200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Thailand

The focus of the second module is self-empowerment in developing a personal practice, and empowering others through the art of being a skilful and inspiring teacher. Discover the skills and art of teaching, voice and language, adjustments, sequencing and themes with plenty of actual teaching practice. Transmit to others what you have embodied in module one, express and share your unique gifts from direct personal experience. Learn the tools and principles needed for teaching yoga to special populations, how to modify and adapt techniques for injuries or imbalances in a group class and one-on-one. We explore women’s health, stress, anxiety and depression, trauma-informed yoga, back care, beginners and elderly and to create personal programmes that do not cause further imbalances. We complete the asana categories with safe and effective arm balances and inversions, the element of ether, and an introduction to Restorative Yoga for the nervous system. Yin Yoga basics provides and introduction to the Chinese system of meridians, qi and 5 element theory. Teach final practicums and gain insightful advice for ethics, business and marketing your offerings.

ASANA – KEY POSES

Asana is the starting point for deep inquiry and experiential practice. Daily guided asana practice with a specific theme or focus will relate to the explorations in the afternoon sessions. In asana labs we investigate the bio-mechanics, function and alignment of fundamental asanas within the main postural classifications – sun salutations, standing poses, forward bends, twists, hip openers, core, backbends, inversions and arm balances. A detailed overview is given for the therapeutic benefits, contra-indications, preparation and counter pose, modifications, adaptations, variations, energetic effects and emotional qualities. We experience strengthening (heating) Yang and relaxing (cooling) Yin practices.

Integrate the teachings of Mindfulness from the Buddhist tradition with Hatha Yoga practices, cultivating mindful awareness in the postures and the principles of inner alignment through the breath, into a seamless moving meditation. Emphasis is placed on what is arising inside rather than getting the posture ‘right’ in a rigid way, to reveal the true essence of practice. We investigate flow sequences, repetitive movements, and static holds of postures through intelligent sequencing, as well as the how, why and when of using props. Develop a personalised practice that addresses what you really need so is practice is true connection, relationship and self-empowerment.

HISTORY, PHILOSOPHY & PSYCHOLOGY

The Yogasutras of Patanjali, the 2000 year old text on yoga, are at the root of all yoga practice. Core principles and wisdom of the Yogic Path such as the Eight Limbs of Yoga, the Yamas and Niyamas, Kriya Yoga will be presented and explored making it applicable to modern daily life. Further scriptural study is based on the classical texts of Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Yoga Yajnavalkya. Understand the path of Hatha Yoga and order of progression in practices.

Core insights from the Sutras and Buddhist teachings also offer a profound perspective on the functioning of the nature of the mind and gives us methods to reduce negative patterns and identifications through Mindfulness. We study the vritti and samskara cycle, the kleshas, emotions, and learn practical tools for body, speech, and mind, to bring mental balance and calm.

PRANAYAMA, BANDHA & MUDRA

Engage in the of the science of breath, the principles of prana and pranayama, through simple to more advanced powerful breathing techniques in seated position as well as in asana. Learn 10 essential types of pranayama, with an introduction to ratios and retention of breath, as well as specific applications for individual needs and effects, health care, vitality, mental clarity, and heating or cooling internal conditions. Breath is the bridge between body and mind, and the key to optimal movement patterns, mental steadiness, and soothing the nervous system; the breath is life.

Bandhas are an extension of the breath, powerful ‘locks’ to cultivate internal energy and focus. Mudras are ‘seals’ or ‘gestures’ to retain vital energy. Understand and experience their effect on the physical, physiological and psychological system.

MEDITATION, MINDFULNESS & COMPASSION

Establish a firm foundation in Yogic and Buddhist forms of meditation, a powerful tool to cultivate awareness and move beyond dualistic perception. A daily seated meditation practice is an integral part of our trainings including periods of silence (mauna) in the mornings and some evenings to support a deeper insight into one’s essential nature. Investigate the mind-body network and its importance for well-being, through modern day mindfulness-based tools, to access acceptance and non-judgemental awareness. As well as embodiment practices and compassion based methods for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual transformation.

The Four Foundations of Mindfulness from Buddhism is incorporated, towards the cultivation of present moment awareness and embodied insight, as well as the development of wisdom and compassion. We will incorporate shamatha (calm abiding) on the breath, loving kindness (metta) and compassion (karuna) practices. As well as mantra meditation, Yoga Nidra, contemplations, working with thought and emotion, and visualization. The ultimate goal of Yoga is to go beyond our conditioning and self-imposed roles, beyond likes and dislikes, and rest in a natural state of awareness that lies deep within us all.

SACRED SOUND (NADA YOGA)

Sound, frequency and vibration is one of the most powerful tools to release stress, remove emotional blocks and activate self-healing mechanisms in the body. The power of sound opens up the vibrational field of resonance to induce a deep meditative state and bring deep transformation on all levels of being. Feel inspired by the origins, science and theory of sound, and how to use voice, mantra (Sanskrit & Tibetan) and vocal toning as an important tool in the process of meditation, and how to incorporate into your classes. As well as sound healing tools to induce a deep meditative state bringing you effortlessly into deep relaxation, gain steady focus of the mind, or for holistic healing purposes. There is no Yoga without sound, and no sound without Yoga.

Learn basic techniques of the Tibetan Singing Bowls and Tuning Forks for your classes and one-on-one work. Experience the incredible shifts of consciousness in Gong Ceremonies, Sacred Sound Baths, Yin Yoga & Sound Journeys to help transcend normal limited thinking and invite deep relaxation. Incorporating large Chau & Paiste Gongs, Singing Bowls, Crystal Bowls, Buffalo Drums, Hapi, Buffalo Drum, Rattles and more to support your journey inwards.

RESTORATIVE YOGA & RELAXATION

The true art of letting go to relieve stress, tension, insomnia, and for those in recovery. Learn how to ‘rest and digest’ to restore and balance the nervous system using bolsters and props for restorative asanas, a welcome addition to your yoga offerings. Learn to sequence, adjust and combine guided visualisation and breath techniques to create specific effects to change the state of the mind and stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

YIN YOGA & TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM)

Explore the basics of Taoism, Hara awareness, five element theory and meridian (energy) lines from TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). Apply this theory to the practice of Yin Yoga to affect the connective tissue (fascia), improve organ health and stimulate the meridians to revitalise and balance the system. Learn how to teach and assist elemental postures and sequences, applying mindfulness as a support. These practices invite a deep listening and receptivity, opening our awareness to help towards intuitive holistic healing.

INTRODUCTION TO AYURVEDA

The sister science to yoga for health, diet and lifestyle factors according to your individual constitution (dosha) and possible imbalances (vikruti). Understand nature and the elements, and learn how to live in a way that honours this. Learn important concepts for healthy digestion (agni), flow of energy (prana & apana), and reduction of toxins (ama), to find your personal state of balance (sattva). How to integrate the system of Ayurveda into daily life.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

Structural and functional anatomy and physiology as applied to yoga in an experiential way rather than dry text book knowledge. Includes both modern Western physiotherapy and traditional Eastern Yogic & Taoist perspectives. Understand how the body works and integrates – musculoskeletal, myofascia, cardiovascular, digestive, nervous, endocrine, respiratory, and reproductive systems. Identify the key anatomical structures of the body and their relationship to practice. Learn major muscle Groups, bony landmarks and joints, and application to safe alignment and optimal asana. Importance is placed on the foundations of spinal alignment and mobility for healthy movement patterns.

SUBTLE ANATOMY – ENERGETICS

The subtle energy body is a roadmap for the Yogis and the framework upon which everything exists and is given life. Become familiar with the concepts of the 5 elements (panchamahabhuta), energy winds in the body (prana vayus), energy channels (nadis), energy bodies (koshas), and energy centres (chakras), and their relevance to practice. Understand the impact of energy, psychological factors and emotions upon your physical being.

THE ART OF TEACHING

Gain an overview and deep analysis of teaching methods for a variety of effective classes dynamic, yin or restorative, for beginners,  intermediate, and mixed level classes. Learn the art of teaching through the principles of alignment, modifications, adjustments, therapeutic touch, language and voice, demonstration, observation, presentation skills, and Sanskrit essentials. Create safe and effective themes, as well as structure a class and sequence towards a specific outcome: structural, philosophical, therapeutic, mind state or energetic effect. Integrate sound, mantra, mudra and meditation into classes as a seamless process.

Teach confidently from a place of personal experience and knowledge and be able to adapt according to the needs of the student. Discover your unique way of teaching, gain confidence, good communication skills, presence, be ready to hold space, and empower students. Practice teaching one on one, small groups, then final practicums to the whole group and receive valuable feedback from peers.

YOGA THERAPEUTIC ESSENTIALS

Practical considerations and adaptive methods using asana, breath and meditation for special populations, musculoskeletal disorders, mental and emotional health. How to modify and use props for such groups and specific conditions in a group class setting and one-on-one. Identify which practices are appropriate or inappropriate for various clients so as not to cause further imbalance. Understand your own body-mind-emotion patterns and structural limitations better and move forward with clear purpose and intention. Gain skills in observation, the art of listening, adaptive skills and personal course planning to restore balance and optimal health.

• Common Injuries – Injury Prevention & Management
• Special Populations – Beginners & Elderly
• Women’s Health – Menstruation, Prenatal Yoga & Menopause
• Pelvic & Lumbar Stability – Low Back Pain, Hyper-Lordosis, Sciatica, Disc Issues, Sacroiliac Joint Strain
• Upper Back and Neck Freedom – Hyper-Kyphosis, Flat Back, Neck Tension
• Mental Health – Chronic Stress, Anxiety & Depression
• Trauma-Informed – Introduction to Principles
• Digestive Health – Balance the Agni (internal fire)
• Core awareness – Stability, Strength and Relaxation

CONDUCT ONE-ON-ONES

A standard group practice is an entry point to the practice of yoga however, to truly experience the benefits of yoga the practice must be personalised for the student’s needs and goals. A unique feature of Sri T.Krishnamacharya’s teaching was designing a yoga practice optimised for the individual. Learn how to structure one-on-one sessions, conduct client interviews, apply basic postural assessment techniques, and develop holistic personal programmes.

THE ART OF CEREMONY

Discover the art of ceremony and ritual creating sacred space and time, opening up to vision, prayer, intention (sankalpa), and the group energy of sharing and interconnection during New and Full Moon Ceremonies.

Experience deep inner purification under the stars in a Full Moon Beach Circle Ceremony. We honour the cycles of nature, the earth, the sky, and the five elements. Let go of what is no longer serving you in a Shamanic Drumming Fire Blessing, a healing ritual that allows us to transform negative thoughts and emotions by releasing them into the fire, and invite in positivity and new ways of being.

Shamanism is about the ability to listen, hold space and ‘tune-in’ to the more subtle realms to receive support and guidance. Access greater intuition, explore your inner consciousness, and feel a deeper alignment with the rhythms of nature and the elements. Reclaim your power and spirit in life, undertake a profound journey inwards and open up to who you really are.

LIFESTYLE AND ETHICS

What a yogic lifestyle means and does not mean in terms of body, speech and mind. How to incorporate philosophy and the tools of yoga to find purpose and fulfilment in life. How diet can be a beneficial factor to the body and mind state and also the act of self-care. Ethical guidelines will be discussed, such as the role of a teacher, and creating healthy boundaries and relationships, especially with our students.

ETHICAL BUSINESS & MARKETING

What next? After the course you will be out in the big world ready to share your gifts (either immediately or in the future). Learn how to get started as a Yoga Instructor, as well as furthering your own education in the future. Discover how to use the skills and life experiences you already have to be unique in what you offer. Approach Yoga as a career pathway ethically and build a strong community base. Understand how to market your offerings face to face and online. Know the legal aspects of your business such as insurance and liability, what to expect to earn as a Yoga Instructor, and how to register as a Yoga Instructor with International Yoga Alliance.