Sequencing 1: Understanding Alignments

Where functional anatomy & asana technique meet

In this module, we delve deeper into the art of asana technique and alignments. Our focus will be on understanding the functional anatomy of each body part and how it aligns within the whole of our body’s structure. Rather than emphasizing the visual aspect of poses, we adopt a science-based approach that helps you comprehend the underlying principles of alignments.

By acquiring this knowledge, you will uncover the “why’s” behind alignments, allowing you to understand a wide array of variations and modifications in asanas. With this understanding, you will gain confidence in teaching asanas, enabling you to infuse creativity into your sequences while maintaining logic and safety in your flow.

Module 1 acts as a stepping stone to the subsequent module, ‘Advanced Asana Sequencing,’ where you will further hone your skills in crafting well-built sequences. To maximize your learning experience, we highly recommend completing these modules consecutively.

Sequencing 2: Structuring The Flow

Designing creative classes that unfold naturally 

In this module, you will learn different ways to structure your classes and discover what factors determine the choice of one structure over another. We will explore the concepts of ladder sequences, krama sequences, solar and lunar namaskar-based sequences, as well as mandala-based sequencing. Each approach will bring a unique flow and feel to your classes, helping you create diverse and captivating experiences for your students.

As part of this module, you will receive a comprehensive manual that provides clear sequence structures and worksheets, complete with accompanying photos. This will be a valuable resource, enabling you to confidently and efficiently create your own sequences.

It is advisable to have completed the first module, ‘Advanced Asana Technique and Alignments,’ before enrolling in this module.

Sequencing 3: Teaching Gentle Vinyasa,

Nurturing Tranquility

The concept of Vinyasa expands beyond the preconceived fast-paced yoga classes. It guides us to align with the rhythm of our life cycle, which can be both vibrant and dynamic, as well as gentle and restorative. In this module, we will target the second option and learn tools and techniques to create gentle to restorative vinyasa classes that are creative and transformative.

You will explore different sequence structures that provide flexibility for creativity in a gentle setting. We will discuss how to create a nurturing atmosphere that supports the restorative aspect of the classes. This includes, among others, setting the right intentions and using effective cues. Additionally, you will discover how breath techniques, meditation, and imagination can be used to guide your students on a personal journey, encouraging self-healing and exploration.

Core Integration 1: Restore your core

toward a supportive core

The number one thing I see most in my students is a dysfunctional core, due to postural patterns that keep popping up as they move. Often these postural patterns make it impossible to truly activate the core and to build a healthy relationship to these muscles causing back, hip, knee, ankle problems. But there is good news, because we can restore our connection to the core and rebuild the pathways so that the core starts supporting us. 

This module is all about rewiring the movement patterns, using not only yoga, but also pilates and functional movement principles. Restoring your core is really about becoming aware of the whole, rather than only addressing the core. It works up and down the kinetic chain, in a healthy coordination.

Core Integration 2: Discover Deep Core

Diving into deep integration

We don’t have to tell you that integrating your core is an important part of your practice, but how these muscles integrate within your movement patterns and more importantly specifically activate and strengthen them often remains a mystery. The deep core involves the diaphragm, pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, internal and external obliques, and multifidus muscles. So officially that’s not even  your “abs,” which typically refers to just your rectus abdominis (the sixpack). These deep core muscles work together to provide support and stability for your entire body. 

The muscles of the deep core not only provide postural control, they also facilitate a smooth transfer of power between your limbs, as well as your upper and lower body. Meaning a strong core will help you make smooth transitions, whether you are on your feet, your hands or all fours. During this 25 hr module you will truly discover your deep core, how it works, how it integrates and how it will support your practice and that of your students.

Cultivating Presence & Authenticity

The three modules offered in this retreat are invitations for self-exploration and connection, both in your practice and teachings. By attending this retreat, you will gain the tools and insights needed to never lose inspiration as you learn to embrace your own authenticity. This retreat serves as a stepping stone in your journey as a yoga teacher, empowering you to unleash your creativity and find your true voice.

Somatic & Intuitive Movement

A somatic movement, generally speaking, is one which is performed consciously with the intention of focusing on the internal experience of the movement rather than the external appearance or result of the movement. Somatic movement is exploratory in nature, it taps into our intuition. The beauty and power of the somatic & intuitive lies within the lived experience, the lived body, the here and now. The benefits from exploring somatic and intuitive movement are many, it is a deeply connecting and liberating practice. It will help you to tap into your inner knowing, building trust and empowerment.

That is also why the training will be movement based, exploring different somatic and intuitive movement practices. This module will draw from movement researchers Laban, Bartenieff, Whitehouse and Feldenkrais. It will include an exploration on how the principles can be implemented within your own teaching practice. 

Yoga Energetics & Nature

Let’s embark on a transformative journey that explores the captivating realm of elemental yoga and energetics. We will immerse ourselves in Nature-inspired practices, exploring the multiple layers of our being, from the most physical to the most subtle aspects of who we are. You will discover how the elemental concepts, the power of visualization, and imagination can shape and enhance our experience on the mat.

As we dive into subtle practices, you’ll delve into your own Nature and its synchronicity with the cycles of your life and Nature at large. This self-awareness and awareness of the interrelated cycles of Nature and Life will make you more sensitive to the journey of your own students: where they are in their lives, their potential for growth, and how you can skillfully facilitate their evolution with inspired and multi-layered practices.

Yoga Therapeutics: Thai Yoga Release Techniques

In this module, we will dive into the art of hands-on assists, empowering you to offer personalized guidance and support to your students through the transformative power of touch. You will develop expertise in offering Thai Yoga Release Techniques, enabling your students to find deep release. Thai Yoga Release Techniques work with pressure points as well as rocking movements to release blockages in the body. You will practice both as giver and receiver.

On more subtle levels, the receiver is practising ‘letting go’ of control as well as trust with the giver, which is also part of the healing power of this work. The giver of the massage is elevating the awareness of ‘listening’ through hands, feet and other body parts. One very important principle of both the physical and subtle aspects of these release techniques is that ‘Both Bodies’ are comfortable.  When the giver is clear of how, when and where to touch the receiver and keeps their own body comfortable, the movement makes the healing part of the work more accessible. 

The Art of Hands-On-Assists

In this module, we will dive into the art of hands-on assists, empowering you to offer personalized guidance and support to your students through the transformative power of touch.

You will be guided through various techniques and methodologies for hands-on assist. We will explore the different objectives and types of assists, as well as when and how to provide touch. You will also learn how to establish a stable foundation for yourself and utilize the ground to enhance your assists. Building trust and connection through physical touch will also be emphasized.

Through extensive practical sessions, you will develop expertise in adjusting and aligning yoga postures, enabling your students to find greater ease, stability, improved alignment, or deeper expression in their poses. You will gain the ability to observe and respond to your students’ bodies, recognizing their unique needs and limitations. Additionally, this module will cover fundamental principles of anatomy, giving you a solid grounding for effective hands-on assists. 

Mobility Training: Enhance Fluidity

Training your mobility is fundamental to a happy practice. What is mobility? You can define mobility as ‘usable ranges of motion’. To move freely within your movement practice, you need to have adequate ranges of motion, strength through our ranges, and a level of control of our individual joints.

Only then we can produce smooth coordinated motion and distribute forces evenly throughout the body. Stiffness, restrictions, and in some cases, pain are signs that mobility may be compromised. Stretching the muscle is often not enough, you want the muscles to be able to ‘carry’ the amount of movement. During this module you will learn all about mobility; how it works and how you can expand it. The module will address the three main mobility regions: 1. knee, ankle foot, 2. hips & lower spine, 3. thoracic spine and shoulders.

The Transformative Power of Breathwork

Attuning the breath is known to impact our emotional and physical states. The goal of any breathwork is to support people in achieving a greater sense of self-awareness and capacity for self-healing. Breathwork is not only for those who are struggling or suffering. Of course breathwork is very supportive for anger, overwhelm, stress, anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, trauma, ietc. But breathwork in itself is a nourishing practice, it helps to connect to yourself on a deeper level, it clears blockages and energy and opens up the pathway to the next layer of love, peace, gratitude, clarity, connection, or insight.

A deep understanding of the breath has been shown to both change the quality of our lives and impact the way our subconscious and conscious minds work together. Breathwork is something that anyone can do, and it has been shown to have an immediate, positive impact. During this module you will learn how to implement breathwork in your life and teaching.

Stay informed about this training!