I remember getting after my 200 hour certification, always wanting to learn more about ‘The Path of Yoga’ and continuing my studies but not really feeling the drive to “quote – unquote” get a 500 hour certification. I guess the status of being a 500 hour Yoga Alliance qualified teacher wasn’t so important at that time.
But my passion for true ‘whole person’ wellness (yoga, integrative health care, Ayurveda, homeopathic wellness and alternative treatment and disease prevention) was on fire. I felt driven to bring this wealth of information to everyone in a cohesive and pragmatic way. The calling to use my innate God-given gifts to share this wisdom – this healing – this off the chart joy – was loud and clear! And, I know that in sharing all of this with an open, vulnerable heart – it will help each of you to discover and polish your gifts, cultivating your dharma – so you can share your unique talents and perspective – and in turn make this world a better place to live.
So I thought about it long and hard, continued to study and practice. And now, it is time for the 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training to be birthed. Let me say though, that this training is not just for yoga teachers; it is for anyone on a deep personal journey; it is for everyone in a care-giving role.
I believe whole heartedly that this learning is best received in a supportive, loving community. I believe that ‘The Path of Yoga’ and all that it has to offer is digested and assimilated over time through experiential learning, practice and accountability, book study, self-study, discussion, reflection and presence.
I’ve given a lot of thought as to ‘how’ and ‘what’ to share so that the information is practical and not esoteric. An ancient practice originally disseminated in a rich foreign language can seem mystical and overwhelming. I have attempted to de-mystify and bring this enlightening, inspired work to you all in (3) segment modules. The (3) modules are:
• Yoga for Health, Wellness and Vibrant Living (HWVL)
• Finding and Living Your Dharma (FLYD)
• The Spiritual Path of Yoga (SPY)
I also realize that some students work days or nights and/or weekends. Each year, I will present the modules in different time slots so you can learn and grow without the strain and stress associated with cramming too much into your schedules.
The Spiritual Path of Yoga (SPY) is the only module currently offered in retreat format. There are three reasons for this: (1) we do deep personal work that requires time and space for discernment and processing; (2) spiritual awakening needs a great deal of one-on-one, emotionally intimate support from your teacher, workgroup and ‘Self’; and (3) we incorporate “PLAY” as an important energetic charge and discharge mechanism that is connected to the elements (earth, water, fire, air and ether) which is best suited to a retreat environment.
I am so excited to offer this training and look forward to connecting and sharing it with all who are called to come. Modules will be offered at The Yoga Barn in Kennett Square, PA just minutes from Wilmington, Delaware and West Chester, Pennsylvania.
