7 Day Holistic Meditation Retreat in Rishikesh, India with Yoga Nidra and Mindfulness
Yoga and Meditation Retreat in India
Busy? Seeking a serene place? Want a pause from the hustle and bustle of city life? But stuck on which place to choose? Here is the answer: Rishikesh is the best place for those seeking an escape from their everyday routines. It offers not only yoga retreat programs, but also the perfect vacation spot. Besides a yoga retreat, there are plenty of activities to do in Rishikesh.
Meet the instructors
Highlights
- Daily meditation, asana, and pranayama classes
- 5 different types of meditations
- 1 sound healing session
- Mindfulness hiking and walking trip
- 1 silent day during the retreat (optional)
- Full-body Ayurvedic massage
- 6 nights accommodation
- 3 fresh and organic meals daily
Skill level
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Yoga styles
6 days with instruction in English
Accommodation
Facilities
- Dining area
- Terrace
- Free Wi-Fi
Mind Flow Harmony chose this place for the retreat because a silent and natural environment is necessary for an undisturbed trip. Living at the academy is like living in an ashram but with the comforts of a vacation while learning yoga and meditation - all in a spiritual environment.
Mind Flow Harmony Academy has a friendly atmosphere, modern newly constructed rooms, and lots of comfy chill-out areas nestled in the lush nature that surrounds the building.
Bedrooms
Students can enjoy a selection of fully-furnished single or shared rooms with private balconies or a walk-out terrace overlooking the lush forest, wheat fields, and waterfall. The rooms are modern, with large windows that provide breathtaking views. Both running hot and cold water are available throughout the day.
All the rooms are spacious, with an attached private balcony and bathroom, as well as free Wi-Fi. You will have wardrobes, side tables, fans, and comfortable beds in the rooms as well as linens and towels.
The temperature is moderate due to the location, so air conditioning is not required (also not having AC contributes to supporting sustainability initiatives). However, all rooms have ceiling fans and coolers on request. Power outages happen in India from time to time but Mind Flow Harmony has back up power in case this happens, ensuring your safety.
Amenities
The accommodation will be provided in the same building as the classes, making it convenient for the students. There is a dining area and a common area where the students can get together for various purposes, as well as a yoga hall with amazing views of the valley and the Himalayas.
There is a separate room for meditation and reflection with the kind of ambiance that keeps you at ease while entering the unknown terrain within yourself. This has a serene vibe and therefore, it is kept as a dedicated space only for meditation, where the energy is solely pure and still for the process.
Laundry
Laundry services from outside (chargeable) can be arranged. There is also a washing machine available to use for the students at the academy for a nominal charge. You can also wash clothes in the sink and hang them to dry. Most wash their undergarments themselves.
Amenities upon arrival
- Refreshment drink
- Water bottle
- Refreshing hand towel
Program
Tread beyond thoughts into stillness
If you’re new to meditation, Mind Flow Harmony offers a seven-day yoga retreat in Rishikesh to learn about the respected practice of dhyana.
Regular meditation can have a lot of positive benefits, like:
- Lowering your blood pressure and stress,
- Helping you become more aware of yourself and the world.
Some people believe that meditation is about trying to stop or control one’s thoughts, but it is actually about gaining control over them and recognizing that it’s beyond the thoughts and emotions they experience.
This retreat is very peaceful, located in a natural lush green environment surrounded by mountains. It is the perfect place to relax, have a healthy organic diet that is free from chemicals, and learn about yoga, all in a comfortable setting.
The retreat program is specially designed for those who are planning for a weeklong vacation away from their hectic lives. This course is specially designed for those who are new to yoga, so the practices will be done slowly and carefully.
The teachers want you to take some time for yourself and have a wonderful, enjoyable experience and also learn some valuable practices that you can use in your everyday life.
So, take some time for yourself and for a wonderful, enjoyable experience. Join Mind Flow Harmony's program in Rishikesh. They have designed these yoga retreats such that people can join easily as per their need and time.
Many people who have taken this course have had positive changes in their life, and have gained new insights. There are numerous mental, emotional, physical, and social benefits to be gained from the practices that you will learn and the lifestyle that you will experience while there.
Perks of yoga retreat programs
- Provides the joy of just being yourself
- Reconnects with inner selves
- Allows you to be present at the moment
- Helps find balance and peace in your life
- Cultivates awareness, self-compassion, and gratitude
Peace, power, and perspective
During the seven-day meditation, yoga Nidra, and mindfulness retreat, you will experience a serene environment with stunning views of the Ganga River and mountains in peace and relaxation. You will also experience the ancient yoga and meditation techniques, which are listed below:
Pranayama
Pranayama is the practice of observing your breath and using different techniques to gain control of your energy.
Asana
When doing asana, it is important to strive to find a balance between steadiness and ease. This is the condition that Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra encourages you to achieve.
History and philosophy of meditation
Understanding meditation and how to help the mind focus on one thing, like sound or breathing, requires practice. This is called dharana and it is a step before reaching dhyana, which is a long, focused state of mind.
Anatomy of meditation
Meditation involves different levels of awareness that you can reach. This is known as meditative anatomy and how far you progress in each stage of meditation can depend on how aware you are and how much you practice meditation.
Methods of meditation
This retreat will provide a range of methods for deepening your connection with your innermost essence. You will explore methods of meditation that can guide you on a journey within, enabling you to quiet your mind, open your heart, and access the profound wisdom and love that resides within you.
Sattvic ahaar (diet)
The goal of following this diet is to provide the body with all the necessary nutrients to support long hours of meditation while avoiding heavy and greasy foods that can lead to sluggishness and fatigue.
Expansion of consciousness
Being conscious means having an awareness of yourself and your surroundings. Through meditation and yoga, this awareness can be increased, helping you make better decisions and leading to a higher level of consciousness.
The simplicity of mind
Just like a wonky mirror distorts your perception; an unbalanced or cluttered mind prevents you from seeing clearly. Meditation and yoga help to cultivate a calm and balanced mind, which improves your vision and your thinking, as well as gives you clarity and inner peace.
Emotional balance
Balancing is an important skill to develop, both physically and emotionally. Physically, you can learn to balance on one leg by using yoga postures and other exercises that strengthen your core and muscles.
Emotionally, you often become unbalanced when something you rely on emotionally is taken away from you. To achieve emotional balance, you must learn to stay steady and be aware of your thoughts and feelings.
Day schedule
- 06:00 Wake up time
- 07:30 - 08:30 Yoga asana and pranayama practice class
- 08:30 - 09:00 Journaling and fruits time
- 09:00 - 10:00 Meditation
- 10:30 - 11:30 Brunch
- 12:00 - 13:00 Meditation science and philosophy
- 15:00 - 16:00 Tea break
- 17 :00 - 18:00 Mindfulness walk / yoga Nidra
- 18:30 - 19:30 Dinner
- 21:00 Go to sleep!
Included excursions
You will explore the holy town of Rishikesh situated on the river Ganges and you will also go on a tour to visit unexplored trails and an ancient Shiva temple.
- Ancient Shiva cave
- Ganga aarti
- Indian cooking class
- Patna waterfall
Instructors
Gaurav Agrawal
Dr Gaurav Agrawal is philosophy teachers and founder of Sri Yoga Ashram. Dr Agrawal possesses a PhD degree in clinical psychology and previously he was working as an assistant professor in an Indian University. This way he is more than capable in both ancient and modern scientific field. He brings his understanding of psychology in his teachings of philosophy. Gaurav was born in a traditional religious Hindu family and has been fortunate enough find the guidance of various great Himalayan spiritual Masters. Gaurav teaches yoga philosophy with the help of modern language and real life examples.
Arpit
Arpit is the coordinator and Kundalini and Hatha Yoga & Yoga Nidra Teacher at Sri Yoga Ashram. Arpit got the chance of learning yoga at the most famous Bihar School of Yoga, Munger. He is also the direct disciple of Swami Niranjanananda from Bihar School of Yoga and Usha Mata Ji, the famous Iyengar style yoga teacher in Rishikesh. Bihar tradition of yoga is known for the extensive use of Tantrik techniques in the practice of Hatha yoga for the self refinement. Arpit has taught in numerous schools of Rishikesh and received great appreciation from the students from all corners of the world.
Ankur
Yogi Ankur is the Meditation and Pranayama teacher at Sri yoga Ashram rishikesh. Along with the practice of Pranayama he is also teaching and facilitating the sessions of Shatkarmas (yogic cleansing). He has successfully completed 500 RYT Teachers Training Course. Ankur learned the advanced techniques of Pranayama and meditation from various teachers. He has the experience of teaching yoga for many years in many countries. His techniques of meditation are effective. This is evident from the fact that many knots and complexes of the heart and mind start opening in his sessions.
Retreat location
This yoga and meditation retreat will be held at the Mind Flow Harmony Yoga Academy. It is situated in a valley surrounded by the Himalayas, which is the nest for exotic birds and wild animals, an environment where the beauty of nature kisses the heart of every being.
The location is in the heart of the hills. You will be immersed in nature, surrounded by three waterfalls, streams, a meditation and reflection pond, and you will be part of a small traditional local community.
Due to the immeasurably beautiful environment, the Mind Flow Harmony center in Rishikesh carries a vibe of peace and love that heals one from within and sways ahead to be more aware of a deep connection and oneness with the universe. This is a whole new world in itself - organic, easy-breezy, and cozy.
Sivalik Hills and lesser Himalayas surrounding the valley have made a cocoon of cosmic love where one can dive deep into the spiritual dimension.
The academy is located in Rishikesh, a famous place in India known for many things such as nature, mountains, forest, waterfalls, ancient architecture, and more including, its extraordinary healing effect. Rishikesh is also one of the safest places in the world, with very low levels of crime.
The venue is located a short distance away from the crowded streets of Rishikesh, but close enough that you can visit on your days off, where you will find an abundance of cafés and unique shops, along with art and cooking classes.
The location is easily accessed by car, motorbike, taxi, or walking. On your journey to Mind Flow Harmony Yoga Academy, you will travel up the lush valley on a gently winding road past waterfalls, beautiful forests, and green pastures.
The destination provides an extraordinary feeling of calm to all who are dedicated to their spiritual transformation and inner development. The team will overwhelm you with Himalayan hospitality and ensure that your journey is an experience that you will remember forever.
The Rishikesh vibes and experience is unlike any other. The city is filled with spiritual vibes, and its holy river Ganga provides a tranquil atmosphere for spiritual and mental healing and nurturing. The positive and strong spiritual energy that is present in this place makes it the perfect destination for a yoga retreat.
Food
You will get three healthy vegetarian meals every day. The meals are served in the dining area in buffet style. Fresh, safe, and spring-purified water is available for free around the clock.
Mind Flow Harmony takes into consideration the organic content of the ingredients, the cleanliness of the kitchen, and cooking with the right method in order to preserve the nutrients of the meals. They are extremely mindful of using pure water and fresh ingredients.
The sattvic diet promotes mental and physical wellness as well as clarity of intellect. This diet is light and easy to digest. It includes fresh fruits, nuts, vegetables, grains, and other foods.
The meals are oriented towards yogic and Ayurvedic diet plans. In addition to taking into account yogic principles, the yogic diet must also be pleasing to the tongue so that a person may enjoy eating it. The whole concept of sattvic food is about a balanced diet with a perfect amalgamation of carbohydrates, proteins, good fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water.
The following food items are not included in the sattvic diet:
- Non-vegetarian food including eggs
- Processed, canned food
- Artificial sweeteners and soda
- Garlic, onions, and spicy food
- Microwaved and overcooked meals
- Alcohol, tobacco, or any other stimulants
Vegan, and gluten-free options are available in meals. If you have any specific allergies, kindly inform the manager at the time of your check-in.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Snacks
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Tea
- Detox juices
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten Free
- Fruitarian
- Lactose Free
- Yogic
- Ayurvedic
Exclusive Gifts
Mind Flow Harmony Yoga Academy has prepared a few special surprises for you, including unique experiences and thoughtful extras to make your journey even more memorable.
Free Airport Pickup
Things to do (optional)
Rishikesh is the best place to feel a sense of peace and connect with your inner self. While you are in Rishikesh, you will have the opportunity to explore the local traditions and learn about ancient yoga practices such as pranayama, kriya, and Tantra.
Renowned yogis practiced yoga in Rishikesh and passed on their knowledge to the next generation, which is another reason to join a yoga retreat in Rishikesh.
The place has a lot to offer:
- Trekking, rafting, and camping are a few of the activities that you can enjoy doing
- Spiritual atmosphere
- Peace and relaxation
- Serene environment
- Stunning views of the Ganga River
- Many ashrams, holy sites, and Hindu temples
- Explore local culture
Spa treatments
- 1 full-body Ayurvedic massage with herbal oil (included)
What's included
- 5 special meditation sessions of the most appreciated emotional release: letting go of past painful emotions
- 1 full-body Ayurvedic massage with herbal oil
- Ganga aarti
- 1 meditation book
- 1 mindfulness walk in the mountain
- 1 cooking class
- 6 nights accommodation
- 3 fresh organic nutritious vegetarian meals each day for the duration of the training, including all-day, help-yourself-filtered water, and herbal teas (vegan and gluten-free options available)
- Welcome dinner
- Complementary pick-up from Dehradun Airport (DED) to the school
Included Exclusive Gifts
Free Airport Pickup
We will arrange free airport pickup for you from Dehradun Airport.
What's not included
- Airfares
- Travel insurance
- Medical expenses
- Transfers on check-out
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Transfer included
Jolly Grant Airport
16 km away from your destination
Arrival by plane
Please book your flight to arrive at Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun. From Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), the New Delhi international airport, take a flight to Dehradun (a domestic airport).
Upon arrival at Dehradun airport, Mind Flow Harmony can arrange a ride for you to be picked up and brought directly to the academy.
Arrival by train
You can take a train from Delhi to Haridwar (a neighboring city of Rishikesh). From Haridwar, you can then either take public transportation (such as a bus) or if you prefer, Mind Flow Harmony can arrange a taxi, which will cost you around 50 USD (one way).
Arrival by taxi
Delhi to Rishikesh is around five hours' journey by road. Mind Flow Harmony can help arrange a private taxi for you from New Delhi international airport to the academy. The cost of a private taxi is approximately 90 to 150 USD, depending on the type of vehicle.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 30% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid on arrival.
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