Techniques, Training, Practice (75 hrs)
In this training we’ll explore 51 asanas (yoga poses) and some of their variations, learning how to teach them from a place of inclusivity and safety. This course will prepare you to teach both Hatha and Vinyasa styles as well as introduce you to Yin, Yoga Nidra, Restorative and Prenatal Yoga. Pranayama techniques are taught through experience, as well as mudra, mantra, and meditation to fully connect you to both the experience and yourself. We will take a deep dive into the Chakras through a psychology lens and learn ways to incorporate this into your offerings.
Asanas – the physical postures
There is no requirement for having mastery of any specific yoga pose. There is also no required amount of yoga experience necessary for this program. Come as you are. The ability to do Chaturanga or headstand etc, are not required for this yoga teacher training, or to consider yourself a yogi. Together we will explore 51 asanas and you do not need to be able to do the pose in order to teach the pose effectively.
Meditation, Pranayama, Mantra, Mudra
Many styles of meditation and pranayama will be taught throughout the program and there will be plenty of opportunity to both teach and enjoy these. Each class taught every morning will include both meditation and pranayama. Exploration of mudras and mantras will round out the program, with an opportunity for an evening of Kirtan.
Anatomy, Physiology & Alignment (20 hrs)
During this training we will dissect the poses to gain a deeper understanding of which areas of the body are experiencing a sense of opening or strengthening, tension or compression, and how to keep practitioners safe while moving through the postures. There will be discussion around common misalignments and the use of props to compliment an alignment that is most supportive for the individual practitioner.
Philosophy & Spiritual Development (50 hrs)
Yoga is often translated as union; Union of mind, body, and spirit. Through the practice of yoga and study of yogic history and philosophy, such as Patanjali’s 8 limbed path, the yamas and niyamas, and through the sister science of yoga, ayurveda, we will philosophize on the meaning of these sacred texts and consider how to apply them in our day to day lives, on and off the mat. By working with the chakras and the subtle body, this program will help to gain insight on where we may experience an excess or deficiency in our lives, and how we might go forward working to find balance.
Teaching Methodology (40 hrs)
During this training, you will learn how to sequence a well rounded class, appropriately opening and strengthening the necessary areas of the body to obtain a peak pose and leave the practitioner with a sense of balance. We love a theme, and this will be a big focus as well, asking you to consider your “why” of leading a class and what you’re looking to offer your students.
Clear, concise cueing is a focus throughout this program and every day you will have the opportunity to practice teaching to fellow students to hone your skills. We also break down how to curate a quality playlist that follows your sequencing and makes sense for the classes you’re offering. Holding space for your future students is important and will be developed during the program.
Practicum (10 hrs)
You will be required to teach a class at the end of the program, but please note that there is no expectation for this to be the most amazing class a person has ever taken. It’s an opportunity to apply everything you’ve learned, whether you choose to be a teacher, or just want to deepen your personal practice and understanding of yoga. We become a big family, and we’re all here to support one another. There is plenty of dedicated time to plan your final class, and I will be with you along the way to support you throughout. You will be completely prepared for this.
Ethics & The Business of Yoga (5 hrs)
So you want to be a yoga teacher and you’ve taken a 200hr training, now what? Being a yoga teacher is an act of love for the practice and there are many things to consider if choosing to apply what you’ve learned out to the public. We’ll discuss everything from who and what is Yoga Alliance, and why do I care? How much to expect to be paid, what costs are associated, insurance and liability, marketing, and everything in between. We’ll explore and discuss the ethics of a yoga teacher, and ponder ways to approach uncomfortable situations that you may encounter as a teacher.
