We are excited to offer our spring training in March 2023 in Duncan: Module two weekends starting June 2/23  

VI Yoga School presents a 300-hour program in two modules. We are offering module 2 this spring/summer and a full 300 hour training in the fall (October 20, 23). This training is classically informed from teachers that have spent time in India studying with Mastter teachers. This gives students an authentic experience of traditionally taught, classical yoga. The course curriculum is based on the Ashtanga Vinyasa Method, Patanjali Yoga Sutras and up-to-date research from the field of Neuroscience.

The objective for students is to significantly deepen their personal practice, increase their knowledge of practical yoga philosophy and allow this to inform their future teaching. 

On the Mat: Students will improve their functional knowledge of breathing techniques, posture alignment, variations, use of props and the assisted self-practice (“Mysore-style”) model. 

Practicums: Students will practice teaching and adjusting fellow students early in the program, in a fun, supportive manner. Students will also Observe, Shadow & Assist the Lead Teachers during select scheduled studio classes.

Off the Mat: Students will be inspired to further their studies of perennial wisdom and apply this to everyday life and interpersonal relationships. 

Teaching Pathway: Students are guided in led classes and traditional “Mysore-style” learning formats. In keeping with the tradition of the student-teacher relationship, students are tasked with particular practices as their body/mind is ready to receive them. This personal experience of overall growth and steadiness of practice will cultivate excellence in teaching going forward.

This approach represents a departure from the more common modern yoga experience, where students are often thrown into classes where advanced techniques are given without preparing students appropriately. Cultivation of deep spiritual practice requires mastery of breath, mind and posture, one step at a time, at a pace that suits each individual. 

Students will focus on the Primary Series of the Ashtanga Vinyasa system, plus additional sub-sequences, increasing their knowledge of each individual posture and the vinyasa system. Curriculum modules will be dedicated to specific posture themes, such as hip opening, back bending, arm balancing and inversion sequences. Developing and deepening a personal practice will be a priority in this training. 

This 300-Hour Canadian Alliance Certification course is perfect for yoga teachers with 200-hour certificates to increase their skill, confidence and success in starting their own teaching business or working for an established studio. 

Your Faculty Guides: 

Geoff Mackenzie, Director of First Light Yoga, Vancouver 

(https://firstlightyoga.ca/) 

I have been practicing yoga for over 25 years since beginning on a forest floor in France in 1996. I started teaching classes in 2004, after completing a YTT at Moksana Yoga Center in Victoria, BC. My guidance is informed by extensive studies with R. Sharath Jois and their family in Mysore, India, combined with input from innovative Western practitioners. Modern approaches to strength, mobility and breath-work feature in my own practice too. 

My students consider me a reliable, steady presence in the classroom. You can count on me to apply the Ashtanga Vinyasa method in a way that will challenge you, while still respecting where you’re starting from and what your intentions are. Ultimately, I want you to breathe well, move well and focus your mind on what you’re doing.

Deborah Carruthers has 14 years of teaching experience in the Ashtanga method. As the director of  VI Yoga School, she has facilitated nine teacher training and five retreats in Kerala, India. She honours her teachers along the way in the Mysore method: Geoff Mackenzie, Rolf and Marcia Naujokat (Goa), Sharmila Desai (Goa), David Swenson, Kino MacGregor and Tim Feldmann (Miami). Deborah holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and a Level One Ayurveda Practitioner Certification. 

Curriculum 

• Primary, Series & Intermediate Asanas

• Level I  Adjustments 

• Anatomy & Physiology 

• Yoga Philosophy ( Patanjali, Bhagavad Gita, Tantra, Goddess) 

• The Energetic Body 

• Ayurveda 

• Asana Sequencing 

• Pranayama & Meditation 

• Ethics 

• Yoga Business Development

• Teacher Communication Skills 

• Circle time, inquiry, reflection, sharing 

Canadian Yoga Alliance 300-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher Training, Module 2- 100 hours. 

This program will transform your practice and radically deepen your understanding of yoga. This training is suitable for both aspiring teachers and dedicated practitioners as it will provide the foundation of knowledge essential for any invested yogi. 

Our program follows the rich lineage of Krishnamacharya, rooted in teachings from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Our methodology combines the flow and power of Ashtanga with its focus on alignment and sequencing. To balance, you will learn about contemplative styles, mindfulness as well as sequencing and ideas to create your yoga style. 

You will have the opportunity to learn from our experienced teachers in their area of specialty. Daily practice will integrate the principles of teaching deeply into your body. We will focus on wellness, pranayama, and meditation to enhance your experience. 

You will learn how to: 

➢ teach a Beginner-Level progressive course series and guide a “Counted” Ashtanga Vinyasa class in the traditional manner 

➢supervise a “Mysore-style” assisted self-practice class 

➢ apply anatomical understanding of the body to alignment in yoga asana ➢ recognize common misalignments & risks 

➢ suggest modifications & variations of poses

➢ offer clear verbal and hands-on assistance 

➢ sequence creatively and safely 

➢ find your unique teaching voice and incorporate neuroscience research that supports a deep understanding of the interface between science and meditation in the path of transformation and greater health and well-being 

➢ Learn to count and pronounce names of postures in Sanskrit 

Upon successful completion of both modules of the program, you will be qualified to register as an RYT300® with the Canadian Yoga Alliance. Our graduates teach a diverse range of yoga styles including Ashtanga Vinyasa, Dynamic flow and intro to Ashtanga, and Mysore methodology.  Completion of one module will build your resume of teaching with a certificate of completion.

Required Textbooks ( included in course fees) 

One Simple Thing: A New Look at the Science of Yoga and How It Can Transform Your Life, by Eddie Stern

You will have the opportunity to practice teaching throughout the course asf well as a deep dive into postures, through labs. Your will learn how to safely verbally and physically adjust your students.

In the classical methodology, we practice pranayama, meditation and inquiry.

Your gifts as a teaching will be encouraged and shared with the group in the collaborative training.

You will receive accreditation for 100 hours of training through the CYA.

Website www.VIYogaschool.com

Course Dates: 

The course will be delivered in weekend modules,

Weekend modules:

• June 2, 3,4

• June 9, 10, 11

• June16, 17,18

• June 30 July 2

INVESTMENT 

Cost for 100-hour program certification: $1750. (+ 5% GST.) 

A $500 deposit is required to hold your spot. This program includes an unlimited yoga pass, text book for the duration of the course. As a bonus, you will have access to an onlearning learning platform ( The Four Pillars of Health) 

Vancouver Island Training Location:                              

VI Yoga School (VIYS), 360 Duncan Street, Duncan, BC 

Payment Information 

The deposit required to hold your place is $500.00 Three different Payment Plan Options are available. We accept debit & credit cards, plus e-transfer. Applicants withdrawing 30 days before the start date are subject to a 50% administration fee. 

Thank you for your interest in VI Yoga School Teacher Training Program.