Fequently Asked Questions
Sadhguru’s vision to transform the world has been unfolding over the past 30 years through programs designed to create an inclusive culture and establish global harmony. He established the Isha Foundation, an international non-profit service organization, through which he has offered powerful yoga programs that extend a rare opportunity for self-discovery, inner transformation, and empowerment for individuals to reach their full potential. He has initiated many large scale human service projects for rural upliftment, quality education for the poor, environmental stewardship and holistic health, which have impacted the lives of millions of people around the world, earning a special consultative status with the United Nations.
Isha Foundation is run entirely by volunteers inspired by their own personal transformation. Sadhguru has emphasized that humanity now has the necessary capability and resources to address every problem on the planet; the only missing element is willingness. Sadhguru has kindled this willingness within millions of people to extend their heads, hands, and hearts toward the betterment of humanity.
The Isha Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program is an intensive 21-week residential program offered at the Isha Yoga Center in Southern India. The program includes 1750 hours of training covering over 60 unique modules of Classical Hatha Yoga. It is an unparalleled opportunity to explore a yogic tradition which has been maintained in its full sanctity and vibrancy for thousands of years. This program was developed by Sadhguru, the founder of the Isha Foundation, to help revive this ancient science and make it available to every individual.
“Unfortunately in the western part of the world, if you utter the word “yoga,” people think you must twist yourself out like rubber bands or stand on your head. Yoga is not an exercise form. The word “yoga” means union. Today, modern science has proved that the whole existence is just one energy. So if all this is one energy, why is it that you are not experiencing it that way? If you can break the limitations of the illusion that you are separate, and begin to experience the oneness of the existence, that is yoga. The religions of the world have always been talking about God being everywhere. Whether you say God is everywhere or everything is one energy, is it any different? It is the same reality. When it is mathematically deduced, we call it science. If you believe it, we call it religion. When you find a method to get there, we call it yoga.” – Sadghuru
No problem! Yoga is not about twisting yourself into impossible asanas/postures. It is about consciously using everything – including your mind, body, and breath – to transform the way you experience life. (Source).
“Classical Hatha Yoga consists of various methods to elevate and purify one’s energies and raise one’s perception to its peak. Today, however, the refined tools of Classical Hatha Yoga have been largely lost or grossly distorted due to socio‐cultural misunderstandings that have accumulated over many centuries. Only in a very few places, the classical system endures with its full vibrancy and sanctity. Moreover, access to this system has been traditionally reserved for the hardiest seekers and monks who devote their entire lives to spiritual sadhana and austerity.” – Sadhguru
It is Sadhguru’s vision to revive this ancient science in all its purity and make it available to every individual.
Unlike drop-in yoga and fitness classes, these workshops are designed to teach you ancient yogic practices that you can do on your own or in a group class after the workshop is over. This means that the workshop structure, teaching methodology and class atmosphere may be different from what you are used to. For instance, each workshop is usually multiple classes and uses a combination of videos, explanations and guided instructions to teach the practices. We also do not allow music, mirrors, props, or talking and touching during demonstrations and practice. This helps shift the focus inward so that you become more in tune with your body, breath and inner experience. And after you complete the workshop, the practice is yours to help you live a more peaceful, joyful and vibrant life.
Sadhguru is a realized yogi and mystic – a man whose passion spills into everything he encounters. With a keen mind, balanced by a heart that knows no boundary, his presence creates an extraordinary opportunity to break through limitations into one’s natural state of freedom, love and joy.
Named one of India’s 50 most influential people, Sadhguru’s work has deeply touched the lives of millions worldwide through his transformational programs. Sadhguru has a unique ability to make the ancient yogic sciences relevant to contemporary minds, acting as a bridge to the deeper dimensions of life. His life and work are constant reminders that the inner sciences are not outdated philosophies, but rather, vitally relevant to our times. His approach does not ascribe to any belief system, but offers methods for self-transformation that are both proven and powerful.
An author, poet, visionary and internationally renowned speaker, Sadhguru’s wit and piercing logic provoke and broaden our thoughts and perception of life. Sadhguru has been an influential voice at major global forums including the UN, MIT, and the World Economic Forum, addressing issues as diverse as socio-economic development, leadership and spirituality.
Dedicated to the physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing of humanity and gifted with utter clarity of perception, Sadhguru possesses a perspective on life and living that never fails to intrigue, challenge and surprise all those he encounters.
