- Varanasi: Spiritual hub of yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda.
- Yoga: Connects body, mind, and soul, rooted in the Bhagavad Gita.
- Shiva: Central to yoga philosophy.
- Ganges Ghats: Key sites for meditation and yoga practice.
- Moksha: Belief in liberation from rebirth through a dip in the Ganges.
- Sarnath: Site of Buddha’s first sermon.
- Experience: Varanasi offers a transformative spiritual journey.
Varanasi has revealed itself as the grand center of Indian philosophy, Ayurvedic methodologies, yoga & meditation, and spiritualism. Yoga, originating from ancient India, has its theoretical foundation in the Hindu holy texts, particularly the Bhagavad Gita. It is described as the medium connecting the human body and soul. Yoga maintains balance and harmonizes the body, emotions, mind, and soul. Its boundaries extend beyond physical exercises like Asanas, Pranayamas, and Mudras. Yoga connects the mind with the soul, purifies the mind and body through meditation, and facilitates a deep, cosmic experience.
The word Yoga, a four-character Sanskrit term derived from “Yog,” means unity. This union or joining, expressed in spiritualism, generates Shakti (power). Shiva, considered the supreme power and consciousness, is central to yoga. According to history, Varanasi is regarded as a destination for meditation dedicated to Shiva. For centuries, yoga has been a part of the Varanasi tradition, with numerous ashrams and Muths running in the region. The experience cannot be fully described but is felt when the first rays of light rise over the Ganges Ghats. Meditating by the river awakens the senses and creates an ecstatic feeling.
Varanasi is also referred to as the ancient survivor and the divine cultural capital of India. It is believed by Hindus that a single dip in the Ganges opens the path to Moksha (freedom from the cycle of rebirth). The Ghats of Varanasi reflect the reality of life, marking the beginning of the yoga journey, starting with a morning boat ride on the Ganges. During a yoga course, participants also visit Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Many ashrams and centers for Yoga, Ayurveda, and Meditation have opened in Varanasi, attracting both Indian and international visitors to learn the theoretical and practical aspects of these ancient practices. Some of the well-known centers include:
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
- Man Mandir Yoga Center
- Yoga & Meditation Center at Nirala Nagar
- Pragya Yoga Institute
- Kashi Yog Sangh at Sankat Mochan Ghat
- International Yoga & Meditation Center at Nagwa
- Gyan Pravah
- Bhring Sanhita Kendra
These centers offer training in yoga, astrology, and meditation, drawing people from across India and around the world.
