Yoga Teacher Course

Lesson 1 • Origins and Historical Development of Yoga

Traces yoga from Vedic roots through classical and modern periods. Provides the historical timeline that informs every subsequent philosophical discussion.

Lesson 2 • Major Yoga Paths and Traditions

Surveys Jnana, Bhakti, Karma, and Raja yoga alongside Hatha lineages. Equips students to identify and respect diverse traditions in a teaching context.

Lesson 3 • Core Philosophical Systems and Texts

Examines the Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita, and Hatha Yoga Pradipika as primary sources. Connects textual study to practical teaching rationale.

Lesson 1 • Energetic Anatomy: Nadis, Chakras, and Prana

Introduces the yogic energy body alongside its physiological correlates. Bridges traditional energetic concepts with contemporary anatomical understanding.

Lesson 2 • Skeletal System and Joint Mechanics

Covers bones, joints, and ranges of motion relevant to yoga postures. Establishes the structural baseline for all movement and alignment instruction.

Lesson 3 • Muscular System and Movement Patterns

Identifies prime movers, stabilizers, and antagonists active in common poses. Connects muscle function to effective cueing and injury prevention.

Lesson 4 • Nervous System and the Stress Response

Explains the autonomic nervous system's role in yoga's calming and energizing effects. Links nervous system science to sequencing and breathwork choices.

Lesson 1 • Standing Poses and Balance Postures

Analyzes foundational standing poses and single-leg balances in detail. Students practice precise verbal and physical cueing for this high-frequency pose group.

Lesson 2 • Restorative and Yin Postures

Covers passive, long-held poses targeting connective tissue and nervous system recovery. Teaches prop use and the distinct cueing language for slower practices.

Lesson 3 • Inversions and Arm Balances

Introduces foundational inversions and arm balances with progressive entry strategies. Emphasizes contraindications and safe spotting techniques.

Lesson 4 • Alignment Principles Across Pose Categories

Establishes universal alignment rules applicable to standing, seated, and supine poses. Creates a consistent framework students apply throughout all asana instruction.

Lesson 1 • Core Pranayama Techniques

Teaches Nadi Shodhana, Ujjayi, Kapalabhati, Bhramari, and Sitali in sequence. Students practice each technique and develop clear instructional language for each.

Lesson 2 • Teaching Pranayama and Meditation Classes

Develops skills for leading group breathwork and meditation sessions effectively. Covers pacing, voice tone, language precision, and managing student experiences.

Lesson 3 • Foundations of Pranayama Practice

Defines pranayama, its classical stages, and physiological effects. Establishes safety guidelines and contraindications before introducing specific techniques.

Lesson 1 • Sequencing for Different Levels and Styles

Adapts sequencing principles to beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Covers Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, and restorative formats with distinct structural needs.

Lesson 2 • Class Arc: Opening to Savasana

Maps the full class arc from centering through savasana with time allocation. Ensures students understand the functional purpose of each class segment.

Lesson 3 • Principles of Intelligent Sequencing

Introduces peak-pose, wave, and theme-based sequencing models. Students learn to build logical progressions that warm, challenge, and integrate the body.

Lesson 4 • Theming and Creating Class Narratives

Develops the skill of weaving a philosophical or seasonal theme through a class. Connects Chapter 1 philosophy to practical class design and student experience.

Lesson 1 • Hands-On Assists and Adjustments

Teaches safe, consent-based physical assists for common poses. Emphasizes communication protocols and the ethical boundaries of touch in yoga teaching.

Lesson 2 • Voice, Pacing, and Presence

Trains vocal projection, tempo, pause, and spatial positioning in the room. Establishes the teacher's physical and energetic presence as a core instructional tool.

Lesson 3 • Demonstration and Visual Teaching

Covers when and how to demonstrate poses versus teach from observation. Students learn to use their own body as a teaching tool without losing class awareness.

Lesson 4 • Giving Feedback and Corrections

Develops skills for delivering real-time corrections that are clear and encouraging. Students practice a feedback model that prioritizes student safety and confidence.

Lesson 1 • Modifications for Common Injuries

Provides evidence-informed modifications for knee, hip, shoulder, and spinal conditions. Builds on Chapter 2 anatomy to make safe, reasoned adaptation decisions.

Lesson 2 • Yoga for Older Adults and Beginners

Adapts sequencing, cueing, and prop use for older adults and complete beginners. Addresses balance, bone density, and mobility concerns specific to these populations.

Lesson 3 • Principles of Inclusive Yoga Teaching

Establishes a framework for body-neutral, trauma-informed, and culturally aware teaching. Challenges assumptions about who yoga is for and how it should look.

Lesson 4 • Using Props for Accessibility

Teaches strategic use of blocks, straps, bolsters, blankets, and chairs. Students practice integrating props into cueing so they feel supportive rather than remedial.

Lesson 1 • Marketing and Community Building

Introduces social media, word-of-mouth, and community-based marketing strategies. Focuses on authentic relationship-building over promotional tactics.

Lesson 2 • Ethics and Professional Standards

Defines the ethical responsibilities of a yoga teacher regarding boundaries, honesty, and scope of practice. Establishes the professional standards expected by reputable yoga organizations.

Lesson 3 • Building a Sustainable Teaching Career

Explores studio employment, independent teaching, corporate yoga, and online platforms. Students map a realistic career path aligned with their strengths and goals.

Lesson 4 • Safety, Liability, and Risk Management

Covers waivers, health intake forms, emergency procedures, and professional liability insurance. Equips students to create a legally and physically safe teaching environment.