Before completeing the Eka Loka Yoga Teacher Training Application, please review the schedule below to be sure you are able to meet attendance expectations.  Upon applying, you will be asked to confirm your commitment on the application form.  

 

Yoga Teacher Training Syllabus

 

The topics covered in this syllabus will remain constant, however actual topics covered per session dates listed are subject to change, with the exception of the first, last, and anatomy weekend sessions.  Each Friday evening session will include checking in with each student, followed by a philosophical, historical and/or ethical discussion on a particular themed weekend topic.  Each Saturday and Sunday will begin with a 2-hour master yoga asana class that will include pranayama, meditation, and chanting.  Saturday's classes will be based on Shakti energy (heat, vigorous flow) and Sunday will be based on Shiva energy (cooling, gentle/restorative).  Each week students will be exposed to a variety of yoga disciplines and styles and will spend a majority of time each session learning how to break down and teach asanas and sequenced flows.  All sessions will allow for continued dialogue on applying yogic principles for everyday life, connection to nature, and opportunities to engage in sacred community.

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Session 1 (June 2-4)

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• Introductions - getting to know you!

• Discussion of the major influences on yoga's vast history (Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism)

• Introduction to the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali, the Four Noble Truths, and the Noble Eightfold Path

• Introduction to pranayama (breath work) and meditation techniques

• Active and passive communication exercises

• Ethics for Yoga Teachers

• Connecting with nature and inspiring changes

• Asana Practices - Sun Salutations A & B and Restorative

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Session 2 (June 9-11)

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• Continuation of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali and the Noble Eightfold Path

• Ethics for Yoga Teachers

• Connecting with nature and inspiring changes

• The Yoga of Food workshop

• Introduction to the doshas, koshas, and Ayurvedic principles

• Asana Practices - Moon Salutation and Yin

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Session 3 (June 23-25)

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• Continuation of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali and the Noble Eightfold Path

• Yoga Anatomy 2-day workshop

• Making mandalas and eye pillows for relaxation and emotional release

• Asana Practices - Child Salutation and Iyengar/Gentle Therapeutic

 

Session 4 (July 7-9)

 

• Continuation of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali and the Noble Eightfold Path

• Introduction to the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita - Arjuna's Story

• Connecting with nature and inspiring changes

• Community seva (service) project outdoors

• Asana Practices - Warrior Flow, Standing Balances, and Deep Floor Stretches

 

Session 5 (July 21-23)

 

• Continuation of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali and the Noble Eightfold Path

• Connecting with nature and inspiring changes

• Discussion of Jainism principles compared to Patañjali's Yoga Sutras and Buddhism (Dharmachakra)

• Introduction to bandhas, mudras, and Preksha meditation

• Backbends, Inversions, and Arm Balances workshop

• Asana Practices - Rocket Series (Ashtanga) and Thai Yoga Bodywork

 

Session 6 (August 4-6)

 

• Continuation of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali and the Noble Eightfold Path

• Connecting with nature and inspiring changes

• Introduction to the Yōga Vāsiṣṭha - Rama's Story

• Making malas in silent meditation

• Introduction to Chakras, Nadis, and Kriyas

• Asana Practices - Kundalini, Bhakti/Anusara, and Zen/Yoga Nidra

 

Session 7 (August 11-13)

 

• Continuation of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali and the Noble Eightfold Path.

• Connecting with nature and inspiring changes

• Preparing for practicum weekend

• Working with special populations for asana-based teaching (seniors, children, prenatal)

• Discussion of trauma senstivity in yoga teaching approaches

• Asana Practices - Twists and Back Care, Partner Yoga with Thai Bodywork (optional practices/modifications will be provided or you may choose to assist or observe class)

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Session 8 (August 25-27)

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• Completion of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali and the Noble Eightfold Path

• The business of yoga and Yoga Alliance informational discussion

• Practicum weekend and Graduation!