The Magic of Pashupatinath: A Spiritual Experience in Kathmandu
The Pashupatinath Temple is built on the edge of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. Its location is of such importance that Pashupatinath is the spiritual center of the nation while simultaneously being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As such, the Pashupatinath Temple Complex has served as a retreat for many seekers and sadhus for many centuries, devoting their lives to the inquiry of higher planes of existence. Thus, for the people interested in the practices of yoga and meditation, Pashupatinath is not a normal tourist site, Pashupatinath is considered a unique site for teachings on the principles surrounding the cycle of childbirth, death and moksha.
When you enter through the gates of Pashupatinath Temple, you encounter the reality of yoga in the form of a living artwork. In it, the almighty Shiva is the focal point and the throne of the devotion, while simultaneously being the timeless guardian of India.
The Pashupatinath: The Lord of all beings
Among the many Pashupatinath temples, the most revered is the Jyotirlinga Pashupatinath. It is the Pashupatinath which dedicates himself to the Pashupat, his incarnation of the Lord of all beings, which is the most fundamental.
This refers to the Pashu subduing the base instincts through the inner Pati Pashu, the latent inner Pati Pashu – the divinity. The Pashu yogi seeks to subdue the mind and the senses to actualize the inner divinity who is peaceful in order to attain Self realization. The sacred mandir, with exquisite pagoda style architecture and gilt rooftops, possesses the holy lingam. Although entry to the inner sanctum is permitted only to the Hindus, the powerful aura of the Pashupatinath resonates throughout the entire complex, manifesting a sense of sanctity that is available to all.
A Living Lesson in Impermanence and Detachment
A less distracted and bare influence of this Pashupatinath, and the most captivating part, is the open-air rest ghats and the cremation sites along the Bagmati River. While the funeral pyres and the ceremony to the dead might appear to be intense light, it is a clear direct lit glimpse of the yoga philosophy, divided into Eastern and Western sides, of Non-attachment, and the Philosophy of Illusion.
The sages of the ancient days used to say that to understand life, you must understand death. Watching the cycle of life and death at the ghats acts as a powerful motivator to live a purposeful life, practice detachment in devotion so as to unfold the squeezing that encloses the inner light and open to the more vibrant life beyond. You can see your practice Ram on the yoga mat yoga principles in action.
Sadhus: Paradigms of Renunciation
Your visit to Pashupatinath will most probably make you encounter the Sadhus: Hindu ascetics who left the material world in search of spiritual liberation. These ascetics, caked with ash, matted hair, and covered with colorful robes, are extreme wandering monks and are rubrics of the utmost commitment and devotion to their practice.
Interacting with a Sadhu, with the utmost care and in the proper manner, can be a fascinating encounter. The mere fact of their existence is a lesson in Vairagya, dispassion, and in Tapas, austerity, and their presence urges many to disengage from the ordinary and engage with the timeless.
A Place of Stillness and Contemplation
Beyond the main temple, the complex unfolds into a maze of small shrines, statues, and serene courtyards. Sit on the stone steps overlooking the river, and close your eyes. The river with its gentle yet powerful flow, the incense and marigolds, the rhythmic prayers, and the powerful chant of “Om Namah Shivaya” merge into a symphony, painting a landscape that sets the perfect atmosphere to incorporate the flow of spontaneous meditation on that river.
Planning Your Spiritual Visit: Suggestions for Yoga Practitioners
- Best time to visit: Early in the the morning and in the evening is the most spiritually enhance time.The Maha Shivaratri festival makes the temple a fascinating confluence of followers.
- Attend the Aarti: Attending the evening Aarti ritual beside the Bagmati River is a deeply immersive experience. The sound of the palms together with the chanting, the ringing of the bells, and the graceful movements of the diyas offers a profoundly empowering feeling.
- Customs Etiquette: Dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees with a shawl, and consider that the main temple area is reserved for Hindu devotees, the temple surroundings offer a rich experience.
- Mindfulness: Observe, without participation: the Sakshi Bhava, or the state of the silent witness. You are the subject as well as the object: rituals, others, and your thoughts without labeling any of them. This immersion, this observation is a meditation.
Incorporating your visit to Pashupatinath into your yoga practice is and offers a perfect opportunity to practice and share with others what is different.
In Himalayan Yoga Academy, it is our belief that yoga is a complete an all encompassing science of life and living, not solely the asana poses of yoga. A visit to Pashupatinath strengthens our yoga teacher training and silent meditation retreats in Nepal. You can:
- Reflect on the Philosophy: Observe the exercises of karma, dharma, and moksha as they take form.
- Enhance Your Meditation: Be in a place that offers stillness, and the capacity for deeper silence.
- Cultivate Compassion:The ability to empathize and fully understand someone else’s perspective is assigned to those who can look at life in all its facets.
The magic of Pashupatinath has to be the awakening of the spirit. It confronts, it consoles, and it heals. It is the most important part of the pilgrimage for any practitioner of yoga to the Himalayas.
Are you prepared to step into a pilgrimage of your own?
Begin your journey of self-discovery with our Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal and Meditation Retreats, designed to let you experience life-changing yoga that draws energy and wisdom from the roots of Pashupatinath.
Exploring Different Types of Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal
Exploring different types of Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal from Hatha to Vinyasa and More. Through exercise comes Yoga, with Yoga comes understanding, with understanding comes love, and with love comes bliss. Yoga is one of the excellent sports to loosen up your frame, mind, and soul. The artwork of Yoga originated in Nepal. It has numerous locations of obscurity and uncertainty due to the fact its transformation has been carried out orally. The development of yoga may be traced returned to 5000 years ago. It changed into evolved via way of means of the Indus-Sarasvati civilization within side the Northern part of India and Nepal as well.
The Rig Veda additionally mentions the phrase Yoga. Over time Yoga has been slowly redefined and is specifically utilized by Brahmans and Rishis. The trend of Yoga Teacher Training is famous around the world as it provides a perfect chance to learn something and enhance your knowledge as well as take your yoga and lifestyle to another mode. Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal is famous for learning yoga in the most amazing locations and for teachers who have practiced traditional yoga in a traditional environment.
This changed into the pre-classical age of yoga which changed into a mishmash of numerous ideas. It had numerous strategies and ideals related to it. Classical yoga is described via way of means of Patanjali`s Yoga-Sutras and its miles the systematic presentation of Yoga. It consists of the current fashion of Yoga as well. Post-classical yoga is greater than the current approach that targets extended existence and a rejuvenated frame.
The essential goal is to include the frame because of the way to acquire enlightenment. The Modern Period is greater pushed via way of means of Nepali and Indian instructors who have become pioneers and it’s miles pushed via way of means of Western lifestyle as well. There are numerous Yoga Teacher Training to be had in Nepal.
There are Different Types of Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal that offers now no longer have the most effective theoretical understanding but additionally the sensible nuances of the same. It is schooling that is composed of powerfully sequenced and pre-designed magnificent routines. Other than this, the path additionally consists of recommendations on public speaking, a way to save you from injuries, remedy the frame, and make it higher and more potent. The coaching technique consists of exercise and certain routines.
There are numerous styles of applications that are protected in Yoga Training Nepal. Some of the primary ones are as follows:
Hatha Yoga Pradipika: It is the traditional fifteenth-century Sanskrit guide on haṭha yoga.
Yoga Sutra: It consists of exclusive traditions, particularly movement yoga (Kriya yoga) and “8 limb yoga” (aṣṭāṅga yoga).
The Bhagavad Gita: It consists of a few effective coaching of yoga.
One of the excellent Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal is the Himalayan Yoga Academy. If one sincerely desires to unfold the understanding of yoga across the world, one ought to sign up withinside the Yoga Teacher Training path. The path makes a specialty of selling mental, physical, and non-secular health. It is an expert schooling path that consists of all of the asanas and makes a specialty of the classical yoga tradition. Through the program, one improves the non-secular connection and enables withinside the transformation of a person. Through the program, one receives the direction of self and divinity.
Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal is a residential program. A strict ordinary is observed for the duration of the tenure of the path. One has to observe the early to bed, early to upward thrust concept. The college students of the path stay collectively in concord and analyze yoga practices. The skilled and educated instructors impart understanding in each aspect. They are immersed withinside the yogic lifestyle. With near touch with them, one receives to analyze loads of factors and insights into the yogic lifestyle.
Benefits of Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal
- Learn Yoga in the Land of the Himalayas where yoga was born.
- Learn practice with a Community of Yogis from Across the Globe
- Practice Karma Yoga
- Daily Yoga Classes, Meditation, Chanting, Vegetarian Meals, and More!
- Spend Time With the Local Community
- Strengthen Your Hatha and Bhakti Yoga Practice
- Homely environment
- Internationally accredited
- The scientific way of learning
Ashwini Mudra and its amazing benefits
We could never have predicted how much more of an effect our hectic lifestyle and unhealthy habits would have on our health. We now have the ability to undo the harm and embark on a healthy path, thanks to yoga asanas, exercises, and a diet filled with wholesome recipes.
Ashwini Mudra: What is it?
In English, Ashwini Mudra is known as horse motion or horse mudra. Ashwini Mudrayoga, a form of hatha yoga, includes contracting and relaxing the anal sphincter in a way that relieves constipation and hemorrhoids while assisting in bringing pranic energy up to the body. The term “horse mudra” refers to the rhythmic activity that horses engage in regularly, during which they contract and relax the entire pelvic region as well as the buttock muscles, sphincter, and perineum of the body.
How to do Ashwini Mudra: Steps-
The Ashwini Mudra can come in a variety of forms. These are two of them:
Ashwini Mudra (Variety I)
- Sit tall and straight in Padmasana and comfort your body.
- Eyes closed, begin inhaling. Spend a few minutes focusing on your respiration as it occurs naturally.
- Now tense/ contract the anus sphincter muscle for a few seconds, without pulling or straining, and keep the whole body relaxed. Make sure that you only clench in the anal region during this exercise as far as possible.
- Repeat the contraction for about 5 minutes.
- Try to execute the contraction and relaxation cycle as smoothly and rhythmically as you can. You can progressively tighten the constriction even more.
Ashwini Mudra (Variation 2)
Try to sit on a towel that has been rolled up or on your heels for this variation of the Ashwini Mudra. View images of Ashwini Mudra to learn how. The Muladhara Chakra will feel more pressure as a result of this.
Following are the steps for performing Ashwini Mudra Yoga:
Fill the lungs to one-third of their maximum capacity by inhaling. Right now, quickly constrict and relax your anus twice. You should repeat this at least 15 times, roughly. Exhale gradually. 15 times, go through the entire inhalation and muscle contraction procedure. After that, slowly exhale.
Give it another go. For the third and last time, fill the lungs to one-third of their maximum capacity. The last 15 repetitions were spent contracting and relaxing the muscles. Don’t breathe out at this point. Instead, bring the shoulders forward and press the chin with the chest. You’ll feel the heat. Now exhale through your nose to let the stress leave. The energy will be felt throughout your entire body.
Things to Consider
Even though Ashwini Mudra has many excellent advantages, there is something you should keep in mind before doing the exercises. These consist of:
- When a woman is pregnant or menstruating, she shouldn’t practice the Ashwini Mudra.
- It can be used to treat problems like bedwetting and is also a type of yoga for youngsters.
- You should stay away from Ashwini Mudra yoga if you have serious uterine problems.
- Doing Ashwini Mudra asana is not recommended for anyone with conditions such as an enlarged thyroid, slipped disc, enlarged liver, or spleen.
- Do Ashwini Mudra sparingly because doing it repeatedly can have negative effects on your health.
- Never perform the Ashwini Mudra while moving.
- In addition to this, you can perform it while lying down, standing, or in any other position.
- To do the Ashwini Mudra correctly, you shouldn’t merely rely on pictures of it.
- Consult with a yoga specialist for advice.
Advantages of Ashwini Mudra :
- Effective For Piles: Ashwini Mudra promotes healthy digestion in addition to other things. Additionally, it can be a beneficial kind of yoga for conditions associated with the anal and rectum, such as piles, hemorrhoids, and others. The blood circulation throughout the area is improved when you tighten the anal sphincter while performing this stance. This speeds up the process of healing and lessens localized pain and burning. So, if you have piles or another similar condition, we advise you to practice Ashwini Mudra frequently.
- Improved Digestion: One of the key advantages of Ashwini Mudra is improved digestion. The position aids in easing gas and constipation problems. It increases the flow of prana into the internal organs, making them more robust and disease-resistant. If you regularly practice Ashwini Mudra, you may also notice an improvement in your bowel motions.
- Enhances Sexual Health: Ashwini Mudra is frequently used to improve sexual health. Men will particularly benefit from this. The pelvic muscles, perineum, sphincter, and entire pelvic area are repeatedly contracted and relaxed in the Ashwini Mudra pose. These provide the sex muscles additional power and endurance while also strengthening them. Additionally, the position enhances pelvic blood flow, which adds to the pleasure of sex.
What’s next? Additionally, yoga enhances sexual pleasure by arousing the earth and water chakras’ sexual energies.
- Strengthens Uterine Muscles: It has been observed that Ashwini Mudra can assist ladies in resolving any uterine-related health issues. This organ is responsible for growing the fetus and carrying the child until birth. For this reason, uterine muscles need to be powerful. Furthermore, uterine muscles that are strong aid in relaxing the menstrual cycle. It has been shown that performing Ashwini Mudra and Mul Bandha together can strengthen the uterus muscles.
- Reduces Stress and Depression: We live fast-paced lives, which can occasionally cause undue stress. Depression can develop from long-term, constant stress. As you are aware, yoga is effective in battling both stress and depression. In a similar vein, Ashwini Mudra moves. It can support the adrenal gland’s healthy operation and regulate the body’s level of the stress hormone cortisol.
- Beneficial During Pregnancy: Ashwini Mudra asana can also be done to ensure a healthy pregnancy. It is well known for supporting the fetus’ gradually increasing weight. To strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, some women practice this yoga both before and after becoming pregnant.
- Supports Healthy Skin: It may come as a surprise, but Ashwini Mudra can help people achieve healthy, clear skin. It indirectly results in improved skin because it eliminates serious stomach-related disorders. Additionally, it supports a healthy hormonal system and endocrine system, which keeps your skin looking young and vibrant.
The Last Few Words
Now that you know everything there is to know about the horse gesture, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to use by incorporating it into your daily routine. If you are a beginner, it is advised that you obtain professional advice on how to carry out this yoga correctly. This will not only make sure that you get the most out of all the advantages but also protect you from any negative effects that can result from using Ashwini improperly.
Why Taking A YOGA RETREAT is Important
The unhealthy lifestyle of most people is a major reason behind the development and exacerbation of many chronic diseases. A very good reason to do a yoga retreat is to give yourself a truly relaxing and recreational experience. Improve flexibility by doing yoga asanas. Improving lifestyles through new residential experiences that promote healthy behaviors, calm the mind with meditation & breathing exercises, and feel the vibration of chanting Sanskrit mantras. So WHY Taking A YOGA RETREAT is Important.
Why we should take a Yoga Retreat
- You can truly connect with nature as there are so many retreat places in beautiful locations. This is the best way to get out of your busy daily life.
- Say Bye-Bye to the daily technology life. During the retreat, no need to update your status and tweet or re-tweet every hour. You will not feel like being online 24×7.
- Going to a new place provides you with the best opportunity to explore the world. Experiencing unknown friends and places is the best way to grow and learn.
- If you have some bad habits then going to a yoga retreat is the best way to break from a bad habit is to replace it with a new healthy one
- We give so much of ourselves in our daily lives can be personal and professional, and we realize us impossible to take a moment just for ourselves. In a yoga and meditation retreat, you get the opportunity to meet some amazing people from the other part of the world, you can also use it as an opportunity to be alone.
- A yoga retreat keeps you far from your stresses about your duties where you need permission to truly relax. A retreat allows you to listen to your body, rest when you need it, and be free from daily stress.
- Going for a yoga retreat can be a life-changing experience, it can change and heal our mental and physical health.
TOP 5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF NAUKASANA
Introduction: HEALTH BENEFITS OF NAUKASANA
Indeed, the science of yoga is a boon for humans in the modern century, where our health is deteriorating at physical, mental, and spiritual levels. The Naukasana, the yoga posture, in which you assume the shape of a boat, is the practice for health.
From helping you to lose extra pounds to waking up the core to strengthening the back muscles, the Naukasana has diverse variations, in all of which you can garner the benefits of boat pose. Here are the TOP 5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF NAUKASANA:
Step by Step performing Naukasana
1: Start the boat pose in a sitting position on a yoga mat.
2: Press the hands into a yoga mat behind the hips, lift through the top of the sternum, and slightly lean back.
3: Try to sit on the tripod of your two sitting bones and tailbone
4: Breathe Out, bend your knees, and keep your thighs at a 45-degree angle to the floor.
5: Gently straighten the knees and raise the feet above eye level.
6: Stretch the arms alongside the legs parallel to the floor.
7: Stay in the Boat Pose for as long as comfortable.
The Top 5 Health Benefits of Naukasana
- Good for our digestive and reproductive systems:
It aids both the upper abdominal organs (pancreas and liver) and the lower abdominal organs (kidney and intestines), thus helping in reducing digestive problems. Helping in the circulation of the blood and oxygen around the abdomen area faster, this pose also enhances the secretion power of the liver and pancreas. For men, it is essentially beneficial because it stimulates the prostate gland which is good for the male reproductive system.
2. Strengthens the Body Muscles:
During the practice of the Naukasana, the arms are stretched in a forwarding direction, the thighs are angled at 45 degrees, the shin is perpendicular to the floor, and the feet are raised up. All these movements cast a stretching and strengthening effect on the diverse muscle group located in the body. In this way, you strengthen your whole body internally helping you manifest a robust look.
3. Very good for diabetic patients:
The health benefits of the Naukasana pose are also reaped by diabetic patients as it essentially works on fixing the sugar levels of the body.
4. Placid Mind:
Like with most yoga asanas, the Naukasana also acts as a distress tool, keeping your mind peaceful and placid. With a calm mind, you can enjoy the present moment, work with alertness, and can have a healthy body.
5. Ideal Weight Loss:
In the Naukasana, you can lose stubborn fat in a healthier and ideal manner. The stretching, compressing, and relaxing of the abdominal organs during the performance of the Boat Pose helps you to lose extra fat around the stomach. The key is to practice the pose regularly with attention to alignment.
With the Naukasana and its variations, develop a healthy body, mind, and soul.
To know about Naukasana in further detail, explore our Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal