Yoga has a deep-rooted history in the island. Yoga in Sri Lanka is practiced widely in Ashrams and retreats and now in a growing number of hotels, guesthouses, eco-retreats, and holiday villas around the island, often in conjunction with guided meditation sessions and Ayurveda therapies. Red Dot is able to offer advice on the best Yoga retreats in the island, and we also have a Yoga-focused holiday for those who wish to immerse themselves in the practice more completely.
Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years in South Asia and dates back to the Vedic period in India at least 5,000 years ago, which was a significant period of cultural and spiritual development. It is a beneficial complement to Ayurvedic medicine and healing as both come from the same philosophical background and examine the mind-body relationship from the perspective of the maintenance of good health. The word ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘yui’ which means ‘to merge’ or ‘to unite’, and Yoga is based on the concept that the body and breath are intimately connected with the mind. By controlling breathing and holding the body in steady postures, stagnant energy centres open up, contributing to better physical health, mental peace and wellbeing.
Yoga classes are available at a growing number of properties across the island, and there are several offering dedicated Yoga retreats. Our knowledgeable Sales consultants are happy to recommend the best places for doing Yoga in Sri Lanka. We even have a specialised Yoga tour which includes sessions with expert teachers and a range of relaxing retreats. There are also a variety of independent Yoga venues in Sri Lanka, most particularly in Colombo and in and around Galle.
