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bbcbreakingnews · 3 years

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Health ministry’s telemedicine service eSanjeevani records 1 million teleconsultations

NEW DELHI: The Union Health Ministry’s national telemedicine initiative eSanjeevani has crossed 1 million teleconsultations on Monday. The eSanjeevani is being used by patients in over 550 districts of India, the health ministry said in a statement. Over 10 per cent of the users of eSanjeevani are aged 60 and above. Close to around one fourth of the total patients have used eSanjeevani more than once. “These stands as a testimony to the fact that public has started preferring telemedicine over visiting hospital OPDs for consulting a doctor,” the ministry said. The roll-out of eSanjeevani in India is supposedly the first-of-its-kind of digital transformation in the delivery of health services at national scale by a developing country. During the COVID-19 pandemic, eSanjeevani not only brought about a huge digital transformation in the delivery of health services but had also boosted the digital health ecosystem in the country, the statement said. The eSanjeevani initiative of the health ministry is serving in two streams in 28 states and union territories. The eSanjeevani AB-HWC enables doctor-to-doctor teleconsultations and is being used around 6,000 health and wellness centres which are being served by specialists and doctors in around 240 hubs that have been set up by states in district hospitals or medical colleges. Over 20,000 paramedics, doctors and specialists have been trained to use eSanjeevani Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs). The second stream eSanjeevani OPD is or providing remote health services to patients in their homes. The eSanjeevani OPD enables contactless, risk-free, and safe consultations between a doctor and a patient. It received a huge reception by both patients and doctors. The top 10 states with highest consultations through eSanjeevani and eSanjeevani OPD platforms are Tamil Nadu (319507), Uttar Pradesh (268889), Madhya Pradesh (70838), Gujarat (63601), Kerala (62797), Himachal Pradesh (49224), Andhra Pradesh (39853), Karnataka (32693), Uttarakhand (31910) and Maharashtra (12635). Around 8,000 doctors have been trained and onboarded on eSanjeevani OPD and on an average around 1,500 doctors practice telemedicine daily in around 225 online OPDs of which 190 are speciality OPDs and around 30 are general OPDs. Of late, daily eSanjeevani has been serving around 14,000 patients across the country. Considering the inherent potential and social impact of this emergent digital modality of delivery of health services, the states have designed innovative applications around eSanjeevani OPD. In Kerala, eSanjeevani OPD is being used for providing health services to the inmates of Palakkad District Jail, in Himachal Pradesh too it is being rolled out in old age homes, the statement stated. Quick adoption of eSanjeevani OPD services across the country has enabled launch of a wide range of speciality and super-speciality OPDs, including alternative medical systems, such as AYUSH and naturopathy. Kerala has already set up OPDs on eSanjeevani OPD for providing services of the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram – District Early Intervention Centres for its populace. State governments are complimenting the efforts of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare by establishing a robust digital health ecosystem comprising IT savy human and infrastructural resources to boost the adoption of eSanjeevani, the statement said.

source https://bbcbreakingnews.com/2020/12/14/health-ministrys-telemedicine-service-esanjeevani-records-1-million-teleconsultations/

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omc-juniperpublishers · 4 years

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Phytochemical Profiling and Antifungal Activity m of Essential Oil and Rhizome Extracts of Curcuma Amada Roxb-JuniperPublishers

Journal of Chemistry-JuniperPublishers

Abstract

Curcuma amada (Zingiberaceae), commonly used as spice, and is also associated with multiple health benefits. In the present study, petroleum ether, cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform, acetone and methanol extracts of dried rhizome of C. amada prepared by solvent extraction were analyzed for quantitative and qualitative phytochemical profile and antifungal assay. In vitro antifungal activity of all extracts was determined by using agar well diffusion method against four fungi (Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, Collectotricum falcatum and Sclerotenia solani). The essential oil and extracts were found to active against the tested fungi in dose dependent manner by inhibiting the fungul mycelia growth. The essential oil of C. amada exhibited higher activity in comparison to extracts against all the fungi. Maximum inhibition of fungul growth was recorded for R. solani (80.93%) and S. solani (80.90%).

Keywords: Curcuma amda; Extracts; Essential oil; Phytochemicals; Antifungal activity

Research Article

The genus Curcuma belonging to the family Zingiberaceae has a widespread occurrence in the tropical Asia and Australia. This genus, comprises of more than 80 species of rhizomatous herbs including Curcuma amada, Curcuma longa, Curcuma zedoaria, Curcuma aromatica, is widely used in traditional systems of medicines such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Homeopathy and Naturopathy. In India, it is cultivated in innumerable agro- ecological situations right from the coastal areas to elevations as high as 1880m in the tropics and the sub-tropics of the country [1-3]. Curcuma amada Roxb. It is commonly known as Amada or 'Amahaldi' or 'mango ginger' due to the raw mango-like aroma of the rhizome. Curcuma amada Roxb.

Is a rhizomatous aromatic herb with a leafy tuft and 6090cm in height? Leaves are long, petiolate, oblonglanceolate, tapering at both ends, glabrous and green on both sides. Flowers are white or pale yellow, arranged in spikes in the centre of tuft of the leaves. Lip is semi-elliptic, yellow, 3-lobbed with the mid lobe emarginated [4]. Curcuma amada possess antifungal, antiinflammatory, anticancer and anti hyperglyceridemic properties [5-7]. Rhizomes of Curcuma amada Roxb. Used for the manufacture of oleoresin and essential oil [8]. Its rhizomes essential oil containing β-myrcene, β-pinene, α-pinene, ocimene, ar-curcumene, linalool, linalyl acetate, camphor and safrole [9,10]. Based on the above facts it is imperative to investigate the qualitative phytochemical variations and antifungal activity in various extracts and essential oil.

Material and Methods

Plant material

Air dried rhizomes of C. amada were collected from the local agricultural field of District Udham singh nagar Uttarakhand, India and identified by Dr. D.S. Rawat (plant taxonomist), G.B.Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar. Rhizomes were washed thoroughly to remove adhering material and shade dried at room temperature and was further ground by means of an electrical blender to fine powder.

Isolation of the essential oil

The fresh rhizomes were hydro distilled for using a Clevenger type apparatus for 8h. The oil was extracted with the help of dichloromethane followed by drying over anhydrous Na2SO4. The yield of oil was found about 0.52% (w/v).

Preparation of plant extracts

Plant extracts were prepared in six different organic solvents (Petroleum ether, cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform, acetone and methanol) using solvent extraction [11]. Rhizome powder (300 g) was extracted in 150 ml of each solvent separately using Soxhlet extractor over water bath for 8h. The extracts were concentrated using vacuum rotatory evaporator at 45±5°C.

Phytochemical screening

Qualitative and quantitative analysis bioassay for total phenol [12], flavanols and orthodihydroxy phenols [13], phytochemical screening of all the six extracts for presence of alkaloids, tannin, anthraquinone, glycosides, reducing sugar, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, caumarine, emodins, anthocyanin, betacyanin was carried out according to standard method reported earlier [14-16].

Antifungal activity

The antifungal activity of different solvent extracts was determined by agar well diffusion method [17,18]. Four phytopathogenic fungi, Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, Colletotricum falcatum and Sclerotenia solani were maintained and grown on potato dextrose agar medium in order to study antifungal activity of essential oil and various extracts having different polarity.

Sterilized petri plates of 90 mm diameter were used for pouring of medium. In each petri plate about 20 ml sterilized melted medium was aseptically poured near burner flame in a sterilized laminar air flow chamber The medium in the plates were centrally inoculated by placing a 5 mm mycelial disc which was cut from the margin of 5 days old culture of the test fungus. Sterilized four filter paper disc were placed in a sterilized petri plates and different concentration of the extracts were added with the help of sterilized micropipette on each filter paper disc. The plates were sealed with paraflim immediately. Inoculated petri plates were incubated at 26+1°C in a BOD incubator The growth of the fungus was measured in mm at an interval of 24 hours (18).Percent inhibition of growth was calculated by using the following formula:

Where, I =lnhibition percentage, C = Colony radius in check (mm) T = colony radius in treatments (mm)

Results and Discussion

In present study, seeds of C. amada were extracted with six solvents with different polarity (petroleum ether, cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform, acetone and methanol) using Soxhlet apparatus. The yield of extracts mentioned in (Table 1). All the extracts were screened quantitatively in terms of their total phenols, flavonols and orthodihydroxy phenolic content with the help of their respective calibration curves (Figure 1). CAPE contained 91mg/100mg total phenols more than CAAC, CAEA, CAME, CACCL, CACH. CAME contained 26.31mg/100mg ortho dihydric phenolic contents more than CAPE, CAAC, CACL, CACH, CAEA. The flavonols content was observed more in CACH (75mg/100mg). The values are represented in catechol equivalent. The differences in the antioxidant activity of different extracts of C. amada may be possibly due to the different biochemical make up of the extracts in terms of phenols, flavonols and orthodihydroxy compounds and their concentration in the extracts.

The phytochemicals such as phenolics, flavanoid have been reported to reduce the oxidative peroxidation of lipids by possessing antioxidant activity [19-21]. The chemical composition and in vitro antioxidant potential of essential oil and rhizome extracts of Curcuma amada Roxb was reported in which essential oil was found to possess p myrcene over 40% as a major constituent (10). It has been reported by many workers all over the world that there exist a direct correlation among phenolic contents and antioxidant activity [22,23] (Figure 1).

For qualitative secondary metabolite profiling twelve phytochemicals viz. alkaloids, tannin, anthraquinone, glycosides, reducing sugar, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, caumarine, emodins, anthocyanin, and betacyanin were analyzed. The study revealed that alkaloids was present only in CAME. Tannin and saponins could not be detected in any extracts. Anthraquinone could be detected only present in CAEA. Glycosides and emodins were present in CAME. Betacyanin, caumarine and reducing sugars were present in CAEA. Flavonoids, terpenoids were present in all extract. Anthocyanin was present in CAPE, CACH, CAAC and CAME (Table 2).

The rhizome essential oil and all the extracts were found active against the tested fungi in dose dependent manner by inhibiting the fungal mycelia growth. All the extracts exhibited good to moderate activity against C. falcatum but the maximum inhibition dose recorded for CAEA (55.90%) at 1000ppm of dose level at 72 hrs. The other extracts inhibited 54.15-50.95% of mycelia growth in order of CACH (54.75%) >CAME (54.15%) >CAAC (53.38%) >CACL (51.05%) >CAPE (50.95%) respectively at the same dose level (Figure 2). Against S. solani all the extracts exhibited well to moderate activity but the maximum inhibition dose recorded for CAPE and CAEA (95.57%) at 1000ppm of dose level at 72 hrs. The other extracts inhibited 88.59 -73.89% of mycelia growth in order of CACL (88.59%) > CACH (82.86%) >CAME (73.95%) >CAAC (73.89%) respectively at 1000ppm of dose level at 72 hrs (Figure 2). CACH was found to be most effective against R. solani, it exhibited 100% growth at 1000ppm of dose level at 72 hrs.

The other extracts inhibited 79.78% - 46.70% of mycelia growth in order of CAAC (79.78%) > CACL (59.18%) > CAPE (55.66%) > CAME (53.40%) >CAEA (46.70%) respectively at 1000ppm of dose level at 72 hrs (Figure 2). Against S. rolfsii the extracts exhibited good antifungal activity but the maximum inhibition dose was recorded for CAME (93.25%) at 1000ppm of dose level at 96 hrs. The other extracts inhibited 68.00 - 49.34% of mycelia growth in order of CAPE (68.00%) > CAME (64.45%)>CACH & CACL (64.43%) >CAEA (49.34%) respectively at 1000ppm of dose level at 96 hrs As per the study the essential oil and all the extracts were found to active against the tested fungi (Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, Collectotricum falcatum and Sclerotenia solani) in dose dependent manner by inhibiting the fungal mycelia growth.

The essential oil of C. amada exhibited higher activity in comparison to extracts against all the fungi. The volatile oil from mango ginger rhizomes has antifungal in nature and it has been reported that myrcene and pinene possess antifungal activity against the wide range of fungi, viz. Curvularia palliscens, Aspergillus niger, A. terreus, Fusarium moniliforme and F. falcatum [24]. The major constituents of the essential oil have been reported by our group (10) also possess β-myrcene and β-pinene as the major constituent. Thus the present result of essential oil for possessing antifungal activity against tested pathogenic fungi was justified by the results reported earlier (Figure 2).

Conclusion

With the increased resistance towards synthetic drugs in phytopathogenic fungi, plant products may provide a better alternative to cure as well as prevent the infections caused by them. The present study revealed significant antifungal potential of Curcuma amada along with providing an easy, economic and less polluting way to extract out target bioactive molecules. However further investigations regarding the isolation of individual component from most active extracts may help in offering the natural alternative to treat infections caused by investigated fungus.

Acknowledgement

We are thankful to University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi. Thanks are due to the department of Plant pathology bio control lab, G B Pant University of Agriculture and Technology Pantnagar for antifungal activity determination.

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eat-travel-live-repeat · 5 years

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Aahana Resort – The Corbett Wilderness

Aahana Resort is a luxurious abode, surrounded by the forests of the Bijrani Zone of Corbett National Park, situated in the state of Uttarakhand in India. The foundations of Aahana Resort, which is just a 5-hour drive from Delhi NCR, were laid in 2002 by Mr Tripathi, who had a vision of creating an abode, not just for the travellers from different corners of the world, but also for the 100+ bird species and 200+ species of flora that can be spotted, in the sprawling 14 acre grounds, where Aahana Resort – The Corbett Wilderness is spread out.

As of today, Aahana Resort – The Corbett Wilderness, is recognized to be one of the most ecologically responsible and sustainable retreats, amidst the wilderness of Corbett National Park.

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The Rooms at Aahana Resort

The 48 rooms are scattered across the 14 acre property, in 6 categories, with the Corbett Club, being the most basic category, and the Rangers Suite being the most luxurious one of the lot, for 2 people.

Corbett Club

Accommodation for – 2 adults, no extra bed

Room Size: 400 – 600 sq. ft.

Bathroom: 70 – 180 sq. ft.

King Size Bed / Two separate beds

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Jims Retreat

Accommodation for – 2 adults and provision for 2 extra bed

1 Bedroom

Room Size: 650 sq. ft.

Bathroom: 70-110 Sq. ft.

Jungle Lore Suite

Accommodation for – 2 adults and provision for 2 extra bed

1 Bedroom and 1 Sitting Room

Room Size: 625-750 sq. ft.

Bathroom: 70-110 Sq. ft.

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Rangers Suite

Accommodation for – 2 adults and provision for 1 extra bed

1 Bedroom and 1 Sitting Room

Room Size: 800 sq. ft.

Bathroom: 125 Sq. ft.

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Aahana Family Suite (2 bed rooms)

Accommodation for – 4 adults and provision for 2 extra beds

2 Bedrooms and 1 sitting room

Room Size: 1050 sq. ft.

Bathroom: 70-100 Sq. ft.

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The Villa

Accommodation for – 8 adults and provision for 2 extra beds 2800 sq. ft.

4 Bedroom (with bathroom en-suite) +1 Sitting room, Patio and Foyer

Balconies (300 sq. ft.) facing jungle and another facing garden

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All the room categories, have a King Size Bed and an enclosed rain shower in the bathrooms. The rooms are equipped with tea/coffee makers, a mini bar fridge, telephone, safe deposit box, 32”/42” LCD TV with Tata Sky connection, 24hrs running hot & cold water and excellent air-conditioning, and either have a balcony or an outdoor sitting area, overlooking the Garden or the Jungle, where one can relax and listen to the sounds of nature.

What to Do in Aahana Resort?

The thing which I absolutely loved after spending some time at Aahana Resort – The Corbett Wilderness was the variety of things I did, during the duration of my stay at Aahana Resort, which not only had an educative element attached to it, but also kept me entertained, and the esthetics of the place, made sure that I found the escape from the chaotic city life, that I was looking for.

Do a Property tour and learn about the Sustainable practices being followed at Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness

As the buildings occupy less than 25% of the total area the resort is spread out in, taking a leisure walk around the property, while learning more about the different species of flora and, the different measures adopted by Aahana Resort in the direction of sustainability, is one of the things, which you should definitely do.

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You’ll notice that, only CFL and LED lights, are used throughout Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness. These lights save power and reduces the emission of carbon dioxide from the generators.

Water conservation is at the heart Aahana Resorts Sustainable initiatives, and is driven by the innovative Root -Zone Treatment through Cannae plant (one of the biggest of its kind in Asia). The plant effectively recycles the waste water, generated and gets reused for safe areas like gardening effectively negating the carbon footprint. The pathways have also been designed, in such a way, that rainwater seeps through them, thus maintaining the underground water table.

When it comes to Solid Waste Management, all biodegradable waste generated within the property is decomposed and utilized as manure for the gardens and organic farming. The non-biodegradable waste, on the other hand, is collected, segregated and sent for recycling, maintaining the ecological balance within the resort.

If you notice, you’ll also see that empty paint boxes are used as dustbins and paper bags are made out of used newspapers.

This 100% waste management program also contributes to their motto of minimising carbon footprints.

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Visit the Naturopathy center and treat yourself to some well-deserved wellness therapy.

Healing occurs in a pleasing and timeless space that creates a sense of wellness, beauty and indulgence at the same time, and the peaceful surrounding Corbett environment, at Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness allows people to relax, rejuvenate and pamper themselves at the same time.

If you are wondering as to why should you indulge in the wellness packages at the Aahana Naturopathy Centre, here’s the answer:

The Treatments on Offer at the Aahana Naturopathy Centre

Visit the onsite Gaushala and Sewage Treatment Plant at Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness

Yes, you read it right!

Aahana Resort maintains a fully operational Gaushala onsite, and all the dairy products used on site, are freshly sourced from here.

Also, did you know that Aahana Resort also has one of Asia’s biggest and most unique Sewage Treatment Plant, which uses Canna Root Zone System?

In this process, there is no use of electricity and chemicals and 100% waste water from the facility is recycled to provide clean water for gardening.

Do Bird-watching

Did you know that you can spot over a 100-different species of birds, in and around the sprawling 14-acre resort?

If you have an interest in birdwatching, meet the in-house naturologist, who will give you some tips on the different features of the birds, and how you can spot them in their natural habitat.

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Enjoy a swim in the pool by the jungle

Overlooking the Multi Cuisine Restaurant is the Swimming Pool, and Swimming in this pool adjoining the jungle is a unique experience as it gives you a feeling of swimming in water with the jungle in the backdrop.

Go for a Corbett Jeep safari in the Corbett National Park

Away from the confines of mundane life, the Corbett Jeep safari is a journey into the world that is still untouched by mechanization.

Several species of deer, sloth bear, wild boar, fresh water dolphin, leopard, the marsh mugger and gharial crocodiles, over 450 species of birds and the elusive, nocturnal Royal Bengal tiger, call the vast jungles of Jim Corbett National Park.

In a nutshell, Aahana Resort – The Corbett Wilderness, is one of the few properties, where deliberate and conscious steps have been taken to follow sustainable practices, while keeping the luxury element intact and ensuring that no stone is left unturned, when it comes to providing the best experiences to the guests staying here.

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How to Reach Aahana Resort – The Corbett Wilderness?

Complete Address

Vill. Sawaldeh PO Semalkhaliya,

Jim Corbett National Park,

Ramnagar Nainital, India – 244715

Phone – +91-7088600021 Email id – [email protected]

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By Air

The closest airport to Aahana Resort is the Pantnagar airport, 70 km away, and the concierge at Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness, will be more than helpful, in arranging a pick up from the airport.

By Rail

Ramnagar railway station is just a 15 minutes’ drive from the resort.

By Road

Drive from New Delhi NCR to the Resort is 5 hrs, and the popular tourist lake town of Nainital, is roughly a 2-hour drive from the Resort.

State transport buses also ply between Ramnagar and nearby hubs like Delhi, Dehradun and Chandigarh.

Disclaimer : No compensation was received for this article, however Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness offered my stay complimentary. As always, the opinions on theETLRblog.com are (and always will be) my own!

PS : Images are either owned by the Author (Arnav Mathur) or by Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness, and all rights remain with them.

Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness | A Property Review Aahana Resort - The Corbett Wilderness Aahana Resort is a luxurious abode, surrounded by the forests of the Bijrani Zone of Corbett National Park…

#2019 #Corbett #Eat Travel Live Repeat #ETLR Travel Diaries 2019 #Experiences #Incredible India #Property Review #travel blogger #Travel with ETLR #Uttarakhand #Weekend Trip

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flyindianow-blog · 7 years

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YOGA AND MEDITATION CENTRES IN INDIA

Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word Yuj. It basically means the union of the soul or individual consciousness with the Universal Consciousness or the divine supreme. Yoga is a 5000 year old profound science developed and practiced in India. It came through the sagacious souls who chose the Indian land for this pious endowment. It’s not mere twist and turn or physical exercise of any kind. The practice of Yoga makes a person virtuous and unfolds the infinite potentials and possibilities of human mind and soul. As the renowned Guru of India, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says, “Yoga is not just exercise and asanas. It is the emotional integration and spiritual elevation with a touch of mystic element, which gives you a glimpse of something beyond all imagination”

To further add on this we can say that while yoga in western countries mainly signifies the bodily movements or physical postures and sequences (asanas), in India, particularly in conventional ashrams, it is much more. A greater emphasis is put on meditation, breathing and cleansing techniques along with devotional practices, teaching of philosophy, mantra chanting etc. There are different places in India which boasts to have the best yoga and meditation centres. So, don’t delay to book cheap flights from London to India to visit these heritage cities to excel in practice of Yoga and meditation.

Bihar School of Yoga

Days at the ashram begin at 4am and end with evening satsangs. Many styles of Yoga are taught that include Raj, Hathh and Kriya as well as Yoga Nidra which is an intense meditative state which takes the mind into a transverse condition between sleep and being awake. While being a visitor to this ashram and staying there one has to remain in strict discipline in terms of following the ashram’s routine.

Purple Valley, Assagao, Goa

If you are more of a kind of modern yogi and can’t live without modern amenities then this is the place for you. Here you will get somewhat similar lifestyle and a proper mentoring of the learned gurus. This is the best place to kick start Ashtanga Yoga, with morning and evening classes, including kirtan, pranayam, philosophy and yogic science. Massage therapists and consultation with doctors is also available. Two International and one ayurvedic chef prepare healthy and tasty buffet meals.

Kaivalyadhama Ashram, Lonavala, Maharashtra

Located on the 180 acres of parkland at Lonavala, a hill station between Mumbai and Pune, this ashram planned as the yogic research centre, when opened in 1924 has been serving the innumerable programs since then, in various yogic techniques, ayurveda and naturopathy. The ashram also offers diplomas and fully credited degrees for yoga teachers. The campus is old fashioned with immense plantation. Only few of the rooms are fully air-conditioned and the food includes organic Indian food.

Mysore Krishnamachar Yoga Shala, Mysore, Karnataka

BNS Iyengar, had been teaching in the Mysore Shala for the last 38 years. He was one of the proficient students of renowned guru, Krishnamacharya, who was the teacher of BKS Iyenagar and Pattabhi Jois, the founders of Iyengar and the Ashtanga Yoga. The classes that are taught are pranayama(breathing practices), kriya(chanting, breating and gestures), neti and dhauti(body cleansing techniques), philosophy and meditation. Affordable acommodation is available nearby as there are plenty of them around the ashram.

Phool Chatti, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Located alongside a primeval pilgrimage route, which is 5km upriver from the Laxman Jhula on the banks of holy Ganga river, in Rishikesh is the famous centre for Yoga and Meditation at Phoolchatti. Most of the classes here are given by Yoga director Sadhvi Lalitambay who is living at the ashram since she was 15 years of age. The seven days yoga course involves asana, prayanama, neti cleansing, mantra chanting, kirtans, meditative walks, river dips, hiking and plenty of yoga philosophy and discussion. The rooms here are comfortable with basic amenities like hot showers. The food is good and nutritious.

The Yoga House, Mumbai, Maharashtra

The Yoga House is a contemporary, bright and lively space in Mumbai, which gives a temporary relief from the hustle bustle of chaotic routine and takes you to a world of traditional Indian knowledge and yoga practice with a healthy lifestyle. If you are coming from any part of the world like London and have booked your flights to Mumbai, then this place is a must visit to explore the real India. This house is a safe haven, the yoga and meditation teaching is of high standard. Both Indian and western food is available.

To rejuvenate your body and soul, make hay while the sun shines and book lucrative deals for travel to India.

#flights to india #meditation #lifestyle

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traveljournalsg · 7 years

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RETREAT TO SOME OF INDIA’S BEST

Do more than just ‘shavasana’ on your next wellness retreat!

Yoga has been gaining popularity in Singapore, as evidenced from the numerous yoga studios that have popped up all over the island over the past few years. Besides posh studios, neighbourhood community centers have also started offering various types of classes. With such peaked levels of interest in this ancient spiritual, mental, and physical practice, one may be inclined to visit the birthplace of such wellness practices. Besides yoga, wellness and fitness retreats are becoming the new norm amongst travellers looking for novel travel themes. There are many different states in India offering otherworldly experiences and invigorating escapades. We’ve picked a few cities you should check out.

Pune

Pune is a city in the western Indian state of Maharashtra (a two-hour drive from the city of Mumbai). It was once the base of the prime ministers of the Maratha Empire. Pune is probably best known for being home to the grand Aga Khan Palace - which was built in 1892 and now serves as a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, whose ashes are preserved in the garden. It is a metropolitan city with echoes of a grand past. Besides magnificent forts, Pune is also surrounded by hills and lakes, with a temperate climate. There is a myriad of spa and wellness resorts that will serve as the ideal place to sneak off to for some well-earned quiet time. Atmantan Wellness Centre, Mulshi is one such award-winning luxurious escape overlooking gorgeous, misty hills. Another slice of heaven can be found at The Ark - a boutique spa resort situated at a distance of 45 minutes from Pune. Set in the midst of nature, this accommodation is more than an escape from the routine stresses of life. For those who want to kick their yoga skills up a notch, there are some fantastic yoga centres in Pune such as the National Institute of Naturopathy.

Kolkata

A city in the state of West Bengal, Kolkata was India’s capital when it was under the English. Today, its massive colonial buildings sits together with intricate Indian architecture. The busy and energetic metropolis is home to a plethora of tourist attractions but also has its fair share of wonderful spas and resorts to ‘take you away from it all’. Don’t forget to indulge in some scrumptious Bengali cuisine when you find yourself there.

Rishikesh

Located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is a city that is synonymous with anything related to yoga, relaxation, and meditation. It is hard to see why, as this city is set on the historic Ganges river, at the foot of the Himalayas surrounded by hills and the quiet greens. One such magical haven can be found at Ananda – yet another award-winning luxury destination spa resort in India situated at the Himalayan foothills. Located on a 100-acre Maharaja’s Palace Estate, Ananda is surrounded by graceful Sal forests. Touted to be the best luxury Ayurvedic retreats in India, it integrates traditional Ayurveda, Yoga, and Vedanta with international wellness experiences. Yoga centres are aplenty in Rishikesh – Patanjali Yogapeeth, The Divine Life Society, and Swami Ram Sadhaka Gram are just some of the few that yogis should check out. The next time you’re planning a trip, make a getaway to some of India’s finest cities for unparalleled beauty and tranquillity.

incredibleindia.org

#india #Pune #kolkata #Rishikesh

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vitalmindandbody · 7 years

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Top 10 yoga retreats in India

India is a dream destination for many yogis, but with so many ashrams and courses, how do you choose wisely? From the hardcore to the boutique, we select 10 of the best places to practise yoga

Though this list includes some of the best ashrams, retreats and shalas India has to offer, there are three notable omissions: BKS Iyengars school in Pune, Pattabhi Joiss in Mysore, and the pan-Indian Sivananda Centre, excluded on account of their existing popularity and fame. They are highly recommended nonetheless. Several other places were vetoed on account of various scandals and disputes, and I have also excluded luxurious and obscenely priced retreats.

As with many things in India today, yoga doesnt necessarily come cheap but all of these are very good value given the quality of teaching on offer. Be advised that customer service in India isnt always the best, and some of the more traditional places might prove hard to contact. But be patient, persevere, switch to Indian-time and, if you must, see it as the first step in letting go of your ego.

One last thing: while yoga in the west focuses almost exclusively on the physical postures and sequences (asana), in India, particularly in traditional ashrams, asana is only one aspect of a wider whole. In this case one can expect a greater emphasis on meditation, breathing and cleansing techniques, along with devotional practices such as mantra chanting, tuition in philosophy, and karma yoga (community service).

Bihar School of Yoga, Munger, Bihar

At the sprawling Bihar School, yoga is a lifestyle not a practice, and karma yoga is given precedence over asana. So alongside classes expect hours of seva (service) including gardening, kitchen work and toilet cleaning supplemented by cold showers and a simple diet.

It may sound daunting, but comforts loss is authenticitys gain, and former students attest to the life-altering qualities a stint in this ashram can give. Days begin at 4am, and end with twilight satsangs (discourses) or kirtans (mantra chanting) before lights out at 8pm. Many yoga styles are taught, including Hatha, Raja (mental discipline), Kriya (breathing, chanting and ritual gesture) and yoga therapy, as well as Yoga Nidra, a deep meditative technique lulling the mind into a state neither awake nor asleep, developed by the ashrams founder Swami Satyananda Saraswati. Open to all (beginner to advanced), year round (though in May-July, temperatures can reach 45C). The four-month residential course in yogic studies starts every October, around 1,200 for international students including accommodation and all meals. biharyoga.net

Purple Valley, Assagao, Goa

Photograph: Coni Hrler/Purple Valley Yoga

If youre a modern yogi craving India plus detox juices and fast Wi-Fi, with access to the worlds best Ashtanga teachers (John Scott, Petri Raisanen, Alexander Medin), Goas Purple Valley is your place. Despite its hardcore reputation, beginners are not only welcome but encouraged, making it a great place to kick-start your Ashtanga training, with Mysore-style self-practice in the morning and special classes in the afternoons, including philosophy, yogic living, kirtans and pranayama.

The retreat is spread over two Portuguese-style houses and landscaped gardens with a tropical forest feel. Two international and one Ayurvedic chef prepare buffet meals that include the likes of masala millet crepes and soy burgers. Consultations with Ayurvedic doctors and massage therapists are also offered. Once the preserve of foreign students, Purple Valley now has a growing Indian following. Open from mid-October to late April. Full-board is 590/890 for one/two weeks in a shared room, or 750/1,100 in a single room. yogagoa.com

Kaivalyadhama Ashram, Lonavala, Maharashtra

Set within 180 acres of parkland at Lonavala, a hill-station between Mumbai and Pune, this ashram, designed as a yogic research centre when it opened in 1924, is the kind of place you can spend days, months or even years immersed in its myriad programmes. The ashrams school offers diplomas and fully accredited degrees for yoga teachers, along with shorter courses for both beginners and advanced students, while the health centre where Gandhi was an early patient after a breakdown in 1927 has week-long packages that include yoga with a focus on either relaxation, naturopathy or Ayurveda. Youll stay within the leafy, old-fashioned campus, at the health centre or in the rooms of the main hall, some of which are air-conditioned. The diet throughout is organic Indian vegetarian. Open all year. 42 a week for yoga with naturopathy, 115 a week for yoga with Ayurvedic treatment; accommodation starts at 67 a week for a shared room and goes up to 425 for a cottage. The year-long diploma in yoga therapy is 4,255, including accommodation and all meals. kdham.com

Mysore Krishnamachar Yoga Shala, Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore, in the southern state of Karnataka, is one of Indias most popular yoga destinations. Photograph: David Pearson/Rex

BNS Iyengar, who has taught quietly in his Mysore shala for the last 38 years, was one of the original students of super-guru Krishnamacharya, the teacher of the famous BKS Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois, founders of Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga respectively.

His classes include Ashtanga yoga asanas (the sequence differs from the main Ashtanga institutes, with a 55 minute primary series) pranayama (breathing), kriya (breathing, chanting, gesture), neti and dhauti (cleansing techniques), meditation and philosophy, all of which are taught as part of a teacher training course. BNS has a steady following despite or perhaps because of his brutal style.

Think of him as a cantankerous old kung-fu master whose tough love hides a deep-seated desire for his students to prosper. Students are required to register for a minimum of one month. Accommodation is provided nearby at extra cost, otherwise there are plenty of rooms to rent around this yoga-friendly city. Open all year; next teacher training begins on 4 July 2016. 65 for a month of morning classes; 650 for a month-long teacher training course (excluding accommodation). bnsiyengar.net.

Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre, Dharamkot, Himachal Pradesh & Arambol, Goa

Downward dog Arambol beach in northern Goa is wide quiet, perfect for practising yoga. Photograph: Ami Vitale/Getty Images

An old student of BKS Iyengar, Sharat Arora became well-known in yoga circles for his serious and dedicated approach to the tradition. His school, the Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre (HIYC), spends summers in Dharamkot, a picturesque Himalayan village above the Tibetan refugee settlement of Mcleodganj, and winters in Arambol, the former hippy beach town in the far north of Goa.

All students, regardless of ability, must first complete the compulsory five-day course before progressing onto teacher training and specialised courses such as yoga therapy, yoga for Vipassana, and yoga with Ayurveda. Besides the respected teaching, the centres summer location, a mountain in the shadow of glaciers, set amid oak, rhododendron and pine forests not to mention the Dalai Lamas nearby residence is a real draw. Dharamkot open mid-February to late October; Arambol from November to end of March. Five-day courses start at 42 (accommodation extra). hiyogacentre.com

Phool Chatti, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Built beside an ancient pilgrimage route on the banks of the river Ganges, 5km upriver from Rishikeshs famous Laxman Jhula suspension bridge, the ashram taps into the holy towns spiritual vitality while eschewing its chaotic hustle.

Though the ashram is under the stewardship of Swami Dev Swarup Nanda, most classes are led by yoga director Sadhvi Lalitambay, who has lived here since she was 15. The seven-day yoga course includes meditation, mantra chanting, neti-pot cleansing (a nasal cleaning technique), pranayama, asana practice, prayer, kirtans and plenty of discussion around yoga philosophy. Meditative walks, hiking and river dips are also included.

The ashram itself is over 100 years old but the building was renovated recently, so rooms come with some modern comforts, including hot showers. Couples can share rooms. Outside treats are permitted, but the food prepared in-house is very good. Open February-May & September-December. The seven-day course is 110, including accommodation in a shared room, all yoga classes and three meals. phoolchattiyoga.com

Mysore Mandala, Mysore, Karnataka

With a tranquil, century-old house and charming cafe supplied by the owners organic farm, this is Mysores prettiest yoga space closer to a western style studio than a traditional ashram, but no less authentic for it. Ashtanga is the focus (this is Mysore after all) but theres a wide range of other classes to choose from, including hatha, shatkriya (cleansing), backbending and pranayama as well as instruction in Sanskrit and lessons in the yoga sutras. Teacher training is very highly regarded here; led by a team of nine teachers, it includes the aforementioned branches, alongside classes in anatomy and Ayurveda. Daily drop-in is 6; 95 for a month of morning classes, 990 for the one-month teacher training, including food and accommodation. ashtanga.org

Omkarananda Patanjali Yoga Kendra, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Swiss born Usha Devi is a strict adherent of BKS Iyengar and his famously precise but therapeutic style, and the ashram in which she teaches, on the banks of the Ganges just outside Rishikesh, is as functional and austere as her instruction is straight from the source. You wont find any teacher training or certifications here, only daily drop-in classes (for beginners and intermediate) for which no early registration is required, and a nine-day intensive course for which three years regular practice in Iyengar yoga is a prerequisite. Rooms are available on site, and the nearby town is teeming with guesthouses. Classes run from October to May. One week (beginners) is 11; one week (general) 16; accommodation in the ashram from 6-9 per night. iyengaryoga.in

International Center for Yoga Education and Research, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu

Walking the elephant to the temple in Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry). Photograph: Alamy

This coastal gurukul (guru centre) is arguably the most traditional and immersive on this list, teaching a classical style that embraces all eight limbs of yoga. Famous for their six-month teacher-training course which requires the completion of a year-long correspondence course before youre even eligible to apply, and to which only 10 students per year are accepted this is not for the casual yogi, but, for the bold, the rewards are abundant, with a depth and breadth of teaching thats remarkable.

Having said all that, they run a three-week course on Yantra, the science of number, name and form, alongside daily yoga and pranayama practice. All courses are residential, with a strict vegetarian diet, a no-alcohol, no-drugs policy, and very limited contact with the outside world. The three-week Yantra course is held once a year in February and costs 625, including accommodation and all meals. icyer.com

The Yoga House, Mumbai, Maharashtra & Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Morning prayers on the ghats of the river Ganges in Varanasi, that most holy of Indian cities. Photograph: Bhishma Choudhary

A modern, bright and welcoming space in the lively Mumbai neighbourhood of Bandra, which seeks to link traditional Indian knowledge and practice with a contemporary health-conscious lifestyle. If youre coming from, say, London or New York, or are desperate to discover the real India (whatever that might be) it could feel a little too close to home, but youd be foolish to dismiss this place. The Yoga House is a sanctuary, the teaching is first-rate, and the cafe food (both western and Indian vegetarian) is exceptional. Whats more, they recently opened a new shala and boutique hotel in Varanasi, that most holy of Indian cities. Styles (for beginner and advanced) include Hatha Vinyasa, Iyengar and Ashtanga. Daily drop-ins and monthly class passes are available. They also run retreats around the country. In Mumbai, drop-in classes 7 or 42 for an eight-class pass; no accommodation. In Varanasi (open Oct-March), 5 for a yoga class; rooms 28-35 per night including breakfast. yogahouse.in