Frequently Asked Questions

Location & Transportation

Which airport should I choose to fly to?

The closest and most convenient International airport for you is to fly to New Delhi. If you are visiting India for the first time then it is better for you to take a flight to Domestic Airport Jollygrant Dehradun (city nearby), and from this domestic Airport, Rishikesh is a 45 min drive by car, so you save a hustle. If you request by email, The school will also help to arrange the Car/Cab and send a driver and he will drop you directly from the airport to the school without any stop.

Is it safe to travel alone to Rishikesh?

Yes, it is safe to travel alone to Rishikesh, many tourists do it. It might be a bit challenging to travel by local buses or trains sometimes if you are never been to India before, as it's very different from other parts of the world.

Will you handle travel arrangements for me once I arrive in India?

Yes, with advanced notice we will arrange transportation for you to Rishikesh directly from the airport, bus or train station. Upon arriving in Rishikesh we will help you with directions for walking a short distance to our school.

Food & Accommodation

I am vegan. Does the food your serving are suitable for vegans?

The food provided at our center is 100% vegetarian and yogic diet. On-demand, we can also provide vegan food and sometimes we will serve the Ayurvedic diet also. We do not include any non-vegetarian diet, eggs, mushrooms, etc.

Is there clean drinking water at the school?

There is pure filtered water available for students 24/7, free of charge.

Can we use phones at school?

Yes, when you are not at your classes you are free to use a cellphone.

How can I use the Internet at school?

Our wireless internet is free and easily accessible, so you can bring your phone or your laptop in order to use it.

Do you have available AC at the school during the summer months? and a heater in winter?

Yes, we have AC rooms for students. Also heater for winter.

Health & Security

I'm taking medications. I'll be able to get it in India?

Yes, Indian hospitals (Private) have the same facilities as Western countries, which might be not the same brand of medicine, but you'll be able to get it here as well.

What if I get sick during my course?

If you are sick, injured, or in need of medical assistance, we will provide you with medical care or take you to a western-style hospital (whichever option is needed). And in this case, we will find alternatives for you in order to be able to finish the course. The school does not pay the bills of all extra medicines or health-related cures.

Do I have to be careful about eating food in India?

We have taken extra precautions by hiring dedicated staff to prepare each and every meal at the school from fresh ingredients. Eating outside of school is pretty safe in the cafe/restaurants at Rishikesh. If your stomach is sensitive, you should beware of eating street foods, oily foods, or spicy foods.

About the Course

When do we have free time?

You'll have some breaks during your daily schedule. You have one off day in a week, so you'll have time to discover.

If I want to skip class, am I able to do that?

In case of an emergency, yes, but you'll have to inform the teacher of the class about it.

Can I attend the same course with my partner?

Yes, it is possible to attend the courses with your partner.

I tried meditation just a few times. Will it be too advanced for me to attend the Meditation Teacher Training?

The MTTC is suitable for everyone as we committed to teach you from the very root of yoga through all aspects, so the experience is not necessary.

Are the teachers qualified?

The teachers are very experienced and having diplomas/degrees in their subjects. They are from a Yoga or Meditation background and practicing it for many years.

Will language be my barrier as English is not my first language?

No, all students are coming from different parts of the world, so English is the most likely second language of them. The courses are easily understandable and teachers will help you with anything.

Do I have to read any books?

There are a few books that you'll have to read during your course. It is your choice to start before your arrival or once you are at school. We also have a library in school and you can take books from there for purchase or read & return.

Arrival & Departure

In order to attend the orientation program, one should arrive at least a day before starting the course. On the last day of the course, a graduation ceremony takes place and, therefore, departure should be planned to keep in mind this.

Meditation

Is spiritual meditation a science?

Spiritual meditation can be considered as subjective science. It is an ancient organized structure backed by reasoning and observation. Only the practitioner knows the actual effects and process of meditation, and no device can measure that.

What is the difference between spirituality and religion?

The main difference between spirituality and religion is that spirituality is an inward reflection of self and an attempt to merge with the higher consciousness whereas religion is an external practice through ceremonies, rituals, and festivals.

Do I need a Guru to teach me spiritual meditation?

It helps if you find a Guru who can guide you along the right way and make your path to higher consciousness easier. Otherwise, you can become your Guru if you let go of ego.

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is an exercise to be aware of the present moment without any judgment.

What do I wear while doing meditation?

Wear comfortable clothing that will not distract you from meditation.

What is the best time of day to meditate?

Early morning time before sunrise is usually the best time to meditate. As at that time, you probably won’t be bothered with phone calls, work, or household duties. The second best time to meditate is in the evening after your work as it helps to create a natural boundary between work and the rest of life.

Should I meditate with open or closed eyes?

It is more pleasant and beneficial to meditate with eyes closed. However, if you have any unusual sensation or any other issue, you are advised to open your eyes.

Do we have to be vegetarian to practice meditation?

The yoga philosophy follows the ahinsa principle, but it is entirely the choice of the practitioner whether to have animal products or not

Which posture should I take?

The basic and most important thing to keep in mind while meditating is to keep your spine erect and active. You can choose a seated pose that suits you better such as Sukhasana, Vajrasana, Padmasana or simply sit on a chair.

Should I use music to meditate?

Music can act as a tool to meditate. Meditative music helps us to shift our attention from worries and tensions to the inner self. Especially Indian classical music is recommended for meditation as the ragas and notes are designed to stimulate our subtle energy system.

Can I learn meditation from a book or a video?

Yes, you can learn meditation from a book or a video but to go deeper in your practice you need the guidance of a guru or a teacher.

Will I need to make lifestyle changes?

No lifestyle changes are needed for meditation unless it comes naturally without any effort. With time your lifestyle will adjust itself to the true nature of body and soul. But if you request our teacher, we can design your daily lifestyle.

How long should my meditation sessions last?

Generally, it is best to meditate no less than 20 minutes.