In December 2022 I travelled to Rishikesh, the birthplace of Yoga, to undertake Yoga teacher training for 28 days. It’s probably one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done, but twice as much rewarding! I was fully surrendering myself to the unknown.
After a long journey and an eye-opening taxi ride, I was glad to arrive at the Yogshala. One of the staff kindly helped transport my giant bright pink suitcase up several stairs, and I checked into my room. It was basic, but I was relieved to find it had a toilet. I met with the other students and we went for dinner – the first Paneer’s of many!
From the next day onwards, I was fully immersed in Yoga, but not only the postures. Meditation, breathing techniques and various other forms of the practice were used each day. I knew quickly that this could be exceptionally life changing for me.
It wasn’t all positive and uplifting though. I was completely out of my comfort zone for 2 reasons.. 1, travelling to India alone, and 2, being around others that I didn’t know well (I wrote of my previous issues with social anxiety in my book – Breakthrough You). To be honest I thought I was over all that, but this experience taught me that I had a lot more inner work to do.
After weeks of asanas, pranayama, meditation, theory practice and more, I felt myself on a much deeper level. My downfalls and patterns were no longer subconscious to me – I was aware, and I knew how and why I wanted to change for the better. I wanted to let go of my fears. Fears of judgement, criticism, unworthiness etc. I wanted to love myself fully, and share that love with others.
Of course the main aim was to become a certified as a Yoga teacher, but India also brought me back to myself, and from this I have the courage to move forwards with even more authenticity and love.
It isn’t a quick fix, but if you work on yourself every day, those little steps will multiply and you will soon start seeing different results. You could apply this to absolutely anything – your health, finances, relationships and more. Take a trip outside of the ordinary mundane life. See and experience new and different things. Your soul will thank you.
Here are some Yoga Teacher Training schools in Rishikesh, which may be of interest to you:
https://www.bookyogaretreats.com/om-sampoorn-yoga/28-days-divine-ganga-meditation-and-yoga-retreat-rishikesh-india?aid=8349