Yogasanas at Leela Yoga, Rishikesh

Aligning the Body, Mind, and Energy for Ultimate Stillness

Introduction: The Art and Science of Yogasanas

At Leela Yoga, nestled in the serene embrace of the Himalayas in Rishikesh—the global capital of yoga—we teach Yogasanas not merely as physical exercises, but as powerful postures to transform the body into a conduit for higher dimensions of life. Derived from ancient yogic traditions and offered in their purest form, Yogasanas are taught here as a means to align the inner system with cosmic geometry, enabling profound physical, mental, and energetic balance.

Yogasanas are not about twisting and turning the body or building muscles. They are subtle processes to stabilize the body, mind, and energy. At Leela Yoga, we hold this sacred lineage with utmost reverence and authenticity, empowering you to experience the depth of yoga as it was traditionally intended. To learn yogasanas and more you can join our 21 day classical hatha yoga program.

The History and Essence of Yogasanas

The word “Asana” literally means a posture. However, in the yogic system, it goes far beyond simple body positioning. According to ancient texts like the Patanjali Yoga Sutras and Hatha Yoga Pradipika, an asana is a posture that one can hold comfortably and steadily. Patanjali defined it as "Sthiram Sukham Asanam" — a position that is stable and pleasant.

Historically, Yogasanas were used as tools to prepare the body for deeper spiritual practices. The sages of India discovered that the body can be positioned in such a way that it becomes a channel for the energies of the universe. These postures were devised not randomly but as a result of deep observation of nature and inner experience.

At Leela Yoga, our approach is rooted in classical Hatha Yoga, honoring the original purpose of Yogasanas: to create stillness, stability, and a profound state of meditativeness. We trace our lineage to ancient yogic traditions preserved in South India, and we aim to pass on these teachings with precision and sanctity.

The Leela Yoga Approach: Precision, Presence, Purity

What sets the Yogasanas at Leela Yoga apart is not just the depth of knowledge, but the method of transmission. Our teachers are extensively trained under traditional systems and maintain rigorous sadhana (daily practice) to ensure they are vessels of authentic yogic energy.

Key Features of Our Yogasana Program:

Traditional Teaching Format: Each session begins with a chant or invocation to create a conducive space for learning.
Energetic Awareness: You’ll be guided not just on how to hold the posture, but how to become sensitive to your internal energy shifts.
Correction and Alignment: Personal attention is given to ensure precision, which is vital for the asanas to function as intended.
Breath and Awareness: Emphasis is placed on the coordination of breath, awareness, and bodily stillness.
No Mixing or Dilution: We do not combine Yogasanas with fitness regimens or modern adaptations. These postures are taught in their purest form.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, the program is designed to elevate your practice with structural clarity and spiritual depth.

Benefits of Practicing Yogasanas

Yogasanas offer benefits that permeate every dimension of your being. While the physical benefits are evident, their impact goes much deeper.

Physical Benefits

Improves flexibility and strength
Corrects postural misalignments
Enhances organ function and blood circulation
Boosts immunity and vitality
Reduces chronic ailments such as back pain, migraines, and fatigue

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Cultivates mental clarity and emotional balance
Reduces anxiety, stress, and depression
Enhances focus, attention span, and memory
Promotes inner calm and resilience

Energetic and Spiritual Benefits

Aligns the body with cosmic geometry
Prepares the system for higher spiritual practices like dhyana (meditation) and pranayama
Deepens self-awareness and inner stillness
Opens up higher possibilities of perception and consciousness

Yogasanas are not merely tools for health—they are doorways to transcendence.

The Practice: What to Expect in a Yogasanas Class

A typical Yogasanas session at Leela Yoga is an immersive experience that goes beyond the physical.

Class Structure

Invocation and Grounding
Each class begins with an invocation or chant to create a sacred space and invite the presence of the yogic lineage.
Subtle Warm-ups and Preparatory Movements
Gentle movements and breath awareness prepare the body and mind for deeper stillness.
Asana Practice
Between 8 to 12 classical asanas are practiced with detailed guidance. Each asana is held for a specified duration with complete stillness.
Counter-Postures and Relaxation
After intense postures, counter-movements and guided relaxation help integrate the benefits.
Closure with Awareness
The session ends with a short meditation or silence to settle into a deeper state.

Each session lasts between 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the depth of engagement.

What Not to Do: Precautions and Contraindications

To ensure safety and the integrity of the practice, it’s essential to observe certain guidelines:

Who Should Avoid Certain Asanas:

Pregnant women should avoid inverted and abdominal-compressing poses.
Individuals with severe spinal injuries or hernia must consult the teacher before participation.
People with recent surgeries or cardiovascular conditions should get medical clearance.

General Guidelines:

Avoid food for at least 4 hours before the session.
Do not mix with gym workouts or other fitness routines immediately before or after.
Practice in silence and with full awareness.
Avoid alcohol, smoking, or stimulants during the practice period.

Respecting the sanctity of the practice is key to receiving its full benefits.

Testimonials: Voices from Our Students

"I had done yoga before, but never like this. At Leela Yoga, I understood that an asana is not just about flexibility—it’s a gateway to silence and joy. The teachers are incredibly grounded and knowledgeable."
— Meera Kapoor, Mumbai

"The environment at Leela Yoga is truly spiritual. Practicing Yogasanas here made me aware of how disconnected I was from my body. Now, I feel centered, calm, and much more alive."
— Lars Johansson, Sweden

"I came to Rishikesh looking for something real. Yogasanas at Leela gave me that. The energy I felt during those sessions is hard to describe—deep, powerful, and peaceful."
— Anjali Verma, Bangalore

"The teachers honor the practice with such devotion. Every session was meditative, precise, and deeply transformative. I will carry this experience with me forever."
— James D., Australia

Location and Environment

Our campus is located on the banks of the Ganga River, surrounded by forests and Himalayan peaks. The environment itself supports inner silence and transformation. With organic vegetarian meals, simple yet clean accommodations, and a spiritual atmosphere, every aspect of your stay contributes to your journey inward.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Inner Stillness

Yogasanas are not just physical postures; they are a profound science to prepare the body and mind for higher possibilities. At Leela Yoga, we offer these ancient tools in their original depth and glory—free from dilution, commercialization, or superficiality.

If you’re ready to go beyond the physical, beyond the mind—and explore the true potential of yoga—Yogasanas at Leela Yoga is your doorway.

Join us in Rishikesh. Align with life. Align with the Divine.