21 Day 200-Hour Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training

During the opening circle, we discuss the course overview, introduce the power of intention and ritual, share collective introductions among the kula (community), and explain the school's concept. You'll also go over the course requirements. (3h)

Students collectively define both Yoga and Wellness. A brief cultural history of yoga and classical definitions of Yoga are discussed. Concepts like Samkhya and kleshas are introduced. Wellness is collectively defined. Connections are drawn between Yoga and Wellness. (2hr)

In this 1 hour daily module following the morning sadhana, the instructor explains the proceeding morning practice. Morning yoga classes are based upon the Hatha Vinyasa method of building a sequence around a cohesive theme and variations on that theme (physically and oftentimes mentally, emotionally and spiritually). In each of these break down sessions, an asana (the peak pose of the day) is explained in detail including benefits and effects, modifications and variations, anatomical alignment details, and contraindications.

The entire master class is collectively discussed and written down. This will provide students with a library of intentional and versatile sequences to reference for inspiration when putting together their own classes once they begin teaching.

This session also serves as a Q&A about any part of the morning practice so that students gain experiential perspective about designing and teaching a yoga class and also for clarification about any of the class elements. (13hr)

Students actively practice lovingkindness, japa, trataka, japa mala, mindfulness, sound healing, yoga nidra, mantra, and nyasm styles of meditation twice daily to directly experience the benefits and challenges. Students will note the effects of a consistent daily meditation practice for 21 days in a row.(15,5h)

This includes asana, pranayama, mantra, kriya and mudra (40h).

Basic and advanced concepts specific to hatha vinyasa yoga in the lineage of Sri Krishnamacharya are defined. This gives students a map to follow regarding what to include in vinyasa-style classes, and why. Concepts such as surya namaskar (sun salutations), vinyasa krama (flows), kriya (repetitive movements), and connecting vinyasa (linking sequences) are explored.(2hr)

Students will gain a solid understanding of how to sequence a vinyasa class. Concepts such as theme and variation in asana, peak pose, vinyasa krama, connecting vinyasa, music, philosophical themes, and timing are covered. Students work in small groups to design a class and receive feedback.(5hr)

This module includes Krishmacharya’s and Patanjali’s definition of asana, students working together with partners or small groups to perform a postural analysis, and an overview of common alignment mistakes. (2.5hr)

Different categories of asana are defined. Regions of the body are identified, muscles, bones, nerves, organs and connective tissues are explained in relation to different types of postures and positions. Cautions and contraindications, range of motion, as well as general benefits of posture groupings are explained. (3hr)

Different asana are explained and demonstrated. The anatomy of each asana is discussed, as well as variations, modifications, benefits, contraindications, and hands on assists, adjustments and enhancements. Students will work in pairs or small groups to practice teaching the asana and mini-sequences. (24.5hr)

Ethical, energetic and anatomical aspects of touching yoga students are discussed. Options for student and teacher safety are explored. Similarities and differences between adjusting, assisting and enhancing asana are considered. Contraindications are explained. Verbal and energetic assists are also explained. (1.5hr)

Students are given a list of asana (yoga poses) that are a part of the curriculum. With a partner or small group, students will photographically document their understanding of these poses on both the first and last days of the training program. This will illustrate their growth and transformation during the yoga teacher certification course, and also their understanding of the physical and energetic alignment of each asana. (2hr)

Students receive theoretical and experiential information about hasta, pada, mula, uddiyana, jalandhara and maha bandhas. We discuss benefits, contraindications, physical and energetic anatomy, and explore several different techniques for teaching and self practice. (2hrs)

Students will discuss the similarities and differences between Yoga and Exercise. The global influence of Krishnamacharya and his students will be discussed, as well as other popular styles of Yoga. (1hr)

This is an introduction to Yoga as a philosophy and lifestyle that encompasses more than just the physical postures. (1hr)

Students learn the ethical aspects of relating to self and others in this exploration of the Yamas and Niyamas. Different translations of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras are referenced, as well as current application of these ancient and timeless guidelines to living a yogic lifestyle. (4)

Pranayama as one of Patanjali’s Eight Limbs is defined and discussed. The anatomy of the respiratory system is explained. Concepts such as: sama vritti (even breath), visama vritti (uneven breath), kumbaka (breath retention), and vayu (wind) are defined. Benefits and contraindications are also explained. (2hr)

Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi (2hr)

Nyasm, lovingkindness, japa, japa mala, mindfulness, sound healing, yoga nidra, mantra, and trataka are explained in depth, so that each student has clear instruction on how to practice each of these techniques. Benefits, variations and contraindications for each are also discussed (7.5hr)

Students learn about the benefits of silence by refraining from speech and technology during silent breakfasts and on Saturdays for half the day.(26hr)

Students practice meditation in motion, ritual, and a new way of experiencing asana, to break habits and patterns that block their flow of awareness. (2hr)

Different chants are explained and practiced to expose students to this ancient form of yoga. (1hr)

Samskara, Karma, Klesha & Pratyahara (1hr).

Students will be introduced to Ayurveda as a sister science to Yoga; Yoga being a path to purify the mind and Ayurveda as a path to purify the body. An overview of the five elements, three dosha, dinacharya (daily routine) guidelines, and how to live in harmony with our environment will be given. (3hr)

Creative and conscious verbal guidance is one key to skillful teaching. In this module, we explore different approaches to public speaking, various approaches to cuing alignment, filler words and creative use of verbs and metaphors. (2hr)

Students will learn how and why to register with Yoga Alliance. You'll discuss teaching options and possibilities, how to find teaching opportunities and what to expect, continuing education, mentorship and higher level trainings, hosting and attending workshops, retreats and special events, marketing alliances, social media, and how to write a bio, resume and mission statement. (3hr)

The concept of lineage is defined. Students will reflect upon their own lineage and identify their strengthens and weaknesses as a teacher. We discuss what it means to be a teacher, Yoga teacher, educator, guide and leader. (5hr)

In two quizzes, at the beginning of weeks two and three, students will have 30 minutes to take each quiz and then 30 minutes to go over the quiz as a group. This emphasizes important course content and gives students a gauge of their strengths and weaknesses. (2hr)

Students will get a recap and summary of course content by watching a documentary and several short videos on YouTube (4hr).