HEART-MIND Teacher Training programs - 500 & 300 HR
Innovative. Diverse. In-depth.
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Deepen your knowledge and experience of yoga. Invest in you. Learn new tools to transform your mind and embody greater well-being. Investigate how yoga can impact the landscape of human experience. Make use of this contemplative wisdom for personal development. Acquire skills to explore your class leadership potential. Grow your yoga practice, both personally and professionally. Take a break … Reconnect with your freedom and joyfulness! |
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Our method of training is an interdisciplinary style and an authentic presentation of yoga. It is a diverse, innovative top-quality program which teaches you about Raja and Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga, Vinyasa Krama, and alignment principles that are accessible to all levels and abilities. You will develop a self-practice that suits you and will learn about Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga and Meditation, as well as developing teaching skills to suit individual needs and limitations.
Yoga Alliance is the largest accreditation board for yoga teacher trainings in the world. Our programs are accredited at the highest level, 500 hour and 300 hour with Yoga Alliance. Graduates will receive certification from the school, which means they have completed 500 hour or 300 hour of complete or advanced Yoga teacher training program. You can use your Yoga teacher certification in any country.
Yoga Alliance is the largest accreditation board for yoga teacher trainings in the world. Our programs are accredited at the highest level, 500 hour and 300 hour with Yoga Alliance. Graduates will receive certification from the school, which means they have completed 500 hour or 300 hour of complete or advanced Yoga teacher training program. You can use your Yoga teacher certification in any country.
Investing in your education is one of the best ways to spend your time and energy, as you are truly investing in yourself.
Students must demonstrate sufficient maturity to undertake a yoga teaching profession, including the capacity to ethically and responsibly manage professional boundaries.
This Teacher Training demands discipline, diligence and commitment. A basic knowledge of Mind-body phenomenon and a minimum one year of yoga practice are required. A willingness to learn is essential.
Teaching Yoga is about caring and mindful concern for your students and passing on your knowledge. Some practitioners are able to manipulate their bodies due to Hyper-mobility, this is not necessary for a fulfilling practice. This will push students to injury. You must ensure to teach in an alert and attentive manner that will never harm your students. Student safety is number one priority.
Yoga is the path of self-realization that allows us to be present, to practice, and to observe ourselves from within. Each day is a new day with many new realizations that make our teaching and personal practice better. Enjoy and Be Happy.
This Teacher Training demands discipline, diligence and commitment. A basic knowledge of Mind-body phenomenon and a minimum one year of yoga practice are required. A willingness to learn is essential.
Teaching Yoga is about caring and mindful concern for your students and passing on your knowledge. Some practitioners are able to manipulate their bodies due to Hyper-mobility, this is not necessary for a fulfilling practice. This will push students to injury. You must ensure to teach in an alert and attentive manner that will never harm your students. Student safety is number one priority.
Yoga is the path of self-realization that allows us to be present, to practice, and to observe ourselves from within. Each day is a new day with many new realizations that make our teaching and personal practice better. Enjoy and Be Happy.
Additional Information
This course consists of a curriculum of instruction in contact form and non-contact time including reading, assignments and self practice. Complete attendance of all contact hours are mandatory to attain registration with Yoga Alliance.
Information and practices that you will learn in this training are both fundamental and advanced. 200hr certified teachers from other registered schools are welcome to join our 300hr teacher training program to achieve their complete 500hr designation. Please note that Yoga teacher registration is done by Yoga Alliance that is a third party registrar.
If you require a payment plan, please contact us to discuss how to best set up your individual plan option.
The registration fee of $500.00 (non-refundable) is required to begin processing your application.
Information and practices that you will learn in this training are both fundamental and advanced. 200hr certified teachers from other registered schools are welcome to join our 300hr teacher training program to achieve their complete 500hr designation. Please note that Yoga teacher registration is done by Yoga Alliance that is a third party registrar.
If you require a payment plan, please contact us to discuss how to best set up your individual plan option.
The registration fee of $500.00 (non-refundable) is required to begin processing your application.
18 WEEKend INTENSIVESFridays: 6 to 9pm
Saturdays: 1:30 to 7:30pm Sundays: 1:30 to 7:30pm MANDATORY PRACTICE HOURSFor 500hr teachers in training:
There are 180 mandatory practice hours. For 300hr teachers in training: There are no mandatory practice hours. |
22, 23, 24 September (Asana Clinic and Sequencing)
29, 30 September & 1 October (Meditation / Yogic Lifestyle and Ayurveda) 13, 14, 15 October (Strengthening the “Inner Eye” of Asana and Sequencing) 27, 28, 29 October (Asana Clinic / Subtle Body) 3, 4, 5 November (Movement as Medicine) 17, 18, 19 November (Yin and Restorative Clinic / Mantra) 1, 2, 3 December (Movement as Medicine) 8, 9, 10 December (Meditation and the Art of Conscious Living) 12, 13, 14 January (Yoga Anatomy and Physiology) 26, 27, 28 January (Kids Yoga and Games) 9, 10, 11 February (Pilates and Functional Fitness / Teen Yoga / Raw Vegan Cooking and Intuitive Art) 23, 24, 25 February (Pilates and Functional Fitness / Muscles, Movement and Martial Arts / Yin Clinic) 9, 10, 11 March (Pre-Natal Yoga) 23, 24, 25 March (Yoga Philosophy, Mythology and Yogic Scripture) 6, 7, 8 April (Asana Clinic and Anatomy) 20, 21, 22 April (Yoga and Subtle Body / Finding Your Voice and Teaching Practice) 4, 5, 6 May (Eternal Wisdom) 18, 19, 20 May (Mindful Teaching Methodology and Class Management / Finding Your Voice and Teaching Practice / Business and Ethics of Teaching Yoga) |
Teachers
Yazdan Raees
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Yazdan has spent his adult life learning and practicing spirituality, healing and volunteering, and enjoys sharing the love for the manifestations of life and wisdom. He was introduced to Transcendental Meditation by his father as a young child. At the age of 17, he left Iran for India where he learned Sudarshan Kriya as taught by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and started his regular Yoga practice with master Akshar in Bangalore. Yazdan left India after five years for Turkey and studied Hatha Yoga and Mindfulness Meditation with David Cornwell in Cihangir Yoga. He started practicing Ashtanga Vinyasa Krama with Ken the Rolfer in Istanbul and continued his practice with Mark Darby, Shankara Darby and Ron Reid in Toronto and Vijay Amar in Goa. He studied Yoga philosophy with Dr. Ganesh Rao and learned Ayurvedic Abhyanga from Dr. Shashirekha in India. Yazdan studies Tranquility and Health for Earth as well as Eastern Philosophy and Mythology with his teacher Dr. Mohammad Ahyaee. He continues his volunteer work with the Companions of Ariya Institute in the field of sustainable local conservation of "Biocultural Diversity" and with Bhante Debongshi (Buddhananda Bhikkhu) at Dhammanjali Meditation Centre. He feels blessed to practice and serve at Vipassana Meditation courses as taught by S.N. Goenka in the tradition of Sayagyi U Ba Khin in India, Nepal, Iran and Canada. Yazdan studied Osteopathic Manual therapy with Dr. Shahin Pourgol at National Academy of Osteopathy in Toronto. He has great interest in Cranial-Sacral and Myofascial bodywork and has benefited from the insightful guidance of Pamela Crosson-fournier in Toronto and Bodhi (Erik Emanuel Fenz) in Goa. He is currently studying Sitar and North Indian classical music with Christopher Dicran Hal and continuing his education in the field of Botanical Medicine through National University of Medical Sciences.
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Sheila Gill
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Sheila has practiced and explored a variety of yoga traditions over the past 28 years. With a professional background in adult education, and extensive training as a researcher in anti-racism and equity studies, as a young adult she pursued chanting, meditation, contemplative and Hatha practices to find greater balance for the life of the mind, heart and body. While raising her two young boys Sheila was introduced to Anusara yoga. She was drawn to its thoughtful alignment-based instruction, infused with life-affirming spiritual teachings from the Kashmir Shaivite and Tantric yoga traditions. She trained in this method with gifted local teachers Louise Hanly and Michael Siddall (Toronto), and inspiring U.S. based teachers (including philosopher Carlos Pomeda, meditation master Sally Kempton, and Hatha yogis Christina Sell, Noah Maze and Desire Rumbaugh). She completed teacher-training with Joan Schaner (Community of Hearts, Waterloo). In 2009 she began teaching Hatha yoga in Toronto’s East End. With a desire to deepen her experience of the yogic mind/body, in 2015 Sheila became a dedicated student of Iyengar Yoga Master Teacher, Mayhar Raz. Sheila perceives the deepest “flow” of Hatha yoga to be that energy we consciously experience and influence inside the physical poses. She is thrilled to guide students in yoga’s healing pursuit of connection to this, our essential energetic existence. With warmth, creativity and humour she invites students into a renewed, compassionate kinship with their own minds, hearts and bodies. When she isn’t wearing tights, Sheila is a Bioenergetic Psychotherapist-in-training at the Integral Healing Centre of Toronto. She investigates the use of yoga in treating anxiety and depression, and as a support to trauma recovery. She is grateful for her sadhana as Mom to two adolescent boys, and in her spare time she is an avid student of classical voice.
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Bhante Debongshi
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According to Theravada tradition Bhante received ordination in 1987. He was educated in the University of Dhaka in Pali Literature and Philosophy, studied Tripitaka for nine years in Moanoghar Pali College and acquired Sutta, Binaya and Abhidhamma Titles from Bangladesh Sanskrit and Pali Education Board in 1991. After Bangladesh Bhante moved to South Korea and studied Mahayana Buddhism for three years and completed 16th monastic education in Korean Buddhist Jogye Order in 1998. He was trained at Jikjisa one of the Korean oldest and well-known monastery in Korea. 1998-2000 He taught Theravada Buddhism at Lotus Lantern International Buddhist Center, in Seoul and later moved to Kanghwa-do (worked as mentor), and exclusively involved in Vipassana meditation that helped people to incorporate the physical health and mental wellbeing. He did collaborate with social workers and psychiatric professionals to discuss treatment ideas and progress. He also helped to establish and then became the first non-Korean Incumbent of the Sang Youn Sa Zen Center in Suri Mountain. Through yoga and meditation Bhante helps students to go beyond their emotional and physical pain and improve their lives. He has travelled to Thailand, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Japan for Buddhist conferences, retreats, and pilgrimages. He also attended number of Vipassana courses taught by S.N Goenka in Japan, USA and Canada. Bhante lived in the forest Mountain and practiced Vipassana in the Theravada forest tradition. He would go on an alms round traveling through the rural side of the country in quest of suitable setting for deepest practice of meditation. He frequently stayed in forest and cemetery using a technique called Asuvanussati (contemplation on impurity, life and death) to explore the true nature of life, to experiment and ultimately defeat the fear of ailments and death. He keeps strictly to the original Vinaya rules, laid down by the Buddha as the Monastic code of discipline. He lives very simple life following the monastic rule of eating one meal a day and carries only basic needs of three robes and alms-bowl. In 2000, Bhante Debongshi was invited to visit USA, California and Washington DC. A few months later he was invited to come to Detroit by Wat Lao Buddhist Temple where he worked as Secretary for two years and collaborated with different communities, Bhante taught meditation at Great Lakes Buddhist Temple, Michigan, Mu Moon Sa Korean Temple, Rochester, Wat Lao Buddhist Temple, Detroit, and strongly involved in psychotherapy activities that help integrate the physical health and mental wellbeing. Having spent four Vassas (Rains Retreats) in USA, then in 2004 he moved to Canada. His simple yet insightful technique of meditation has a universal appeal to students. It involves wisdom, genuine understanding, compassion and mental purification that help students to make their life happier, healthier and more expressive.
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Tia Sallinen
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Finnish yoga student and teacher, Tia Sallinen, has been studying the art of living: yoga and meditation for a decade. Once she started practising and learning about yoga, that's mainly all she has been doing intensively ever since. She has spent over five years of her life in Asia learning about Buddhism, practising yoga, thai massage and other healing practices. Her base is currently back home in Helsinki, Finland, but she is often traveling to teach and study more. Tia has studied Hatha, Sivananda, Prana Flow, Ashtanga and plenty of other yoga styles. She has practiced under the guidance of Jani Jaatinen, Ilpo Koponen, Meghan Currie, Janet Stone, Simon Borg-Olivier, David Swenson, David Williams amongst other great teachers. Tia has also been studying Thai Yoga Massage to learn about the anatomy through Eastern understanding. So far teaching yoga has taken her to Sri Lanka, Morocco, Cambodia, Spain, Norway, India and Germany. Tia feels yoga has given her life a back bone, a direction and a deeper way to acknowledge life. Tia is a down to earth, compassionate, attentive human being who will happily share what she knows. She feels yoga is a major catalyst in changing the world into a more loving, sustainable, open and free space for everyone under the sun. She is an environmentalist who believes that a yogi's duty is to preserve the Earth for future generations. Otherwise there is no yoga. Tia is forever grateful to have stepped on this path of conscious evolution.
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Angela Yazbek
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Angela's passion for yoga extends far beyond her yoga mat. A Hatha and Vinyasa teacher, she believes yoga isn't taught, it is lived. A shared experience, an opportunity to open the heart and mind as we open the body. Her teaching centres around connecting movement to breath and cultivating a deeper awareness of one's self. Angela believes everything we experience on the yoga mat can resonate deeply in our lives, if we are willing to listen. She strives to help her students find a larger purpose in their yoga practice, that goes far beyond the physical. Angela lives everyday as an eternal student. She teaches from her heart and occasionally mixes up her lefts with her rights. She shares her Beach home with five strong-spirited boys-- four sons and a husband. Yoga helps hold them all together.
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Rachael Fallon
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Rachael found yoga as a tool for self-discovery and transformation while studying to become a Psychotherapist. She integrated yoga as a modality for healing during her case studies in 2001, and witnessed profound results while guiding clients to move from the head and intellect, into the body to connect through sensation and feeling awareness to deeper levels of consciousness. Using experiential techniques taken from Gestalt and Yoga, she lead private yoga therapy sessions, working with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image, and spiritual wounds. Her passion for yoga and self-discovery lead her on a Pilgrimage throughout India to deepen her studies and relationship to the roots of Eastern teachings, guiding her spiritual path as a seeker. This journey ignited her passion as a primary Yoga Teacher at a busy Downtown Toronto Studio for almost a decade. In 2010, Rachael decided to make an enormous life shift: she moved across the world to live, study and teach yoga. She journeyed to China as a full-time yoga teacher, and continued to teach and study throughout Asia until 2015. As an international educator, Rachael has led teacher training, workshops, master classes, festivals and retreats in India, Nepal, Thailand, China, Mongolia, Malaysia, and Canada for 2 decades collaborating with Tantric Buddhist Monks, Swamis, Spiritual Teachers, and Masters of the Yogic and Buddhist Traditions. Inspired by the richness of diversity in her practices and studies, Rachael sought out many forms of knowledge throughout her yoga journey. She has deeply immersed herself in many lineages and conscious communities including Raja Yoga, Somatic Movement, Psychology and Psychosomatics, Bhakti Yoga and Sound Healing, Yoga Psychology, Bihar Yoga Nidra, Tantra, Vinyasa, Jivamukti, Iyengar, Vipassana, Gestalt Art Therapy, Energy Healing, Ashtanga, Yin/Yang, Hatha Yoga and The Hidden Message Behind Asana, Vikasa Yoga, Power Yoga, Contact Dance, Kundalini, Shamanism, Tantric Tibetan Buddhism and Vedanta. She strives to embody a holistic connection to yogic teachings in her life resonating deeply with meditation, ritual, chanting, embodying a non-dogmatic approach to asana and movement, observing The 8 Limbs of Yoga by Patanjali weaving yogic philosophy into her life at each and every moment. Rachael's classes integrate a dynamic flow of mixed disciplines with the application of moving meditation, observing sensation, self-inquiry, visualization, intention and prayer to create an inner journey towards healing and empowerment. She gives students permission to find a personal practice that feels good in their own body always adapting, expanding, evolving and encouraging freedom in the practice. She will gently lead you through teachings, stimulating your personal motivation to learn, to root down into yourself and reach up and out with your branches to unite you with self-love and interconnection with all beings.
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Cedar Archibald
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Cedar began studying yoga 15 years ago and completed her training at the Sivananada Ashrams in 2010. She decided to do her Prenatal Yoga training on a bit of a whim. Pregnancy, birth and babies weren't really on her radar at the time, but she figured it would be good add-on to her Yoga training. Throughout this training she developed a new appreciation and admiration for the female body and the journey from woman to motherhood. This interest and appreciation became evident in her teaching. On more than one occasion her prenatal yoga students requested that she attend their births as they wanted her knowledge and calming presence with them. Helping woman during labour felt like second nature and it is a true honor to be present during such a special time. After attending a few births Cedar decided to become a trained Doula to deepen her training and understanding of pregnancy, labour and birth. Since her DONA training in 2014 she has attended many more births and each time been able to offer support for both mom and partner. "Each birth is special and magical, not one is the same and I am honored to have been chosen to be able to serve during such a miraculous experience. "
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Paula Maria Marin
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Paula has been a dedicated student of the art of yoga since she was a teenager. Being inspired by her teachers, she began to apply mindfulness, focus and equanimity to her everyday life. Like many, after benefiting from their practice, she started to share this wonderful practice. She has been a teacher for 20 years. Paula has guided numerous yoga classes and retreats with understanding the importance of self-love, healing and acceptance. Paula's teaching style is grounded and energetic, while very gentle and compassionate. She believes that yoga plays a very important role in our well being since it promotes body mind connection. Paula’s classes flow based on the energy felt in the room. She loves guiding vigorous Vinyasa classes based on the principals of Ashtanga Yoga, combined with sustained poses with attention to basic alignment, observing breathe and generating vibrations of gratitude with what is available to the body. She infuses her extensive training in yoga therapy and Reiki by incorporating intuitive hands-on adjustments through her classes. Paula is certified by Yoga Sanctuary in Toronto. “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away”
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Megan Evans
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Megan is a Registered Massage Therapist, Reflexologist and the owner of Therapy Lounge, a holistic health clinic in the Beach of Toronto since 2007. She has been practicing Massage Therapy in the Beach community for 14 years. With a background in competitive figure skating, gymnastics and dance, Megan's passion for the musculoskeletal system and movement started at a young age. Her interests now include kickboxing, yoga and trail running with her rescue dog, Nala. Megan has 13 years of Kickboxing training and is a Certified Kickboxing Instructor at Horizon Martial Arts. She teaches Kick.Punch.Stretch., a program that she designed to help you maintain a healthy body by improving your strength, cardio, core and flexibility. Megan will be happy to share her vast knowledge from her years of work as an RMT and her extensive Kickboxing training with you.
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Melissa Macchione
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Melissa Macchione is a BASI Pilates® Comprehensive Apparatus Instructor, STOTT PILATES® Certified Matwork and Reformer Instructor, Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT200hr), TRX® Instructor and Registered Holistic Nutritionist. Since 2003, Melissa has worked with a wide range of fitness and nutrition clientele, specializing in areas such as: digestive disturbances, hormonal imbalances, weight loss, weight gain, pre & post-natal exercise, strength and athletic training, special rehabilitation needs and chronic illnesses. Her love for learning hasn’t stopped. She most recently completed her Yoga Teacher Training at Yoga Space (Toronto, ON) in 2015 and the BASI Pilates® Comprehensive Apparatus Program at Beach Pilates (Toronto, ON) in 2016. Though fairly new to teaching Yoga, Melissa has been teaching Pilates and Functional Fitness in private, group and clinical settings for nearly 15 years. In this time, she has learned to teach her students how to efficiently access their “Powerhouse” (the body's center of gravity which is composed of the muscles of the lower abdomen, lower back, buttocks and pelvic floor), which helps improve your overall strength, posture, sense of body awareness, flexibility and prevent future injuries. After a few classes with Melissa, her students have noticed a positive difference in their posture and movement. This newfound awareness is also present in other forms of exercise and other activities they do in their day-to-day life, from bending over to put on their shoes, to swinging a tennis racquet or golf club. Melissa is passionate about Pilates, Yoga and movement.
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Caitlan Rae Carver
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Caitlan began her yoga journey in 2001 and since then has dedicated her life to the yoga lifestyle. She guides you through a relaxing journey that will open your body and mind up and allow you to feel an inner joy start to arise from within. Caitlan graduated from Teacher Training in traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa with Nattacia and Jurgen Mantei of United in Wellness. Caitlan’s passion for bringing spirituality and yoga culture into the teaching environment makes her a special asset to the yoga community as she expands the boundaries of her students’ inner awareness and mindset for movement with breath. Her knowledge for anatomical alignment allows students to learn more about each asana as she creates a safe environment for everyone to move into their personal edge.
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Cheryl McKenzie
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British born and raised in South East London, Cheryl is a former mainstream media producer and music industry manager. She found yoga during her own journey for peace and healing. Cheryl became a Hatha trained and certified yoga instructor and a Yin Yoga teacher and practitioner. She is a Reiki teacher in the Usui method of energy healing and attuned to the Violet Flame Reiki Master Level. Her yogic practice and teaching is build upon the Buddhist foundation of ‘metta: loving, kindness’. Cheryl encourage you to rise to your natural potential in a non-judgmental, supportive environment that allows you to discover who you are, and to become the best that you can be, through the changes that you initiate within your own practice. She is passionate about equal rights and community based social justice programs and programs that are aimed at young youth, adults and children.
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Module Breakdowns
Meditation
Cultivating a regular meditation practice is essential for any individual in search of long term happiness, health and success. Through this practice, the relationship with the self and with others will be transformed. As yoga teachers, this is where students find their roots. In this module students learn the connection between the Breath, Body, and Mind. This transformation is the most helpful tool for serious yoga practitioners and teachers. Students gain the ability to cultivate healthy and harmonious qualities aligned with the law of nature through the realization of subtlest realities of existence. This training invites a deeper look into the inner life and empowers students to integrate these practices into the daily routine and ultimately into teaching environments.
Vinyasa Krama System and Hatha Yoga
Principles of Asana and Alignment
Regular personal practice is the core of great yoga teaching and the link to innate wisdom. This allows the expression of truth from the heart. Daily practice includes exploration of traditional yoga postures through creative sequencing techniques suggested by various classical and modern yoga schools. Excellent teaching is founded in dedicated practice over a long time with consistent attention to daily asana (postures) practice. In this module, students gain a working understanding of the postures and the sequence. By the end of the program, students have a solid personal practice based on their needs and their lifestyle. Teachers in training acquire the skills to design and modify transformative teaching sequences to share teachings from direct experience.
The Art and Science of Alignment and Prop Integration
This module will build upon knowledge of Asanas to explore the concept of alignment energetically as well as anatomically. It will explore the mechanism of breath movement in the body based on Vinyasa krama system and the movement mechanisms of life-force based on the Ayurveda system. Students learn the practical use of Bandhas to control the circulation of energy as well as learning how to withdraw the senses to cultivate internal focus in movement. Also, the use of props to enhance alignment and steadiness of the asanas will be outlined and how to effectively cue for enhanced alignment.
Adjustments and Hands on Assists
Yoga teachers, guide, assist and educate their students verbally, visually and through adjustments. This module enhances the ability of assisting students, offering creative and knowledgeable modifications with variations for all levels. Understanding touch as one of the most powerful tools a Yoga teacher has. Teachers in training learn about the quality of the touch, directive, affirming or therapeutic, and develop safe and effective skills to communicate with their students. Understanding various modifications and individual anatomy in relationship to asana largely increases the ability to appeal to students who are looking for more challenge in their practice, and to assist those who have limitations or injuries.
With Tia
How to move to more advanced poses efficiently, with care and safety? How to find poses that open, prepare the body for asanas that you wish to learn and how to counterpose them? What are the key factors in learning more advanced asanas? Your teacher Tia Sallinen will go through some of the more advanced poses with you and help you find a way to work with an open, curious, concentrated mind. We are also adding the language of the chakras, anatomy and some physiology to the mixed bowl while we break the walls of fear and doubt. With thai yoga massage we will release the stress that may build up as the result of working hard and have a fun ending at the end of each day!
Strengthening the “Inner Eye” of Asana
This clinic weekend with Sheila Gill will explore an alignment and mindfulness-based approach to asana practice that is significantly informed by the legacy of B.K.S. Iyengar. We will survey all classes of pose, using a sampling of functional anatomy cues as focal points (dharana) for a series of inward journeys. Here the poses serve as invitations to initiate and experience specific key actions inside the body—and in the process, to improve communication with parts of ourselves that are shut down, injured, typically inactive or overactive. Since this inner communication is ultimately neurological (and thus, energetic and holistic) the potential for students' improved wellness (“healing”, “wholeness,” yoking, “yoging” the mind and body) over time, is great. This training includes: Introduction, Standing Poses, Intro to Inversions, Twists/Forward Folds, Q&A/Discussion, Backbends and Inner Body Explorations: Pranayama.
Pilates and Functional Fitness to Strengthen your Asana Practice with Melissa
Explore Pilates and functional exercises to help strengthen your Yoga practice. It is becoming more common that many yogis are recognizing that Pilates is a rewarding complement to asana practice. When practicing Pilates, the emphasis is on using the breath to channel core energy into the center of the body and out to the limbs. Pilates teaches the practitioner how to consciously tap into their “Powerhouse” (the body's center of gravity composed of the muscles of the lower abdomen, lower back, buttocks and pelvic floor) to create greater core strength, stability, efficiency and better alignment. The deeper awareness of your core that you gain through Pilates will give you greater control over your movements that will allow you to glide in and out of your poses with precision and fluidity. This system of physical and mental conditioning can give yogis a new found body awareness of their strengths and weaknesses and give them insight into how the body moves. By focusing on targeted movements that develop core strength, Pilates can help yogis build a stable center, lengthen the side body, increase awareness of alignment and sometimes can even help them advance into poses that they hadn't previously felt were possible; all of which will strengthen their Yoga practice.
Physically Passive Approach to the Practice of Asanas
Yin practice enables an experience of deep release both in body and mind. It is calming and meditative for all levels and practiced regularly can release stress and assist in meditation. In this module students learn the benefits, contraindications, modifications, hands-on adjustments, prop utilization, sequencing for health benefits, and the application of Yin and Restorative Yoga poses. Teachers in training also learn about the physical and emotional releases that may be experienced by students during a practice. Yin and Restorative Yoga helps to achieve a sense of oneness and stillness through the breath. It opens the practitioner to new states of physical and emotional awareness through the release of deep connective tissues while gently increasing the body’s range of motion from those tension and stress-impacted states. Passive yin and restorative poses are held for five minutes or more at a time. This enhances the awareness of breath by bringing increased attention to inhales and exhales within this practice, allowing the body to open and relax into the deepest and most dense areas, targeting the thick spider webs of fascia.
With Caitlan
Caitlan will explain the philosophy and physiology of Yin Yoga and its benefit to practitioners. Through a hands-on interactive study of fascia landmarks and joint range-of-motion, Caitlan will lead you to appreciate natural anatomical variances and how they should inform you as a yoga teacher in adapting postures for different people. She will also guide us in yin and restorative as a way to open our body's energy chakras for therapy in motion. Caitlan specializes in mantra meditation. Using vibration and sound healing as a way to connect to yoga on a deeper more spiritual level. Chanting yoga is a special space to create for students as they realign their energy with the Universe and find the true meaning of yoga, Union & Connection to heart.
With Cheryl
During this course Cheryl will be talking and practicing Yin Yoga with the teachers in training approaching the practice from an energetic based foundation. Mindfulness meditation will be discussed, practiced and incorporated as an essential part of this practice as well as the overall Yin Yoga philosophy alongside its spiritual components. We will establish awareness and develop inner wisdom through understanding of the relationship between our body and energy and will practice Yin Yoga sequences specifically to combat stress, anxiety and other dis-eases while learning how the functions of the breath can be used to identify those specific conditions within your practice. Teachers in training will also be introduced to alternative forms of holistic healing that can complement the yin yoga practice.
Movement as Medicine with Rachael
- Creating Sadhana (daily practice)
- Tantra Vinyasa- working with the Elements
- Self Care- how do we nourish ourselves?
- Intuition, knowing and understanding our bodies
- Yoga and Psychology: psychosomatics and exploring the unconscious on our mats
- Creating Ritual and exploring a Esoteric Practice
- The art of teaching (and living) yoga history and philosophy
- The Eight Limbs of Yoga by Patanjali and how to apply them in daily life
- Balancing the three Gunas and a daily journal-writing practice to get in touch with our physical, mental, emotional states
- Body Intelligence- exploring different forms of movement
- Exploring Pranayama and Kundalini exercises getting in touch with the energy body-Discovering the pause- Kumbhaka Breathing
- The Sacred Spine and the Nervous System
- Break Free- exploring a non-linear yoga practice, avoiding straight lines and injury
- Getting out of own way- working through our fear of inversions and other advanced asanas
Life & Wisdom
In this module, with the aim of establishing awareness and developing living wisdom through the understanding of Oneness, Dharma and the Art of Liberation, students witness subtler experiences. Sharing circles and open discussions empower participants to express their insights and intuition in a safe and comfortable environment. In the discourses, the art of living, existence and liberation will be discussed through the eyes of different sages, philosophers, schools, and cultures. Also, teachings of liberated mystics will be decoded to enlighten the universal and non-sectarian aspects of the practice. In depth studies of the Eight-Fold Path and Buddha’s discourses (Suttas) as well as direct exploration of mind and matter phenomenon are parts of this module.
Yoga Anatomy and Physiology
"How does yoga work?" is the question answered by looking at functional anatomy within the practice of yoga to understand its effects from the outermost layer of the body to its most subtle realm. In this module, students research human physical anatomy and physiology, as well as energy anatomy and physiology (Chakras, Nadis, Bandha and Koshas). This training will increase understanding of the musculoskeletal system; tissue types; connective tissue; muscles and bones and joint/ligament complex alongside other bodily systems, and the relevance of these systems to yoga. Teachers in training explore what the Yoga tradition describes as seven subtle energy centres in the human body called Chakras, the mind-body characteristics of each Chakra and their application in life. In this module students learn the most essential Kriyas (Cleansing techniques) to include into the daily practice. Bandhas and their functions are also explained with more details.
Muscles, Movement and Martial Arts with Megan
In order to go deeply within, we must journey through our physical bodies. The deepest principles of hatha yoga are based on an appreciation of how the musculoskeletal system is constructed, connected and balanced. Using a detailed presentation of anatomy to explore our own physical bodies, this module will give you the tools to deepen your understanding of the relationships between muscles and movement. We will bring this learning into real life with a fun, hands-on and interactive visualization of the muscles, demonstrating muscle attachment sites, size of the muscle bellies, and then the action of the muscle as it goes through lengthening and contraction. In this module, you will also kick and punch your way to a healthier you, followed by a period of stretching at the end. You will learn basic Kickboxing techniques as well as strength and endurance training. With this full body Martial Arts workout, you will feel how to isolate muscle contractions as well as how to activate multiple layers of muscles for efficient joint movement as they work together through the kinetic chains. This will build your stability, strength, and core and help you become in-tuned with a balanced body. Then, to relax and lengthen your muscles after a tough workout and to maintain healthy muscles everyday, you will be guided through a full body range of motion and stretching routine.
Yoga Philosophy, Mythology and Yogic Scripture
Studying and working with Yoga philosophy is a means to visualize the innermost being, as well as to create a method of living in this world. This module is a detailed study of the origins and development of Yoga. Students investigate the ideas of Vedanta and Samkhya and the teachings on Yoga found in the Upanishads, Bhagavad-gita, and Yoga Sutras as well as a thorough review of the Tantric roots of Hatha Yoga practice. This course gives a detailed understanding of the principles upon which the practice of Yoga is based, and the ways it has developed during the ensuing millennia. Teachers in training get an in-depth view of its social, religious and cultural connotations. The objective is to assist the practitioner in using philosophy to foster an awareness of the self as an individualized being intimately connected to the unified whole of creation.
Pranayama, Yoga Nidra and Mantra
Pranayama, the practice of ancient yogic breathing techniques, consciously controls the flow of energy in the body. A regular, balanced Pranayama practice increases Prana (life energy), thereby inviting greater mental clarity, heightened healing potential and deeper self-understanding. This training invites a richer look into being through the practice of Pranayama techniques, and their solid integration into the daily practice and ultimately, into the teaching environment. Yoga Nidra draws upon the ancient practice of Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses) in which the state of relaxation is reached by turning inwards, away from outer experiences towards Dharana (concentration). Yoga Nidra helps people to release chronic patterns of stress, to boost immune systems and overall health, to sleep better, and to lead more contented lives. In this module teachers in training practice and learn how to facilitate a transformative in-depth Yoga Nidra journey. Students also learn to chant various mantras with their meaning to re-align their mental structures and to share a sense of wellbeing, gratitude and oneness, to generate loving kindness for themselves, for their students and for all beings.
Yoga and the Subtle Body
Whatever in this world is excellent
and glows with intelligence or beauty--
be sure that it has its source
in a fragment of my divine splendor.
(Bhagavad Gita, 10.41, S. Mitchell, trans.)
Building on trainees’ deepening yogic reverence for the human body, this module explores teachings on its subtler nature. First we encounter the subtle nature of all things as described within the unitary consciousness of select eastern texts, poets and mystics (eastern and western alike). Next we map the subtle layers of the body itself, with reference to the yoga tradition (koshas, nadis, chakra theory), and to complementary western studies of human energy fields. Practice work in the body will begin to attune students to the qualities of their own energy centers. Finally, and most importantly, we will explore implications of these concepts for our work as Hatha yoga teachers. Teacher trainees will begin to ask themselves what practices, what poses--and ways of instructing them--will have beneficial, balancing effects on the mind/bodies of their students.
Art of Sequencing
Sequencing helps to maximize the benefits of the yogic practice for stress relief, pain management, anxiety and a myriad of physical and mental dis-eases. Teachers in training learn how to intelligently design a Yoga sequence that profoundly creates restoration and inward transformation on a cellular, muscular, energetic and physical level while increasing blood flow through the body. They learn to target the nature of their students need. Teachers in training learn principles of how they can sequence a combination of passive and active Asanas, Meditation, Pranayama, Nidra, Kriyas, Bandhas and Mantras and Philosophy for different groups of practitioners based on their needs. With learning right sequencing they will be able to bring calmness to the mind, body and spirit of their students.
Yogic Lifestyle and Ayurveda
From ancient traditional Yogic diets to modern nutrition, one theme remains: Nutrition IS Yoga. Right food is essential to balanced and vital living. In this module, students learn about Nutrition and its function based on the principles of Ayurveda, Yoga and Tantra. Students discuss different diets, as well as juicing and ways to detox. Teachers in training gain confidence and knowledge to establish a healthier lifestyle, and learn how to decide what diet and nutrition for themselves, and what to encourage in the diets and habits of their own students on the Yogic journey. Historical and modern methods of Holistic living will be explored too. A Holistic approach towards each individual’s lifestyle is the way to achieve the best mind-body health. Based on the concept of Ahimsa (non-harming) students will gain an in-depth understanding of a conscious, well-intentioned approach to eating and living in harmony with nature.
Flow, Raw Vegan Cooking and Intuitive Art with Paula
I will be guiding my students through a Dynamic Flow Yoga class that is intuitively personalized for each individual. I love blending many different styles of Yoga with emphasis on strong and graceful movements, grounding sequences, centering, cleansing of the inner and outer body, balancing of chakras, and breathe work. This is an active form of meditation which penetrates the body on all levels, as well as, the very important final relaxation to leave you feeling grounded and restored. When I first started on my path to live foods, I was amazed by the enormous potential. There are so many things you can do with raw fruits and vegetables. My recipes are very simple, and you’ll discover how easy it is to prepare. My goal is to empower people of all ages to integrate new, delicious, and nutritious recipes into their diets while being playful and creative at the same time. We will begin our cooking class with a 15 minute guided meditation in honour of Mother Earth and our Ancestors. Secondly, we will prepare the food with love using all our senses. This Stage is all about playing around with the flavour, texture, and colour! Preparing raw living food is one of the most beautiful contributions that you can give to yourself and the world. Thirdly, we will spend time to consciously eat our yummy creations. You will also have lots to take home with you. Intuitive Art is the practice of meditating with a brush in your hand. It is a powerful and creative, spiritual practice that requires fierce devotion and trust. We will learn how to let go of things that get in the way of our full creative expression like perfectionism, comparison, and the need for external approval. I will encourage you to devote yourself to the practice of entering into intimate communion with the inner world of your heart, your mind, and spirit. The objective is to trust and surrender to your own creative genius, energy, and aliveness.
Kids and Teens Yoga
In this module, students learn how to facilitate classes for kids that helps them to be more aware of their bodies and stay attuned to their feelings. Yoga can help kids to gain self-knowledge from an early age, and develop access to their natural abilities and talents when an opportunity that supports their curiosity and creativity is provided to them. There are exercises and games based on age groups. Kids Yoga is all about having fun while helping children to stay healthy and peaceful. Children will be more comfortable socially and communicate effectively. This fun training includes yoga poses, breathing, movement, mindfulness practices, games, music, art, and always, relaxation. Teachers in training will learn tools to support children gain more confident and learn how to express and enjoy their attunement with their nature within.
With Angela
In this training, we will learn how we can help young yogis navigate through the teen years with a greater sense of self and body. This training will offer new teachers a blueprint for creating a positive, engaging and meaningful experience for their teen students. Expect discussion around how we can use our yoga practice to deal with anxiety and peer pressure, build strength in body and mind and support one another through sharing, connecting and listening, instead of competing~ all this while building an atmosphere of safety, trust and fun. Focus will be on appropriate asana and philosophy, meditation and breathing techniques as well as class structure and planning. Teachers will move through a teen yoga class that they will create together. Our goal: for your future teen students to fall in love with yoga and feel supported and strengthened in their lives through their practice~~both on the mat and off!
Prenatal Yoga with Cedar
The practice of prenatal yoga during pregnancy is so very beneficial for the expectant mom. Physically it helps to maintain strength as well as promote opening and flexibility during a time that your body is rapidly changing and almost doesn't feel like your own. Emotionally it helps to keep you feeling grounded and calm. Pregnancy can be a very emotional and stressful time, even in the best of circumstances and the practice of yoga can help to ease stress and help to promote feelings of well being and peace. During your two day training with Cedar you will develop a good understanding of the changes that occur in the body during pregnancy and the Yoga Asanas (poses) that can be used to support these changes. We will work on Pranayama (breathing exercises) that will be helpful not only during pregnancy but can be used during labour and birth. We will also work with mantras and meditations to help mom stay focused, connected and grounded during this life altering time. Upon completion you will feel comfortable leading a prenatal class or giving modifications to pregnant women who attend your regular yoga class.
Mindful Teaching Methodology and Class Management
This module provides an overview of how to design various styles of classes, considerations for the physical environment where a class may be held, establishing protocols, the use of music, physical safety considerations, dealing with class dynamics, being present, alert and attentive, as well as the power of words and phrases that create the right experience in a class.
Business and Ethics of Yoga
In this module teachers in training learn how to grow a career in yoga teaching, remaining anchored with integrity and in the reality of an abundant and competitive industry. They learn tools for effective and creative use of social media, explore branding and practical tools for the day-to-day management of a yoga business. Students are provided with the foundation to build quickly, with or without a physical location, and with or without funding. The ethical considerations of teaching yoga are also discussed. This involves the student-teacher relationship and its complexities, the Code Of Conduct for yoga teachers, the roles and responsibilities of yoga teachers towards their students and also towards themselves.
Finding Your Voice and Teaching Practice
In this module, teachers in training learn how to lead an effective, joyful and safe yoga class. Students learn how to assess and shift group dynamics using communication skills, time management, reflective listening with the understanding of bio-mechanics, optimal alignment and verbal and physical adjustments. "What makes a good teacher" is the wisdom that is cultivated and expressed through each individual’s unique humour, language, and perception. Teachers in training develop the skills and confidence to engage, inspire and guide their own students on the path.
Cultivating a regular meditation practice is essential for any individual in search of long term happiness, health and success. Through this practice, the relationship with the self and with others will be transformed. As yoga teachers, this is where students find their roots. In this module students learn the connection between the Breath, Body, and Mind. This transformation is the most helpful tool for serious yoga practitioners and teachers. Students gain the ability to cultivate healthy and harmonious qualities aligned with the law of nature through the realization of subtlest realities of existence. This training invites a deeper look into the inner life and empowers students to integrate these practices into the daily routine and ultimately into teaching environments.
Vinyasa Krama System and Hatha Yoga
Principles of Asana and Alignment
Regular personal practice is the core of great yoga teaching and the link to innate wisdom. This allows the expression of truth from the heart. Daily practice includes exploration of traditional yoga postures through creative sequencing techniques suggested by various classical and modern yoga schools. Excellent teaching is founded in dedicated practice over a long time with consistent attention to daily asana (postures) practice. In this module, students gain a working understanding of the postures and the sequence. By the end of the program, students have a solid personal practice based on their needs and their lifestyle. Teachers in training acquire the skills to design and modify transformative teaching sequences to share teachings from direct experience.
The Art and Science of Alignment and Prop Integration
This module will build upon knowledge of Asanas to explore the concept of alignment energetically as well as anatomically. It will explore the mechanism of breath movement in the body based on Vinyasa krama system and the movement mechanisms of life-force based on the Ayurveda system. Students learn the practical use of Bandhas to control the circulation of energy as well as learning how to withdraw the senses to cultivate internal focus in movement. Also, the use of props to enhance alignment and steadiness of the asanas will be outlined and how to effectively cue for enhanced alignment.
Adjustments and Hands on Assists
Yoga teachers, guide, assist and educate their students verbally, visually and through adjustments. This module enhances the ability of assisting students, offering creative and knowledgeable modifications with variations for all levels. Understanding touch as one of the most powerful tools a Yoga teacher has. Teachers in training learn about the quality of the touch, directive, affirming or therapeutic, and develop safe and effective skills to communicate with their students. Understanding various modifications and individual anatomy in relationship to asana largely increases the ability to appeal to students who are looking for more challenge in their practice, and to assist those who have limitations or injuries.
With Tia
How to move to more advanced poses efficiently, with care and safety? How to find poses that open, prepare the body for asanas that you wish to learn and how to counterpose them? What are the key factors in learning more advanced asanas? Your teacher Tia Sallinen will go through some of the more advanced poses with you and help you find a way to work with an open, curious, concentrated mind. We are also adding the language of the chakras, anatomy and some physiology to the mixed bowl while we break the walls of fear and doubt. With thai yoga massage we will release the stress that may build up as the result of working hard and have a fun ending at the end of each day!
Strengthening the “Inner Eye” of Asana
This clinic weekend with Sheila Gill will explore an alignment and mindfulness-based approach to asana practice that is significantly informed by the legacy of B.K.S. Iyengar. We will survey all classes of pose, using a sampling of functional anatomy cues as focal points (dharana) for a series of inward journeys. Here the poses serve as invitations to initiate and experience specific key actions inside the body—and in the process, to improve communication with parts of ourselves that are shut down, injured, typically inactive or overactive. Since this inner communication is ultimately neurological (and thus, energetic and holistic) the potential for students' improved wellness (“healing”, “wholeness,” yoking, “yoging” the mind and body) over time, is great. This training includes: Introduction, Standing Poses, Intro to Inversions, Twists/Forward Folds, Q&A/Discussion, Backbends and Inner Body Explorations: Pranayama.
Pilates and Functional Fitness to Strengthen your Asana Practice with Melissa
Explore Pilates and functional exercises to help strengthen your Yoga practice. It is becoming more common that many yogis are recognizing that Pilates is a rewarding complement to asana practice. When practicing Pilates, the emphasis is on using the breath to channel core energy into the center of the body and out to the limbs. Pilates teaches the practitioner how to consciously tap into their “Powerhouse” (the body's center of gravity composed of the muscles of the lower abdomen, lower back, buttocks and pelvic floor) to create greater core strength, stability, efficiency and better alignment. The deeper awareness of your core that you gain through Pilates will give you greater control over your movements that will allow you to glide in and out of your poses with precision and fluidity. This system of physical and mental conditioning can give yogis a new found body awareness of their strengths and weaknesses and give them insight into how the body moves. By focusing on targeted movements that develop core strength, Pilates can help yogis build a stable center, lengthen the side body, increase awareness of alignment and sometimes can even help them advance into poses that they hadn't previously felt were possible; all of which will strengthen their Yoga practice.
Physically Passive Approach to the Practice of Asanas
Yin practice enables an experience of deep release both in body and mind. It is calming and meditative for all levels and practiced regularly can release stress and assist in meditation. In this module students learn the benefits, contraindications, modifications, hands-on adjustments, prop utilization, sequencing for health benefits, and the application of Yin and Restorative Yoga poses. Teachers in training also learn about the physical and emotional releases that may be experienced by students during a practice. Yin and Restorative Yoga helps to achieve a sense of oneness and stillness through the breath. It opens the practitioner to new states of physical and emotional awareness through the release of deep connective tissues while gently increasing the body’s range of motion from those tension and stress-impacted states. Passive yin and restorative poses are held for five minutes or more at a time. This enhances the awareness of breath by bringing increased attention to inhales and exhales within this practice, allowing the body to open and relax into the deepest and most dense areas, targeting the thick spider webs of fascia.
With Caitlan
Caitlan will explain the philosophy and physiology of Yin Yoga and its benefit to practitioners. Through a hands-on interactive study of fascia landmarks and joint range-of-motion, Caitlan will lead you to appreciate natural anatomical variances and how they should inform you as a yoga teacher in adapting postures for different people. She will also guide us in yin and restorative as a way to open our body's energy chakras for therapy in motion. Caitlan specializes in mantra meditation. Using vibration and sound healing as a way to connect to yoga on a deeper more spiritual level. Chanting yoga is a special space to create for students as they realign their energy with the Universe and find the true meaning of yoga, Union & Connection to heart.
With Cheryl
During this course Cheryl will be talking and practicing Yin Yoga with the teachers in training approaching the practice from an energetic based foundation. Mindfulness meditation will be discussed, practiced and incorporated as an essential part of this practice as well as the overall Yin Yoga philosophy alongside its spiritual components. We will establish awareness and develop inner wisdom through understanding of the relationship between our body and energy and will practice Yin Yoga sequences specifically to combat stress, anxiety and other dis-eases while learning how the functions of the breath can be used to identify those specific conditions within your practice. Teachers in training will also be introduced to alternative forms of holistic healing that can complement the yin yoga practice.
Movement as Medicine with Rachael
- Creating Sadhana (daily practice)
- Tantra Vinyasa- working with the Elements
- Self Care- how do we nourish ourselves?
- Intuition, knowing and understanding our bodies
- Yoga and Psychology: psychosomatics and exploring the unconscious on our mats
- Creating Ritual and exploring a Esoteric Practice
- The art of teaching (and living) yoga history and philosophy
- The Eight Limbs of Yoga by Patanjali and how to apply them in daily life
- Balancing the three Gunas and a daily journal-writing practice to get in touch with our physical, mental, emotional states
- Body Intelligence- exploring different forms of movement
- Exploring Pranayama and Kundalini exercises getting in touch with the energy body-Discovering the pause- Kumbhaka Breathing
- The Sacred Spine and the Nervous System
- Break Free- exploring a non-linear yoga practice, avoiding straight lines and injury
- Getting out of own way- working through our fear of inversions and other advanced asanas
Life & Wisdom
In this module, with the aim of establishing awareness and developing living wisdom through the understanding of Oneness, Dharma and the Art of Liberation, students witness subtler experiences. Sharing circles and open discussions empower participants to express their insights and intuition in a safe and comfortable environment. In the discourses, the art of living, existence and liberation will be discussed through the eyes of different sages, philosophers, schools, and cultures. Also, teachings of liberated mystics will be decoded to enlighten the universal and non-sectarian aspects of the practice. In depth studies of the Eight-Fold Path and Buddha’s discourses (Suttas) as well as direct exploration of mind and matter phenomenon are parts of this module.
Yoga Anatomy and Physiology
"How does yoga work?" is the question answered by looking at functional anatomy within the practice of yoga to understand its effects from the outermost layer of the body to its most subtle realm. In this module, students research human physical anatomy and physiology, as well as energy anatomy and physiology (Chakras, Nadis, Bandha and Koshas). This training will increase understanding of the musculoskeletal system; tissue types; connective tissue; muscles and bones and joint/ligament complex alongside other bodily systems, and the relevance of these systems to yoga. Teachers in training explore what the Yoga tradition describes as seven subtle energy centres in the human body called Chakras, the mind-body characteristics of each Chakra and their application in life. In this module students learn the most essential Kriyas (Cleansing techniques) to include into the daily practice. Bandhas and their functions are also explained with more details.
Muscles, Movement and Martial Arts with Megan
In order to go deeply within, we must journey through our physical bodies. The deepest principles of hatha yoga are based on an appreciation of how the musculoskeletal system is constructed, connected and balanced. Using a detailed presentation of anatomy to explore our own physical bodies, this module will give you the tools to deepen your understanding of the relationships between muscles and movement. We will bring this learning into real life with a fun, hands-on and interactive visualization of the muscles, demonstrating muscle attachment sites, size of the muscle bellies, and then the action of the muscle as it goes through lengthening and contraction. In this module, you will also kick and punch your way to a healthier you, followed by a period of stretching at the end. You will learn basic Kickboxing techniques as well as strength and endurance training. With this full body Martial Arts workout, you will feel how to isolate muscle contractions as well as how to activate multiple layers of muscles for efficient joint movement as they work together through the kinetic chains. This will build your stability, strength, and core and help you become in-tuned with a balanced body. Then, to relax and lengthen your muscles after a tough workout and to maintain healthy muscles everyday, you will be guided through a full body range of motion and stretching routine.
Yoga Philosophy, Mythology and Yogic Scripture
Studying and working with Yoga philosophy is a means to visualize the innermost being, as well as to create a method of living in this world. This module is a detailed study of the origins and development of Yoga. Students investigate the ideas of Vedanta and Samkhya and the teachings on Yoga found in the Upanishads, Bhagavad-gita, and Yoga Sutras as well as a thorough review of the Tantric roots of Hatha Yoga practice. This course gives a detailed understanding of the principles upon which the practice of Yoga is based, and the ways it has developed during the ensuing millennia. Teachers in training get an in-depth view of its social, religious and cultural connotations. The objective is to assist the practitioner in using philosophy to foster an awareness of the self as an individualized being intimately connected to the unified whole of creation.
Pranayama, Yoga Nidra and Mantra
Pranayama, the practice of ancient yogic breathing techniques, consciously controls the flow of energy in the body. A regular, balanced Pranayama practice increases Prana (life energy), thereby inviting greater mental clarity, heightened healing potential and deeper self-understanding. This training invites a richer look into being through the practice of Pranayama techniques, and their solid integration into the daily practice and ultimately, into the teaching environment. Yoga Nidra draws upon the ancient practice of Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses) in which the state of relaxation is reached by turning inwards, away from outer experiences towards Dharana (concentration). Yoga Nidra helps people to release chronic patterns of stress, to boost immune systems and overall health, to sleep better, and to lead more contented lives. In this module teachers in training practice and learn how to facilitate a transformative in-depth Yoga Nidra journey. Students also learn to chant various mantras with their meaning to re-align their mental structures and to share a sense of wellbeing, gratitude and oneness, to generate loving kindness for themselves, for their students and for all beings.
Yoga and the Subtle Body
Whatever in this world is excellent
and glows with intelligence or beauty--
be sure that it has its source
in a fragment of my divine splendor.
(Bhagavad Gita, 10.41, S. Mitchell, trans.)
Building on trainees’ deepening yogic reverence for the human body, this module explores teachings on its subtler nature. First we encounter the subtle nature of all things as described within the unitary consciousness of select eastern texts, poets and mystics (eastern and western alike). Next we map the subtle layers of the body itself, with reference to the yoga tradition (koshas, nadis, chakra theory), and to complementary western studies of human energy fields. Practice work in the body will begin to attune students to the qualities of their own energy centers. Finally, and most importantly, we will explore implications of these concepts for our work as Hatha yoga teachers. Teacher trainees will begin to ask themselves what practices, what poses--and ways of instructing them--will have beneficial, balancing effects on the mind/bodies of their students.
Art of Sequencing
Sequencing helps to maximize the benefits of the yogic practice for stress relief, pain management, anxiety and a myriad of physical and mental dis-eases. Teachers in training learn how to intelligently design a Yoga sequence that profoundly creates restoration and inward transformation on a cellular, muscular, energetic and physical level while increasing blood flow through the body. They learn to target the nature of their students need. Teachers in training learn principles of how they can sequence a combination of passive and active Asanas, Meditation, Pranayama, Nidra, Kriyas, Bandhas and Mantras and Philosophy for different groups of practitioners based on their needs. With learning right sequencing they will be able to bring calmness to the mind, body and spirit of their students.
Yogic Lifestyle and Ayurveda
From ancient traditional Yogic diets to modern nutrition, one theme remains: Nutrition IS Yoga. Right food is essential to balanced and vital living. In this module, students learn about Nutrition and its function based on the principles of Ayurveda, Yoga and Tantra. Students discuss different diets, as well as juicing and ways to detox. Teachers in training gain confidence and knowledge to establish a healthier lifestyle, and learn how to decide what diet and nutrition for themselves, and what to encourage in the diets and habits of their own students on the Yogic journey. Historical and modern methods of Holistic living will be explored too. A Holistic approach towards each individual’s lifestyle is the way to achieve the best mind-body health. Based on the concept of Ahimsa (non-harming) students will gain an in-depth understanding of a conscious, well-intentioned approach to eating and living in harmony with nature.
Flow, Raw Vegan Cooking and Intuitive Art with Paula
I will be guiding my students through a Dynamic Flow Yoga class that is intuitively personalized for each individual. I love blending many different styles of Yoga with emphasis on strong and graceful movements, grounding sequences, centering, cleansing of the inner and outer body, balancing of chakras, and breathe work. This is an active form of meditation which penetrates the body on all levels, as well as, the very important final relaxation to leave you feeling grounded and restored. When I first started on my path to live foods, I was amazed by the enormous potential. There are so many things you can do with raw fruits and vegetables. My recipes are very simple, and you’ll discover how easy it is to prepare. My goal is to empower people of all ages to integrate new, delicious, and nutritious recipes into their diets while being playful and creative at the same time. We will begin our cooking class with a 15 minute guided meditation in honour of Mother Earth and our Ancestors. Secondly, we will prepare the food with love using all our senses. This Stage is all about playing around with the flavour, texture, and colour! Preparing raw living food is one of the most beautiful contributions that you can give to yourself and the world. Thirdly, we will spend time to consciously eat our yummy creations. You will also have lots to take home with you. Intuitive Art is the practice of meditating with a brush in your hand. It is a powerful and creative, spiritual practice that requires fierce devotion and trust. We will learn how to let go of things that get in the way of our full creative expression like perfectionism, comparison, and the need for external approval. I will encourage you to devote yourself to the practice of entering into intimate communion with the inner world of your heart, your mind, and spirit. The objective is to trust and surrender to your own creative genius, energy, and aliveness.
Kids and Teens Yoga
In this module, students learn how to facilitate classes for kids that helps them to be more aware of their bodies and stay attuned to their feelings. Yoga can help kids to gain self-knowledge from an early age, and develop access to their natural abilities and talents when an opportunity that supports their curiosity and creativity is provided to them. There are exercises and games based on age groups. Kids Yoga is all about having fun while helping children to stay healthy and peaceful. Children will be more comfortable socially and communicate effectively. This fun training includes yoga poses, breathing, movement, mindfulness practices, games, music, art, and always, relaxation. Teachers in training will learn tools to support children gain more confident and learn how to express and enjoy their attunement with their nature within.
With Angela
In this training, we will learn how we can help young yogis navigate through the teen years with a greater sense of self and body. This training will offer new teachers a blueprint for creating a positive, engaging and meaningful experience for their teen students. Expect discussion around how we can use our yoga practice to deal with anxiety and peer pressure, build strength in body and mind and support one another through sharing, connecting and listening, instead of competing~ all this while building an atmosphere of safety, trust and fun. Focus will be on appropriate asana and philosophy, meditation and breathing techniques as well as class structure and planning. Teachers will move through a teen yoga class that they will create together. Our goal: for your future teen students to fall in love with yoga and feel supported and strengthened in their lives through their practice~~both on the mat and off!
Prenatal Yoga with Cedar
The practice of prenatal yoga during pregnancy is so very beneficial for the expectant mom. Physically it helps to maintain strength as well as promote opening and flexibility during a time that your body is rapidly changing and almost doesn't feel like your own. Emotionally it helps to keep you feeling grounded and calm. Pregnancy can be a very emotional and stressful time, even in the best of circumstances and the practice of yoga can help to ease stress and help to promote feelings of well being and peace. During your two day training with Cedar you will develop a good understanding of the changes that occur in the body during pregnancy and the Yoga Asanas (poses) that can be used to support these changes. We will work on Pranayama (breathing exercises) that will be helpful not only during pregnancy but can be used during labour and birth. We will also work with mantras and meditations to help mom stay focused, connected and grounded during this life altering time. Upon completion you will feel comfortable leading a prenatal class or giving modifications to pregnant women who attend your regular yoga class.
Mindful Teaching Methodology and Class Management
This module provides an overview of how to design various styles of classes, considerations for the physical environment where a class may be held, establishing protocols, the use of music, physical safety considerations, dealing with class dynamics, being present, alert and attentive, as well as the power of words and phrases that create the right experience in a class.
Business and Ethics of Yoga
In this module teachers in training learn how to grow a career in yoga teaching, remaining anchored with integrity and in the reality of an abundant and competitive industry. They learn tools for effective and creative use of social media, explore branding and practical tools for the day-to-day management of a yoga business. Students are provided with the foundation to build quickly, with or without a physical location, and with or without funding. The ethical considerations of teaching yoga are also discussed. This involves the student-teacher relationship and its complexities, the Code Of Conduct for yoga teachers, the roles and responsibilities of yoga teachers towards their students and also towards themselves.
Finding Your Voice and Teaching Practice
In this module, teachers in training learn how to lead an effective, joyful and safe yoga class. Students learn how to assess and shift group dynamics using communication skills, time management, reflective listening with the understanding of bio-mechanics, optimal alignment and verbal and physical adjustments. "What makes a good teacher" is the wisdom that is cultivated and expressed through each individual’s unique humour, language, and perception. Teachers in training develop the skills and confidence to engage, inspire and guide their own students on the path.
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