The Yoga Institute

Yogendraji's Statue

The Yoga Institute, Harriman, U.S.A in 1920

Cattien stone yoni

Shri Yogendra with Dr. Surendranath Dasgupta in 1924

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu at an event to inaugurate centenary celebrations of The Yoga Institute, in Mumbai

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the gathering after inaugurating centenary celebrations of The Yoga Institute, in Mumbai (1)

The Yoga Institute is one of the oldest organized yoga centers in the world. Founded in 1918 by Shri Yogendraji, it is located in Mumbai, India, and has been a pivotal institution in the spread and development of yoga as a disciplined lifestyle as well as a holistic approach to health and well-being.

History

The Yoga Institute was established with the mission to standardize the teaching of yoga and make it accessible to the common man as a way to cultivate a healthy and disciplined lifestyle. Shri Yogendraji, often referred to as the "Father of Modern Yoga Renaissance," aimed to remove the mysticism associated with yoga and present it in a form that could be practiced by everyone, irrespective of their age, caste, or creed.

Philosophy

The philosophy of The Yoga Institute is rooted in the classical Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, with a focus on the practical application of yoga in daily life. It emphasizes the importance of Asanas (yoga postures), Pranayama (breath control), Kriyas (cleansing techniques), Meditation, and ethical living as means to achieve physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth.

Programs

The Institute offers a wide range of programs catering to different needs, from beginner to advanced levels. These include:

• Daily classes for the practice of asanas and pranayama
• Specialized courses for health conditions such as diabetes, heart problems, and stress management
• Teacher training courses recognized by the Yoga Certification Board of India
• Workshops and seminars on yoga philosophy, diet, and lifestyle

Facilities

Located in the serene suburb of Santacruz in Mumbai, The Yoga Institute boasts a sprawling campus with traditional-style buildings surrounded by lush gardens. Facilities include a large auditorium for lectures and workshops, residential quarters for students and guests, a library with an extensive collection of yoga literature, and a health food café.

Impact and Recognition

Over the years, The Yoga Institute has made significant contributions to the field of yoga through research, publications, and outreach programs. It has been instrumental in bringing yoga to the masses, not just in India but across the globe, through its network of certified teachers and affiliates.

In recognition of its pioneering work, The Yoga Institute has been awarded several accolades by national and international bodies. It continues to be a beacon of traditional yoga teaching, adapting to contemporary needs while staying true to the essence of yoga as a way of life.

See Also

• Yoga in India
• Yoga as exercise
• List of yoga schools