17 & 18 April 2025
My second lesson yesterday with Yahor went by too quickly. I’m more familiar now with the fingering techniques and the Sa, Re, Ga scale, and most of the notes sounded a whole lot better than before! He’s also making a flute for me—a real gift to carry with me on my travels.
Yoga classes at Divine Circle have come to an end as my five-class package has been used up. I’ve been considering buying a new one, as I really enjoyed the slow pace and depth we reached during meditation. But my body has been craving a bit more of a challenge. After hearing about another teacher just down the road from one of my dorm mates, I decided to give it a go. The class is called a “body opening” class, and it sounded like something that could only be good for me.
I haven’t trained much over the past year, and I’ve really been hoping to build fitness and strength again—even while traveling. Arriving at the guesthouse where the classes are held, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The teacher didn’t greet me very enthusiastically—but in India, that’s not unusual. People here will either overwhelm you with friendliness and curiosity, or ignore you like you’re just another cow passing by.
There were only four of us girls in the class. No fans were switched on and no AC either. Neeraj quickly made it clear that he didn’t believe in using fans or air conditioning, as it’s not good for the body. I already knew we were in for a challenge—physically and mentally.
He explained how his classes are structured. Focusing on the main elements of all asanas—forward bending, back bending, balancing, hip opening, and the various splits—he brings challenging warm-ups and exercises designed to build flexibility, strength, and proper technique. The goal is to open the body safely and correctly, particularly for advanced asanas.
I quickly realised this was no ordinary yoga class. Sweat was dripping from my forehead. Today’s focus was on middle splits—something I’ve never been able to achieve—so I was both excited and apprehensive.
Halfway through the 1-hour-45-minute class, completely drenched in sweat and unsure if we were laughing or crying, our muscles were stretched further than ever before. But I was loving it. Neeraj is an excellent teacher—a fantastic judge of student ability and a truly inspiring guide. His dry but witty comments had us in stitches a few times, and I could see his genuine care for our well-being and progress as he gently held us in positions we never thought we’d be in… for just a few counts more.
Completely exhausted but feeling amazing, I headed back to the hostel—which by now feels like a second home. I needed something cold to drink, a cold shower, and dinner!
Since I’m now paying for accommodation and meals (no longer volunteering), I’ve had to plan more carefully. Staying on a small budget is sometimes tough—even in India, where things can be relatively cheap. But with the ZAR not being as strong as the dollar or other major currencies, it’s not always as affordable as people think.
Luckily, you quickly learn a few hacks while traveling. I’ve stocked up on a few basics: muesli, long-life lassi, fruit, and instant meals. They’re budget-friendly, easy to prepare anywhere, and provide enough nutrition when paired with a decent comfort meal here and there.
After a scooty ride along the banks of the Ganga, and late-night conversations with new friends over ginger lemon tea, my soul is content. The body is ready to say: goodnight, world. Looking forward to more beautiful days here in beautiful Rishikesh.
