are exposed to too much external negativity and troubles.

Practice self-care

Every day, you must separate time for yourself and be there for yourself. Small behaviors can have a significant impact on your life. Consider this: you spend eight hours in the office or working, two hours on your phone, and two hours watching Netflix. But you are unable to fix one hour of daily self-care. You will experience greater self-worth, stability, and inner serenity after you practice self-care regularly. Any activity that allows you to spend time by yourself counts as self-care (no phone, no friends, only YOU).

In the context of yoga, we like using this time to concentrate on our asana, meditation, or pranayama practice since we know that doing so will improve our health in the long run.

Eat nutritious food

We are what we eat, we cannot dispute that. You won’t feel as energized and intelligent if you eat junk food as you will if you stick to a sattvic (clean) diet. In modern society and the Western world, eating food that has just been cooked is no longer a priority. The majority of people often dine out without knowing how their food was made or what was within. Poor eating practices (what you eat and how you eat) result in several digestive system disruptions which is the key to our overall health. Be mindful of what you eat, and take time to meal your plans. Purchase high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables And spend time lovingly preparing your food. Once you set a goal to stick with it for a month, you won’t return to eating out every day, as you’ll already feel the changes in your body.

Limit Your Social Media Time

Every day, a typical user scrolls through social media for about 2.5 hours. Although it appears that social media unites us all, this is not the case. We can stay in touch with our friends and acquaintances, but, to be honest, most of the time, hours are squandered, we are exposed to negativity, we feel numb, or we compare our lives to the “ideal” lives of hours. This makes us feel isolated, down, detached, and subtly influenced by everything around us.

Try to keep your daily time spent on social media to no more than 30 minutes. Many phones and some apps can control this usage. You will be surprised how much better you feel when you use social media less, engage in more actual interactions, or concentrate on taking care of yourself.

Lean on Loved Ones Near You

To navigate these uncertain times, talk to your friends and family to help you get better. Especially if it`s through video call, You will feel more connected, as well as free and tranquil, by talking about your challenges, feelings, and thoughts with others and letting your emotions flow naturally without arguing. It’s not necessary for us to agree on everything or to get angry when someone behaves differently, but everyone must communicate and foster a feeling of community. We all desire a sense of belonging, and we are already interconnected.

Focus on the positives

 How can one be positive in a world full of problems? Practice gratitude! Identify the people or things that make you joyful and count your blessings. Your mindset shifts to a more optimistic one when you remember and actively practice thankfulness. Additionally, placing yourself in another person’s position might increase your empathy and shift your perspective. Yes, it is annoying to be affected by high energy prices and restrictive travel policies, but consider the terrible level of fear that those who are now in a conflict zone must be experiencing.

Accept Uncertainty as it is

Life has always been unpredictable. Although we can influence some aspects of our lives, we can’t control everything. We must learn to take life as it comes and develop techniques for the uncertainty that life inevitably brings. Practice the methods to help you accept this and make peace with it.

Focus on your mental and physical Health

There has never been a more crucial time to concentrate on your physical and mental health. Many people ignore this completely, but if you can master your mind and body and develop a friendship with yourself through time, you can appreciate life with all of its highs and lows (everyone goes through this). Yoga is an old science that has been studied for a very long time. It has been demonstrated to assist you in finding mental peace, more stability, and endocrine system balance. It takes a comprehensive approach to health and subtly fosters well-being.

500 hour yoga teacher training in Nepal is a complete and organized program for advanced level Yoga teacher training. This teacher training program is designed to strengthen your basic learning and Yoga practice and concepts. You will learn all the aspects of Yoga in this course. You will master most of the asanas as well as learn all the theories behind Yoga and learn various meditation practices. Also, know about Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga as well. ( Both Primary and Intermediate Series )

As a successful yoga teacher, you will need to have amazing yoga knowledge and yoga teacher training skills, and thus the 500 hour yoga teacher training in Nepal is designed to accomplish those needs. In this 500 hour yoga teacher training course, you will study both 200 hour yoga teacher training in Nepal and also 300 hour yoga teacher training course which will provide your certification for both levels of the yoga teacher training course.

Syllabus of 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course

Yoga Philosophy :

Detailed study and analysis of yoga philosophies and traditional yogic texts: Meaning, Definition, and History of Yoga, Biography of some yogic Rishis such as Lord Shiva, Patanjali;

Brief introduction of the Yoga Sutras, Hatha Pradipika, and Gherand Samhita;

Forms of yoga: Karma yoga, Bhakti yoga, Gyana yoga, Dhyana yoga, Mantra yoga, Hatha yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga

Yogic Lifestyle: Day Regimen, Night Regimen, and Seasonal Regimen, Aahara – Vihara – Vichaara – Vishraama;

Ethics: Yama (social ethics): eg. Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness); Asteya (non-stealing), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), Brahmacharya (True nature), Niyama (individual ethics): eg. Shouch (purification); Santosha (contentment), Tapa (tenacity), Swadhyaya (self-study), Ishwor pradhan (self-surrender to god)

Concepts of Dharma and Karma, Bondage and Moksha

Yogic Aahara / Sattvic Food, Rules of healthy food habits

Ethics for yoga teachers, such as those involving teacher-student relationships and community

Understanding the value of teaching yoga as a service and being of service to others (Seva)

Yoga Asanas (Postures):

This advanced yoga teacher training course will teach you the practice of techniques and alignment for many advanced Asanas. You will practice traditional, research-based, modern, and advanced variations as well as precise corrections for a deeper understanding of Yoga Asanas. You will learn different asanas as per different yogic texts and practice them on a spiritual basis as well as physically. Asanas are taught by yoga teacher trainers who have experience of many years.

Pranayama, Mudras, and Bandhas

You will learn various Pranayama. Pranayama is the most important aspect of our life for a better life. It is the key to deeper meditation. The breath is a gateway to enter into you. Students develop better in their practice of pranayama by scouring the entire body through pranic (breath) energy.

Also Mudras and bandhas knowledge help to understand the pranayama in more detail.

Bhagavad Geeta

The amazing class takes students through selected shlokas of the Bhagavad Geeta – its understanding, interpretation, and application of its essence to daily life.

Anatomy–Physiology And Yoga Therapy

A general understanding of the principal organs in each system; their overall structure and location. The nine Major systems of the body with their primary functions and the effect of Yoga practices on each of them.

• Yogic Diet- Principles for longevity
• Yoga Techniques and Asanas or Yoga postures
• Shat Kriyas– Purification techniques
• Pranayama’s– Yogic breathing techniques
• Yogendra Conceptual Techniques
• Mantra Chanting and Meditation skills

Teaching Methodology

• Communication skills such as group dynamics, time management, and the establishment of priorities and boundaries
• How to address the specific needs of individuals and special populations, to the degree possible in a group setting
• Principles of demonstration, observation, assisting, and correcting
• Teaching styles and Qualities of a teacher
• The student learning process
• Business aspects of teaching yoga (including marketing and legal) Exams and Evaluations- At the end of the course, students who have the stipulated attendance and they have completed the mandated assignments, can register with the course coordinator to give the final exams (Theory & Practical’s). Students are required to pass both the Theory and Practicals. The minimum passing mark for each is 50%

Benefits of 500 hour yoga teacher training in Nepal with Himalayan Yoga Academy

1. We are one of the oldest yoga schools in Nepal. Himalayan Yoga Academy has been a Pioneer in yoga teacher training for almost 12 years. We are the first Yoga Alliance USA-certified Yoga teacher training school in Nepal.
2. In-depth theory of Yoga Philosophy and practical knowledge.
3. It is a very cost-effective program and teacher training fees are affordable.
4. Food is Sattvic and according to the daily requirement.
5. On-School yoga library with an array of Yoga publications related books, journals, research papers, etc
6. Opportunity to learn about ancient Nepal culture.
7. Nepal is the land of the Himalayas. The Himalayas are the birthplace of Yoga. Adiyogi (Shiva) found Yoga in the mighty Himalayas.
8. Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal will encourage personal and spiritual development. Once you begin the yoga practices you will notice the changes in your attitude and thinking patterns. Better confidence, a calmer approach, balanced emotions, happiness, confidence, and better relations all are natural outcomes of practicing yoga with dedication.
9. Empowers you to lead a more holistic life.
10. The Himalayan Yoga Academy’s convenient location and easy accessibility from the International Airport and a natural choice. Experience green heaven and Yoga living.
11. We also take beautiful small hikes and also long hikes during the yoga teacher training in Nepal to provide them with amazing outdoor yoga experiences

Despite possessing the power and flexibility necessary to do Chakrasana, Kapotasana, or Ustrasana, have you been experiencing trouble? Back bending Yoga Asanas -Is this the fear?

Why is it so fearful to fall into backbends than forwarding bends?

Backbends are not as much a natural movement of the body and also have no visibility of where someone is falling, there is always a fear of falling into the unknown. Forwards bends are something we perform quite frequently in our daily activities. Additionally, one can see where they are falling and have the security to land their palms safely. The majority of us deal with our judging minds and clinging egos as well as our flexibility and strength when minds and clinging egos as well as performing backbends, which is a difficult connection.

These heart-opening positions need a lot of mental and physical fortitude since they feel like Pandora`s box that lets confusion, attachments, and fear out. Backbends are a beautiful opportunity to experience Yoga in its fullest form, as this practice focuses on body and mind in equal proportions.

How to resist fear of back bending emotionally?

The five kleshas, or mental afflictions, described in the Patanjali Yog Sutras as Avidya (ignorance), Asmita (identifications with the ego), raga ( attachments), dvesha ( aversion), and abhinivesha, are thought to be associated to the anguish we experience during backbends,( fear specifically of death). Anyone who is frequently experiencing fear and aversions will notice stiffness around their heart and diaphragm as a result.

We are all aware that when we are strong and confident, our bodies are more open to new possibilities, whereas when we are afraid, we naturally slouch forward and round our shoulders into the fetal position, which is the position where we feel the most secure. Another justification for why we aren`t afraid of forwarding bends is we find it safer.

For one to be emotionally prepared, we can just sit in a relaxed position and observe the thoughts in the mind, the feelings, and the emotions that arrive when we are doing back-bending asanas. Embrace these kleshas with love and empathy, be more aware of yourself without any judgment and criticism and you will see great progress in releasing any emotions that block you while doing this posture.

How to prepare yourself for Backbending Postures?

Keep your spine healthy:
Our spine is the base of our central nervous system as it is the main center for energy flow and movements within the pranic body. So, mindful movement of the spine will certainly help for the healthy structure and movement of the spine. Our spine is designed to move in 6 different directions – forward, backward, side to side, and twisting both sides. So, proper movement of the spine encourages the healthy movement of energy. Some of the postures that help the spinal movement are the cat and cow pose, marichyasana B, and seated side bend.

Doing some backbend postures actively:
Backbends help to develop the muscles that surround the spine in the back in addition to stretching the front body. You can perform poses like the locust pose, upward bow poses without gripping your ankles, and cobra poses with your hands off the mat. Your confidence to assume a deep backbend posture will increase as a result of performing these active backbends.

Rise into backbends before falling:
This one is very important to know; looking into the Instagram videos the way they directly fall into the backbend. This will only increase the fear and lead to greater injury to your lower back.  So try to rise in backbends, for example for chakrasana, lie on the floor with knees bent, place the palms under your shoulders, and lift, practice this and try to stay for good for 15-20 breaths.

Understand where you need to be more flexible and work towards that:
For Chakrasana, your body needs to be a lot more flexible, particularly quads and psoas. So do some postures that will lengthen these muscles like lizard poses, and low lunge side bends.

Start slow on falling back:
As it has a lot to do with the mind. Start slowly. Especially for Chakrasana, try to fall back with wall support first of all then come back up. This also may not be as easy as it seems but if you know where your body exactly needs the resistance then it will be easier for you to do it in the second attempt.

Always keep your lower back safe:
You can tuck your tailbone down and keep moving your hips forward, this will put less pressure on your lower back and you will get used to bending from your upper back.

Don`t forget to breathe:
The most important one is you have to keep breathing throughout the entire practice. Asanas will be much easier to do when one finds stillness in the moment which occurs by gaining control over the breath.

“Mayurasana” the name comes from the Sanskrit words Mayura means peacock and asana means posture.  It is a hand-balancing asana which is an advanced level associated with hatha yoga but is also part of other yoga types. It is one of the oldest non-seated asanas. The asana gives good stretch and strength to the muscles and upper limbs, back, and abdomen. It also helps in improving good posture and balancing skills. Though it looks simple and easy in photos and videos when someone is doing it, it may not be easy for complete beginners. Mayurasana should be the next challenge on your yoga list.

Preparations for this posture:

Get warmed up: Do not try this posture directly without some warm-up exercises. You must do enough exercises for your joints, especially the wrists. Your body should be activated before you try this. So, to activate and warm up your body you can start with a couple of Surya Namaskar series.

Do some easy asanas and postures: Perform some asanas that will activate your core strength, forearms, wrists, and all the upper body muscles. Also, increase your balancing stability. Here are some yoga asanas that can act as preparatory poses for Mayurasana.

• Cobra pose
• Table top pose
• High Plank, side plank variations
• Locust pose, superman pose
• Swan pose

How to do it:

You can perform Mayurasana on a Yoga mat, a carpeted floor, or a soft surface. Here is a step-by-step process for Mayurasana.

• Sit in the knees and heels spread wide apart. Lean your shoulders forward and place your hands on the ground in front of you. Make sure that your hands and elbows face inwards toward your heart
• As you press your palms into the floor, your torso will press against the back of your upper arms. Your head will come toward the mat.
• Unbend your knees and extend your legs behind you, toes facing the floor. Your hands and feet should bear the majority of your body weight.
• As you get ready to transfer the weight from your lower body to your upper body, engage the core.
• Squeeze your thighs together such that they form a single body part. Use your toes to shift the weight to your upper body.
• Lift up your feet individually. As you regain balance in your arms, lift your legs so that they are parallel to the ground.
• Raise your head and stare ahead. Hold the position for 15-20 seconds maintaining core, pelvis, and thigh strength.
• Exit the pose by lowering the feet to the ground and then knees to the ground. Take your hands off your wrists and lean back on your knees and heels to relieve the strain.

Benefits :

1. Overall strength and balance
2. Detoxification
3. Improves the posture
4. Helps reproductive system
5. Improves overall health (physical and mental health)
6. Improves and energizes organ functions
7. Increases your concentration
8. Improves sexual activity

During your yoga teacher training in Nepal from Himalayan Yoga Academy, you will learn various hatha yoga asanas which will make your body and mind strong. You will also learn this amazing pose step by step under the guidance of professional gurus where proper guidance will be given to all.

Setting our motive or Sankalpa is the fundamental part of Yoga practice. It is the only way to reach the final practice of manifesting our desires and aspirations and also leading us toward what we want to create.

But what really does the Sankalpa mean?

First of all, Sankalpa has two meaningful words.

Here, San means “Connected to cosmos consciousness or Divine truth”.

“Kalpa” means “Vow, commitment, promise, wholeheartedness.

The divine truth that you already possess must be perpetually discoverable. Our practice does not revolve around completing a task and moving on. Truth is cultivated over a lifetime and needs to be nurtured in all procedures. Sankalpa is a powerful tool that may be used in all steps of your life and has resonance throughout your body and soul. It attempts to direct your purpose off the mat as well, not merely to support your practice on the mat. Now that we know the function of our Sankalpa, which is to guide us constantly, let’s be more aware of how our intentions impact us both on and off the mat.

The aim is the course of action that enables learning, allowing us to take unjudged diversions, and finally discovering where we are. If we find ourselves taking a detour, we can always stop and pick a different path and back to our Sankalpa.

Our goal is not something we judge in this way. It does not cause us to become more critical of ourselves for taking these diversions or bring up any contradictory thoughts in our heads. Naturally, the mind will wonder if we are not trying to get rid of this at all. Instead, our purpose notices the tendency of our attention to wander and gently brings it back to the root we have set for ourselves.

When we don`t live up to our objectives and resolutions, we may feel conflicted. We could discover ourselves falling into the cycle of negativity and humiliation while looking for further ways to compensate for our supposed failures. Our body itself can experience this conflict as well. It becomes more challenging for us to go through those unpleasant emotions and find our actual Sankalpa if we place too much emphasis on what we consider perfect.

Instead, through purpose free from conflict or criticism, our Sankalpa seeks to operate at the deepest levels of who we are. If detours are taken we are gently and compassionately led back to the path we have made for ourselves.

With all these in mind, you might be thinking the ways to set the meaningful Sankalpa.

The following 10 steps are the answer to your queries for setting a perfect sankalpa helping you to focus in on what you truly aspire to be and opening you to new prospects.

1. Locate a Suitable place and time

• Setting a specific time and place for your practice can help you to focus on your meditations without any disturbances.
• Better place to make your own Sankalpa maybe somewhere in nature, at night time, or in the morning before and after yoga practice.
• Be sure that the place you are meditating makes you feel protected and safe to allow you to explore all possibilities.
• You can come back to the same place if you feel like you need to reapproach your motive.
• You can set a timer so that it helps you to commit to the moment and present within yourself in that period of time. In this way, your mind will not wander about how much time has passed.

2. Meditate

• Meditation practice will allow your mind to reach a higher consciousness of the divine truth to many more new possibilities. Also during your yoga teacher training in Nepal with Himalayan Yoga Academy, you will meditate every day to enhance your Sankalpa and Practice.
• This practice of calmness will certainly help you to know the intention you want to cultivate for your own self.
•  You are totally a charge of the restrictions you set in your mind.
• Over time, your concentration will lessen and lessen until you be in the moment.

3. Be Present

• A purposeful Sankalpa comes from the eagerness to be present in the moment.
• When we are in the present, we let us to sense everything around us, including our inner sounds that can cloud our mind.
• If we listen to our inner noise, eventually the fog covering our mind will lift up and then unlock important information that will inform our Sankalpa.
• If your mind deviates somewhere then bring it back to its central focus.
• Make sure you express compassion and sympathy towards yourself.
• Your mind will get distracted outside but don`t blame it for doing it so.

4. Focus your intention on you

• When you are about to create an intention, make sure that it is about you.
• Your motive is all about the core of your being, something that can only be manifested within the body and soul that you have polished.
• Ask yourself these questions when creating your intention:
• What does inner peace feels like for you?
• What makes you feel alive?
• How do you want to be in this world?

5. Let it reverberate within you

• Once you find the right intention, it will resonate throughout your entire being will feel right.
• It shall create an expansion within your body and increase your strength to feel vibrations in your body.
• If you don`t feel this immediately, don`t worry.
• Listen to small vibrations in your body with exploring different parts of the body.
• Follow the vibrations which will lead you to a greater one.
• Open your mind and body to new possibilities.
• Do not limit yourself.

6. Keep it simple

• Keeping your intentions simple makes it easier to re-remember it in any situation.
• If words are not applicable for you, then you can start making your intention an image or sense.
• Explore the different kinds of senses you can demonstrate including sight, smell, touch, sound, or taste.
• Your intention is anything that works for you but should conclusively be something you can easily recall.
• Your Sankalpa should provide you with comfort and lightness.

7. Phrase your intention positively in the present.

•  Even if you don`t believe in your intention, it should be a statement of truth.
• You should be a desire or something you would like to incorporate.
• Don`t worry if you are not realizing the truth yet.
• Try not to be distracted by negative thoughts as negativity does not motivate us.
• Stay positive as it allow you to change and transform into something better.
• Focus on what you want and what you want to create.
• A good example of meaningful Sankalpa is “ I am at peace”, “just for today i want to be happy”.
• Allow your energy to direct wherever you want and to explore possibilities within your new intentions.

8. Translate your message

• Sometimes your Sankalpa does not come to you in the form of words, so sometimes try translating them into words and writing it down.
• Again, your Sankalpa is anything that suits you, that works for you whether it could be in the form of an image or a different kind of sense.
• You can try exploring these messages and use this translation as an exercise.
• You can ponder on them throughout the practice and find various meanings within the various settings you recall your intention within.

9. Remember that you are your sankalpa

• It is part of you always.
• It is free to be with you not only when you are on the mat.
• Practice the same Sankalpa consistently rather than changing it from time to time.
• This will allow you to explore your Sankalpa in all manner and apply it to every phase of your life bringing you closer to yourself.
• Most importantly trust in your Sankalpa.
• Your Sankalpa is you. You require the same love and compassion you give to others.
• It`s time to give that same love for yourself.

The sections on diseases in the book list individual herbs for different conditions. These herbs usage can be taken as single remedies, usually one ounce of the herb per pint of boiling water, taken daily in two or three portions. If the herbs are very pungent or very bitter, like cayenne or goldenseal, lower dosages are better, one-quarter to one-half the amount.

Herbs can be taken as powders,1-4 grams (four grams is one teaspoon or a little more for most powdered herbs), two or three times daily. Again the lower dosage is for the stronger-tasting herbs. The appropriate vehicles like honey for Kapha, ghee for Pitta, or warm milk for Vata, should be used. Those who wish to prepare the formulas listed in the text can use the same dosages and methods of preparation. For the premade medicines listed in this section, the dosages are included.

Principles Formula Development

To devise Ayurvedic herbal formulas, we must first comprehend the main principles of formula development. We can build on classical Ayurvedic formulas or combinations or use similar ideas to make our base formulas. Also, we can build on classical Ayurvedic formulas or combinations (Trikatu, for instance), or use similar ideas to make our own base formulas.

We can use Western or Chinese herbs and combinations once we use raw herbs, rather than premade pills and tablets, we can make stronger preparations and have greater variability in our treatment approach. It also allows us to make a remedy when appropriate. Ayurvedic herbs or premade formulas are not available. However, it is less convenient and requires a certain skill and familiarity with herbs that can take some time to acquire.

There is no great mystery about formula development. There are a few major principles with adaptations according to conditions. Yet certain combinations, theoretically no better than others are found to work especially well. A good starting principle is to use two or four herbs that most typify the action one wishes to achieve, like the famous three pungent herbs, the Tritaku formula of Ayurveda, just mentioned.

Imagine that we want a formula with a primarily bitter taste, which can treat a large variety of Pitta and Kapha conditions. We can make a simple formula with three common bitters gentian, barberry, and goldenseal. To such a base formula we add supplementary herbs to adjust or modify its effects in various directions. We can add herbs to strengthen its action or balancing agents to prevent its action from being too extreme.

Diuretics would aid in its cleansing properties: uva ursi or pipsissewa, also mainly bitter, would strengthen its antibiotic properties against bladder infections.

We could add alternatives like dandelion or static to aid in its blood-cleansing action for dealing with boils or severe infections. Purgatives to aid in its bile cleansing action could be rhubarb root and aloe powder, also bitter.  

To increase its weight-reducing action and to prevent these bitter herbs from weakening the digestive fire, we could add spices like dry ginger. This would be especially good for Kapha types.

As it is a fairly reducing formula, we might want to add some tonifying herbs to balance it out. Licorice, marshmallow, or Shatavari would do this, giving it some nourishing properties but retaining its anti-Pitta action. Moreover, the demulcent property of these tonics, combined with the bitterness, makes a good combination for ulcers and hyperacidity, adding a soothing action to the mucus membranes.

As all disease involves stress, tension, and disturbed mental or emotional states, we might want to add a nervine or antispasmodic herb. Gotu Kola or bhringaraj would be good; they aid in the basic liver-cleansing action of the three bitters. Such a combination would help deal with alcohol and other substances that make the liver toxic.

The disease commonly stems from stagnant energy or blocked channels. We might want to add some turmeric to open up the liver and pancreas and relieve any blockage in their systems.

Putting these principles together for a liver-cleansing formula for a strong Kapha type who has eaten too much meat, sugar and fats, might use gentian, goldenseal, and barberry, along with dry ginger, turmeric and gotu kola, taken with honey.

For a week Pitta type suffering from chronic hepatitis, we might use the three bitters with Shatavari, licorice, turmeric and gotu kala, taken with ghee. We might even take out one of the bitters, like goldenseal, to prevent the formula from being too reducing.

With the appropriate strategy, avoiding any excessive or one-sided action, we have much latitude in combining herbs to treat conditions. Yet, whatever the condition, we must take care to treat the underlying dosha and not just proceed symptomatically. Then we must adjust the formula based upon the experience of the patient. In this process, we can learn to make effective combinations.

Herbs, whether classifically, formed and commercially made or formulas made by ourselves, do not always have the expected result, even if fall factors appear correct. Experience must always be our final teacher. Using these Ayurvedic herbs and formulas, we may find that their effectiveness varies according to time, place and culture, requiring some adaptation and adjustment.

Potentization of Herbs

Not only must we have the right diagnosis and right prescription to adequately treat a condition, the herbs must have the right potency. Many old or commercially prepared herbs may lack this.

The potentization of herbs is not just a physical or chemical matter. It requires strengthening the prana or life force of the herbs, which in turn requires an act of consciousness. Mechanical methods alone cannot accomplish this. Physically oriented medicine fails because it cannot serve as a vehicle for the life force.

In some respects, it is misleading to speak of the general properties of an herb. These vary, particularly by degree, according to how the herb is grown, prepared, and combined. They are general guidelines, not rigid rules. Specially grown and prepared herbs can possess miraculous powers, even if they are very ordinary. All herbs are vehicles of prana or cosmic healing power. As such, they all possess certain neutrally and can be made into vehicles for that power on different levels.

Specially Powerful Herbs

Some herbs, like ginseng or ashwagandha, are endowed with a special power. They tend to retain this power even when other supporting factors are lacking. Generally, roots hold their power longer than other plant parts, then barks and fruit; leaves and flowers deteriorate first.

Specially Grown Herbs

Fresh herbs maintain a special power, having more prana or chi than dry ones. Their juice is particularly strong. Fresh herbs, even singly or in small dosages, can affect the body and mind directly, and have better healing power, than large amounts of old herbs. Homegrown herbs, grown with love and attention, possess a more gentle, yet consistent, healing power.

How an herb is grown is as important a factor in healing as what the herb is. A few well frown or prepared herbs can cure diseases that many herbs otherwise cannot touch. Some herbalists, therefore, choose to use a few herbs, perhaps very common ones, grown and prepared with care. This is not a lack of sophistication but a sophistication of a different nature.

Wild herbs

Wild herbs possess the strongest prana. Handpick your own with care, love, and respect. They transmit the force of Nature herself. Wildcrafted herbs also tend to be stronger than those cultivated.

Special Combination of herbs

The right combination of herbs allows the individual herbs to function synergistically, with geometrically increases powers. Each herbal tradition has such combinations. We can discover others ourselves.

Special Extraction

The active ingredients of herbs are best extracted by the appropriate medium. These include water alcohol, vinegar, salt, honey, and oils. You can also use these as vehicles to take the herbs.

Addiction to Potentizing Herbs

Some herbs are able to potentize others in different directions and can be added as an activating principle. These include stimulants such as cayenne, ginger camphor and mint which serve guiding herbs,

Vehicles (ananas), or special media such as honey or ghee, also help to direct the effects of herbs.

Herbal Preparations

Herbal wines, oils, and jellies not only extend the life of herbs but also can heighten their powers.

Trituration

This process involves stirring an herb with a mortar and pestle. They usually use a powder or a liquid paste. Juices or decoctions, or the herb or the other herbs, can be added. This allows more uniform energy to the herbal preparations as well as greater strength. The properties of the substances the mortar and pestle are made of are important. Stone, copper, silver, or gold add their special qualities to the herbs triturated in them.

Alchemical Preparations

Spagyric tinctures are very powerful. The combination of herbs with specially incinerated minerals is commonly used in Ayurveda.

Gems and Minerals

Gems can be used to energize plants, using gem waters or gem tinctures along with herbs. Prepared or cooked and iron also can help energize herbs. Prepared or cooked in vessels of these metals, herbs gain additional power. Tinctures of metals transmit their properties to the herbs, without causing any toxicity. Gold aids in reducing Vata and Kapha. Silver reduces Pitta and Vata. Copper reduces Kapha. Iron reduces Vata, Bronze reduces Pitta.

Attunement methods

Attunement is growing, preparing or prescribing of herbs according to the right time. Astrology is the main attunement method. Proper power and aspect of the Moon is important, as it rules plants generally. Mercury, which rules healing, and Jupiter, which gives vitality, are also considered.

Mental Methods

Methods of mental empowerment are mantra, meditation, and prayer. They may involve the energization of a particular wish or intention. Some use an energy pattern in the mind on a subtle level to empower that in the herb on a gross level. Others concentrate on a certain deity or divine power to work through the herb.

Some may be a part of, or involve, physical actions or rituals. All preparation of herbs should be a ritual, a sacred action in harmony with the rhythm of the cosmos to facilitate the cosmic healing force. Such methods are essential to any form of holistic healing. Otherwise, on a subtle or astral level the herbs, with their sensitivity and neutrality , may pick up negative energies.

Mantras For Potentizing Herbs

Many different mantras can be used for potentizing herbs. Deities may be called on as part of this process, as each mantras is a Divine Name. OM affirms and empowers whatever we direct it towards. It also empowers other mantras. The mantra SOM increases the energy of plants, and their Soma.

Other factors

Herbs have a better effect when applied close to the site of the problem; for instance, the use of enemas for Vata. Also, herbs have to be integrated into an appropriate life- regimen in harmony with an individual`s nature. They can only work through the tree of our own soul.