Founded in 1918 by Shri Yogendraji, The Yoga Institute is the world’s oldest organised centre of Yoga.
The Institute promotes Classical Yoga for the householders and the common man in a holistic way. Spearheading the ‘Yoga for the Householder’ movement in the world, the Institute has contributed to the holistic development of communities through proactive participation worldwide, keeping in mind economic, social, physical, ecological, intellectual and spiritual integration.
Transforming lives of millions, the Yoga stalwart has seen three generations of Yogis; who have been working relentlessly to spread the knowledge of Yoga since the last 100 years. The Institute continues sharing the practical applications of yogic ideals and making Yoga a way of life for all across the globe.
Apart from being headquartered in India, the Institute’s presence is spread to over hundred different countries. This non-profit organisation has been running on its own strength to spread the awareness of Yoga and stands tall on deep-rooted pillars of integrity, commitment, resourcefulness and simplicity.
The Institute’s significant contributions to the nation regarding core working areas include Yoga teacher training and education programmes, pioneering Yoga research, experiential learning and standardisation of Yoga practices have been widely recognised. The Yoga Institute is also the first QCI (QUALITY COUNCIL OF INDIA) certified Yoga Teacher Training School in India.
The Yoga Institute has been following the principles set by the Founder by working selflessly for the upliftment of the people, society and country. Together with its dynamic and devoted volunteer base, the Institute’s programmes, health camps and varied initiatives serve as a thriving archetypal for human empowerment and humanity revival throughout the world.
In association with various NPO’s, the Institute designs exclusive programs to suit the needs of the target audience. This is implemented for free, in regular workshops and Yoga training sessions as per the requirement.
The Institute conducts various health care programs for underprivileged, special needs children (Physically and Mentally Challenged), marginalized communities especially women and children suffering from exploitation, abuse, malnutrition, HIV, AIDS, Juvenile programs, Women Rescue Programmes, Orphanages, bettering living of the slum inhabitants of Mumbai, clean beach transformation drive as well as wellness camps for various Government and Non-Government departments like employees of the Mantralaya, the Excise department, the University of Mumbai, Commissioner of Customs, Mumbai Police, Western Railways, Commando force and many more.
FOUNDER SHRI YOGENDRAJI
Shri Yogendraji (1897–1989) was initiated into the path of Yoga by Paramhamsa Madhavadasji; his lifelong mission was to bring Yoga out of the forest hermitages and make it freely accessible to the masses and classes, worldwide.
The Father of ‘Modern Yoga Renaissance,’ showed the world that a householder could be a Yogi, thus reviving an invaluable practice- Ashtanga Yoga, dating back to the Upanishadic period. He trained his wife, Sita Devi in the yoga way of life and together they went on a crusade of bringing Yoga to every household. He simplified difficult Yogic techniques; thus is a pioneer in revitalising the classical Yoga.
Shri Yogendraji made the entire world look-up and took notice of Yoga as a way of life. Today, 183 countries celebrate International Yoga Day thanks to continuous efforts of Shri Narendra Modiji and visionaries such as Shri Yogendraji who founded -The Yoga Institute to support this noble cause.
SMT. SITA DEVI YOGENDRA (FOUNDER’S WIFE/Mother)
Smt. Sitadevi Yogendra, fondly known as Mother, married Shri Yogendraji in 1927. Thousands of people worldwide continue to benefit from the pioneering work of Founder of The Yoga Institute, Shri Yogendraji, is in a large measure due to the love, devotion and unswerving loyalty of his life partner. Shri Yogendraji taught her nuances of Yoga, and she absorbed Yoga know-how in a very short span of time. She was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Institute and was in-charge of the ladies’ section. She has written many articles and books on the subject. Her book Yoga Physical Education for Women is preserved in the Crypt of Civilization, (to be opened 6000 years later.)
It is highly befitting that Smt. Sita Devi Yogendra was affectionately addressed as “Mother” by all who meet her since the word has been time-hallowed as signifying the best-dignified example of a life of love, care and self-sacrifice for societal welfare.
DR. JAYADEVA YOGENDRA (PRESIDENT OF THE YOGA INSTITUTE)
Dr Jayadeva Yogendra, (M.A., PhD.) fondly known as Dr Saheb, pioneered work in Yoga Education and Therapeutics. He learnt yoga under the guidance of his father, Shri Yogendraji, Founder of The Yoga Institute and Father of Modern Yoga Renaissance.
Dr Jayadeva’s most significant contribution to the Yoga renaissance is the introduction of Bhavas as expounded in the Samkhya philosophy, in conjunction with the practice of classical Yoga asanas. He was awarded the prestigious Hargobindas scholarship in 1955 for his remarkable work on Moksa Parvan of the Mahabharata (His Doctoral Thesis)
His unique take on classical Yoga for the householders has seen massive and tailor-made benchmark programmes and a wide array of publications that cover a diverse range of problems and Yoga application in daily life. (NATIONAL COUNCIL OF EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING 1989) – NCERT invited Dr Jayadeva Yogendra along with Smt Hansaji to design the first standardised Yoga syllabus for schools to be implemented throughout the country. His extensive work on Cyclopaedia Volumes of Yoga is quite popular.
SMT. HANSAJI JAYADEVA YOGENDRA (DIRECTOR OF THE YOGA INSTITUTE)
Born in 1947, Smt Hansaji is a post-graduate who has done her B.Sc. and later, went on to finish her degree in Law. Smt. Hansaji has been at the forefront of The Yoga movement since the last four decades, as a teacher, teacher-educator, an excellent communicator in the Television medium. She has authored several books on Yoga in multiple languages. She took over as the Director of The Yoga Institute in the year 1997.
With her innate charm and capacity, she brought about vivid changes in Yoga learning, teaching and research. “First Lady of Yoga” made the nation proud by being the only lady Yoga Guru to share the stage alongside-Honourable Prime Minister of India-Shri Narendra Modiji at the ‘First International Yoga Day’ (21st June 2015-New Delhi)
Under her guidance, The Yoga Institute (TYI) became the first QCI (Quality Council of India) certified yoga teacher training school in India. Also at present, she is the Chairman of THE YOGA CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE-QCI
She has inspired millions of people around the globe who wish to live the yoga way of life!
SOCIAL SERVICE INITIATIVES - THE YOGA INSTITUTE
Yoga For Women: Free yoga women’s camps are organized each year to empower women with yoga education, health, hygiene and wellness needs of women.
Yoga For Senior Citizens: Free yoga programs and seminars are conducted regularly to take care of their holistic health and wellness. We have partnered with http://www.dignityfoundation.com
Yoga For Special Children: Children from Gharkul, Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities, Rangoonwala Foundation, Reach Out, etc. are all duly exposed to the yogic way of life. http://www.gharkul.org ; http://ayjnihh.nic.in/ ; http://www.rangoonwala.org ; http://reachoutindia.org
Medical Health Camps: Every year free medical check-up camps are organized at The Yoga Institute to meet the immediate health care needs of people in need.
Blood Donation Drive: Annually free blood donation drive is conducted to reach out the people in need; especially children suffering from blood disorders, such as thalassemia.
Military And Police Holistic Health And Wellness Through Yoga: We understand the holistic health requirements for those who deal with terror, anti-social elements, and other disturbing situations on a daily basis. We have provided these special task forces with free yoga sessions for over a decade. Through these programs we have trained more than 10,000 in yoga techniques to assist in their ability to manage and eventually overcome PTSD and similar psychological and physical ailments.
Municipal Staff Wellness Through Yoga: This regularly conducted program ensures the Municipal staff in our community are healthy, empowered to face changes and give their best effort to every endeavor which in turns benefits them as well as the overall efficiency of the government.
Western Railway Staff Wellness Yoga Camps: We have helped in the knowledge co-creation programs for the wellness of Western Railways staff using meditation, yoga education, and counseling.
Yoga For Transgender: Transgender people are at increased risk for certain types of chronic diseases, cancers, hormone issues and mental health problems. They face numerous health disparities as well as stigmatization, discrimination, and lack of access to quality care. Yoga encourages them to derive enormous benefits and experience a sense of well-being for a lifetime.
Yoga For Oppressed People: We conduct free camps to empower the most marginalized communities, especially women and children suffering from exploitation, abuse, malnutrition, juvenile homes, slum inhabitants, HIV, AIDS etc. and consequently facilitate sustainable social changes to create an equal world, and have been with Share Foundations, Committed Communities Development Trust, etc. for the underprivileged community. http://www.sharefoundations.org
Empowering Youth With Employment Skills: The Yoga Institute’s various Teachers Training Programs are designed to enhance the students’ mental and physical growth as well as enable them to earn their livelihood.
Yoga For School Children: Children, irrespective of age, caste, race creed and status need a firm foundation to grow into responsible citizens of tomorrow. We have been imparting yogic knowledge to children in hundreds of local community schools.
Yoga Therapy Awareness: We team with various hospitals like KEM, Cooper, Hinduja Healthcare Specialty Hospital, etc. to combine therapy and preventative measures in the form of yoga for their patients. Additionally, campaigns are conducted during the Equal Streets, The Walk for Health and Mumbai Car Free Days etc. for public awareness. https://www.facebook.com/equalstreetsday/; https://www.walkforhealth.in; http://www.kem.edu; http://hbtmc.edu.in; http://www.hindujahealthcare.com
Trees Plantation Drive: We are aware of the immediate need to protect our environment. Campaigns are conducted throughout the year for public awareness and multiple initiatives are undertaken to plant more trees and to expand the green cover.
THE YOGA INSTITUTE has been successfully conducting various teacher training programmes, camps, workshops, Yoga classes, Yoga tuition's since its inceptions. More than 50,000 Yoga teachers have passed out from the esteemed Institute. Various Activities conducted include---
ONE MONTH TTC (One-Month Teachers’ Training Course) - One Month TTC is basic training course, Yoga techniques to normal healthy adults. Covering the theoretical and practical aspects of Yoga, the syllabus consists of experiential learning of unique techniques & concepts pioneered by the founders of our Institute. It also covers the QCI-AYUSH scheme syllabus for Level 1 Yoga Instructor. This is RYT 200 hour course, fully accredited with the Yoga Alliance USA and the participant is eligible to apply on Yoga Alliance site as Register Yoga Teacher. http://theyogainstitute.org/one-month-ttc/
THREE MONTH TTC (Three-Months Teachers’ Training Course)- An advanced and comprehensive Yoga training program, the course is intensive as it covers the expansive syllabus in 3 months; conforms to the Level 2 Yoga Teacher QCI scheme mentored by AYUSH (Govt. of India). This is RYT 500 hour course, fully accredited with the Yoga Alliance USA and the participant is eligible to apply on Yoga Alliance site as Register Yoga Teacher. http://theyogainstitute.org/three-month-ttc/
SEVEN MONTH TTC (Seven-Months Teachers’ Training Course)- An advanced and comprehensive Yoga training program, the course is intensive as it covers the expansive syllabus in 7 months; conforms to the Level 2 Yoga Teacher QCI scheme mentored by AYUSH (Govt. of India). This is RYT 500 hour course, fully accredited with the Yoga Alliance USA and the participant is eligible to apply on Yoga Alliance site as Register Yoga Teacher. http://theyogainstitute.org/seven-month-ttc/
ONE YEAR TTC (One-Year Teachers’ Training Course)- An advanced and comprehensive Yoga training program, the course is intensive as it covers the expansive syllabus in 1 Year ; conforms to the Level 2 Yoga Teacher QCI scheme mentored by AYUSH (Govt. of India). This is RYT 500 hour course, fully accredited with the Yoga Alliance USA and the participant is eligible to apply on Yoga Alliance site as Register Yoga Teacher. http://theyogainstitute.org/one-year-ttc/
TWO YEAR TTC (Two-Years Teachers’ Training Weekend Course)- An advanced and comprehensive Yoga training program, the course is intensive as it covers the expansive syllabus in 2 Years; conforms to the Level 2 Yoga Teacher QCI scheme mentored by AYUSH (Govt. of India). This is RYT 500 hour course, fully accredited with the Yoga Alliance USA and the participant is eligible to apply on Yoga Alliance site as Register Yoga Teacher. http://theyogainstitute.org/two-year-ttc/
7 DAYS CAMP – “INSIGHT INTO YOGA” (ENGLISH / HINDI)- The 7 Day Camp is an experiential introductory course to Yoga theory and practice where one would experience a yogic way of life. It is ideal for anyone who wants to live a yoga way of life and experience peace within. It helps you to incorporate Yogic ideals in every field of daily life. The programme covers Asanas, Pranayamas, Kriyas, Yogic concepts, diet, games, recreation, attitude training, relaxation and meditation. http://theyogainstitute.org/7-days-camp-insight-into-yoga-english-hindi/
INTEGRAL CHAKRA PSYCHOLOGY- Stress Management and Emo-Energy Balancing (Introductory Workshop)
• Level 1 – Swadhyaya http://theyogainstitute.org/level-1-swadhyaya/
• Level 2 – Transcending Homeostasis http://theyogainstitute.org/level-2-chakra-healing/
• Level 3 – Diploma in Yoga Counseling http://theyogainstitute.org/level-3-diploma-program-in-yoga-counselling/
21 DAYS BETTER LIVING COURSE- The 21 Days Better Living Course is a course to begin your journey into the discovery of Yoga. It is designed for working professionals who may practice and learn yoga for a little more than an hour and experience the difference in their daily lives. The course teaches Yogic concepts and their application in day-to-day life. The course covers introduction to Astanga Yoga, Asanas, Pranayamas, Kriyas, attitude training and sessions (Parisamvad). This is a certificate course and has been successfully conducted for 50 years by the Institute. The course is conducted by trained teachers of the Institute. http://theyogainstitute.org/21-days-better-living-course/
CORPORATE WORKSHOPS- The corporate workshops are generally of 6 hours duration and have very useful contents. The broad contents are as under:
• Related Asanas
• Various techniques of Pranayama
• Conscious Relaxation Techniques
• Kriyas – cleaning and strengthening of eyes, nose and throat.
• ‘Sattvic’ diet food at appropriate intervals that helps beat stress. Interactive games based on yogic concepts.
HOME TUITIONS- Often, people are unable to come to The Yoga Institute for reasons such as geographical distance, time constraints, specific health problems, etc. In such cases, the Institute arranges for experienced teachers to conduct sessions at home, at a mutually convenient time, for individuals or a group (comprising of family members / neighbours / friends, etc. Classes cover asanas, pranayamas, kriyas and recommendations on diet and Yogic lifestyle. http://theyogainstitute.org/home-tuitions/
COUPLES’ CLASSES- Yoga sessions to help couples understand each other better and to keep the spark in their marriage (relationship). It is an excellent class for married couples to imbibe Yogic concepts in their lives, leading to their individual development as well as of their families. The group comprises of an eclectic mix, which brings varied and enriching experiences to members. http://theyogainstitute.org/corporate-workshops/
SPECIAL REGULAR CLASSES FOR MEN & WOMEN- Special classes FOR MEN & WOMEN are an ideal way of Yoga education for daily practice. It is being conducted successfully at The Yoga Institute for over 50 years. The classes cover Asanas, Pranayamas, Kriyas, diet and Yogic lifestyle recommendations, personal attention on health and counselling on other aspects of life. Participants are divided into groups based on their individual health conditions and separate guidance is given for each group. http://theyogainstitute.org/special-regular-classes/
WEEKEND YOGA REGULAR CLASSES FOR MEN & WOMEN- Weekend Yoga Regular Class FOR MEN & WOMEN is an ideal course of Yoga education for daily practice. Classes cover Asanas, Pranayamas, Kriyas, and diet and Yogic lifestyle recommendations. Participants are divided into groups based on their individual health condition and separate training is given for each group. Additionally, individual attention is given to all students, as required. These yoga classes are held twice a week for 1½ hour duration each. http://theyogainstitute.org/weekend-yoga-regular-classes/
CHILDREN’S REGULAR / WEEKEND CLASSES- Yoga philosophy is taught through arts, crafts and interesting games. It is ideal for children between the ages of 5 to 12 years. The classes are conducted by highly trained and caring teachers. There is no burden of homework or exams. Classes are conducted in English and Hindi. Involvement of parents is highly recommended. http://theyogainstitute.org/childrens-regular-classes/
SAMATVAM- A personalized wellbeing program, focusing on individual guidance for Life Management, is conducted every Saturday. Team of veteran Yoga teachers along with a panel of expert physicians’ health check-up; give personal attention and counsel attendees, directing them to the correct course/camp for their highest benefit. http://theyogainstitute.org/samattvam/
CARDIAC & HYPERTENSION CAMP- Research conducted at The Yoga Institute, has conclusively proved that coronary artery blockages can be reversed or minimized by a sensible Yogic lifestyle. 1-day Cardiac Camp has been exclusively formulated for heart and high blood pressure patients. http://theyogainstitute.org/specific-health-camps/#cardiac
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CAMP- Obesity is increasing at an alarming rate all over the world as sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy food habits, stress and lack of exercise, are the top reasons to add more Weight and fat to the body. Since Yoga deals with obesity at all levels - physical, mental, and spiritual, e Yoga Institute tackles all of them in the special 1-day Weight Management camp. http://theyogainstitute.org/specific-health-camps/#weight
STRESS MANAGEMENT CAMP- Momentary stress can help meet deadlines, but prolonged stress can affect physical and mental abilities. Yoga Institute’s goal is not to eliminate stress but to learn to manage it and 1-day Stress Management camp guides to lead a healthy life under stressful situations. http://theyogainstitute.org/specific-health-camps/#stress
PREGNANCY CAMP FOR ANTE & POST NATAL- 2-day camp prepares all pregnant women to give birth to a healthy mother who gives birth to a healthy child. Simple Yogic techniques and practical guidance helps to experience happy and healthy pregnancy. With health experts and doctors in attendance, attendees are also counseled about postnatal care for self as well as the baby. http://theyogainstitute.org/specific-health-camps/#pregnancy
DIABETES CAMP- Often known as the diabetes capital of the world, India has been witnessing an alarming rise in incidence of diabetes. Yoga does not claim to cure Diabetes, but a well-planned Yogic routine complements lifestyle and diet changes to keep blood glucose and diabetes symptoms in check. http://theyogainstitute.org/specific-health-camps/#diabetes
ORTHOPEDIC CAMP FOR BACK & JOINT DISORDERS- Designed to cater to people with various back and joint disorders, the Orthopedic Camp emphasis on strengthening the muscles and maintaining healthy routines to provide the right care for the joints. Correct postures and strengthening exercises build up the health of joints and muscles in the long run. http://theyogainstitute.org/specific-health-camps/#orthopaedic
RESPIRATORY CAMP- The fight against respiratory problems like Asthma and Bronchitis begins with a strong will to overcome one's disability and an implicit faith in oneself. Learn to breathe with ease! http://theyogainstitute.org/specific-health-camps/#respiratory
WOMEN’S CAMP- Women’s Camp is designed to meet the specific needs of all women. Balancing a career, a family and everything in between often causes women’s personal needs to take a backseat. Empowering women to cope up with stress, hormonal imbalances, menopause and health issues as well as other responsibilities, this camp also strengthens them physically and mentally, to support their lives outside the Institute. http://theyogainstitute.org/wellness-camps/#women
LIFE MANAGEMENT CAMP- Life management ensures that every aspect of life grows as it should. This 1-day camp helps to gain confidence, health and a higher perspective through the Yoga way of life. http://theyogainstitute.org/wellness-camps/#life
PARENTING WORKSHOP- There is always a dilemma to strike a right balance at parenting. e Parenting Workshop is conducted to share the common concerns and gain more insight at the art of stress free parenting.
DIET WORKSHOP- Diet workshop breaks the myth that healthy eating is all about strict dietary limitations and staying unrealistically thin. It is specially designed to spread the awareness that a good diet is a nutritional lifestyle that promotes good health and improves the outlook. It gives an insight about Yogic Ahar which is a very important part of living a healthy lifestyle and is one of the four pillars that can lead one on the road to wellbeing.
SENIOR CITIZEN’S CAMP- The special camp for Senior Citizens addresses the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs of elderly people.
YOGA FOR SCHOOLS- The Institute also has been imparting yogic knowledge to children of over hundreds of schools like Podar International School, Oberoi International School, Edubridge International School, SVKM International School, Billabong High KES International School, Jamnabai Narsee School, Kamla High School, Khar Pupils School, Indian Education Society, New English School (Kherwadi), etc.
PARISAMVAD- Conducted in Hindi and English, twice a day, these sessions include talks by Yoga Gurus on selected Yoga topics followed by Q & A session. It is an excellent opportunity to listen to the Gurus as well as clarify doubts and myths about Yoga. http://theyogainstitute.org/parisamvad/
SATSANG- Commonly understood as ‘being in the company of the truth or the good’ or ‘a spiritual discourse’, the Satsang at the Institute gets an enriching, entertaining makeover by means of which the audience is enlightened which the teachings of Yoga. Also conducted in English and Hindi, it is held every Sunday. http://theyogainstitute.org/satsang/
COUNSELING SESSION- Yoga plays a tremendous role on mental health alongside physical health and also encourages the practitioner to inculcate attitudes of self-knowledge, faith, and the willingness to do their best, irrespective of obstacles. The Yoga Institute’s Counseling Services, conducted in English and Hindi, are led by Yoga Guru Smt. Hansaji. She has counseled millions over the decades, helping them access their own inner reserves of strength, perseverance and wisdom to live successfully. http://theyogainstitute.org/counselling-services/
BOOK CLUB- It is conducted by senior teachers of the Institute in English, every Sunday immediately after the Satsang. Selected works from the Institute publications are reviewed and discussed through short skits, stories, and experiences. http://theyogainstitute.org/book-club/
