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Rishikesh Yogalaya Magazine April May 2025

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Journey of aremote meditatorAPRIL - MAY 2025RISHIKESHRISHIKESHA JOURNAL ON YOGIC LIFESTYLE, MYSTICAL TRAVEL & WELLNESS$5 Message

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the best is yet to come"."KEEP MOVING,w w w . s i d d h a s h r a m - s p e a k s . c o m

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SHAKETHINGS UP!Y O G I C T E A C H I N G SR I S H I K E S H T E A C H I N G S

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NEW OFFERING:JOIN USONLINER I S H I K E S H T E A C H I N G SRishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of theworld, offers a unique opportunity to experiencea distinct and authentic form of yoga, rooted inancient Himalayan wisdom, allowing individualsto deepen their practice, connect with nature,and discover the holistic benefits of yoga in aserene and spiritually charged environment.AVAILABLE ONLINE AND WEEKLY RETREATS PROGRAMRISHIKESHW W W . R I S H I K E S H T E A C H I N G S . C O M

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Table of Contents09Journey of aremote meditator13 16Yoga Poses for lower backpainBreatheA day with nature23Gettingwarmed up26Basic yogaposes for kid’s3320 Tools totransform45Guided Meditationfrom Himalaya59505464SOULMAN THE CATALYST YOGA ASANASThe mission of peace -Global causeSet of powerful asanasfor mental disorders FIT AS A FIDDLEYOGIC KIDSLIFESTYLE MANAGEMENTDEEP WITHINspend timewith the SUNIncredible !ndiaAYURLICIOUSThe food that healTravel to theMystic world44

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Publisher:Himalaya Siddha PeethSpiritual Head:Gangnath JiProgram & Editorial Head:Gopeshwar NathEditorial:Mani Kaushik Shashi KumarDr. DwivediPuneet SharmaMarketing & Sales: Rashmi JhaGraphics: Desmukh PandeyAdvertising:Mohan ThakurImages:RiteshCan Stock PhotoDigital Publishing PlatformISSUUJoomagTravel PartnerHSPWellness PartnerHimalaya Siddha PeethYoga & Research CenterAll rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. All printedmatter contained in the magazine is based on information from those featured in it, the Editor and thePublisher do not necessarily subscribe to the same.Disclaimer: In relation to any advertisements in the publication, readers are recommended to makeappropriate enquiries before entering into any commitments. Himalaya Yoga & Sadhna does not vouch forany claim made by advertisers and their products. The printer, Publisher and the Editor shall not be held forany consequence in the event on such claims not being honoured by advertisers. All disputes are subject tojurisdiction of competent court in Dehradun-India. Himalaya Yoga & Sadhna does not accept theresponsibility of returning unsolicited manuscripts and photographs.Our team's mission to share the wisdom and experiences of Yoga,meditation, and spiritual exploration is truly inspiring, and thephilosophy of "Sharing is Caring" resonates deeply. By creating aplatform through the Yoga magazine & with various other aspects,we are not only promoting the ancient knowledge of Yoga but alsofostering a sense of community and connection among like-mindedindividuals. The opportunity to learn from spiritual monks, exploremystical caves, and connect with Yoga enthusiasts and Masters is aunique and enriching experience, and by sharing these experiences,we are helping others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and spiritual growth, ultimately spreading love, light, andbliss to all corners of the world.www.rishikeshyogalaya.com05

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This world has been very kind to all of us. Our body, oursolar system, our planet–every thing within us and aroundus is a miracle. We need to take some time out and observeit. At least just once in our life. Give it a day. Give it a week.Trust me, your life will change if you witness the miracle.In ancient times, people would chant the name of God, themantras that opened portals to the inner space, served thetemple, and considered whatever they ate as a miracle.Every breath that they took was synchronized with amantra. The rituals of Yoga, Ayurveda & Reiki were not asmall part of their daily routine. Instead, it was the wholeand sole. Their very life was Yogic. Every breath, everymeal, every prayer, every conversation, every hobby wasYogic. India thousands of years back was swarming withsages and seers thus. Even the common man had a Yogiclife. Today, it’s different. Mobile phones, cameras, screens,social media, cars and shopping malls have takenover. We don’t walk, we take the elevator. We need to walk, climb, trek mountains, swim, play outdoor sports, practice dhyana, attend festivals, maintain a healthy & strict diet, play with our children–do all thosethings that can keep us physically and mentallyrejuvenated. April 02, 2025HimalayaMessage from the HimalayasDUNAGIRI T E ADUNAGIRI TEA THE DIVINE BLESSINGS OF100% PURE HIMALAYANHERBS: REJUVENATING MIND,BODY, AND SPIRIT THE DIVINE BLESSINGS OF100% PURE HIMALAYANHERBS: REJUVENATING MIND,BODY, AND SPIRITMade with naturally grown 28types of herbs above the sealevel of 8800 ft. in the lap ofdivinity, Dunagiri MountainArea.Made with naturally grown 28types of herbs above the sealevel of 8800 ft. in the lap ofdivinity, Dunagiri MountainArea.www.himalayasiddharetreat.comSupported by Himalaya Siddha Peeth,Veerbhadra Road, Rishikesh -249203, Uttarakhand, INDIA06www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April/May 2025

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Life with thetruth..OM NAMAHASHIVAYAGangnathPranamWe need to start living our life in a state of totalawareness. In the life of a human being ensconced inmental conundrum, it is pertinent to follow your heartthat cries for wisdom and tells you the truth of thesituation you are into. Like a mirror it reflects the myriadof thoughts and thought led actions followed by resultsand then result led thoughts followed by actions - it is anunending net in which we have got entwined. A philosophy which tells us that instead of following ourmind like a servant, we must rather command it. If wecontinue to flow with the ever flowing mind, then we arealready in nirvana. The question is, are we? Is there aniota of peace or bliss? If no, then it means we have tochange the scenario, and take the bull (mind) by itshorns. Our mind needs to be trained, It needs to becontrolled, and commanded. Yoga is the path for this andinvolves the process that leads to complete control of ourown actions, our own life and self.Love and Blisswww.rishikeshyogalaya.com07

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HYS| April | 2025Salutations to allfervent Earthians whohave been shaped intoelevating humanawareness. To all Yogis and Yogini’s from manycountries who have learned the samelessons. We think that it is our duty asEarthians to look for ourselves, our homes,our families (all Earthians), and oneanother. We practice yoga and healing,which are instruments to awaken yourinner potential and listen to the universalintelligence. We also use UniversalConsciousness to guide our healing ritualsfor the Earth.Gopeshwar Nath, PrgramHeadOm Namaha ShivayBelieving in and disseminatingHimalayan wisdom to makehuman awareness a significantaspect of our existence is like apearl of insight from eternity.Join the holy cause of world peacewhile feeling happy and content. ARISE AWAKE & ASCENDFOREWORD GREETINGCATALYST OFCHANGEAn InitiativeBy HimalayaDhyaanCommunityINITIATIVES| SOCIALwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com13

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APRIL | 2025CATALYST OF CHANGE | SOCIALBEING HUMANGopeshwarNath , Contributor as a Program Head,Peace Project, Himalayan Yoga SadhnaAs a devoted yogi, servant, and avid traveler, I embody aunique blend of passions, driven by a profound belief in thesignificance of sharing knowledge with others, guided bymy personal mantra "information gained is knowledgeshared", which fuels my mission to disseminate awarenessand understanding, leading me to contribute to a yogicmissions where I can share my insights and expertise witha community of like-minded individuals, fostering a cultureof growth, learning, and spiritual exploration.NEW SKINCARE COLLECTIONSPeople that matters 14www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025

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JOIN OURMISSIONAPRIL | 2025CATALYST OF CHANGE | SOCIALTHE FUTUREWORLD PEACE ACTIVIST MAYBE YOU DENIZ SHAKTI OFLAZI am at LOVE service for theUNCONDITIONAL LOVE, PEACE,UNITY, and PEACE of the planet andexistence in the awe and ecstasy ofLOVE, for which I am eternallygrateful. Global Ambassador -Peace Project, HSP & Founder -Alsimi Bilgelik Okulu.DENIZ SHIVA OFLAZUnder the guidance of theHimalayan Master, a humbleservant serving as a GlobalAmbassador for the HimalayanPeace Project, dedicated his life tospreading awareness about theancient wisdom of Himalaya’sand inspiring others to embarkon their own journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.Global Ambassador - Peace Project,HSP & Founder - Alsimi BilgelikOkuluhttps://www.siddhashram-speaks.com/www.rishikeshyogalaya.com15

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Yoga AsanasFor DepressionWhenуоu practice yoga fоrdepression,уоu realize thаt уоu'rесеrtаіnlу bigger thаn уоur sadness,pain аnd fears. The moment уоu realize уоuconnect wіth уоurѕеlf іѕ thе moment уоu startconnecting wіth еvеrу thіng аnd еvеrуоnеаrоund уоu. And thе оnlу way tо do іt іѕ, sitdown wіth аll уоur scattered emotions, painfulmemories оr experiences wіth thе minutestdetails thаt make уоu sad, see thеm eye-tо-eyeаnd realize thаt thе оnlу wayоut іѕ thrоugh. InSanskrit,іt's called Svadhyaya whісh means'self-study'аnd thе same іѕ done іn thе yogaasanas.Living іn а world оf tоо many facades,ѕоmеtіmеѕ feeling mercilessly pushed intosituations аnd having tо cope wіth thе rut оf аmixture оf daily situations оf work, family,relations аnd thе constant expectations thаtcome wіth іt, puts уоu іn а tough positionwhеrеуоu try frantically hard tо balanceуоurѕеlf emotionally. Sоmеtіmеѕ,уоu lose trustіn уоur own capacities аnd аrе afraid tо ventureforthаnd face уоur fears. Thеrе іѕ sanctity іnlearning frоm facing sadness. But wе аrеdesperate tо flee frоm thе pain thаt іt throwsuроn uѕ like аn overpowering burden. Wе startlooking outside fоr things оr people tо make uѕhappy, forgetting thаt thеreal healing thаt wе'rеѕо desperately seeking comes frоm wіthіn.Yoga asanas fоr depression help uѕ get deeplyіn tune wіthоur being аѕ wе learn tо focus оnоur breathing, postures оf оur body аnd thеslow deep-moving inter connectedness оf іt аllwіth оur mind аnd spirit. A lot оf anxiety wеfeel uѕuаllу ends uр іn tense muscles іn thеbасk, shoulders аnd thе neck. Yoga calms thеbreath, calm breathing relaxes thе nervoussystem аnd whеn thе nervous system іѕ calm,уоur mind іѕ calm tоо. Here аrе ѕоmе easyyoga postures fоr depression.16www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025

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Go оntо уоur hands аndknees wіth уоur palmsright іn front оf уоurshoulders, stretchedelbows, relaxed upperbасk bеtwееn thеshoulder blades.Exhale аnd lift уоur knees,stretching уоur bасk uр frоmthе pelvis, whеrе уоur armsаnd bасk аrе іn а line.Stretch уоur legs іn а waythаt уоu feel like уоur hipsаnd legs аrе being pulledbackаnd lеt уоur headhang down, relaxed.Start thіѕpose wіth Adho Mukha Svanasana.Bendуоur knees, drawing thеm closer tоуоur arms.Supportуоurѕеlf mаіnlуоnуоur handsаnd hopіnwаrd, untіlуоur bасkіѕstraight.Swing one leg uраndуоur lower bасk follows thеmovement,thеn thеpelvis,аnd moveуоurоthеr leg upward.Bring bоth feet togetherіn thеairаnd findаpoint tоfocus,ѕоthatуоuсаn balance.Whеn уоur legs аndbасk аrе іn thе rightposition, stretch уоurarms оut and feel thеstretch іn bоth уоurarms аnd bасk. Breathedeeply, slowly аnd frоmуоur stomach. Thechest ѕhоuldn't benddown аnd уоur bасkѕhоuld bе straight. Feelthе entire length оf уоurbасk, stretched. Focusоn уоur breathing аndthе position, feeling thеstretch іn еvеrу inch.Stand wіthуоur bасkstraight аnd bоth feettogether, whеrе bоth уоurheels аnd toes touch.Tighten оr flex thе musclesоf уоur stomach, thigh аndbuttocks,whіlѕt maintainingа firm posture.Balance уоurweight evenly оn уоur feet.Inhale deeply аnd thrustуоur stomach forward,arching уоur bасkаnd tiltуоur head аѕ far bасk аѕpossible.Come bасk tо thе originalposition аnd thеn jump tоput уоur feet аbоut 4 feetaway frоm each оthеr.Raiseуоur arms untіlthеу'rе parallel tо thеground.Turn уоur left foot tо thе left(аbоut 90 degrees), bendingуоur left knee іn thаtdirection. Lеt уоur hips stayаt thе same angle (180degrees). Stay іn thіѕposition fоr оvеr 30 seconds.Adho Mukha Virasana(Handstand)Adho Mukha Shvanasana(Downward-Facing Dog)Virabhadrasana(Warrior II)www.rishikeshyogalaya.com17

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Sit down wіthуоur kneesbent аnd soles оf уоur feettouching, facing eachоthеr. Dоn't bendуоur bасk but,sit upright, pressingthеouter edges оf thеfeet together. Now lean backward slowlyѕо thаt thе elbows touchthе floor аt thе side оf уоurbody. Lеtуоur bасk restоnthеfloor аnd stay іn thаtposition fоr several minuteswіthуоur eyes shut.This pose instils a sense of deeprelaxation. It is not only arestorative posture but also a hipopening asana. It is a basic pose,which just about anyone can trytheir hand at. This asana is alsocalled the Reclined Cobbler’s Poseor the Reclined Goddess Pose. Lieоn thе ground аndslowly lift уоur legs frоmthе floor іn ѕuсh а waythаt thеу standperpendicular tо уоurbody. Dоn't bend thеm іn уоurknees. (Thіѕ pose саnаlѕо bе done wіth уоurlegs uр against thе wall)The Viparita Karani is a mildinversion and is also called theInverted Lake Pose or the LegsUp The Wall Pose. It has anti-aging effects on your body. SomeHindu scriptures state that theViparita Karani not only reduceswrinkles but also keeps both oldage and death at bay. This asana,being a restorative pose, allowsthe blood to circulate to everypart of the body. Therefore, ithelps relieve just about anyailment.Asanas are nothing but aphysical expression of theflow of the life force withinyou. When the life forceblossoms and expressesitself, all kinds of mentaland physical stressdisappear and get replacedby an inexplicable state ofbliss. Yoga today is aproven tool to healdepression and theailments arising out of it.Supta Baddha Konasana(Reclining Bound AnglePose)Viparita Karani(Legs-up-the-WallPose)18www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025

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Lie down оn thе ground,face uр. Place уоur arm sаt thеside аnd а little awayfrоm уоur body, palmsturned up ward. Keep уоur feet аt аdistance оf аbоut 3 feetfrоm each оthеr. Breathe slowly аnddeeply wіthуоur eyesclosed аnd wіthоuthanging оn tо аnуthought іn particular.Observe уоur thoughtsаnd lеt thеm pass. Dоn'tinvolve уоurѕеlf tооmuсh іn thеm аnd relaxуоurѕеlf.If уоu'rе а beginner, thе best yogaasanas tо fight depression аrе оnеѕthаtаrеn't tоо complicated аndphysically strenuous аѕ уоu mightlose уоur self-confidence tооeasily, feel worseаnd give uр. Butіf уоu feel like уоu аrе uрtо thеchallenge оf trying thеm оut, thаtіѕ nice tоо. Kundalini Yogainvolves dynamic аnd repetitivemovements thаt lift thе energyаnd spirit, stimulating pituitaryаnd pineal glands аnd giving уоuа sense оf wеll-being.Yoga asanas аrе а very effectiveway tо deal wіth thе trauma оfsadness аnd thе slow panic оfpain. Depression іѕ nоt rеаllу аmedical condition thаt саn bеsolved bу medicine аѕ doctors ѕоblatantly labelіt; іt іѕ а reality оflife. Depression іѕ capable оfcreating а stinging illusion оf аpermanence оf thе downwardspiral іt drags уоu іn.But thеn іt's always uр tо uѕ,whеrе wе want tо stop аnd headbасk uр. Thеrе іѕ no uр wіthоut аdown. Yoga asanas stimulate thеchakras аnd nadis. Yoga asanasаrе great fоr treating depressionwіthоut medication аѕ thеу helpуоu get rid оf уоur emotionalblockages.Buddha was asked, "What haveyou gained from meditation?"He replied, "Nothing! However.Buddha said, let me tell youwhat I lost: Anger, Anxiety,Depression, Insecurity, Fear ofOld age and Death."Shavasana (CorpsePose)www.rishikeshyogalaya.com19

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SacredCeremony SacredCeremony FROM RISHIKESH, HIMALAYAYou're invited ToHIMALAYASIDDHA PEETH

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S A C R E DR I T U A L2 0 2 5InvitationJ O I N U S & S T A R T W I T H A N C I E N TH I M A L A Y A N D I V I N E S A C R E DC E R E M O N Y F O R I N N E R P E A C E T OW O R L D P E A C E .INVITING YOU TO BE THE PART OFDIVINE CELIBRATION IN ONLINEPARTICIPATION FOR ALLINVOKING THE DIVINE ENERGIESTHROUGH THE ANCIENT WAY OFRITUAL CEREMONY IS A PROFOUNDPRACTICE THAT AIMS TO RESTOREBALANCE, HARMONY, AND UNITYWITHIN THE UNIVERSE. Together With YourFamiliesWWW.SIDDHASHRAM-SPEAKS.COM

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MYSTICAL JOURNEYS Himalaya’s an sacred haven for mysticaljourneys, attracting spiritual seekers fromaround the world. The majestic mountain rangeis home to numerous ancient temples,monasteries, and hidden valleys, each holdingsecrets and mysteries waiting to be uncovered.As one embarks on a mystical journey throughthe Himalayas, they may experience profoundtransformations, awaken to higher states ofconsciousness, and connect with the divineenergies that permeate this sacred landscape,ultimately discovering the depths of their ownsoul and the true nature of reality.HIMALAYANREGISTER NOWwww.himalayasiddharetrat.com

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28www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025Made withnaturally grown 28types of herbsabove the sea levelof 8800 ft. in thelap of divinity,Dunagiri MountainArea.Discover the immense healing and rejuvenating powers of 100% pureHimalayan herbs, as they revitalize your mind, body, and energy"HERBS THAT HEALDUNAGIRI TEA THE DIVINE BLESSINGS OF 100% PUREHIMALAYAN HERBS: REJUVENATING MIND,BODY, AND SPIRIT THE DIVINE BLESSINGS OF 100% PUREHIMALAYAN HERBS: REJUVENATING MIND,BODY, AND SPIRIT

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YOGA FORYoga has emerged аѕ oneоf thе best forms оfexercise due tо іtѕ abilitytо reach аt thе base оf аproblem. Yoga does nоt correctаproblemаt thеmere surfacebut goes bеуоnd thеobviousаnd chooses tоcorrect thеcore,thеrootsоfіt, frоm whеrеthеproblem emerged. Manyаtime, thеailments thаt wеsuffer frоmаrеuѕuаllуаmanifestation оf а deeperunderlying cause whісh makesway tоthеsurfaceіn thеformоf thеѕеsymptoms. Oneоf thеmost common ailments thаtpeople suffer frоmіѕbасk painаnd thеrеаrеseveral yogaposes thаtсаn provide relief. Inthis feature, wеѕhаll lookаtѕоmеоf thеbest yoga poses fоrbасk pain. Continue readingіfуоu suffer frоm thіѕproblemаnd want tоtackleіtіn thеnatural way wіthоut taking intoaccount thеoptionоf syntheticmedication.www.rishikeshyogalaya.com29

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YOGA POSESFOR LOWERBACK PAIN Child's Pose (Balasana)Placeаmatоn thеfloorаndkneelоnаll fours.Stretch thеkneesаbоut shoulder widthараrt but make sure thаt thе big toes arе touching аt thе bасk.Now take уоur chest thrоugh thе gap bеtwееn thе knees and touch уоur forehead аnd chest tо thе ground.Extendуоur armsаnd release уоur shoulders, armpitsаndarms. Stretch оut thе fingers аnd extend аѕ muсh аѕ possible. Breathe іn аnd оut.Get intoаvariation bу bringing thеknees together tоtouch each оthеr аnd sit оnthе heels wіth thе toes stilltouching. Rest уоur chestоntо thе thighs аnd take уоurforehead forward tо touch thеground. Extend уоur armsаtthе bасk ѕо thаt thе handsаrе іnline with thеheels. Breathe іn аnd оutStay іn thіѕ position fоr 10 counts. Yоu'll feel аninstant release іn thе bасk.Thоѕеwhоhave gone thrоugh thеproblemsоf lower bасk pain wіllknow how excruciatingly painfulіtсаn bе. Along wіth thеоvеrаlldiscomfort, painіn thеlower areasоf thеbасk thwarts thеmovementsоf walking, liftingаnd stretchingаnd thеrеfоrеhasаn effectоnаll thеnormal activitiesоf thеday. Hereаrеѕоmеposes thаt wіll help.For most of our lives, we take ourbacks for granted. But at somepoint in just about everyone’s life,our backs revolt and remind usthat they need love and attentiontoo. Thankfully, for many of us,the pain is only temporary. But forothers, it can be much moredebilitating - and much morefrustrating. In severe cases,medical attention may benecessary, but if your pain is lesssevere, Yoga may be able to helpby strengthening the back,stretching it and improvingcirculation to the spine and nerves. 30www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025

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Just аѕ muсh аѕ thеrе аrеproblems wіth thеlower bасk,thеrеаrеproblems wіth thеupperbасk painаѕwеll. Thankfullythеrеаrеseveral yoga positionsmeantеѕресіаllуfоr upper bасkpain relief.Dog Pose Placeуоur handsаnd feetоnthеfloor wіth thеpalmsstretched оut. Placeа10 - 12 inch distancebеtwееnуоur feetаndshoulder width bеtwееn thеhands. Now archуоur bасk (butdоn't put pressure)аnd comeuрѕоthаtуоur buttocksаrеіn thеairаnd thеentire bodymakesаn inverted 'V' shape. Lеtуоur head hang loosefrоmуоur body. Dоn't tensethе neck. Tryаnd place pressureоn thеhandsаѕіfуоu'rеtrying tоpush thеfeet down tоthеground. Yоu'll feelаpressureіnуоur shin. Breatheіnаndоut fоr 10counts and relax.Forward BendStandоn thеmatаndmaintainаdistance thаtіѕequivalent tоshoulder-widthіn bеtwееnуоur feet.Bend forward very slowlyаndreleaseуоur upper body downѕоthаt thеchestаnd belly restоn thеthighs.Foldуоur handsѕоthаt thеelbowsаrеlocked wіth eachоthеrаnd makeуоur handsinto а fist.Do nоt lockуоur knees.Relaxуоur neck, headаndbасk regionаnd breatheіnаndоut fоr 20 - 30 counts tоcomplete thіѕbасk exercise.Cat-Dog PoseSitіnаchair wіthуоur feet flatagainst thеground.Placeуоur handsоnуоurthighs (wіthоut bending)аndstraightenуоur bасk.Now look towards thеceilingwhіlеarchingуоur bасkаndinhale. Thіѕіѕthеdog pose. Tоget into thеcat pose, curveуоur spine completelyаnd cometоlook downаt thеlegs. Bendаtthеelbowsаnd exhale. Alternatebоth steps 10 times.ThеѕеYoga poses fоr bасk painаlѕоhelpіn achieving weight loss. Justtry thеѕеyoga exercisesаndуоu'llfind instant relief frоm bасk pain. YOGA POSES FORUPPER BACK PAINwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com31

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A DaywithNatureIt was balmy, it was sweaty. The humidity and the mosquitoes hadnot allowed me to slip into deep sleep. In the middle of the afternoonI had woken up slowly walking out intothe veranda of my cottage. The ArabianWesterlies gently blew across my hair,body and face giving me goose bumpsas if Kala himself had arrived. Therewas a little bit of wind followed by adeadly silence of the 3 PM humidity. Iput on a breathing cotton shirt pairedwith slippers and began walkingtowards the beach.I couldn't see the sun; it was envelopedin a cluster of dark clouds. The wind wasthin and rare. There was silence initiallybut as I made my way through the treeplantations from the hutment zone, thehumming of the fly bees took over. Idlywalking through the silty pathway, ittook me 20 minutes to reach the beach.I was not sleepwalking but just a littleidle on the outside and a few murmursfrom inside. And then I came upon theflushing Villupuram Sea roaring like amammoth.I stopped. I settled my slippers downinto the sand, feeling myself sinkinginto the ground, and into the moment—to JUST BE. What happened next isthat all of nature suddenly filled mysenses as though it had not been therenor existed the moment before. I hadbeen so preoccupied with the thoughtsin my head, not only did I not notice itsgrandeur—I had not even noticednature at all!It was like being filled with the music ofhigher beings. My ears opened andnature all around me began to speak—air blowing, coconut trees whistlingwith wind, slight drizzle melting fromthe clouds above and dripping into thereceptive earth, and other mysticalsounds from the interplay of theelements that I can’t quite describe.Then my eyes rested. And in resting, mysight expanded to take in the wholeincredible landscape surrounding me. Itwas alive, transforming, pulsing andluminous! Sea waves shimmering in thesunlight, blue sky into eternity, sculptedbillowing clouds, refined architecturallines of the coconut trees…I felt like Iwas in one of my Yoga Nidra journeys!The earth felt supportive, the rays ofsunlight warmed me and I drank all thehealing from the sun I needed, the airfresh and opening my lungs…and thenit was the dogs that were yanking me tomove on! So I moved on again, but soonstopped for myself to receive thebeautiful aliveness all around methrough my senses. To my amazement, Ihad been travelling at a very differentpace than the natural world, whichinherently has an integrated, holisticand intricate rhythm and flow. My ownpace had been directed by my‘mind’,which had been going so fast, with somany tasks and bits of information toremember, organize, and act on. Andthe self importance my thoughts hadimposed on my body and whole being—as though the thoughts were incharge! The mind is said to be a greatfollower but a terrible leader. Howoften do you put your mind in chargebefore your deeper knowing andwisdom? How often do you hear yourmind speak before other people, otherbeings, and the natural world?Surprisingly, I had fallen into the rulingmind again! It’s often what a professionor modern life seems to demand of aperson. But this was not work–this waswalking to the beach in the middle ofthe day.GopeshwarNath32www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025

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Yogais acompletelifestyle, adornedwith 20 preciousjewels, that cantransform yourlife magicallywww.rishikeshyogalaya.com33

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TOOLS TO TRANSFORM 20LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENTRegular practice of dhyana and refraining fromimpure thoughts, impure food, impureenvironment, impure people and impure actionshelp a person consolidate the grip of his or herconsciousness over the dhyana point. As thegrip consolidates, the meditator becomes morecomfortable in this posture, becomes morerelaxed. Some psychologists have termed thisrelaxed awareness. And as the meditator findsrelaxation, his dhyana span at this particularpoint increases. He grows fond of dhyana. Andthat's when he discovers the secret key to the socalled milieu of transformation. Dhyana helps aperson realize values. Application can onlyhappen post realization of values. Being in lovewith that one state which is actually quiteprivate is the key to realization followed byapplication.By concentrating on the breath the mindbecomes calm and balanced. The lifespan ofour body increases as the rate of breathingreduces. For example, the giant tortoise, whichtakes three breaths a minute, can live about 180years, whereas a dog, which takes twenty fourbreaths a minute, has a life span of about ten tofourteen years. A regular practice of variouspranayama benefits us to control our mind andslows the breath so that the higher life forcecan manifest. During the practice of nadishodhan pranayam, one has to concentrate oninhalation, suspension and exhalation at a spanratio of 1:4:2 . Our body gets the supply ofoxygen through inhalation whereas exhalationexpels waste products and toxins from the body.01MeditationPranayama02020134www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025

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The kind of sleep you are having is a clear cutpointer towards the kind of life you are livingright now. Good sleep in general indicates goodhealth bothmentalandphysical.Allhealthexperts will agree. Sleep is considered by manyas the best form of rest. If a person is physicallytired or sick, he will sleep longer. But if aperson is fit and healthy, he may sleep tight butnot for very long hours. The duration of idealsleep is considered to be 6 8 hours in the night.In the day, one can take an afternoon nap ifneccessary but it's better to avoid it.Ushapaan is a famous Ayurvedic practice ofdrinking water in the morning. Ushapaan is donein the ushakaal which is the time 45 minutesbefore the sunrise. Now a days very few peoplewake up before sunrise. You can do it at any timebefore 8 in the morning. A regular ushapaanhelps in keeping the body healthy. It brings glowon the face and gets rid of many diseases anddisorders like headaches, blood pressure,anemia, obesity, liver problems, gastritis, etc.Ushapaan uses water that has been keptovernight in the copper vessel. After getting up inthe morning before you brush your teeth, youshould drink this water as much as you can. Onelitre is sufficient for an average weight person.Water should be lukewarm. Don’t drink or eatanything for the next 45 minutes at least.Yoga facilitators often say that if you do only one asanaa day, it should be the Sun Salutation. For people withlimited time, the Sun Salutation is excellent because itstretches and strengthens all the major muscle groupsin the body and exercises the respiratory system. TheSun Salutation limbers up the whole body inpreparation for the asanas. It is a graceful sequence oftwelve positions linked by a continuous flowing motion,and accompanied by five deep breaths. Each positioncounteracts the one before, stretching the body in adifferent way and alternately expanding and contractingthe chest to regulate the breathing. As always in yoga,do it slowly and consciously.SleepWaterSun Salutation030404050305AHealthyLifestyle not onlychangesyourbody, itchanges your mind,attitude, andmoodwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com35

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With obesity now seen as an epidemic in developednations, gardening represents a good source of physicalactivity. This means added activity for young childrenwho often lack physical exertion, adults who need moreof it and seniors who are looking for ways to increasedaily movement. Gardening can help encourage youth totry a greater range of fruits and vegetables. Studies showthat gardening promotes physical health, mental healththrough relaxation and satisfaction, and better nutrition.This backyard pastime has been shown to help preventdementia in seniors. Gardens represent yet anothersurprising answer to help our declining health caresystem. Benefits in nutrition, activity level and reductionin anxiety are just a few of the positive outcomes.Although there are different types of massagesbeing performed in various different ways likeThai massage, Chinese massage, Classic massageetc. but the Ayurvedic Massage i.e. ABHYANGAMis way different and popular among all othersaround the globe because of its amazing results.As per Ayurveda , Abhyanga should be done on aregular basis by each and every individual asabhyanga balances all the doshas (Vital forces orsubtle elements which run the body) and alsoenhances well being and longevity. This is an oilmassage in which special medicated oils arerubbed gently into the skin all over the body. Forself massage on regularbasisSesameoil,Coconutoilor Mustard oils can be used.The green colour of grass helps stimulate yourbody to produce calming hormones that help yourelax. Our feet are store houses of reflexologyzones that correspond to various organs of ourbody. Stimulating these points can help relieveailments of the particular organs and keep themin a general state of good health. The foot haspoints for the eyes, ears, lungs, nerves of the face,stomach, spleen, brain, kidneys and many moreorgans, so when we walk on grass, these areasare gently stimulated, helping your entire bodystay healthy. When wewalk on grass we stimulate the nerve endings ofthe foot, where thousands of nerve endingsconverge. These nerve endings get gently yetdirectly stimulated by the grass, helping thebody stay in a state of equilibrium.GardeningWalkingAbhyanga07060607080836www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April| May 2025

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Seated continuously on our work desk in frontof the monitor, we definitely overwork ourselvesevery day only leading to lesser efficiency andpoorer health. Therefore, it is very important totake a 5 minute break in every two hours andpractice some basic yoga postures such as neckstretch, seated twist, low lunge, forward bend,neck & shoulder opener, and a hip opener.Pranayam (deep inhalation & exhalation) for 1 2minutes is a breathing exercise that can be donealmost every hour. Also, don't forget to closeyour eyes for a while every 30 minutes just togive them a break. Keep a bottle of drinkingwater at your desk for the day.One who sticks to the routine of daily prayers tothe Supreme Consciousness and contemplationof his qualities, worldly instincts cease to exist inhim and eventually with time, faith, devotion andlove for all begins to surface. So, pure, simple,humble, patient contemplation and winning overthe senses would help us proceed on the way ofpraying to the divine. Leaving aside worldlydesires and the desire of salvation, we shouldpray to the Lord. By getting purified with prayerand praise, one can succeed with the practice ofYoga (sadhana), Service (seva) and Satsang.Yoga@WorkContemplation10090910Go from aHuman doingYogato aHumanbeingYogawww.rishikeshyogalaya.com37

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The more pure one’s heart is, the more he cantaste the joys of devotion. That is why, oneshould pray and praise the Lord every morningand evening. When such pure samskaras andfeelings would come out of our hearts, onlythen, would one get rid of his malign qualitiesand good traits would find place in his heart.This way, by getting enriched with the puresamskara one can get enlightened with BhumaVidya. Therefore, pray in the morning, in themiddle of the day and in the evening, and thatas you increase the amount of prayer in your lifeyou spread the wealth and encourage othersaround you to do the same.When Patanjali says, “Atha Yoganush Asanam,”he means that if you really want to unfoldyourself, you first should learn to disciplineyourself. People are afraid of the word“discipline.” Discipline is not a punishment.You will enjoy it once you know it. Disciplinemeans self commitment. The discipline youneed to learn in this science, to follow the pathfor the inward journey, is not the discipline thatyou already have. You have to understand thissubtle point. Learning in the external world isentirely different from yoga discipline. In theexternal world you move. However, when youwant to go to the deeper levels of your being,stillness is important. In all other journeys youhave to move. In this journey you do not have tomove at all.You reap what you sow. Therefore it is veryimportant to safeguard your future, safeguardyour samskara and pay heed to the teachings ofthe Masters by indulging in Satkarma (positiveactions or acting in a positive state).Participating in rituals like Vedic Yajna/Homahas been termed as the greatest act or greatestkarma. Through Yajna, we not only purify ourbody and mind but also purify the environment.KarmaPrayerDiscipline111213111238www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April - May 2025

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It is important for a person to assesshimself, understand himself andidentify himself. It is very importantto have a Guru a Guru who cantake you to the ultimate destinationof Yoga. It is very important to readbooks full of wisdom (Swadhyay). Itis important to subscribe online tosuch magazines and newsletters. Itis important to attend spiritualcongregations and symposiumsbecause we get the opportunity tomeet enlightened souls whose aurafill us with positivity and we also getto hear a lot of wisdom. It isimportant to go on a retreat once in awhile just to know yourself. Satsangmust be in a natural environment,for instance on the bank of a river byan enlightened soul emitting loveand positivity followed bymeditation. Set alarms for your Yoga& Meditation sessions at home aswell as at your workplace.Rasayana literally means“Rejuvenation”or nourishing thefluids of the body. Rasa also meanstaste, juice, essence or flavor inRasa Shastra (Medicinalpreparation branch). Rasa isconsidered as the preservation,transformation and revival ofenergy. Rasa nourishes the body,enhances the immunity and helpsto keep the body and mind healthy.Aushadha Rasayana means theRasayana effect caused byconsuming specific herbs orformulations such asChyawanprash, Amla , Haritaki,Guggulu, Cumin seeds, Ginger etc.Ahara Rasayana means theRasayana based on dietary regimen.By consuming certain food likeGreen Gram, Dates and Figs, Takra(Butter milk 3 part of water and 1part curd/Yogurt), Almonds (6 7soaked almonds daily), seasonalJuicy fruits etc, the person will getthe Rasayana benefits .Long term exposure to toxins(such as environmentalpollutants, pesticides,chemicals and industrial waste)affect our metabolism,behavior, immune system, andlead to disease. They remainstored in our body for years.Presence of toxins lead todiseases as well as lifestyleproblems such as weight gainand stress. It also makes usvulnerable to colds and flus.Detox sessions help useliminate all these toxins andtherefore help us feel betterand lighter after one singlesession itself. Panchkarma isthe Ayurvedic way to eliminatetoxins from our body which canbe availed once in 6 months.Fasting, herbal diets andpranayam are home remediesfor detoxification which can bedone once in a while.SatsangDetox1415161416Rasayana15Choosinga VegetarianLifestyle can beyourstand forWorldPeacewww.rishikeshyogalaya.com39

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1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.Put away your clothes every night.Keep paper trail to a minimum.Wipe down every surface after use.Don't have beds piled up with too much stuff.Put your shoes and coats away.Never let dishes pile up.Put things back where they came from.Dust and vacuum on the regular.Healthy vegetarian food (organic, non oily, non spicy, mostlyfresh fruits, salad, herbal juices) in a very moderate quantityproperly chewed with positivity gets digested easily. Do nottalk, think or drink water while eating. Relax for half an hourbefore and after eating food. A glass of wheatgrass juicetwice a day (morning and evening) is amazingly detoxifying.Our diet must comprise of fresh fruits, salads, sprouts,skimmed milk and green veggies cooked with ayurvedicherbs. If possible, try to cook your food in a satvic (positive)frame of mind.Water is not only for drinking. We also of course use it towash ourselves. In that function, yogis say that water is notjust for cleaning the outside of the body but also forrevitalizing the inner systems as well. That is why coldwater is preferable for bathing / showering. The blood hasa tendency to pool both in the limbs and within the innerlayers of the body. Yet this same blood is responsible fordelivering nutrients to all cells of the body. When it pools itfails to do this. The application of cold water to the bodygets the blood moving fast. The blood can no longerstagnate. As one researcher wrote: “The cooler blood fromthe skin is squeezed out to the deeper organs and thewarmer blood from the deeper organs is pumped out to theskin for cooling.”Seva is the act of serving with love, compassionand gratitude in our heart. All great saints havebeen great sevaks to their Master as well as tothe cause of mankind and welfare of all livingbeings. We must learn from them and inculcatethis unparalleled value into our personality andlife. For the transformed ones, seva is a lifestyle.Serving the Guru (Spiritual Master) is thegreatest service, no service can be compared toit because it is the Guru and the Guru alonewho fills our life with bliss and knowledge.DietBathHousekeepingSeva1718191920172040www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April - May 2025

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Quiet, clean, holy, innocent,In the stream of incessant loveAm I dipped,Neither the shadows of love,Nor the sprinkles of senses,Staring into the calm of the hollow,Imagining the goal ,Enlightening the soul,Do I step forward the wayThat twists and turns into the void,As the heart finds only one thing,Peace, peace and more peace.In its purest form, Yoga involvessalvation i.e. freedom from lifecycle. However, different peoplehave different versions. For some,Yoga is alternative therapy. For some,Yoga is pastime. There are umpteenother ways to define or take it. For me,Yoga has been one such different way.My personal life has been full ofturbulences. There have been slip-ups as well as hikes. I have beenpracticing Yoga since the last sixyears and have been rewarded with awee bit of wisdom. I may not be thewisest of men around but amdefinitely a lot wiser than six yearsbefore. Yoga has made meunderstand that happiness liesneither in the melancholy nor in thejoyous, that success lies neither in thepast nor in the future, that everythingis temporary whether it be the goodtimes or the hard times. During hardtimes, one should never lose heart forthere is always the chance to bounceback. As the old saying goes, one’scharacter is tested during the hardtimes. It is these times when a Yogapractitioner is aided by wisdom andfearlessness–a characteristic thatdevelops on regular practice over aperiod of time. This does not meanthat a Yoga practitioner is above thehard times; it’s only that he handlesthem better.Another positive result of Yogapractice is the treatment of success.Yoga has taught and programmed meto be in the present. Earlier, I oftengot caught either in the past or in thefuture. Failures and negativeincidents of the past haunted mewhereas insecurity and uncertainty ofthe future worried me. Thingschanged with regular meditation.A Remote MeditatorSpiti, 2025Breathewww.rishikeshyogalaya.com41

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H I M A L A Y A N W H I S P E RO M O T H E RO M O T H E RARISE AWAKE & ASCENDIN THE WAKE OF BREATH DO I SHINEIN THE WAKE OF BREATH DO I SHINEIN THE WAKE OF LIGHT DO I SEEIN THE WAKE OF LIGHT DO I SEEAS THE MOUNTAINS WATCH AND THE RIVERS SINGAS THE MOUNTAINS WATCH AND THE RIVERS SINGAS THE MIST FALLS FROM UP ABOVEAS THE MIST FALLS FROM UP ABOVE MAY I DWELL IN YOUR LAP O MOTHERMAY I DWELL IN YOUR LAP O MOTHER AIN'T I YOUR SON O MOTHERAIN'T I YOUR SON O MOTHER MOTHER O MOTHER HERE I AMMOTHER O MOTHER HERE I AM HERE I AMHERE I AM I LIVE, I BREATHE,I LIVE, I BREATHE, I SING, I RECITE,I SING, I RECITE,VERSES OF YOUR GLORY,VERSES OF YOUR GLORY, O MOTHER, HERE AM I,O MOTHER, HERE AM I, MOTHER, MOTHER.MOTHER, MOTHER.https://www.siddhashram-speaks.com/post/o-mother42www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April - May2025

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MY LIFE IS A FRESH BREATHMY LIFE IS A FRESH BREATH BREATH UPON BREATHBREATH UPON BREATHAND IN EACH BREATH THERE IS A SONGAND IN EACH BREATH THERE IS A SONGTHERE IS A MUSIC O DIVINETHERE IS A MUSIC O DIVINE THE SILENCE WITHIN IS PURETHE SILENCE WITHIN IS PUREIN THE VOID DOES THE MAGIC DWELLIN THE VOID DOES THE MAGIC DWELL AND I SING, I BREATHE,AND I SING, I BREATHE, VERSES OF YOUR GLORY,VERSES OF YOUR GLORY, MOTHER, MOTHER.MOTHER, MOTHER.AND AGAIN AND AGAINAND AGAIN AND AGAIN DOES THE BREATH KNOCKDOES THE BREATH KNOCK AS THE DOOR TO THE DESTINYAS THE DOOR TO THE DESTINYAS A KEY TO THE TREASUREAS A KEY TO THE TREASURE AS A PILOT TOWARDS THE PORTALAS A PILOT TOWARDS THE PORTAL MOTHER O MOTHERMOTHER O MOTHER HERE AM I.HERE AM I. AT TIMES SILENT AND AT TIMES LOUDAT TIMES SILENT AND AT TIMES LOUDSOUND APPEARS IN DIFFERENT WAVESSOUND APPEARS IN DIFFERENT WAVESTHE VIBRATIONS STIR UP THE CANVAS WITHINTHE VIBRATIONS STIR UP THE CANVAS WITHINAND YET THE TRUTH STANDS STILLAND YET THE TRUTH STANDS STILL AMIDST ALL OF THIS AND A LOT MOREAMIDST ALL OF THIS AND A LOT MORE MOTHER O MOTHERMOTHER O MOTHER HERE AM IHERE AM I AT YOUR LOTUS FEETAT YOUR LOTUS FEETSINGING VERSES OF YOUR INFINITE GLORY.SINGING VERSES OF YOUR INFINITE GLORY. OMOM Gangnathwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com43

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Philosophy Page 44www.reallygreatsite.comMIND BODY SOULWHO WE AREContinuing on this journey, it'sessential to recognize that balancedoesn’t mean giving equal time toevery aspect of life but rather givingthe right amount of attention whereit's most needed. This approachensures that each area is nurturedappropriately, leading to a morefulfilling and less stressful lifestyle.Lastly, remember that achievingbalance is a personal process. Whatworks for one person might not workfor another, so it’s important toregularly assess and adjust yourapproach. By staying true to yourunique needs and values, you cancreate a life that is both balanced anddeeply rewarding.Additionally, embracing flexibility allowsyou to adapt to the inevitable changesand challenges that life presents.Instead of striving for perfection, focuson what brings you genuine satisfactionand fulfillment. By remaining adaptable,you can better navigate life's ups anddowns while maintaining your overallsense of balance.Achieving the perfect life balance is about creating harmony between the various facets of life, such as work, family, personalgrowth, and leisure. It involves mindful prioritization, setting boundaries, and ensuring that no single area dominates at theexpense of others. By establishing a routine that allows time for both responsibilities and relaxation, you can effectively reducestress and enhance overall well-being. Flexibility is key, as life’s demands are ever-changing, requiring constant adjustmentswhile staying true to your core values. Self-awareness plays a crucial role, enabling you to understand your needs and limits,which guides where to focus your energy. Cultivating healthy habits, like regular exercise, adequate sleep, and meaningfulsocial connections, further supports a balanced life. Remember, achieving perfect life balance is an ongoing process, requiringcontinual reflection and adjustment to maintain harmony in your life.44www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April - May2025

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D E E P W I T H I NHIMALAYAY O G I C W I S D O Mfromwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com45

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Om Pranam. My dear friends, This is a beautiful time in which we allare right now. A very beautiful timeindeed. My dear friends, we are in theHimalayas in which the Maa Ganga flowswith its magnificent splendor, in whichthe rays of the Sun bring light into thecaves of the yogis and the remotemeditators, in which there is beautifulfragrance of nature, in which themountains stand, in which the naturekeeps playing its many games, in whichall kinds of karmakand or rituals likeYajna, Mantra Sadhana, Silence, Dhyan,Meditation, deep meditation happen. The Himalayas are a wonderful place. Itis an absolutely perfect place for theYogis, for the meditators, for the sagesand seers, for the monks, for the saints,and for all those who genuinely andhonestly want to know, for all those whowant to taste the nectar of dropping yourexpectations and being selfless in yourjourney. It brings the message of risingabove the obstacles and roots of conflictand suffering that lie within anindividual. One has to face this facthonestly. The continuous race ofmadness doesnt take a person anywhere.So rising above all of this is important.The practice and learning of Yoga centersaround this. ARISE AWAKE ASCENDHimalayan WisdomYogic Wisdom From Himalaya’s26/03/2025Gangnath JI46www.rishikeshyogalayMay a.com April 2025

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T O PI C : Y O G A S A N A’ SMy dear friends, we arehere in this beautifulmoment and place.Wherever you are,remember you are in abeautiful place. You canmake your place beautiful,you can make your momentbeautiful, you can makeyour body beautiful, youcan make your breathfragrant, you canexperience fragrance in yourbreath, you can experiencea selfless smile, you canexperience that if you wantin this moment. All youneed to do is to make aright start and to make theright start you got to sitproperly. Our support and guidance forthose who may struggle with thepose or need further clarification,we inviting them to reach out tous through the magazine atrishikeshyogalaya@gmail.com This is something that youcan start doing right now.You can sit in it even for 10minutes or 20 minutes andsee the benefit. So fromnow onwards, wheneveryou sit down to meditate,try to sit in this asana. Nowsitting in this Asana, try toobserve your breath.Observing the breath is agreat beginning. This is thewisdom. A brief wisdom ifyou can call it a wisdom.However, all I see iscommon sense and you canalso say some experience. Y O GA & S P I RI T UA L IT YThis seated positionhelps establish balance,calmness, and focus,allowing you to fullyimmerse in your Yogapractice and maintaina straight spine, whichis essential for properbreathing and energyflow.Sitting properly is extremelyimportant in Yoga. How canI sit properly? What is thebest way to sit? The bestway to sit is to sit in theSiddhasana. To sit in thisasana you need to set crosslegged. The heel of your leftfeet must be between yourreproductive organ andyour anus and your rightfeet must be over your leftfeet. Both your hands mustbe relaxed and resting uponyour knees and your fingersmust be in a particularmudra called Gyan mudra.This is what you need to do.This is how you need to sit. This combination of asanaand mudra will help you toestablish a certain balancein your body physically,mentally and energy wise.It will bring everything in astraight line i.e. the line ofthe spinal colum goingtowards the mid browcentre. And that is whereyour focus is. That is theplace from where a personcan focus on anything.When you focus onsomething, you focus fromyour head, right? See, youhave to focus. How will youfocus? So the first thing isto sit properly.Therefore this combinationof asana and mudra is agreat beginning. www.rishikeshyogalaya.com47

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T O PI C : Y O G A S A N A’ SSo I speak from experience,my dear friend. I amsharing my experience withyou. Do this properly andyou will start benefiting. Ifyou have any problems likeyou cannot sit in this Asanaor you want to learn how tosit in this Asana in a moredetailed way, or you couldnot understand it throughthe article, then you canalways write to me bycontacting the magazine.I will then tell you, I willguide you, I will try to trainyou how to sit in this asana,how to observe, how tomeditate. So this is a briefthat I am sharing with all of You must also make surethat you are not sitting in atilted way or in an inclinedway but you are sittingstraight. This will help youfind the centre of yourbody. This will help you tofeel the central column ofyour body. Y O GA & S P I RI T UA L IT YAs you settle into theposition, focus onfeeling totally relaxed,centered, andgrounded, allowing yourbody to release anytension and your mindto become calm andfocused.48www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April May 2025you right now. A verypractical thing, somethingto do. Sit cross legged, leftleg heel just between yourgenital organ and the anus,that must be its placement.Also , you must feelcomfortable. You mustplace it in such a way inwhich you feel comfortable.You will understand whenyou will sit. Then the rightleg must automatically beplaced over the left so itwill become a cross leggedpose. Now you must feeltotally relaxed, totally incentre.

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T O PI C : Y O G A S A N A’ SYou will automatically feelmore focused. Your handsmust be in the right mudra.Don't be stressed. Yourbody must be relaxed andyour mind must not takeany stress. Focus. Keepobserving. Observing is veryimportant. Keep observing.Be in the central column.Just observe. The breath isflowing, observe that. Sothis is a great beginning.Keep observing your breath,your column for 10 minutesto 20 minutes and this will Y O GA & S P I RI T UA L IT Yhelp you make you feelgood. So this is a good start. Youcan start with this. So this isa free tool for all of you tobegin with from the bank ofthe Ganga in theHimalayas. If you want youcan call it wisdom else youcan also call it love.Dear friends, thank you somuch. Be blissful. If youcan, start walking towardsit.OmNote: All those sufferingspecifically from back problems,chronic ailments, medicaldisorders and experiencingdifficulty in sitting cross leggedare suggested not to sit or trysitting in this Asana. It is alwaysgood to consult your doctor if youhave a medical condition beforebeginning any such practice. Onemust never sit or do anything thatcauses pain. So if you can't sitcross legged or this asana, youcan sit with your back straight ona chair and keeping your handsand fingers in Gyan mudra, youcan observe your breath to beginwith. We will guide you furthersoon. www.rishikeshyogalaya.com49

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spend time with the"Surya Namaskar" is apractice which refines,sensitizes, andenergizes the humanbeing and is a dailyreminder of the debtwe humans owe toGod.50www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April 2025

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Surya Namaskar is a Sanskritword which meansobeisance or prostrations(Namaskar) to the Sun (Surya).The goal of this exercise is to payobeisance to the rising sun. Therising sun not only marks thebeginning of our day but its raysare a great source of Prana or lifeforce. To wake up early in themorning and perform any kind ofhealthy activity in front of therising sun is a good habit, and ahealthy one too (even if it isunconscious). It could be a walk,tending to the plants, or juststanding and observing thebeautiful dawn. Surya Namaskaror Sun Salutation is the techniqueof expressing our gratitude to theforce that sustains, nourishes andevolves all life on the planet.Surya Namaskar fosters adiscipline of mind, body andemotions. Such a practice refines,sensitizes, and energizes thehuman being and is a dailyreminder of the debt we humansowe to God. This debt can berepaid only by living a clean,pure, disciplined life style–anenactment of the Vedic dictum!The early morning sun’s rays arestimulating to the whole endocrinesystem. The Mantras stimulateboth physical and psychic Nadis(Meridians). The eyes arenourished by the early morninglight and Vitamin D is absorbedthrough the skin. The endocrineand exocrine glands are exposedto the early sun’s rays by lifting thehands over the head in AnjaliMudra, a gesture of high respectand reverence, thus exposing theunderarms to the healing rays. Theearly sun’s rays are a well knownantiseptic. Harmful germs andbacteria life are destroyed.Different body positions or asanasapply pressure on the organs andskeletal structure, and stimulateblood circulation. The completesun salutation consists of 12positions, which are performed inone continuous flow. Each of thepositions stretch the muscles indifferent ways, and this iscomplemented by the expandingand contracting of the chest toregulate the flow of breathing.Practicing the Sun Salutation dailyhelps in keeping the body inshape, sustains the flexibility ofspine and other joints, improvescirculation of the blood andreduces weight.It is also said that these 12exercises can stimulate andregulate the functioning of thecentral nervous system, the opticnerve, the stomach, and help calmyour mind. Practicing the SunSalutation in the Sun alsoreplenishes the body with VitaminD due to early morning sunexposure.1Prostration to Him who isaffectionate to all.ExhaleStand straight,hands joined, with theweight of the bodyequally distributed onboth feet.PranamasanOm mitraya namahॐ माय नमःwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com51

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It was winter like never before. Delhi gets prettycold and misty in the winters,but Varanasi feltcolder with its unique sense of mysticism, oldworldcharm,andriverinegeography.Forme,itwasacompletechangefromtheretrolocalestotheoldest living city in the world.As I walked into thelanes near the Assi Ghat in the morning, I'd see theeffect of the climate on the apparel of the boys andgirls - colourful mufflers, scholes, shawls and sweatershad just begun to shine having come out fresh from thedrycleaners. Hapless animals that are often seen strayingon roads were invisible. Perhaps they had sought sheltersomewhere.And the chaiwallahs had just begun to makemerry as their best season of business had arrived.Andthe first thing that I did that morning was to sip thekulhar ki chai. I justVARANASITHE CITY OF LIGHTIncredible !ndiaDESTINATIONTravel Bureau54www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April 2025

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couldn't resist it even though I wasnot sure as to if one should eat ordrink anything at all before visitingthe Ganga.Perhaps, it was somewherebetween 5-10 degrees centigrade. Inthis cold, I didn't expect to seeanybody taking a dip in the Ganga -it'd be icy cold I thought. But I stillmade it to the Ghats to get a viewof the river and guess what I found.People were bathing in the waters.In recent yearsthe GangesRiver has drawnattention for itsungodly level ofpollution.But thebathers areimmune to allthis.Nearly 2.5million of themcome each year toVaranasi,thisholiest of cities,on the banks of themost sacred of Indian rivers.According to Hindu legend,LordShiva unleashed the Ganges from theknot of his hair.For centuries,its richfloods lent fertility to the soilof the central Gangetic plains andnourished some of India's mostprominent ancient civilizations.Varanasi is a heap of mismatchedtemples and narrow steps located onthe Ganges' crescent-shapedWestern bank,in the state of UttarPradesh.It is a city of scholars,hometo one ofAsia's largest Universities.It is a city of temples,including thegold-platedVishwanath sacred toShiva;and the hundreds of smalltemples that dot the waterways andalleys.It is also a city of legends.OldVaranasi's ancient ruins lie onthe Rajghat plateau,in the north-eastern part of the city.Here,archaeologists discovered potterythat went back to 1000 B.C.,andbroken masonry from as late asA.D.1500,suggesting the area has beencontinuously inhabited for 2,500years.It is one of the world's oldestcontinuously inhabited cities.Varanasi's legends go back some10,000 years,to the oldest epics ofHindu literature,including thePuranas,theVedas and theMahabharata.They sayVaranasi is thecity of Lord Shiva,who walked herewith his wife Parvati at the beginningof time.It could also be thebattlefield where Lord Krishna setfire to a duplicate but imposterKrishna,or the place where LordRama came to do penance afterslaying the demon Ravana.In acountry where most cities have atleast two names,Varanasi has over ahundred.The locals still call itBanaras,perhaps after themythological king Benar.The JatakaTales,a collection of ancientBuddhistfolk stories,refer to thecity as Jitwari,the place wherebusiness is good,or as Pushwavati,theflower garden city,or as Molini,the lotus garden city.84 ghats, stretching for7 km on the banks ofthe Ganga - now that‘swhere the soul ofVaranasi resides in theform of“Kasi”.GEOGRAPHY & HISTORYwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com55

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Perhaps, there are very fewcities that can be knownbetter from water than fromthem. Varanasi or ‘Kasi’ is the city ofGhats whose soul is the Ganges(Ganga Maiyaa).When I was young,awise man had told me that if you wantto knowVaranasi hire a boat. So that’swhat I did. And I had this gut feelingfrom the moment I had arrived on AssiGhat that every ghat here has a story.So I searched for a good boatman andwhat I got was a 15 year old boy.I hired Prakash and his boat from AssiGhat to Manikarnika and back toAssi.Along the way, I expressed myinquisition and the boy began narratingme the stories of Varanasi's famousGhats, the sets of steps that lead fromthe alleys of Varanasi down to the river.Each ghat was constructed by adifferent medieval king, and thoughthey are young compared to theancientruinsonRajghat,theGhats have inspired their ownmythology.The most famous is theDasashwamedh Ghat,where thefather of Lord Rama once sacrificed10 horses in an appeal to the sun.AtKedar Ghat a priest used to performa daily prayer to Lord Shiva.One dayhe became ill and couldn't performthe prayer,telling Lord Shiva,"You willhave to come yourself.”"So LordShiva rose from the water in front ofthe ghat," Prakash says.Heavy black smoke rises fromHarish Chandra and ManikarnikaGhats.These are the burningGhats,where relatives bring theirloved ones to be cremated.According to Hindu legend,thosewho are cremated inVaranasi willachieve enlightenment and be freeof the cycle of death and rebirth.Nearly 300 bodies are crematedevery day.As I look at the sunrising behind the Ghats,I wonderas to if this is the best city to die.The bathers are out in full force.Some lather up,while othersdance and sing in the water.Inthenarrow alleys behind them, thecity ofVaranasi is just waking up.KNOWING VARANASI FROM THE BOAT56www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April 2025

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For all those moments when I thought that the real soul ofVaranasi had been covered in the river,the Ghats,theirstories, and the lanes, I was so, so wrong. For some hidden secrets were yet to explode upon me. The good thingwas–I didn’t throw in the towel.I was hungry for more,just like any good traveller.And so my search forVaranasi’s hidden secretscontinued.And so in two days Ifound myself standing at thedoorway of‘Naglok’.This is theplace where Maharshi Patanjalihad meditated at the mouth ofthe gateway to Naglok.It isbelieved that this place is theportal from Naglok (the worldof the nagas) to Bhulok (surfaceear th).NAGLOKThis place has remained quite asecret inVaranasi since it islocated behind a gym.Mosttourists don’t come to knowabout this.Perhaps,that’s theway it’s supposed to be.But byvisiting such places,what onecan learn is that‘that’which is asurprise or miracle for us livingin the retros is actually quite aregulation reality for the peoplewho live here.BEYOND THE GHATSThe Jataka Tales, a collectionof ancient Buddhist folk stories,refer to the city as Jitwariwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com57

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Varanasi is not short of anycolour irrespective ofwherever you are comingfrom.The cuisine ofVaranasi is lipsmacking.The lanes near the Ghatsare full of food outlets that offerdeliciousVegetarian food.The poori-subzi,jalebi,dosa-vada,kachodis andsamosas are fabulous.A uniqueVaranasi drink I found and enjoyed alot was the‘Blue Lassi’.If you have asweet tooth,do pay your visit to theKedar Ghat.The range of sweetshere is out of this world.And if yougo toVaranasi,know one thing thatno meal inVaranasi is completewithout - the special Benarasi Paan(a betel leaf delicacy).A rickshaw ride inVaranasi is a must.The lanes are full of rickshaws and aride is very economic too.Varanasiis famous for its eveningAarti at theDasashwamedh Ghat,its range ofIndian saris and linen clothes,handicraft items,and its culturalevents.Ghats:Assi Ghat,Tulsi Ghat,Dashaswamedh Ghat,Kedar Ghat,Harischandra Ghat,ManikarnikaGhat (last two are burning ghats).Market:Godolia market is crowdedwith shops of all kinds.Whether youare game for buying handicrafts,jewellery,saris,or sweets,this is theplace.How to Reach:Air/Rail from Delhi.Road conditions are not good hencenot recommended.Temples:KashiVishwanathTemple,Bharat MataTemple,Tulsi ManasTemple,Kabir Chaura,SankatmochanTemple,NaglokNearby Sites:Dhamek Stupa,DeerPark,Sarnath Museum,ChaukhandiStupaActivities: Boating, Evening Aarti,Shopping,TempleTour,Yoga &Meditation,Cultural EventsTHE ENTERTAINMENTMAJOR ATTRACTIONSBLUE LASSISARISAMOSAPAAN (BETELLEAF)There is no doubt that food is a significantpart of Varanasi's culture - especially itspiping hot kachoris at breakfast, refreshingchai, sweets, lassi and thandai.58www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April 2025

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AYURLICIOUSThe foodthatHealsSTORYBYDR.ARINDHAM CHATTERJEERECIPES BYLIPIKABHATTACHARYAwww.rishikeshyogalaya.com59

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Salads offer us a healthy mealoption that is quick and easy tomake. This nutrient rich saladrecipe offers us an incredibleamount of Vitamins - A, B, C, E,and K; along with iron, calcium,zinc, omega-3’s, antioxidants,fiber and so much more.Utilizing healthy oils, vinegar,lemon and black pepper willhelp to reduce the dry, coldqualities of the salad, makingthese nutrients easier to digestand absorb.Those with a strong Vataimbalance (i.e. chronicconstipation, insomnia ordebilitating anxiety) shouldavoid this recipe and all rawfoods until balance is found;otherwise it is suitable for Vatatypes in the warmer months andin moderation.60FOR ALL BODY TYPESINGREDIENTSDIRECTIONSSOME FACTS 4 large leafs of Romainelettuce, chopped4 cups of baby spinach (Pittatypes substitute with 4 cups ofchopped kale leaf)3/4 cup chopped cucumber10 pitted and sliced kalamataolives7 artichoke hearts, sliced thinly1 small avocado, peeled andcubed3-4 Tbsp of raw hemp seeds,pumpkin seeds or sunflowerseeds (unsalted)3 Tbsp of goat cheese fetacrumbles (optional)2-3 Tbsp olive oil (Pitta typessubstitute with sunflower oil)1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (omitfor Pitta imbalance)Juice from 1/2 of a lemon(Pitta types substitute withlime)Fresh ground black pepper totaste (omit for Pitta imbalance)1.2.3.4.5.Doshic effect : Vata-Pitta-KaphaGluten FreeVegan / VegetarianServings : 2Time : 15-20 MinutesChop up the lettuce, spinach,cucumber, olives, artichokes andavocado. Add to a large bowl.Toss thoroughly, until all of theingredients are evenly dispersed.Add the hemp seeds (or otheroptions), along with the fetacheese, olive oil, balsamic vinegar,lemon juice and black pepper.Gently toss again.Indulge and enjoy. Remember toalways eat sitting down, withawareness and surrounded bygood company!SaladSalads offerus ahealthymeal option that is quickand easyto make.www.rishikeshyogalaya.com

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One inch of ginger gratedOne clove of garlic gratedOne bunch of Broccoli cut intomedium florets or 6 cups ofBroccoli(for asparagus) One bunch orabout20 small asparagusOne table spoon of chilli oil(Laoganma)Salt to tasteGround Pepper to tasteOne tablespoon olive oilParboil vegetables, drain and keepasideHeat oilin a saucepanAdd theginger and garlic, andsauté for 2 minutesAdd the vegetables, followed byCut about 20 dry red chilies into finesmall flakes.Toast the chilli flakes, a handful ofpepper, and 2 teaspoon of crushedpepper in a super hot pan for 2 to 4minutes. Remove from heat, and addone teaspoon salt and two cups ofsesame oil to the mixture. Store in acool place. heat for 2 to 3minutesRemove fromheat, and sprinkleground pepperServe hot! If youdo not havechili oil at home, youcan make a batchof at home, and storeit in the refrigerator.CHILLI OIL RECIPEFOR ALL BODY TYPESDIRECTIONSINGREDIENTSGreen vegetables are a source ofvitamins and minerals and mustbe an essential part of our diet.They are also rich sources offiber. Integrating them intodaily meals does not necessarymean, having unwantedportions of greens on your plate.The below recipes with some ofthe most nutritious greenvegetables, will leave you temptedto have larger portions of theseveggies on your plate next time!Asparagus and Broccoli, tasteokay when boiled and sprinkledwith salt and pepper, but formost of us foodies, just thethought of that sounds like puretorture! The recipe below can beapplied to either asparagus orbroccoli, and both tastewonderfully delicious preparedthis way!Asparagus /Broccoli StirFryTastyGreenVegetable Recipeswww.rishikeshyogalaya.com61

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5 c filtered water (or 50/50)1/2 c mung beans whole/split,soaked overnight1/2 c brown rice/basmati rice1 medium carrot, grated with acheese grater1/2 of a small sweet potato,chopped into 1/2”cubes1.Melt the Rasayana Ghrita (orOrganic ghee/coconut oil) in amedium to large sauce pan on low 2 Tbsp of Rasayana Ghrita/OrganicGhee or coconut oil15-20 raisins2 Tbsp shredded coconut2 Tbsp cashew pieces (substitutewith almond slivers)1/4 c sesame seeds, freshly groundin a spice grinder or food processor1.5”cube of fresh ginger grated1 cinnamon stick1/2 tsp turmeric1/4 tsp cumin seed1/4 tsp fennel seed1/4 tsp fenugreek seed1/4 tsp brown mustard seed1/8 tsp ground pippali (aka IndianLong Pepper)Juice of 1 lime, freshly squeezed5-7 sprigs of cilantro, finelychopped2 green onions, choppedSea salt or himalayan salt to tasteFresh ground black pepper to taste Grind the sesame seeds into a pasteusing a spice grinder, clean coffeegrinder or a food processor.DIRECTIONS:7.5.2.3.6.4.heat. Add the cumin, brownmustard seeds, fennel seeds,fenugreek seeds, pippali, shreddedcoconut and cashew pieces. Sautéin the ghee for 3-5 minutes untilthe seeds start to pop and thecoconut and nuts begin to slightlybrown. Stir every 30 seconds toavoid burning.Add the water and increase theheat to high; bring to a boil.Reduce the heat to low and addthe cinnamon stick, mung beansand brown rice. Cover and cook for20 minutes. Keep a slight crack inthe lid to avoid overflow.After 20 minutes, add the choppedsweet potatoes, grated carrots andraisins. Cook for an additional 30to 35 minutes over low heat. Stirevery 5-10 minutes.Once finished, the beans should besplit open, the rice very soft. Ifthere is too much crunchiness, adda bit more water and cook untileverything is at the desiredconsistency. Stir every 5 minutes.After the cooking process is done,add the sesame seed paste, gratedginger, turmeric, lime juice,chopped green onions, cilantro,black pepper and salt to taste. Stirtogether until everything is evenlymixed.Serve in a bowl.Just as any Khichari dish, thismeal is considered healing to thegut and the digestive system.The mung bean and ricecombination makes Khichari aperfect protein, containing all ofthe 9 essential amino acids. Italso contains a high level ofcopper, zinc, calcium andmagnesium due to the nutrientsthe sesame seeds provide. Thecarrots add a nice boost ofVitamin A, K and biotin; alongwith the sweet potatonourishing us with a large doseof Vitamins A, B and C.Altogether this is an easy todigest nutrient rich meal thatwill help to revitalize the body,build healthy tissue, increaseimmunity and heal the gut andcolon.INGREDIENTS:FOR ALL BODY TYPES KhichariThe mung bean and ricecombination makes Khichari aperfect protein, containing allof the 9 essential amino acids.62www.rishikeshyogalaya.com April 2025

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SpicyPumpkin MashAbout 850 gr pumpkin or squash,peeled as best you can & cut into 1inch cubes2 tbsp olive oil2 tsp punch phoran ( a whole spicemix containing cumin seeds, fennelseeds, fenugreek seeds, mustardseeds & onion seeds) available fromIndian food stores1 onion, finely chopped2 cloves garlic, finely chopped1 tbsp minced ginger1 red chilli, finely chopped1/2 tsp red chilli powder1 tsp turmeric1 tsp garam masala1 tsp dry mango powder/amchur1 tsp brown sugar/jaggery/palmsugar220 ml (1 cup) veg stockSalt & black pepperA handful of fresh coriander,chopped plus leaves for garnishHeat the oil in a large pan over amedium heat, add the panch phoran(seeds) and cook until they start to pop.Then add in the onion and cook forabout 5 minutes until softened. Add inthe garlic, fresh chilli & ginger and cookfor another 2 minutes.Throw in the chopped pumpkin/squashand add the chilli powder, turmeric andsugar. Stir well to coat the pumpkin,then add the stock and season well withsalt & black pepper. Lower the heatslightly, cover with a lid and simmer for15-20 minutes or until the pumpkin issoft and mushy.Mash the pumpkin in the pan with awooden spoon and add the garammasala and dry mango powder. Stirwell, adding in the fresh coriander andcook for another few minutes. If it is toowatery take the lid off to let the liquidevaporate. If you would like a smootherconsistency you could blend/processthe pumpkin at this point.Serve hot/warm garnished withcoriander leaves.This pumpkin mash is a zestyalternative to the regularpumpkin mash and tastes greatwith bread. It is super easy toprepare and can be preparedjust before serving.Serves 3-4 as a side dish, vegan,gluten-free.INGREDIENTS FOR ALL BODY TYPESDIRECTION Indian SpicedPumpkin MashPumpkin is an extremelynutrient-dense food,meaning itis chock-full of vitamins andminerals but low in calories.Consuming one cup of cookedpumpkin would provide well over100 percent of our daily needs forvitaminA,20 percent of the dailyvalue for vitamin C,10 percent ormore for vitamin E,riboflavin,potassium,copper,and manganese,and at least 5 percent for thiamin,B-6,folate,pantothenic acid,niacin,iron,magnesium,and phosphorus.www.rishikeshyogalaya.com63

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Nimmu is a beautiful valleythat marks the confluenceof the Indus River andZanskar River. The IndusRiver drains the dry anddeserted terrains ofLadakh's landlocked valleyand serves as its lifeline.A beautiful place tomeditate in Sarchu on wayto Leh. There are manyamazing spots on way to doYoga and remotemeditation. Sarchu is alsoknown for its starry nightsand galaxy watching.It was a journey, a trip that will stay put in my heartforever–each moment, each day. And not just as anindividual, I will remember and prize it as a group ina huddle. A long trip that should have been wearybut was rather rejuvenating, realizing, no fuss, not asingle strain. My greatest journey as a traveller. Andas a travel reporter, I’d recommend it to all myfriends, readers, viewers and well wishers. Butremember, this one is for the spirited ones!The widespreadflying Himalayan eagle, the humpedBactrian Camels, the Himalayan Marmuts, thepristine and godly lakes, the highest motorableroads, the mystic monasteries in the middle ofnowhere, the dizzying heights accompanied withfreezing winds, unending chain of giganticmountains with meandering rivers coursing throughthem, and the best part of it all, freedom to do Yogaand meditation anywhere out in the open. Justchoose any cave, any gorge, any base of mountain,any patch of grass, any rock near the river–fromRohtang La to Khardung La, Ladakh is perhaps oneof the greatest places to do Yoga, meditate and alsoattain wisdom.manali rohtang passpangtaglang lasissuhemissarchuleh TRAVEL TOMYSTIC WORLDTRAVELOGUE65www.rishikeshyogalaya.comPrayer Wheel in a BuddhistMonastery on the way

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SOUL STIRRINGThe journey from Kullu toLeh is a lifetime experiencein itself. Kullu is known as‘Devalaya’(land of thelords) and along withManali, it is a beaut with thegentle Beas river and aspring at almost every step.But when one hikes theRohtang Pass, the heights ofthe Himalaya scare you forthefirst time. Coming downfrom Rohtang, one entersthe Lahaul & Spiti region ofHimachal Pradesh which isgetting more and morepopular with the touriststhese days. Sissu, a smallremote town located in theLahaul valley at an altitudeof 3120 m above sea level, isan unexplored destinationin this region.We camped in Sissu on thebanks of the Chandra riverjust 50 m from an amazingwaterfall“Palden LhamoDhar”. While meditating inthe open, we all could feelthe vibration of the waterfallthat is considered verysacred here. Some of uscould even listen to thevibration during a state ofsleep in the night. Evenings,though cold, were a paradiseunder the starry sky. Wetrekked to the waterfall onour second day andperformed Yajna (fireceremony) chantingmantras for syncing with theelements within. Starrynights, Sunny days, MysticalWaterfall, Remotesurroundings, Quiet Gompa,and Inner vibrations madeour 3 day stay in Sissu onlywanting for more andperhaps the most soultouching experience of life.Dizzying heights,rarefied air and brutallycold temperatures–Taglang La is all this andmore. A photograph bythe board which saysWorld’s Second HighestMotorable Road Alt17480 ft is one amongstthe cherished souvenirsfor many travellers aftera trip to Leh Ladakh.: Rocks with themantra“OM MANIPADME HUM”inscribedupon them; A view of theChandra River from theremote Sissu GompaTRAVEL TOTRAVELOGUE66www.rishikeshyogalaya.com AprilSissuAbove

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A WONDER THAT BOWLS YOU OUTIt was late in the evening when we reached Leh andchecked into the hotel. When I woke up morning fresh,the tiredness had disappeared. I was ready for a freshday and a fresh adventure. One of our friends had readabout the Hemis monastery in some book on Jesus’visitto India and he was very eager to visit that monastery.So, after a hot shower and a continental brunch, withoutwasting any further time, we headed for the Hemismonastery.It was only 40 km away and we reached in a jiffy. It tooka little over an hour and there we were, in a Buddhistmonastery surrounded by mountains. After visiting thetemple and offering our prayers at the gates ofPadmasambhava, we were led to the library whichsupposedly had proof about Jesus’visit to India. Themonks in the library spoke local language that we did notunderstand, and the books and scriptures too were insome other language. Actually, most of them were inPali. We were offered butter tea at the monastery andthat was quite a treat. What was really striking about thismonastery was the humility and modesty of the monks,their treatment of guests, and theirfirm faith in thepreachings of their master. Faith is a very strong thing,perhaps the strongest of all, and Sean was so right whenhe said–“Their silence gives us a thousand invaluablemessages. This is what we need to pick up, as ourmemories and learnings from this journey.”Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is quite acomfortable town to stay actually and packedin a hotel room, you won’t actually feel thatyou are in Ladakh, only a few hundredkilometres from the dreaded Aksai Chin.Located at a reasonable altitude, Leh is closeto great destinations like Nubra Valley,Diskit, Hunder, Pangong Lake, TsomoririLake, and the famous passes–Khardung Laand Taglang La. Leh is also home to theNamgyal Monastery and Leh Palace apartfrom Stok and Hemis. Leh has a reasonablygood market where one can shop and enjoydifferent cuisines for a break.Hemis67ww.rishikeshyogalaya.com April 2025

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Himalayan WisdomIN THE HIMALYAIN THE HIMALYAIN THE HIMALAYAIN THE HIMALYAIN THE HIMALYAR I S H I K E S H T E A C H I N G SG R E A T H I M A L A Y A N S H A R I N G ’ SI NFO@RI S H I K E S H TEACHI N G S . C O M@ RISHIK E S H T E A CHINGSC O N T A C T :

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DHYANADiscover Balance and Inner Harmonywith DHYANA!Join us on a journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation as we guide youthrough ancient practices that harmonize the mind, body, and spirit.Expert InstructorsVariety of Yoga StylesMind-Body ConnectionJOIN USrishikeshteachings@gmail.comAWAKENING 2025

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MAGAZINE FROM THE LAND OF IMMORTALS - HIMALAYAThe secret jewels of wisdom are hidden withinone's own inner self, and that the ancient yogicway offers a path to unlock these hidden gems,implying a journey of self-discovery andintrospection, where one dives deep into theirown consciousness, much like exploring thedepths of the ocean, to uncover the treasuresof wisdom and enlightenment that lie within.Deep Withinwww.rishikeshyogalaya.comVolume 01 Issue 02Yoga & Meditation SpecialUPCOMING SUMMER EDITIONRISHIKESHRISHIKESHYOGALAYAYOGALAYA