Yoga in India : Embracing Mindfulness and Self-Discovery in McLeodganj

Last Updated on November 20, 2023 by Christine Kaaloa

redmonk1McLeodganj, Dharamsala, India

Yoga in India Update (Love Letter 13)

Nestled in the serene and hilly, lush landscape of the hill station of McLeodgan in Dharamsala, I found myself walking peaceful streets amidst dirt paved roads, Tibetan restaurants and roaming Tibetan Buddhists in their vibrant red robes. I was in the Dalai Lama’s neighborhood, where prayer wheels spun and bells rang.

This picturesque setting became the canvas for a profound journey within, a journey that unfolded as I pursued my yoga teacher’s certification in India, in the midst of this small town tranquility.

McLeodganj, with its serene charm, became more than a destination—it became a sanctuary or ashram for self-discovery.

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The Serenity of Living in McLeodganj

Spending a month in a guesthouse in McLeodganj, with its tranquil streets and the presence of Tibetan Buddhists, provided the perfect backdrop for self-reflection. The air was imbued with a sense of calm, and the atmosphere seemed to invite contemplation with prayer flags, prayer wheels and candles during blackouts. Momo soup and fruits bought from local farmers made my past time meals with occasional excursions to sample neighborhood restaurants.

Every thing and person was a mirror of my reflection or inner peace and became a catalyst for deep introspection, setting the stage for a transformative experience.

Read my Guide to 11 Momo types

Yoga Teacher’s Certification: A Path to Self-Discovery

Embarking on the journey to become a certified yoga teacher was more than just a professional pursuit—it became a profound exploration of self. The discipline and teachings of yoga guided me towards a deeper understanding of my own being, fostering a connection between mind, body, and spirit.

Beyond the picturesque scenes, my yoga journey in McLeodganj revealed raw realities of practicing yoga in India.  Amid muscles aching and waterborne challenges, I discovered what was required for a yoga teacher’s certification… resilience, listening to my body, feeling gratitude in the sounds and nature around me. The intense schedule became a test, shaping not only my body but my mind as I lived among this Indian-Tibetan hill life.

My time yoga training program in India created a unique family and lifestyle—a warm cocoon in the secluded sanctuary of Dharamsala. The diverse backgrounds of fellow yogis, included creators, healthcare practitioners, and physical therapists, revealed the richness of our shared experience. We became a yoga family, navigating through moments of harmony and discord, acceptance, and flexibility.

Tip: Consider exploring yoga retreats and don’t forget your travel insurance; many yoga schools in India will require it.

The Thief of Greatness: Overcoming Mental Noise

Words and thoughts often act as thieves, robbing us of our own greatness. External pressures and the need to define goals can drown the subtle, playful feelings that guide us towards our true destinies.

It wasn’t so much yoga, but experiencing a yolking with McLeodganj that taught me to navigate through this mental noise and rediscover the authenticity within.

Simplicity in Life: A Beautiful Call for Clarity

Whether practicing yoga or living in an Indo-Tibetan hill station in Dharamsala and embracing it as a lifestyle I learned that life should be simpler than I often make it. It should be as simple as waking up and breathing each day; you don’t think about it, but just do it automatically.

The simplicity of McLeodganj underscored the importance of eliminating unnecessary complexities. Stripping away distractions allowed for a clearer focus on essential truths, fostering a newfound appreciation for the beauty of simplicity.

But the question was, could I take this back with me into western society? Could I even take it back to Delhi?

Listening to the Heart in India: Finding Your Truth

Silence, often mistaken for emptiness, proved to be the loudest call for self-discovery. In the absence of words and thoughts, feelings and impressions became my compass.

Each day, each person, vision, or place held profound realization. Everything had led up to this moment for me to just be.

Conclusion

As you embark on your own adventures, I encourage you to embrace the simplicity of life, listen to the whispers of your heart, and discover the profound truths that travel has to offer.

In the spirit of this journey, consider exploring yoga retreats and don’t forget your travel insurance; many yoga schools in India will require it. I used World Nomads, but this is a trip insurance finder to match your budget!  Check out my travel gear as I travel India a lot.. May your India travels be a canvas for self-discovery and a celebration of the beauty that lies within and around you.

 

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