Curriculum

Contact Hours:

105 hours Techniques—including demonstration, alignment, practice and theory of ShivaShakti yogasana, pranayama, meditation, mudra, and bandha. Introductions to other styles of yoga are taught.

25 hours Anatomy and Philosophy—A scientific, hands-on approach to human A&P in regards to yoga practice. Includes the therapeutic application of yoga on various systems of the body.

30 hours Philosophy—lectures provide the student with a foundational understanding of yogic history, thought and methodology. Topics covered include Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Tantric Yoga, Taoist Yoga, Kundalini, Vedanta, 8 limbs of yoga, 3 Granthis, 3 Gunas, Nada Yoga, energy anatomy, Ayurvedic principles, Sanskrit, Mantra, etc.

30 hours Teaching Methodology—Various aspects of teaching asana, including demonstration, observation, correction, sequencing, voice, etc. The student will learn correct alignment, adjustments and assists for all basic ShivaShakti yogasana. Sequencing of poses, classes for various ability levels, and oral presentation are included in this class. Creating the proper environment for a class and teaching ethics are also covered. Includes some practice teaching.

10 hours Practicum- Teacher trainees gain experience teaching under the guidance of the staff. The student will gain experience teaching in small groups and receiving feedback from instructors and peers. A self-care component is also included, offering the student a chance to work more deeply on him/herself.

Sample Daily Schedule:

6:00-6:45 AM Meditation and Chanting

6:45-8:30 AM Pranayama and Asana Class

8:30-9:30 AM Breakfast

9:30-12:30 AM Anatomy and Physiology Lecture

12:30-2:30 PM Afternoon Break with a light snack

2:30-5:00 PM Techniques and Teaching Class

5:15-6:16 PM Yogic Philosophy

6:30-7:30 PM Dinner and Evening Break

7:30-8:30 PM Evening Lecture (every other night)

Other Topics Covered

• Principles of Ayurveda
• Ayurvedic Nutrition
• Meditation: Japa, Mantra, Insight, Visualization
• Sanskrit Alphabet
• Kriyas
• Prenatal Yoga
• Children's Yoga
• Yoga for Men's and Womens' Issues
• Yoga Nidra
• Use of Props
• Introduction to Sivananda Yoga
• Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga
• Introduction to Kundalini Yoga
• Business Ethics
• Personal Self-Care as an Instructor