RISHIKESH YOGASHALA INDIA

RISHIKESH YOGASHALA

RISHIKESH YOGASHALA is a yoga school officially certified by the Indian central government as an ashram—a social welfare institution dedicated to teaching yogic practices. Located in the Himalayan town of Rishikesh, often called the “Holy Land of Yoga,” our school embodies the rich spiritual heritage of this sacred place.

Founded in 2013 by Marrie Prasad in Tokyo, Japan, and Rishikesh, India, the school continues to thrive under the guidance and support of Himanshu Ji, one of Rishikesh’s most talented and experienced young yoga teachers.

About Marrie Prasad

After working as an executive assistant to the CEO of a major listed company for 16 years in Tokyo, Japan, she encountered yoga during her recovery from depression caused by overwork and stress. Though she had a frail constitution and little experience with exercise, yoga transformed not just her health but her perspective on life. Inspired by its profound wisdom, she decided to dedicate herself to teaching yoga as her life’s work.

Career Highlights:

Began teaching yoga and Pilates in 2007 alongside corporate work, conducting up to 50 classes monthly at studios, sports clubs, community centers, and senior care facilities.

In 2012, left corporate life to open her first studio, MINAMINO FOREST, in Tokyo, Japan followed by Rishikesh Yogashala with a combined membership exceeding 1,700. Established the non-profit organization Heal the Earth in 2014 to promote wellness and social contributions. Since 2013, has trained over 1,000 yoga instructors and 150 Pilates instructors through teacher training courses in Japan, India, and New Zealand. Expanded to international programs in 2019, offering advanced yoga teacher training in New Zealand and India. Transitioned operations to India in 2024 to deepen her focus on the authentic wisdom of yoga.

Certifications and Expertise:

E-RYT500 & YACEP

Certified Personal Trainer and Pilates Instructor (AFAA)

Functional Anatomy Specialist, Senior Fitness Trainer, and Back Pain Relief Specialist (NESTA)

Advanced certifications in Thai Massage, Hypnotherapy, and CPR/AED

Personal Interests:

Piano, calligraphy, oil painting, reading, and wellness. Inspired by figures like Socrates, Mother Teresa, and Buddha.

About Himanshu Ji

Himanshu Ji has been immersed in the spiritual environment of Rishikesh and the Himalayas in Uttarakhand since his childhood. Born into a priestly family deeply rooted in yoga and prayer, his life has been filled with spirituality and yogic wisdom from an early age.

He is a true expert in Hatha Vinyasa Yoga, pujas (ritual prayers), and mantra chanting. With a Master’s degree in Yoga with distinction from the National Sanskrit University in Haridwar—a neighboring sanctuary of yoga—his knowledge is both profound and academically recognized.

In addition to his daily yoga practice and teaching, Himanshu Ji serves the community as a priest and supports his family’s management of several heritage hotels and ashrams in Rishikesh.

Our Global Reach and Unique Approach

At our schools in Japan and New Zealand, we offer yoga teacher training courses that delve deeply into the philosophy and wisdom of yoga. Unlike conventional yoga schools that focus solely on “exercise,” “beauty,” or “fitness,” our training emphasizes yoga’s holistic and transformative principles.

Beyond the teacher training program, we provide accessible and customizable Hatha yoga classes for people of all levels, tailored to meet individual goals and preferences.

Key Elements of Hatha Yoga

Our teachings include the foundational elements of Hatha yoga:

Asana (poses) Pranayama (breathing techniques) Mudra (hand gestures and symbolic postures) Shatkarma (cleansing practices) Bandha (energy control and locks) Meditation Drishti (focused gazes)

Yoga: A Way of Life

Yoga is far more than just physical poses. In India, the birthplace of yoga, it is said that yoga is not something you “do,” but a way of life—a philosophy that guides how we live. Its roots lie in ancient Indian Vedic teachings, encompassing a vast body of life science and wisdom passed down over millennia. Asanas, or poses, are just one part of this tradition, originating as meditative postures designed to bring peace of mind.

Since the mind and body are deeply interconnected, practicing yoga brings countless physical and mental benefits. Beyond fitness, yoga offers profound insights into a universal question: “How can we live more happily and harmoniously?” Its teachings transcend time, geography, culture, and tradition, offering wisdom that resonates with all.

Discover the Joy of Yoga with Us

The reasons for starting yoga are as diverse as the individuals practicing it—whether for stretching, relaxation, reducing stress, improving fitness, or enhancing beauty and health. Whatever your motivation, yoga is sure to add vitality, balance, and meaning to your life.

Our dedicated instructors and staff are passionate about sharing the transformative power of yoga with you. We warmly invite you to join us on this journey of self-discovery and well-being.