Philosophy – As an inspiration for living! Study the most influential source texts: Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, and Hatha Yoga Pradipika
Safety and Injury Prevention – Modern perspectives on asana (posture) and alignment in motion.
Sequencing in Depth — Crafting narratives around peak experiences and embodiment
Breathwork and Energetics of Yoga — explore breathwork through the lens of early Hatha / Tantric yoga. This nuanced approach to breath control uses energetic valves (bandhas) to influence the flow of awareness (vayus) through subtle meditative channels (nadis)
Anatomy of Yoga – Functional anatomy of yoga and the physiology of meditative states.
Self-Guided Practice in a Group – Yoga at your own pace with AYO’s Mysore program.
Meditation – Various practical approaches will be explored drawing from Patanjali’s Yoga and Buddhism.
Breathing Techniques (Pranayama) – practices that can focus the mind, and calm or stimulate the nervous system to experience deep states of tranquility.
Teaching skills – Adjustment techniques, holding space, language skills, sequencing for specific purposes, wrapping content around a theme, and modifying yoga to suit individual needs.
Language skills – Balance the flow with the form; humility and strength: mental focus and acceptance; tools for putting yourself and your students at ease. Grounding and holding the seat of the teacher.
Cultural Appreciation vs Appropriation, and Social Justice — How can we honour Yoga’s vast roots as a Southeast Asian tradition? We will begin to untangle the colonial gaze with which yoga has developed, and cultivate an approach to social justice that aligns with the yoga principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and satya (pursuit of the truth).
Diversity and Inclusivity in Yoga Spaces — Examine the intersection of yoga, race and gender. Learn to use language in a way that honours and embraces the diversity of human experiences and gender identities.
Teaching through a Trauma-Informed Lens — Gain an understanding of the basic impact trauma can have on the brain and body, and cultivate compassion.
