Explore our program in depth
Module I: Answer the call to adventure, Magnify your practice (100 hours)
In this 100 hour module, students will gain a deeper knowledge and experience of their selves and their yoga practice. Below is a detailed description of what students can expect during the 4 weekends:
Weekend 1: Get grounded into the body
In this weekend, you will get acquainted with the Yin and Yang (Vinyasa) aspects of yoga. You will begin to build a strong base of knowledge of: Anatomy and Physiology and the basic theory of Vinyasa yoga and Yin yoga. We will enjoy a short introduction in the history of yoga and explore and the different branches of yoga, with special emphasis on the 8-limbed path. You will be introduced a selection of Yin and Yang (Vinyasa) asanas and sequences as well as bandha, pranayama & drishti. You will also be introduced to Daoist philosophy and Chinese medicine. Also covered are Qi, Yin and Yang, and Dan Tian/Hara. This weekend focuses on the Earth element in Yin yoga. You will learn about the element’s organs and meridians and their physical, mental, emotional, and energetic functions.
Weekend 2: Energy: Beyond and within the body
In this weekend, we will focus on the foundation of the Lower and Upper Extremities including: the shoulder girdle and the pelvis & hip joints. We will cover the most important muscles, bones and tissue, and how these structures work in the practice. You will also learn proper alignment within asanas. In addition, you will learn even more Yin and Yang (Vinyasa) asanas and sequences. In Yin yoga, we will further explore the energetic body, learn the theory of 5 transformations/elements, the systems of organs and how they link to yoga, Western medicine, and psychology. This weekend focuses on the Fire and Metal elements in Yin yoga. You will learn about their related organs and meridians and their physical, mental, emotional, and energetic functions.
Weekend 3: Back to the Source: Dive into the Ancient Philosophy of Yoga & Sanskrit
In this weekend, you will learn more about Yoga history and philosophy. You will be introduced to the Sanskrit language and we will have a beautiful exploration of the Chakra system. The anatomy section will focus on the structure and functions of the spine and the core and its relationship to stability and balance. We will learn additional Yin and Yang (Vinyasa) asanas and sequences, including proper alignment in asana’s. This weekend focuses on the Water element in Yin yoga. Also covered are its related organs and meridians and their physical, mental, emotional, and energetic functions.
Weekend 4: Yoga in the Western World
This weekend will cover the topic of how Yoga came to florish in the Western world. As always, you will learn additional Yin and Yang (Vinyasa) asanas and sequences and pranayama practices. The anatomy section of this weekend will cover part two of the Lower and Upper Extremities, including: the knees & ankles and the fore arms & wrists. We will cover and the most important bones, muscles, and tissues and how these structures work in the practice. You will learn proper alignment within asanas. In Yin Yoga, we will focus on the Wood element. Also covered are its related organs and meridians and their physical, mental, emotional, and energetic functions.
Theory Exam
To receive your 100 hours teacher training certificate, you must successfully pass your theory exams.
Optional Retreat: Weekend 5: Integration in silence, pranayama, meditation
The last weekend of module I is optional, but we highly recommend it. During this weekend, we will focus on meditation, silence, and how to integrate what you have learned during the previous weeks. An amazing opportunity to digest and find clarity.
Module II: Unite Two Worlds, Transform to an inspiring teacher (100 hours)
In this 100 hours module students will transform from a passionate yogi to an inspiring teacher. Below is a description of what students can expect during the 4 weekends:
Weekend 1: Let yourself be heard
During this weekend you will uncover your unique voice and teaching style. You will also learn tips and techniques for effectively using your voice while teaching. We will go deeper into the practice of Vinyasa yoga, its history and benefits. You will learn how to get into and out of asanas and what to feel in an asana (joints, muscles, and tissues). In the anatomy part, you will learn how to prevent injury in the upper extremities and how to use alternate asanas for existing injuries. Also covered are the basics of tissue repair.
We will also deepen our practice of Yin yoga, its history and benefits. You will learn: how long to stay in an asana, how to get in and out of Yin asanas, and what to feel in an asana (meridians, organs, joints, muscles, and tissues).
During this weekend, you will begin teaching select Yin and Yang asanas.
Weekend 2: Safe and effective teaching
This weekend focuses on the principles of respiration (breathing). You will learn how to lead a Yin and Yang (Vinyasa) yoga class. You will also learn how to give safe and effective hands-on adjustments and the correct use of props. In the anatomy part, you will learn how to prevent injuries in the spine and lower extremities and how to use alternate asanas for existing injuries. Also covered are alternative and variations of Yin and Yang asanas. During this weekend, students will again teach a selection of asanas.
Weekend & Week 3 : Face challenges
We will challenge you during this weekend. You will co-teach a class at one of the Balanzs studios with one of our experienced teachers. Our staff will give you constructive feedback that will help you grow as a teacher. During this weekend, we will explore how to handle challenging situations that can arise before, during, or after classes. We will also explore a variety of techniques for building up a Yin and Yang (Vinyasa) class as well as techniques for effectively teaching multi-level classes. A key part of this challenging weekend is how to have fun and be your authentic self while teaching.
Weekend 4: The Real Journey starts
Our final weekend is all about ‘what’s next?’ For those who wish to make a career teaching yoga, we will explore various aspects of the business of yoga. You will learn many things, including how to market yourself and how to get teaching jobs. This is also final exam weekend. Your knowledge and skills will be tested. If you successfully pass your examinations, we will present you with your Balanzs Yoga Teaching Training Certificate.
Becoming a Yoga teacher is a lifelong journey. After the required 200 hours we offer several additional modules to deepen your practice, understanding and teaching skills. More information will be released in the soon.
Practice Exam
To receive your 200 hours teacher training certificate, you must complete Module I and II, attend at least 90% of the weekends, and practice exams.
Expect modules like:
- Mentorship program: Grow & Learn from an experienced teacher
- Deepen your anatomy, 25 hours module
- Deepen your understanding of Chinese Medicine/Yin/Meridians
- Meditation
- Adjustments: Learn more & understand the energy & directions of the body