Yoga & Ayurveda in Goa

Yoga & Ayurveda in Goa


Every imaginable form of yoga is practised, taught and relished in Goa, as is ayurveda, the ancient science of South Indian herbal medicine and healing. Palolem, Agonda and Patnem in the south of the state, and Arambol, Mandrem and Anjuna in the north, are particularly great places to take courses in manifold forms of yoga, and many also have retreat centres for longer yoga courses. But all beach centres offer various courses and classes, and you’ll find no shortage of sunrise yoga, sunset yoga, and pretty much everything in between. Teachers and practitioners are largely an everchanging parade of foreigners who set up shop in Goa as soon as the monsoon subsides, and offer their services to the scores who come seeking enlightenment, illumination or any spark of spiritual something. Scattered across Goa are also a number of permanent, highly respected options for yoga classes, courses, retreats and teacher certification.



Ayurvedic Natural Health Centre

This highly respected centre, 5km inland in Saligao, offers a vast range of courses in reflexology, aromatherapy, acupressure, yoga and various other regimes. There’s also a range of herbal medicines on offer and treatments available from an ayurvedic doctor, with treatments lasting from one hour to three weeks. Drop-in yoga classes (₹300) are also held daily. Some (but not all) buses from Baga/Calangute to Mapusa stop in Saligao, just near the centre; check before boarding.


Ashiyana Retreat Centre


This ‘tropical retreat centre’ situated right on Mandrem Beach has a long list of classes and courses available from November to April, from retreats and yoga holidays to daily drop-in workshops, meditation and yoga sessions, along with a spa, massage and ‘massage camp’ for those wanting to learn the tricks of the tickly trade. Accommodation is in one of its gorgeous, heritage-styled rooms and huts; the super-cute Mango Tree House is especially lovely. The centre’s largely organic, vegetarian restaurant dishes up tasty buffet brunches and dinners daily to guests and drop-in casuals alike. Costs start at ₹400 for a single drop-in yoga class; check the website for all-inclusive course packages and email all enquiries.


Brahmani Centre

Brahmani Centre is a friendly drop-in centre, which opens its doors from November to April, and offers daily classes in ashtanga, vinyasa, hatha, dynamic, kundalini, restorative and, intriguingly ‘superhero acro-flow’ yoga, as well as pranayama meditation. There’s no need to book: just turn up 15 minutes before the beginning of class, to secure space enough to spread your yoga mat.