200 Hour Teacher Training

The next Yoga High 200-Hour Teacher Training will be a one-month intensive in July 2013 with flexible self-study hours during August, September and October when you will observe classes and practice teaching.

To ask questions or request an application, please email info@yogahighnyc.com.

Our 200 Hour Teacher Training is rooted in the Yogic tradition of study based on individual attention and guidance. The 200-Hour training is capped at 15 participants so you can get the most out of the community of trainees and teachers here at Yoga High. This teacher training is excellent for anyone who wants to experience their practice with more knowledge and understanding of philosophy, breath and alignment. And it is especially tailored for those who want to go on to become Yoga teachers as a hobby or as a lifelong profession.

Schedule for July:

Cost: $3,000 — includes 4 months of Unlimited Yoga classes at Yoga High (July – Oct).

Early Bird special $2,800 if paid in full by May 15th, 2013. 

Yoga High Owner and Director Mel Russo and Co-Director Patricia Milder teach this 200 hour training with assistance from guest teachers.

You may participate in individual Segments of this 200-Hour Teacher Training based on your interest or take all 4 Segments together as one comprehensive training. Each person will get lots of individual attention and the opportunity to teach and receive feedback throughout the 200-Hour training.

Breakdown of the Segments:

Below is an example of the coursework and homework for our 200-Hour Teacher Training.

Segment 1: Philosophy, Anatomy, Breath and the Subtle Body

We begin the Yoga High Teacher Training with a segment full of information that is either missing or only briefly explained in the regular Yoga classes you usually attend. Segment 1 offers you a chance to dive into the history and philosophy of Yoga, a deep exploration of the breath, anatomy of the physical and energetic bodies and an introduction to the ancient Indian medical science of Ayurveda.

This segment starts with a study of Yogic philosophical and scientific fundamentals, which will create the foundation for your knowledge of Yoga as a complete system of mental focus, breath, physical asana (poses) and meditation. From there you will gain a greater understanding of how the physical and subtle bodies work efficiently by learning basic anatomy of movement and energetic pathways. Once the physical and subtle bodies are clear, we will introduce Pranayama, and you will learn how to practice and teach (in a very approachable way) the incredibly powerful control of breath and Prana. Pranayama will lead us to the space beyond the thoughts through meditation (again, in a guided and approachable way). Finally, you will learn how the ancient medical science of Ayurveda offers insight into your own life and the Yoga practice of your future students.
By the time you complete Segment 1, your Yoga practice will feel far more comprehensive and supported by the knowledge and techniques you have learned. You will be ready to approach teaching with wisdom and grounded confidence. Segment 1 is also an incredible experience for those wanting to explore their own practice on a new level, even if you do not want to become a teacher.

Segment 2: Basic Asana, Alignment & Adjustments

In this segment you will learn the traditional version of a comprehensive list of Yoga asanas (poses). Sun salutes, standing poses, arm and leg balances, twisting poses, backbends and seated poses will all be taught in their basic form. You will learn the healthy alignment and safe, helpful adjustments for each pose. You will have the opportunity to practice teaching each pose verbally and with hands-on adjustments. This segment builds on the knowledge of anatomy, breath and the subtle body from Segment 1 and expands into sequencing a dynamic and intelligent class based on your knowledge of how the asanas and the body function together. By the end of Segment 2 you will be able to teach your fellow trainees a simple, challenging and effective Yoga class with a focus on breath, sequencing and alignment.

Segment 3: Asanas: Level II, Variations & Modifications

Segment 3 picks up where Segment 2 left off. Now that you have an understanding of the body and breath from Segment 1 and an understanding of the asanas and basic sequencing from Segment 2, you have the chance to develop your own creativity and knowledge of asana variations. Each basic asana will be briefly reviewed, and in this section you will learn modifications for special populations (injury, pregnancy, extreme tightness, etc.). You will also learn variations of each pose for a more challenging option or to give your students a different perspective. In addition, we will introduce some advanced asanas and the alignment and adjustments that apply to them. By the end of this segment you will have the knowledge to teach a creatively sequenced class to mixed level and advanced students that fosters a sense of health, well-being and balance.

Segment 4: Being a Teacher

You must have completed YH Segments 1-3 or another 200-hour Yoga teacher training to take this segment.

Teaching takes on many different forms. Some of you will go on to teach Yoga professionally and others will use your knowledge to teach to friends and family informally. Segment 4 covers all of the bases with practical advice and mentoring to give you the knowledge, confidence and skills to be a responsible and compassionate teacher.
You will discover and cultivate your own unique strengths as a Yoga teacher, and we will work with you to develop those strengths.
You’ll learn the nitty-gritty practical stuff teachers need to turn your love of teaching Yoga into a viable career. You will also have plenty of time and space in Segment 4 to practice teaching and receive honest, constructive feedback. You will end this segment and this training feeling empowered as a teacher and transformed as a person.