Level 1 detailed subject outline

Module 1 - Living Yoga

This is the foundational subject for the teacher training course, and forms the basis of BodyMindLife Yoga’s teaching methodology.

We introduce the 5 Pillars of Health and Wellbeing, and begin to understand the body’s energy systems (Chakras), looking at how we move out of balance through our modern lifestyle choices. By understanding how we function on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels, we can equip ourselves with the tools to restore balance, regain our vitality and live out our dreams in life.

Pranayama – restoring functional breathing patterns

As part of Living Yoga, this course will give the students an understanding of the mechanics of respiration, understanding how breathing pumps the cerebro-spinal fluid which lubricates and flushes out toxins and bathes the nerve routes. Learn the effects of inhalation and expiration on the whole human organism as well as exploring the full yogic breath.

Yogic Physiology

Within yogic philosophy is an understanding of human physiology that differs greatly from our Western understanding. Also part of Living Yoga, this subject looks at the evolution of consciousness according to Vedic (ancient Yogic) philosophy and the manifestation of energy centers (Chakras), energy channels (Nadis), and the prime attributes or qualities (Gunas) that make up our existence. By the end of this course, students will have an understanding of the interrelationship between Western and Yogic physiology, and be able to communicate this integration on a practical level for their students.

History and Philosophy of Yoga

This course provides an overview of the historical and philosophical roots of yoga through looking at some of the major teachings such as Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Tantra and Ayurveda. As much of the practice of yoga is based on its own unique philosophy, knowledge of yoga philosophy and how it is relevant to practice is essential for the modern yoga teacher, bringing richness and depth to your teaching.

We also look at modern trends and developments in yoga and how it has evolved since its introduction to the West.

Module 2

Yoga Asana 1

As the majority of yoga teaching is done through the physical practice of asanas (yoga postures), a strong foundational understanding of the third limb of yoga (Asana) is required. As asanas can exert a powerful effect on the body and mind, it is important that teachers are aware of the function, benefits, indications and contraindications of yoga asanas, so that appropriate practices can be applied given the students' individual requirements.

This course teaches asanas through an understanding of the basic movement patterns of the human body (lunges, squats, rotation/twisting, forward/backward/lateral bends, balancing, inversion, standing, seated, kneeling, supine, push and pull). We look at how to establish the building blocks of practice, the relationship between flexibility, stability and strength as well as understanding how these movement patterns work in relation to yoga.

We also strongly emphasize techniques such bandhas (internal locks) and their physiological effect of stabilizing different segments of the spine.

By the end of this course, students will have a repertoire of around 100 commonly practiced asanas with their modifications and variations for different levels of ability.

Anatomy for Yoga Teachers

This course will give students a basic understanding of the major muscle groups and joint complexes as they relate to the practice of yoga asana. We look at which muscles are being stretched and strengthened, as well as how muscles move joints during yoga practice.

Module 3

Yoga Class Sequencing

In the practice of yoga, it is important for teachers to understand the principles of sequencing yoga asanas together in a way that supports the theme or function of the class, and gives sufficient "warm up" or preparation before practicing certain asanas.

Through the principles of Vinyasa Krama (intelligent sequencing) we look at how to link asanas together with the necessary preparation, as well as counterposes (Pratikryasana), that support functional movement progressions and maximize the effectiveness of practice while minimizing the risk of injury. We will explore the practice and teaching of common sequences, as well as learn how to develop sequences for specific purposes using Wave Theory.

Creating the Ritual of a Class

Designing a yoga class that is inspiring, creative and effective is an art and skill. Yoga classes may be enhanced through the utilization of many techniques, and proficient yoga teachers need to be ready with a plan, as well as being flexible to respond to the needs of their students in the moment.

This inspiring course will teach students how to access their yogic toolkit and use the many skills they have learnt throughout the course of the Teacher Training, to create an experience that will enhance their students' wellbeing - physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. We will look at communication and presentation skills, establishing the ambience for class, setting clear intentions, appropriate use of music, readings, satsang, and placement of meditation and pranayama during the class.

Module 4

Relationship Building 1

As yoga teaching involves building interpersonal relationships with students, it is important that teachers are skilled in choosing appropriate styles of communication and languaging, establishing personal boundaries, and giving and receiving feedback. The interaction between yoga teacher and student can be a sensitive one, especially due to yoga's influence on both mind and body. Yoga teachers need to be able to handle issues with compassion and sensitivity, while maintaining their professionalism. We look at effective communication through verbal language and body language, understanding boundaries and personal space, while building trust between teacher and student.

The Art of Assisting and Adjusting

This module introduces students to the principles and practices of assisting students in a 'hands on' manner, commonly known as 'adjusting'. Yoga students require assisting or adjusting in yoga classes for many different reasons. The aim of this course is to learn how to best help a yoga student during practice with the various types of assists, and how to deal sensitively and professionally when touching students. Through hands-on enhancements to students' bodies as they practice, a yoga teacher is able to deepen that student's experience, bring awareness to their body, and help them move in the direction of wellbeing. This course stresses the need for safety in all assisting/adjusting, as well as the recognition of appropriate touch, and of students' limits.

The Professional Yoga Teacher

Being a yoga teacher encompasses far more than teaching classes. This course prepares the graduate to embark upon their new career, and helps participants develop a vision for what they wish to achieve as a yoga teacher in their community. The course covers presentation and marketing skills, building networks with complementary health practitioners, and finding work as a yoga teacher in an increasingly competitive and challenging environment. It will prepare students with developing business skills, registering with Yoga Alliance, knowledge of legal issues and obtaining adequate insurance. We will explore the ethics of a professional yoga teacher: to uphold the highest standards of professionalism according to the Yamas and Niyamas.

Yin, Restorative and Meditation Practices

This course explores the importance of balancing our dynamic "Yang" practice with more restorative, rejuvenating "Yin" practices as a path to wholeness and well being.

These practices include classical "Yin" postures such as long holds in forward bends and hip openers, as well as Yoga Nidra, relaxation, meditation, savasana and extended exhales. We look at the autonomic nervous system and its two branches - sympathetic and parasympathetic - and identify practices that are necessary for city-dwellers to move from the sympathetic nervous system's "flight or fight" response to restore balance of body, mind and spirit.