Two weeks Intensive training in holy Pushkar city, one of the most sacred spots of Northern India, combining Astanga Yoga and Vedic Chanting makes up for a perfect opportunity to deepen your personal practice as well as to immerse yourself into the heart of Indian Vedic Culture.
ABOUT PUSHKAR
Pushkar is a town in the beautiful dessert region of Rajasthan in north-western India. This place is known for its ancient history and religion. Ancient sayings say that this was the place where Hindu Mythology was born. Pushkar means flower. It was said that gods released a swan with a lotus on the break of the swan the place where this lotus fell Yagna (vedic ritual) will be performed by Lord Brahma. This place where the lotus fell is Pushkar. This is one among the five sacred dhams (dhams are sacred places of Hindu gods). This place is called as Tirth Rak by most of the kings. Pushkar lies on the Shore of Pushkar Lake and has five principal temples and few sacred ghats.
One of the famous temples of this place is the one of Brahma which was built in 14th century. Pushkar is famous for its natural boutique and Pushkar Camel Fair. Natural environment of this place and the sacred Pushkar Lake add delight to this place and gather most of the visitors. Savitri temple is one famous temple which is located behind Brahma temple. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Savitri who is the wife of Lord Brahma. There are around 52ghats around this place. These ghats are dedicated to the temple and most of the pilgrims will find beautiful locations in them. According to the lunar calendar each Ghat is believe to have different kinds of healing properties.
ABOUT THE PRACTICE
Yoga in the tradition of Sri T. Krishnamacharya is a traditional practice for the development of body and mind. The combination of dynamic postures (Asana), breathing exercises (Pranayama) and vedic chants (Veda Adhyayana) creates heat and purification in the body, and a calm focus in the mind. The practice is always kept as a meditative and therapeutic tool; therefore it remains flexible and adjusted to the needs of the individual. Rooted in the ancient greater Vedic tradition, Astanga Yoga is a process of transformation through gradually dissolving physical, mental and emotional blocks that restrict our life potential. Vedic Chanting is Mantra Yoga, a form of meditation through sound and resonance. The mantras of the Veda contain the knowledge of the ancient Rishis while the vibrations produced by the chants purify breath and mind allowing space for inner silence and devotion.
Classes are taught every morning in two blocks:
- Astanga Yoga
Self-practice of postures and breath-work related to Yogachikitsa and Nadishoddhana as taught by Sri Manju Jois of Mysore, India. The practice is adjusted to every individual taking into consideration body type, age and capacity. The series may be modified whenever necessary. There will be no practice on new and full moon days (rest day).
- Vedic Chant
Mantras from the Taittiriya Shakha of Krsna Yajur Veda are taught in the traditional manner. The pedagogy of Vedic chanting is introduced with attention to detail and respecting the rules of Vedic chanting like pitch, pronunciation, linking of notes, etc. Mantras are taught in levels according to experience and capacity. Written and audio study material is provided.
.
ABOUT THE TEACHER
Andrés Wormull: For over a decade, I have been studying several branches of the Vedic tradition including Yoga, Vedic chanting and Vedanta. I practice and teach Astanga yoga under the guidance of guru Sri Manju P. Jois, assisting him also during his workshops around South America. I feel is a blessing to have a close relationship with Manjuji and the opportunity to study traditional Astanga yoga according to the Vedic teachings. In addition to this, I have studied Vedic chanting with Brahmins from South India and Advaita Vedanta with Swami Dayananda Saraswati. I share with passion all the benefits and knowledge received from this great tradition. I undertake the practice of yoga not as an achievement itself, but rather as a tool to set me in motion towards absolute freedom and contentment.
CLASS FEE
350 USD
Covers all daily Ahtanga Yoga and Vedic Chant classes (2 classes/day). To be paid first day of the retreat. (Non-refundable)
DATES
- 21 February – 3 March (10 days): Astanga Yoga & Vedic Chanting retreat, Pushkar.
- 3 March Maha Shivaratri Festival
.
GENERAL INFORMATION
* ARRIVAL
Pushkar is easily accessible being only 14 km to major train station Ajmer city and 2 hrs drive from Jaipur airport. It is a well known tourist spot, so making your way there should not be any problem. Otherwise, feel free to contact for any additional information.
* SLEEPING, EATING AND MOVING AROUND
Each participant is required to look after his/her own transportation, hotel, food and so on. Help and suggestions will be provided if necessary. There are plenty of guesthouses, hotels, restaurants, bike rental, etc at very convenient prices in Pushkar so it should not present any problem. Be aware that Pushkar is a strictly vegetarian place, although milk and egg products are available. There is a supermarket where you can get most of the stuff, and there are also plenty of fruit and nuts stands around if you do not want to eat at restaurants al the time. However be sure to bring any special items you may need. Moving around town is very easy; you can walk around or just rent a bicycle, scooter or motorbike.
TIPS & SUGGESTIONS
* Get a travel insurance.
* Travel light! Bring only what is necessary.
* Bring your own bed sheets, no blankets, only the sheets and pillow sheet.
* Bring a torch. Power cuts and badly illuminated roads are common.
* Bring mosquito repellent and mosquito net or get them locally upon arrival.
* Mobile phone cards are easily available. Be sure your phone works in India. Otherwise there is plenty of telephone and Internet places around to contact your family and friends.
* Although a relaxed place, always bear in mind that Pushkar is a sacred town for Hindus. Always respect local customs. Indians are usually very respectful by nature. Be gentle and they will be gentle to you.
* Women must dress respecting the local culture. Do not wear shorts or short skirts. A scarf to cover your shoulders in crowded areas is good policy and will avoid you being hassled.
* Always drink bottled water. Watch up with the water in fruit juices and ice cubes. If you are eating fruits take the peel off. Although sanitary customs are getting much better over the years it is still risky to eat raw salads in most places.
* To have a loose stomach at any point is common while in India. You may want to bring anti-diarrheal medicine.
* Although medicines are easily available bring your own stash for fevers, headaches and the like. Do not overdo it, only the essential.
* Vaccinations are your choice. Most countries recommend too many expensive vaccines for India. Do not panic, use your common sense.
CONTACT AND OTHER INFORMATION
For sign-up, details about the practice place and other information please contactandreswormull@gmail.com
