ANAMAYA: Costa Rica Yoga teacher training

I wanted to do a 200 hr yoga teacher training "someday". I figured when the kids were older and I could travel and take a month away, I'd do it then... Then the most amazing opportunity presented itself... Colynn was hosting a teacher training in Costa Rica... I worried about being the least experienced or "bendy"... Colynn teaches in such a way that you feel and understand the postures in your own body, with a focus on the functional versus aesthetic. She would remind us that the goal was not to aim for a "look" but instead to aim for the feeling. This direction lends to an atmosphere of body acceptance and makes it easier to learn. I was so focused on being in my own body that it didn't matter what I looked like compared to someone else. This was the best investment you can make in yourself!

Peter has a distinct ability to read the energy of his students and therefore teaches with the right amount of guidance and instruction. The Thai massage portion was beautiful and his yoga style strong. I’m leaving his training a stronger person, feeling empowered every time I step on and off my mat grateful for all the tools I learned during the training.

Lola is obviously very seasoned, well educated in yoga, and understands that each of her students is on their own journey.

If you seek a yoga teacher who can properly teach you the asanas with gentleness, attention to detail, patience and constant encouragement, then you will love Lola Rephann. Lola is a gifted teacher. She has introduced me to my body in a way I never knew possible. I wanted a spiritual teacher who could introduce me to the essence, the fullness, of yoga, not the fancy world that yoga has become in some circles. I found her. Lola has helped me to enter the spiritual life through my physical body.

Lola is a phenomenal teacher who truly knows how to meet you where you are regardless of your experience. She creates space for both the novice and experienced student to make the class as challenging as they like. After studying with Lola, I feel much more comfortable assessing what I want out of a yoga class and a yoga instructor. She has set my bar quite high and for that I thank her deeply. It’s helped me understand what it means to truly say you are a yoga teacher. THANK YOU LOLA 😉

I learned to respect my body for what it is and where it’s at, and learned to believe in myself enough to show others the way.

I loved everything... it was so perfect it felt like a slice of heaven on Earth and it was as if this place was designed especially for me. Every detail was just simply perfect. It was awesome staying in the Garuda treehouse, I loved it so much. Also the people were so friendly, humble and caring, regardless if it were someone serving or cleaning even to the owners! It makes the resort a really special place to see how much love is poured into each person that visits there.

After this training with Banyan I feel the desire to project not only my voice but also my character.

I had some of the deepest experiences in classes taught by Banyan. He has such a clear and deep understanding of tantric philosophy and presents it in very inspiring and authentic ways, so everybody gets it. I left the retreat feeling inspired as a yoga teacher, and I can’t wait to study with him again. He is a person with integrity and honesty who manages to keep lecture and class light and full of joy.

Wow, where to start? J Banyan is an old soul that resides in the fountain of youth.  His class is a perfect balance of playfulness and tradition, innovative modern practice and ancient knowledge. Somehow he manages to balance on a revolving atlas, whilst juggling firesticks and reciting potent mantras.  His energy and enthusiasm constantly brings you higher, and makes you realize everything is possible with consistency, dedication and focus…and everything is worthwhile when it is punctuated with laughter, humility, kindness, and an open heart.  Banyan is a wonderful teacher –a deep source of knowledge, life experience and a truly open loving spirt. Thank you for this gift!

Banyan has wonderful and precious knowledge to share; he swings seamlessly from the detailed, anatomic, and structural asana breakdown to a full submersion in yoga’s spiritual roots. From years of yoga practice and deep studies, and a humble, eloquent, and playful personality, he can distill workshops full of ease, thought provoking debates, and lots of smiles.

In a few words, Lola was truly an amazing teacher, and I felt that from the beginning. She was patient, wise, extremely intelligent but also caring and lovely. She held space for all of us in a unique way and taught each one of us how to grow. I seriously could not have imagined a better experience.

Thank you so much for this experience, not only was Lola amazing but Anamaya holds a special place in my heart. I hope to go back there soon and hopefully one day teach there all I have learned in this yoga journey, where both Lola and Anamaya have such special meaning.

I enjoyed my month spent at Anamaya. Jackie is a fantastic instructor with a great depth of knowledge. She really made our time at Anamaya special.