In 2014 I embarked on a life-changing journey, diving deep into the transformative world of a therapy-oriented Yoga teacher training. This yoga training wasn't just about learning asanas (yoga postures)—it was an immersive exploration into the therapeutic and healing potential of Yoga as a holistic system for mind, body, and spirit.
When you commit to the MindBody Centering yoga teacher training program, you step into a community—a Sangha—where growth happens not just individually but collectively. My Sangha consisted of seven incredible beings and a very special cat, and together, we created a safe space to share deep things, meditate, cry, laugh, and share the wisdom of profound personal breakthroughs. Through this intimate community, I experienced not just the technical aspects of yoga, but the deep emotional and psychological healing that yoga can offer.
The Mind-Body-Centered Yoga (MBCY) certification program that I completed is a rigorous training that involves a personalized approach to yoga as a curative system that everyone can benefit from. This comprehensive training covered teaching methodology; the philosophy, science, and art of yoga; as well as a wide array of modalities and practices that include:
- Sutras & Yogic Philosophy: Study of Patanjali’s 8 Limbs of Yoga, and how they apply to our modern lives.
- Chakra Scientific Studies: Understanding the seven energy centers in the body and their impact on physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Each chakra corresponds to a different aspect of our life, from basic survival (Root Chakra) to higher consciousness (Crown Chakra).
- Asana (Ashtanga & Classical Hatha Yoga): The foundational philosophy and the postures that build strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Pranayama (Breathing Techniques): Tools for harnessing the power of prana (life force) or breath to calm the mind and center the body.
- Restorative Yoga: Physical therapy techniques and mindful touch for healing.
- Yoga Nidra: A powerful meditative practice that promotes deep relaxation and stress reduction.
- Yoga Psychology Therapy: Using yoga to center the BodyMind, restoring balance and harmony.
- Applied Psychology: Integral psychology, humanistic psychology, positive psychology, archetypes, dreamwork, and mindfulness to foster personal and social growth and emotional well-being.
- Mindfulness & Meditation: Learning to cultivate presence and awareness in every aspect of life.
- Ayurveda Fundamentals: Exploring the ancient system of holistic healing to understand how to nourish the body and mind.
- Conscious Anatomy: Studying the human body with an awareness of its energetic and physical structures, emphasizing the connection between anatomy and emotional well-being. This approach enhances our understanding of movement, posture, and healing.
- Kinesiology: The study of body mechanics and movement patterns, helping to optimize the effectiveness of yoga poses and prevent injury through an understanding of how muscles and joints work together.
For anyone considering a deeper dive into the practice of yoga, a teacher training is an incredible, transformative experience. However, I understand that committing to such an intensive program may not be feasible for everyone. Yoga retreats offer a wonderful alternative—a chance to immerse yourself in yoga philosophy, mindfulness practices, and self-reflection without the long-term commitment. After all, Asana is only a small part of Yoga; the true essence of the practice lies in the mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits it brings.
This work is deeply personal and intimate, but I wanted to journal here some photos of the beautiful space that held our gatherings and personal growth sessions. It’s in this sacred space, that I spent months learning, practicing, and transforming.
