Module 1: Yoga Philosophy

 Key Focus

  • Archaeological History of Yoga

  • 1st and 2nd Limbs of Yoga

  • Ancient Yoga Philosophy

  • Introduction to Mantra

Sections

  • 1.1 | Dravidian Peoples

  • 1.2 | The Samkhya Philosophy

  • 1.3 | Myths and Gods of India

  • 1.4 | Veda and Vedanta

  • 1.5 | Intro to Mantra

  • 1.6 | The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

  • 1.7 | Exam

Module 1 Overview

Required Materials

Suggested Materials

  • The Myths and Gods of India by Alain Danielou (click here)

  • The Upanishads - (any translation)

  • The Bhagavad Gita - (any translation)

  • The Science of Yoga by I.K Taimni (click here)

  • The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Sri Swami Satchidananda (click here)

  • Audio discourse: Purpose of the 8 Limbs by David Garrigues (click here)

  • Shantih Mantras by Manju Jois (audio album)

Independent Study Opportunities (w/ instructor permission)

Yoga Sutras for Ashtanga Students

Yoga Sutras ASI Course

Yoga Sutras Audio Course

Yoga Philosophy Course

Yoga Elements Course

Intro to Sanskrit Course

Upanishads ASI Course

Bhagavad Gita ASI Course

Module 1 | Lesson Plan

  • 1.1 | Dravidian Peoples

  • 1.2 | The Samkhya Philosophy

  • 1.3 | Myths and Gods of India

  • 1.4 | Veda and Vedanta

  • 1.5 | Intro to Mantra

  • 1.6 | The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

  • 1.7 | Exam

Module 1.1 | Dravidian Peoples

Points of Focus

  • What is the historical significance of the Dravidian peoples as it relates to yoga?

  • Where are the Dravidian people now?

  • The “Aryan Invasion” of India and its historical significance

  • Saivism and Jainism; ancient religions of India

  • A culture of receptivity vs. a culture of domination

Module 1.2 | The Samkhya

Points of Focus

  • What makes yoga philosophy distinct from religious monism?

  • Why is Samkhya considered “non-theistic”?

  • Duality vs. Non-Duality

  • Explaining the three gunas and their role in yoga practice

  • Why did Samkhya decrease in popularity over time?

Module 1.3 | The Myths and Gods of India

Points of Focus

  • What is the relationship between Samkhya and Hinduism?

  • What were some religions of ancient India?

  • Was yoga once a part of Hinduism?

  • What is the Hindu Triad?

Module 1.4 | Veda and Vedanta

Points of Focus

  • Monism vs. Dualism

  • What is the difference between Veda and Vedanta?

  • Are the Vedas a part of yoga philosophy?

  • What is the Vedanta viewpoint regarding Samkhya?

Module 1.5 | Yoga Sutras

Points of Focus

  • What are the key points of Book 1 and Book 2 respectively?

  • According to Patanjali what is the cause of ignorance?

  • According to Patanjali what is the cause of suffering?

  • According to Patanjali, how do we overcoming suffering?

  • What are the 8 limbs of yoga?

Module 1.6 | Intro to Mantra

Points of Focus

  • Introduction to Sanskrit

  • Rhythm and tempo during mantras

  • 5 basic mantras

  • Chanting in a group setting

  • Must a yoga class contain Mantra?

Mantras are a key component to bhakti yoga practice and facilitate breathing and meditation practices. In the teacher training we focus on 5 core mantras that are taught at Ashtanga Yoga School by David Garrigues. Our training also includes sanskrit chanting of the Yoga Sutras, and other Vedic Mantras. You must practice these matras alone or in a group setting to gain proficiency in pronunciation. It is recommended that you recite mantras with the added benefit of a tambura sound playing.

Module 1.7 | Exam #1

Exam Topics

  • Dravidian People

  • Samkhya Philosophy

  • Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Supplemental Content

Purusha and Prakriti

Purusha (self) and Prakriti (non-self) are key points of focus in yoga philosophy. They are the duality showcased in the Samkhya philosophy. In the yoga sutras of patanjali it is stated that all ignorance comes from a misidentification of these two things.

Ahimsa

Ahimsa (non-violence) is the first aspect of the first out of eight limbs of yoga. It is of special importance to living a yogic lifestyle.


Module 2: Foundations of Asana & Pranayama

Key Focus

  • 3rd and 4th Limbs of Yoga

  • Anatomy

  • Vinyasa

  • Standing Asana

  • Introduction to Pranayama

  • Asana Sequencing & Timing (Muhurtas & Krama)

Sections

  • 2.1 | Anatomy

  • 2.2 | Injuries

  • 2.3 | Props

  • 2.4 | Muhurtas

  • 2.5 | Vayus

  • 2.6 | Asana Foundations

  • 2.7 | Surya Namaskara

  • 2.8 | Standing Asana

  • 2.9 | Pranayama

  • 2.10 | Krama

Module 2 Overview

Required Materials

Suggested Materials

  • Ashtanga Yoga Practice and Philosophy by Gregor Maehle

  • The Heart of Yoga by TKV Desikachar

  • Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health by BKS Iyengar 

  • The Key Muscles of Yoga by Ray Long

  • The Key Poses of Yoga by Ray Long

  • Yoga Mala by Pattabhi Jois

  • Light on Yoga by BKS Iyengar

  • Light on Pranayama by BKS Iyengar

  • Primary Series Guide (click here)

  • Yoga Sutras for Ashtanga Students (click here)

  • Vayu Siddhi Secrets to Yogic Breathing A Guide to Ujjayi Breathing and Pranayama (click here)

  • Podcast: Outsmarting Pain in Practice (click here)

  • Podcast: Customizing your Practice is 7th Series (click here)

Independent Study Opportunities (w/ instructor permission)

Foundations First Asana Course

Vayu Siddhi Pranayama Course

Working With Injuries Course

Primary Series Guide

Module 2.1 | Anatomy

Points of Focus

  • Anatomical terms

  • Utilizing anatomy to prevent injuries and develop lasting relationships with students

Module 2.2 | Injuries

Points of Focus

  • How to prevent injuries

  • How to care for existing injuries

  • Communicating about injuries

  • Leadership as a teacher regarding injuries

  • Theory within yoga for how injuries manifest

Module 2.3 | Props

Points of Focus

  • Have your own personal prop “kit”

  • What props are necessary for basic asana?

  • What are some less common props?

  • How to utilize props

Module 2.4 | Muhurtas

Points of Focus

  • Time of day to practice

  • Relevance of circadian rhythms

  • Life/Work Balance

  • Moon Days & Yoga Holidays

  • The role of asana in lifespan development

Module 2.5 | Vayus

Points of Focus

  • Definitions of Energy as it relates to Human Being

  • Definition of Prana

  • Definition of Vayu

  • Definition of Chakra

  • Prana and Apana Vayu as it relates to Vinyasa or Hatha Yoga

Module 2.6 | Asana Foundations

Points of Focus

  • What is the purpose of asana as mentioned in the yoga sutras, as one aspect of the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga?

  • Does Asana “replace” other aspects of yoga that are more spiritual, or can asana itself be made into a spiritual practice?

  • What are the threats and risk to a life dedicated to asana practice, as opposed to other emphasis in yoga such as pranayama, bhakti, karma, or meditation?

  • Who is fit to practice asana?

  • What are the most basic asana sequences in the lineage of T. Krishnamacharya?

Module 2.7 | Surya Namaskara

Points of Focus

  • Vinyasa simplicity and clarity in practice

  • Vedic exercise vs. Yogic introspection

  • Ritualized asana sequencing

  • Sattva, Rajas, Tamas as it relates to motion

Module 2.8 | Standing Asana

Points of Focus

  • How to connect with the ground

  • Foundational and Standing Sequence of Ashtanga Yoga

  • How to strategically utilize gravity to our advantage

  • Static “States” vs. Dynamic “Transitions” in Asana

Module 2.9 | Pranayama

Points of Focus

  • When to practice pranayama

  • Pranayama as a compliment to asana

  • Basic Pranayama Sequence

Module 2.10 | Krama

Points of Focus

  • Basics of Sequencing Logic

  • Theories of Viniyoga, Ashtanga, Iyengar regarding sequencing

  • Duration and Speed

  • Age and Disability

Module 2.11 | Exam #2

Exam Topics

  • Asana

  • Pranayama

  • Krama

    note: Anatomy course has separate examinations

Supplemental Content

Standing Asana Videos

Below are videos of most standing asana covered in the training

Up dog: https://vimeo.com/113054179

Down dog: https://vimeo.com/117669436

Surya Namaskara: https://vimeo.com/42070122

Padangustasana:

Padahastasana: https://vimeo.com/262677024

Uthita Trikonasana: https://vimeo.com/124770399 adjustments: https://vimeo.com/41230923

Parivritta Trikonasana: https://vimeo.com/242752846

Uthita Parsvakonasana: https://vimeo.com/241620473

Prasarita Paddotanasana: https://vimeo.com/69756669

Parsvo: https://vimeo.com/40523744

Uthita Hasta Padangustasana: https://vimeo.com/74332413

Ardha Baddha Padmottonasana: https://vimeo.com/74202951

Module 3: Explorations Into Theory & Practice

Key Focus

  • 3rd, 4th, and 5th Limbs of Yoga

  • Hatha Yoga Shastras (Sacred Texts)

  • Mudras

  • Bandhas

  • Seated Postures

  • Introduction to Backbending Postures

Sections

  • 3.1 | Siva Samhita

  • 3.2 | Hatha Yoga Pradipika

  • 3.3 | Mudras

  • 3.4 | Bandhas

  • 3.5 | Seated Asana

  • 3.6 | Backbending Asana

  • 3.7 | Closing Asana

  • 3.8 | Exam #3

Module 3 Overview

Required Materials

  • The Siva Samhita - any copy

  • The Hatha Yoga Pradipika - any copy

Suggested Materials

  • All Materials from Previous Modules

Independent Study Opportunities (w/ instructor permission)

Hatha Yoga Pradipika Asana Course

Intermediate Series Course

Kapotasana Course

Ashtanga Backbending Course

Headstands and Inversions Course

Yoganatomy Drop Backs Course

Module 3 | Lesson Plan

  • 3.1 | Siva Samhita

  • 3.2 | Hatha Yoga Pradipika

  • 3.3 | Mudras

  • 3.4 | Bandhas

  • 3.5 | Seated Asana

  • 3.6 | Backbending Asana

  • 3.7 | Closing Asana

  • 3.8 | Exam #3

Module 3.1 | Siva Samhita

Points of Focus

  • Understanding Hatha Yoga Traditions

  • Mudras

  • One vs. Many (Purusha)

  • Fear and Perseverance

Module 3.2 | Hatha Yoga Pradipika

Points of Focus

  • Traditional Asana in Hatha Yoga

  • Hatha Yoga -or- Ashtanga Yoga

Module 3.3 | Mudras

Points of Focus

  • Mudras Mentioned in the Yoga Shastras

Module 3.4 | Bandhas

Points of Focus

  • Bandhas as “muscle locks”

  • Utilization of Bandhas throughout the Primary Series

  • Bandhas related to Breathing

Module 3.5 | Seated Asana

Points of Focus

  • Basic Seated Asana and Re-establishing Balance in Dandasana

  • Primary Series Asana in sets (4 hours each set):

    • Dandasana-Janu Sirsasana C

    • Marichyasana A-D

    • Navasana & Core Strength Building

    • Bhujapidasana-Kukkutasana

    • Baddha Konasana-Setu Bandhasana

    • Dynamic Transitions (jump back, jump through)

Module 3.6 | Intro to Backbending Asana

Points of Focus

  • Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward Facing Dog)

  • Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward Bow Pose)

  • Anatomical dynamics of healthy backbends

  • Apanic and Pranic Curves of the Spine

  • Using the Wall and/or Folding Chairs with Backbends

Module 3.7 | Closing Asana

Points of Focus

  • Sarvangasana (shoulderstand)

  • Sirsasana (headstand)

  • Ashtanga Closing Sequence

Module 3.8 | Exam #3

Exam Topics

  • Siva Samhita

  • Hatha Yoga Pradipika

  • Mudras and Bandhas

  • Primary Series (seated asana) of Ashtanga Yoga

Take Exam #3

Supplemental Content

Primary Series Asana Videos

Paschimattanasana: https://vimeo.com/38417449

Purvottanasana: https://vimeo.com/131306452

Marichyasana A: https://vimeo.com/42159515

Marichyasana C: https://vimeo.com/80715643

Navasana: https://vimeo.com/43172548

Bujapidasana: https://vimeo.com/43172548

Baddha Konasana: https://vimeo.com/80721956

Supta Kurmasana: https://vimeo.com/173469738

Upavistha Konasana: https://vimeo.com/80681742

Urdva Dhanurasana: https://vimeo.com/175408441

Module 4: Modern Masters and Refined Methods

Key Focus

  • 8 Limbs of Yoga in Modern Systems

  • Legacies of Modern Masters

  • The Lineage of the Great T. Krishnamacharya

  • Intermediate Series of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga

  • Inversions

  • Adjustments

Sections

  • 4.1 | Lineage

  • 4.2 | T. Krishnamacharya

  • 4.3 | TKV Desikachar

  • 4.4 | BKS Iyengar

  • 4.5 | Sri K Pattabhi Jois

  • 4.6 | Intermediate Series of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga

  • 4.7 | Inverted Asana

  • 4.8 | Exam #4

Module 4 Overview

Required Materials

  • Select at least one from the Suggested Materials List below based on preference.

Suggested Materials

  • Yoga Makaranda by T Krishnamacharya (click here)

  • Yogasanagaulu by T Krishnamacharya

  • Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health by BKS Iyengar (click here)

  • Yoga Mala by Pattabhi Jois

  • The Heart of Yoga by TKV Desikachar (click here)

  • Light on Yoga by BKS Iyengar (click here)

  • The Yoga of the Yogi by Kaustub Desikachar (click here)

Module 4 | Lesson Plan

  • 4.1 | Lineage

  • 4.2 | T. Krishnamacharya

  • 4.3 | TKV Desikachar

  • 4.4 | BKS Iyengar

  • 4.5 | Sri K Pattabhi Jois

  • 4.6 | Intermediate Series of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga

  • 4.7 | Inverted Asana

  • 4.8 | Exam #4

Module 4.1 | Lineage

Points of Focus

  • Guru Parampara

  • Modern Lineage

  • Local Yoga Schools Movement

Module 4.2 | Krishnamacharya

Points of Focus

  • Life and Background on T. Krishnamacharya

  • Social Justice from a Brahmin Rebel

  • Yoga for the World

  • Indian Nationalism

Module 4.3 | TKV Desikachar

Points of Focus

  • Viniyoga

  • Family Tradition of Yogic Scholars

  • Yoga Chikitsa

Module 4.4 | BKS Iyengar

Points of Focus

  • Refinement of Asana Alignment

  • Asana using Props

  • Asana for Disease Prevention and Treatment

  • “Single Asana” Theory; Asana as Samadhi

Module 4.5 | Sri K Pattabhi Jois

Points of Focus

  • Lineage of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga in Mysore, India

  • Ashtanga vs. “Power” Yoga

  • Teaching only in Sanskrit

  • Vedic and Saivite Influences in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga

  • Sexual Assault

Module 4.6 | Intermediate Series Asana

Points of Focus

  • Traditional Intermediate “Second” Series of Ashtanga

  • Isolated Intermediate Postures

Module 4.7 | Inversions

Points of Focus

  • Basic Inversions

    • Downward Dog

    • Padangustasana

    • Viparita Kalani

  • Arm Balances

  • Headstand

  • Shoulderstand

Module 4.8 | Exam #4

Exam Topics

  • Krishnamacharya

  • Desikachar

  • Iyengar

  • Jois

Note: Exam #4 will allow students to choose to focus on one of the modern yoga masters, their legacy, and teaching.

Take Exam #4

Module 5: Professional Yoga Teaching

Key Focus

  • Teaching the 8 Limbs of Yoga

  • Adjustments

  • Student Teaching Sessions

  • Adaptations for Students with Disabilities

  • Ethics & Social Justice

  • Social Justice and Yoga

  • Business

    • Marketing

    • Accounting & Finance

    • Local School Sustainability

Sections

  • 5.1 | Social Justice

  • 5.2 | Sustainable Asana

  • 5.3 | Vinyasa Krama

  • 5.4 | Asana Adjustments

  • 5.5 | Student Teaching

  • 5.6 | Asana Adaptations

  • 5.7 | Ethical Standards

  • 5.8 | Sexual Assault Awareness

Module 5 Overview

Required Materials

Suggested Materials

  • Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism by Chogyam Trungpa

  • A Blue Fire by James Hillman

  • The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

  • The Essential Rumi by Jalal Al-Adin Rumi and Coleman Barks

  • Brand You by John Purkiss and David Royston-Lee

  • Blue Ocean Strategy

  • Mohandas Ghandi autobiography “The Story of My Experiments with Truth”

Independent Study Opportunities (w/ instructor permission)

Yoga Business Course

Module 5.1 | Social Justice

Points of Focus

  • Karma Yoga

  • Bhakti Yoga

  • Promoting Equality

  • Local Business Philanthropy

  • LGBTQ+

  • Racism Awareness

Module 5.2 | Sustainability

Points of Focus

  • Teacher-Student Relationship

  • Marketing Yourself

  • Public Reputation w/ Social Media

  • Avoiding Conflict

  • Maintaining Integrity

Module 5.3 | Vinyasa Krama

Points of Focus

  • The Vinyasa Krama of T. Krishnamacharya

  • Viniyoga

  • Sequence Based Group Fitness Public Teaching

  • Private Instruction

Module 5.4 | Adjustments

Points of Focus

  • Physical Adjustments

  • Advanced Adjustments

  • Mysore Class Adjustments

  • Verbal Adjustments

  • Body Language and Non-Verbal Communication

Module 5.5 | Student Teaching

Points of Focus

  • Short, Intermediate, and Long Form Student Teaching Sequences

  • Constructive Feedback Sessions

  • Demographics, Archetypes, and Customer Segment Designs

  • Social Anxiety

Module 5.6 | Adaptations

Points of Focus

  • Adapting Asanas using Props

  • Adapting Sequences

  • Group Class Etiquette for Less Fit Students

  • Covid-19 Protocol

  • Online Teaching

Module 5.7 | Ethical Standards

Points of Focus

  • Professional Ethics for Yoga Teachers

  • Yoga Alliance Standards

  • Avoiding Bias

  • Racism and Bigotry

  • Social Stratification and Equality

Module 5.8 | Sexual Assault

Points of Focus

  • Yoga Teachers that have Committed Sexual Assault

  • Inquiries into the Cause of Power Abuse

  • Leadership

  • Trauma Awareness

  • Awareness and Methods for Victims

  • Local and National Sexual Assault Resources

Module 5.10 | Mohandas Gandhi

Points of Focus

  • Civil Disobedience

  • Lifestyle & Personal Ethics

  • Satyagraha

  • Brahmacharya

Module 5.11 | Exam #5

Exam Topics

  • Business

  • Ethics

  • Social Justice

Take Exam #5