Apr 16, 2012
Our yoga teacher training class of 15 women ages 19-65, recently returned from an 18-day educational travel tour to India. The tour combined a study of the history and culture of some of India’s famous monuments, as well as a study of the history and philosophy of Yoga. Yoga, a popular form of exercise in the West, originated as a spiritual practice in India over 3000 years ago and continues to be a part of daily life in India.
An important part of Yoga is the concept of Karma Yoga - or community service. Part of the educational travel tour was spent at Sri Ram Orphanage, located in the northern state of Uttaranchal, India, on sixteen acres of rural farmland near the town of Haridwar. The orphanage is a loving home for abandoned children, as well as a school that serves the orphanage, rural community and town. The orphanage is often referred to as "The Jewel in the Jungle.”
One of the most recognized jewels of the journey was the donation that was given to the orphanage. Students in the Yoga Teacher Training certification program as well as the India Yoga Studies educational travel tour donated over $1600. The money provided food and supplies for the children of Sri Ram. In addition, the students on the tour took time to clean the grounds, and tutor some of the children during study time.
The greatest gift our group received was the outpouring of love, kindness, and playfulness from the children. Many of these kids were found abandoned on the streets of India but through donations and the work of dedicated volunteers, they are given a chance to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. They openly welcomed us into their lives and hearts making this a truly unforgettable journey.
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Wendy Watson
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