The Cultivate Yoga 300-hour program was established as a response to support a collective community with an ever-growing interest in the ancient message of humanity combined with modern knowledge and practical application of yoga. Our team comprises lecturers, Yoga Alliance approved trainers and professionals, along with 2-3 weekend offsite visits.

Techniques and Training: (120 hours)

• In-depth study of various yoga styles: Hatha, Ashtanga, Jivamukti, Yin, and Iyengar 

• Learn biomechanics of sun salutations, standing, balance, seated postures, twists, inversions, backbends, and relaxation based postures

• Learn advanced pranayama inclusive of opening chants, retention techniques, principles, benefits, and contradictions

• Deeper application of Ayurveda (sister science of yoga) and its principles specific to how we fuel our bodies with proper prāṇa, food, social relationships, energetic balancing, and practical hygiene methods for cleansing and detoxification

• Bhakti Yoga and Chanting: understand the 6 guidelines of chanting, basic Sanskrit pronunciation, impact it has on the brain/memory, purpose and intent of chanting mantras and ślokas

• Thorough understanding of various meditation methods: Vipassana, Transcendental Meditation (TM), Japa (māntra meditation) and many more; how to incorporate at home and in daily living, and discuss elements for maintaining a mediation practice

• Deeper understanding of the subtle energetic body: Chakras, Nadis, Vayus, Koshas, Kleshas, and Yoga Nidra

• Review the links between Iyengar Yoga, Jivamukti Yoga, and Ashtanga Yoga specific to alignment, modifications, props, chants, and mudras.

Teaching Methods: (10-15 hours)

• Learn to enhance your qualities as a teacher and deepen your Sādhanā: daily home practice that includes your rituals and routines for developing, sustaining, and nourishing your physical & mental well-being

• Learn the principles of accurate demonstration, observing, teaching, and correcting students through physical adjustments, conscious communication, and creating safe environments for active learning

• Learn to different yoga classes: beginners, vinyasa, yin, and restorative (limited attention will be outlined for kids, chair, and pre-natal speciality yoga)

• Understanding the business of yoga: liability, marketing, diversity, employment considerations, credentials, and software applications

• Understand how to create an inclusive and diverse yoga community through local partnerships, non-profit organizations, grant seeking, and more.

• Understand online and offline marketing, and its impact on culture appropriation

Yoga Anatomy & Physiology: (40 hours)

• Yoga Therapy and Applied anatomy specific to functional movements, controlled articular rotation (CARs), hands-on assisting, learning different body systems, mitigating injury, and adaptability

• Linking Physiology to Yoga: understanding nervous system regulation, stress responses, cranial nerves, and energy activation through biomechanics, breathwork, and nutrition

• Learn proper asana modifications specific to yoga anatomy, joint stabilization, and biomechanics for all body types and specialities (e.g. pregnancy, disability, trauma, aging populations, etc.)

• Learn how to offer firm and secure hands-on assists with proper intent, safety, and security combined with direct, clear verbal cues

Yoga Philosophy/Lifestyle/Ethics (50 hours)

• In-depth study of yoga philosophy and sacred texts specific to: Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutras of Patañjali, Amṛtasiddhi, and Hatha Yoga Pradipika (Guest Speaker: Swami Chidananda)

• Yantras & Mantras: understand how these tools aid in meditation, support visualization, integrate common practices, and increase memory capacity while enhancing spiritual goals

• Myths & Mythology: Understanding the links between yoga postures and various energy forces specific to spiritual life lessons and daily self-improvement. (Guest Speaker: Dr. Raj Balkaran)

• Developing your teaching skills in relation to the Ashtanga limbs and origins of yoga, and how those values can be applied in our modern society.

• Emphasis on cultivating a deeper yogic lifestyle by knowing your values “on and off the mat”, ethics, personal development and daily self-reflection.

Practicum: (50 hours)

• Practice teaching, mentoring, and feedback sessions

• Offer hands-on assisting in Cultivate Yoga weekly classes (min. of 30 hours)

• Observational sessions of your cohort groups

Non-contact Hours: (30 hours)

• 20 hours online with the Yogic Studies Platform (2 classes = 20 hours, YS 101 & 105) - all materials included, $100/student value; no extra costs.

• 10 hours attending other yoga classes, followed by a write up on your observations, experience, “ah-ha” moments, and more.