Rishikesh: An assembly of yoga connoisseurs from nearly 20 countries on Monday taught the nuances of the Hindu art to thousands of participants on the second day of the International Yoga Festival here.
"Yoga is not workout it is working in. It is not about burning calories, it is to preserve energy," renowned Iyengar yoga exponent H S Arun from Bangalore told learners during the asana (posture) classes at the festival.
The week-long festival is being organised by Parmarth Niketan Ashram along the banks of the Ganga.
Kundalini sadhana by Gurushabd Singh Khalsa, Lila Sun salutations with Erica Kaufman of Pennsylvania, traditional hatha ashtanga yoga with Sadhvi Abha Saraswati, meditation by renowned yogacharya from China David Wei and 'Pain-free Body, Stress-free Mind' with Dr Krishna Raman and Dr Fharzana Siraj of Chennai, were some of the highlights of the day.
The festival, being hosted by the ashram since 1999 usually see the attendance of Yogacharyas, teachers, students and seekers from every corner of the globe.
This year there are approximately 1000 participants from more than 55 countries.
"As the son of Vayu (air), Hanuman represents the power of prana (life) and the power of mind turned inward to the light of the heart. Focus your mind on the light within and breathe into that power," Laura Plumb explained while teaching 'Hanuman Namaskar'.
"It's a magical experience to be at the Yoga Festival with folks from 55 counties all following the yogic path. My heart swells with love being here," Sue Melbourne, a participant from Pennsylvania said.
"Yoga is my hobby. I want to learn as much as I can at the festival. This is my second time here and it's wonderful to be here again," Rashmi Kochar, a participant fron Ranchi said.
