Vishnudevananda Saraswati Quotes
- Yogi and spiritual leader
- India
- 1927
Vishnudevananda Saraswati was a prominent spiritual leader and yoga guru who played a significant role in spreading the practice of yoga in the Western world. He was born in South India in 1927 and was initiated into the Sannyasa order at the young age of 19. He then traveled to the Himalayas to stu…Read More
Vishnudevananda Saraswati was a prominent spiritual leader and yoga guru who played a significant role in spreading the practice of yoga in the Western world. He was born in South India in 1927 and was initiated into the Sannyasa order at the young age of 19. He then traveled to the Himalayas to study under his guru, Swami Sivananda, and later became the founder of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers.Saraswati is best known for his efforts in popularizing the practice of Hatha Yoga and the five points of yoga – proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking and meditation. He also emphasized the importance of a vegetarian diet and the practice of karma yoga (selfless service) in one’s spiritual journey.Some of his notable works include the book “The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga,” which has been translated into many languages and is considered a classic in the field of yoga. He also established the Sivananda Yoga Teachers’ Training Course, which has trained thousands of yoga teachers worldwide.Saraswati’s teachings continue to inspire and guide many in their pursuit of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. He passed away in 1993, but his legacy lives on through the numerous Sivananda Yoga centers and ashrams around the world.Read Less
Vishnudevananda Saraswati was a prominent spiritual leader and yoga guru who played a significant role in spreading the practice of yoga in the Western world. He was born in South India in 1927 and was initiated into the Sannyasa order at the young age of 19. He then traveled to the Himalayas to study under his guru, Swami Sivananda, and later became the founder of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers.Saraswati is best known for his efforts in popularizing the practice of Hatha Yoga and the five points of yoga – proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking and meditation. He also emphasized the importance of a vegetarian diet and the practice of karma yoga (selfless service) in one’s spiritual journey.Some of his notable works include the book “The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga,” which has been translated into many languages and is considered a classic in the field of yoga. He also established the Sivananda Yoga Teachers’ Training Course, which has trained thousands of yoga teachers worldwide.Saraswati’s teachings continue to inspire and guide many in their pursuit of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. He passed away in 1993, but his legacy lives on through the numerous Sivananda Yoga centers and ashrams around the world.
Vishnudevananda Saraswati Career Highlights
- In 1947, at the young age of 20, Vishnudevananda Saraswati left his home in India to become a monk and study under Swami Sivananda Saraswati in Rishikesh.
- He completed his training and was ordained as a monk in the Sivananda Ashram in 1949.
- In 1957, he was sent by Swami Sivananda to the West to spread the teachings of yoga and establish Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers around the world.
- In 1960, he founded the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers, which now has over 60 locations worldwide.
- In 1969, he established the Sivananda Yoga Teachers’ Training Course, which has trained thousands of yoga teachers.
- He also founded the Yoga Vacation Program, which offers yoga retreats and workshops to people of all ages and backgrounds.
- In 1971, he founded the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram in Kerala, India, which serves as a spiritual retreat and training center.
- He authored several books on yoga, including “The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga” and “Meditation and Mantras.”
Key Contributions by Vishnudevananda Saraswati
- Vishnudevananda Saraswati played a crucial role in popularizing yoga in the West and making it accessible to people from all walks of life.
- He introduced the concept of the Five Points of Yoga, which includes proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking and meditation.
- He also emphasized the importance of karma yoga, or selfless service, as a means to spiritual growth and inner peace.
- He was a strong advocate for world peace and unity, and his teachings focused on promoting harmony and understanding among all people.
- He trained and inspired thousands of yoga teachers, who continue to spread his teachings and promote the practice of yoga around the world.
What Sets Vishnudevananda Saraswati Apart
- Vishnudevananda Saraswati was a true embodiment of the yogic principles he taught. He lived a simple and disciplined life, dedicated to serving others and spreading the message of peace and unity.
- He was a visionary leader who had a deep understanding of the needs and challenges of the modern world. He adapted the traditional teachings of yoga to make them relevant and accessible to people in the West.
- He was a tireless worker and traveled extensively to spread the teachings of yoga, often at great personal sacrifice.
- He was a bridge between the East and the West, bringing the ancient wisdom of yoga to the modern world and promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
Takeaways
- Vishnudevananda Saraswati’s life and teachings serve as an inspiration for people seeking inner peace, spiritual growth, and a deeper understanding of the world.
- His emphasis on the Five Points of Yoga and karma yoga can help individuals lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
- His legacy continues through the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers, which offer a variety of programs and resources for people to learn and practice yoga.
- His message of peace and unity is more relevant than ever in today’s world, and his teachings can serve as a guide for creating a more harmonious and compassionate society.