Yes and no. It depends on how you look at yoga. If you think of yoga only as a physical activity, then having some practice with postures (asana) will help. Yoga includes movements like stretching, twisting, bending, balancing, etc., which are also part of activities like gymnastics, dance, aerobics, or even bodyweight workouts. So if you’ve done any of these, you already have some experience—even if not in a yoga class.

On the other hand, yoga is also a way of living. It involves things like staying clean inside and out, being honest, kind, non-greedy, mindful, and calm. If you’ve tried to live with such values at any point in life, then you’ve already been practicing yoga.

Once you book your spot, we recommend starting some yoga postures and reading a few suggested spiritual books to make the most of your time with us.

Some beginners may already know a lot about yoga life but not have strong posture skills. Others may be very fit but new to yoga ideas. If you’re serious about learning, this course may still be a good fit. Please contact us so we can help decide if it’s right for you. You should be in good physical health and able to practice regularly.

Yes, you can. In fact, this training may help you more than others. Yoga is much more than just doing difficult poses.

We keep class sizes small—each teaching group has around 30 students at most.

You should try not to miss any classes unless there’s a serious health issue or emergency. If you do miss a class, your teacher will give you extra work to make up for it so you can still complete your required hours.

Yes. The course includes many chances for you to practice teaching. It’s an important part of your training.

Yes. Shiva Kaivalya Yoga is a registered school with Yoga Alliance USA, and this course meets their international standards.

Yes. Please email us at yogashivakaivalya@gmail.com with your arrival date, time, and full flight details (city, airline, flight number), and we’ll arrange a pick-up for you.

Bring your yoga mat, comfortable clothes for yoga, swimwear, flip-flops, toiletries, mosquito repellent, a power adapter, and any medicines you need.

Yes. We follow a plant-based diet in line with the yogic value of Ahimsa (non-violence). No meat, fish, eggs, or seafood are allowed in the kitchen. We offer tasty vegetarian meals with some vegan and gluten-free options. If you prefer to eat something else, you can find many restaurants nearby. However, we suggest sticking to plant-based food while in India to avoid any stomach issues.

Yes. Please let us know when you book or when you arrive. We usually have dairy-free and gluten-free options, and we do our best to meet special dietary needs.

We’ve never had safety problems. Rooms have closets and drawers you can lock. Security guards are on duty all day and night. Just be sure to lock your room when you go out and have travel insurance for your belongings.

There are several ATM machines in Rishikesh, and currency exchange services are available at many travel agencies, banks, and authorized exchange counters. You can also find such services in nearby markets and tourist areas. Tuk-tuks or autos are available if you don’t want to walk.

No. You should bring your own mat. You can buy one locally, but the quality may not be the best.

Yes, Shiva Kaivalya Yoga offers laundry service for a small fee.