“It is our own mental attitude which makes the world what it is for us. Our thoughts make things beautiful, our thoughts make things ugly. The whole world is in our own minds. Learn to see things in the proper light.”
– Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902)
Nepal has been an attractive destination for any travelers who wish to ascertain the integrated physical, mental and spiritual contentment amid the beautiful nature and landscapes, wonderful culture, religious traditions and hospitable people. Blessed with the enormous natural treasures and diverse people with their practices, Nepal can be an ultimate place to capture the breathtaking scenery of mountains, picturesque valley, rich cultural-traditional heritages, hospitality & generous people and local culinary & dishes.
Today’s world is busy and strained with every day's routine, work and future security. And where materialism has heavily influenced the day-to-day activities, people have forgotten about the happiness of peaceful life as the level of stress rise above the head. With the growing modern society with advancing technology and techniques, it has been hard to keep up with the pace of change and it is getting more complex to find a sense of ease and peace.
Now, with the sense of growth towards spiritual peace and attainment; it is not hard to imagine that many people are traveling to Nepal to practice yoga and meditation. And why not? It is one of the deeply spiritual destinations and ideal location for Yoga and Meditation, by giving the centuries old mysticism of Hinduism & Buddhism and the sacred calm places around the Himalayas which are undeniably one of the best sites to host such retreats.
Yoga and Meditation Trekking is not a new concept but now gaining more popularity among travelers attempting to relish the combination of trekking experience and practicing yoga & meditation throughout journey building confidence and assembling the physical, emotion and mental state in the peaceful productive height of fulfillment & happiness. No wonder many studies have determined the usefulness and effectiveness of Yoga and Meditation as a complementary intervention for preventative and curative of many diseases (physical and mental) and guidance to provide mental peace, cosmic consciousness, and spiritual attainments.
“Yoga is a science of consciousness and it provides mastery over all stages of consciousness or awareness and makes us spectators experience”
— Swami Satyananda.
Mostly in the countryside of Kathmandu and Pokhara Valley – surrounded by the quiet sound of nature and serene environment – there are various Yoga and Meditation institution and facilities operated by professional and certified Yogis (Guru) who will help to lift the spiritual guidance to heal inner self and provide the proper art of living a harmonious life. They are best renowned for providing different kinds of Yoga teachings, meditation courses and retreat packages for any timeline as per the wish of traveler. There are also several Yoga Center in tourist hubs like Thamel, Lakeside, Patan etc where they schedule daily yoga and meditation classes and special lessons.
There is plenty to learn, understand and practice about the Principles & Philosophy, Eastern Spirituality, Physiology & Anatomy, Meditation & Mantra, Chakra & Energy, Ayurveda & Naturopathy, Elements of Life, Advanced Asana (poses), Breathing techniques and any insights and wisdom anyone can take back home to excel.
The first International Day of Yoga was observed on 21-June (2015). And also, Yoga was listed as UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage on 01-Dec (2016).