We all know Chennai for its rich culture, heritage, advancements in the technology and education field but did you know it also boasts several yoga retreats to de-stress after a hectic day? Yes, you heard me right! There are several yoga retreats in this metropolitan city that can detoxify your mind and body after a strenuous day. While some operate independently and are located amidst calm and greenery, some are situated within boutique hotels in Chennai.
My last tour was solely planned to rejuvenate at the renowned yoga retreats of Chennai. So, I booked myself a room at The Park Hyatt and visited a number of these retreats while in the city. Each has a unique factor but the following 7 caught my interest the most.
Sri Ananthi Nature Cure and Yoga Ashram
Sri Ananthi Nature Cure is the first place I visited on my trip. This place has Yoga courses both for professionals and beginners. Additionally, it also offers options for in-house accommodation, South Indian meals and commutation services to and from the Chennai International Airport. Some of the popularly taught Yoga Asanas include laughter therapy, restoration, Chakrasana and even Japa. The inmates have to confer themselves to strict timings and follow a strict diet during their stay. This ashram also has a jacuzzi, swimming pool and a vast area for meditation for the tourists.
Asana Andiappan College of Yoga and Research Centre
Located in Anna Nagar West, Asana Andiappan College of Yoga is a perfect place to unwind amidst a soothing environment. The Yoga courses have different schedules for beginners. I had enrolled myself for the 200 hours Beginner Course and absolutely loved the experience. They have different packages that include the accommodation along with training in theory, anatomy, philosophy, naturopathy, dietary information as well as the basic asanas and their inherent benefits. But what grabbed my interest the most was the uniforms, yoga mats and charts that the Centre provided for additional convenience.
Yogft
Dedicated to inculcating the importance of Yoga in people’s minds, Yogft is a newly opened plush Yoga Studio boasting state-of-the-art amenities. I pre-booked a quarter package for myself which was scheduled for 15 days. Yogft offers exclusive packages which you may find a bit pricey but is absolutely worth the price. Catering to your body needs, customised packages are also available here. Professional Yoga teachers assist throughout the yoga session and also arranges exciting excursions to nearby places for a fun-filled day.
Viniyoga Healing Foundation of India
Started only a few years back, the Viniyoga Healing Foundation is an ideal place for beginners. It specialises in the various techniques of Pranayama and meditation. Situated in Kakkan Nagar of Chennai city, this place is perfect for rejuvenating the mind and body. The courses here are customised for both Indian and International students according to their preferences. Several hotels in Chennai are located close to this retreat, thus you can come here without any difficulty.
Arkaya Awareness Centre
I found Arkaya Awareness Centre to be an extremely peaceful place with professional management. I booked the packages at ease according to my needs and the entire procedure was conducted hassle-free. Since this place has a huge demand, it is advisable to prebook the rooms to avoid last-minute availability issues. Coming to the place, this Centre mostly emphasises the Sun’s power to heal and therefore, the practices are all inclined towards gaining its most benefits. Professional teachers and instructors are always present here who guide with the different forms of meditation and pranayam.
Kosha Yoga Studio
Kosha Yoga Studio is an organisation that attempts to rejuvenate human beings through the ‘panch kosha’ or the five sheats of a human body. Although finding the best Yoga retreat in Chennai can be tiresome, Kosha is perfect to suit all your needs within a limited budget. Kosha offers customised packages including two or three asanas according to your preferences. I purchased the customised package including four asanas for two weeks. The asanas are primarily focused on soothing the mental and spiritual self and thus, guarantees a wholesome experience.
Svastha Yoga and Ayurveda
Svastha is a periodic Yoga retreat camp organised annually in Mammalla Beach in Chennai. It is generally conducted for ten days. The Mammalla Beach Resort hosts Svastha Yoga, and accommodation can be booked directly through the resort. However, the number of seats for this refreshing retreat is scarce and therefore, you must book your seat in advance. I was lucky enough to be able to book myself a slot in their January programme last year and I have never experienced anything more blissful than the yoga experience at Svastha Yoga and Ayurveda.
So, these are the 7 best Yoga Retreats that I was fortunate enough to visit. If you are looking for a rejuvenating holiday, a visit to any one of these is surely going to fulfil all your desires. Also, if travelling by air, make sure to search across the Bangalore to Chennai flights, Kolkata to Chennai flights, Mumbai to Chennai Flights section of Intermiles, for amazing discounts.
