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YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Syllabus & Certification Guidelines

Yoga Association of Alberta (YAA)

Hatha Yoga Teacher Training

Syllabus and Certification Guidelines

for Hatha Yoga Teacher Certification through the YAA Teacher Training Program

September, 2016


YOGA ASSOCIATION OF ALBERTA

HATHA YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

SYLLABUS AND CERTIFICATION GUIDELINES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section I – YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program – 300 hours

1. Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................ 3

2. Description and Required Qualifications to Apply ............................................................................................................... 3

3. Teacher Training Program Summary .................................................................................................................................... 3

4. Registration Process and Fees ............................................................................................................................................... 4

5. Student Responsibilities......................................................................................................................................................... 4

6. Senior Teacher / Intermediate Teacher Guidelines ............................................................................................................... 5

Section II – YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Certification

1. Required Documentation for Initial Certification.................................................................................................................. 6

2. Certification Application Processing Procedure.................................................................................................................... 6

3. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Recertification............................................................................................................................ 6

Section III - Appendices

Appendix A - Definition of Hatha Yoga....................................................................................................................................... 7

Appendix B – YAA Mission Statement and Code of Ethics ........................................................................................................ 8

Appendix C – Asana / Pranayama Required Practices ................................................................................................................. 9

Appendix D – Reading List ........................................................................................................................................................ 10

Appendix E – Effective Teaching Skills..................................................................................................................................... 12

Appendix F –YAA Teacher Training Program – Required Documentation & Information

1. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Application Form ............................................................................................... 16

2. Senior Teacher Letter of Agreement ............................................................................................................................ 18

3. Intermediate Teacher Letter of Agreement ................................................................................................................. 19

4. List of YAA Certified Senior Teachers........................................................................................................................ 20

5. List of YAA Certified Intermediate Teachers .............................................................................................................. 21

Appendix G –– Checklist for Initial Certification - YAA-TTP Students ................................................................................... 22

1. Initial Certification (300 hour) Application Form........................................................................................................ 23

2. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet........................................................................................ 24

3. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet Guidelines ..................................................................... 25

4. YAA Monthly Teacher Training Class Topics List .................................................................................................... 27

5. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Assignments ....................................................................................................... 29

6. Senior Teacher Letter of Recommendation.................................................................................................................. 30

7. YAA Monthly Teacher Training Class Summary Sheets ............................................................................................ 31



HATHA YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

SYLLABUS AND CERTIFICATION GUIDELINES

Section I – YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program – 300 hours

1. Introduction The Yoga Association of Alberta (YAA) provides a Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program (TTP), which is a long-term Senior Teacher mentorship / apprenticeship-based program. See Appendix A for a Definition of Hatha Yoga. See Appendix B for the YAA Mission Statement and Code of Ethics and Guidelines for YAA Certified Teachers and YAA Members. The YAA also offers a Hatha Yoga Teacher Equivalency Certification, which recognizes outside training with equivalent standards. For details, see the Hatha Yoga Teacher Equivalency Certification Guidelines. These Programs are funded in part by the Recreation and Physical Activity Division, Alberta Culture and Tourism,for the residents of Alberta. 2. Description and Required Qualifications to Apply The YAA offers a Senior Teacher mentorship / apprenticeship based TTP which requires a minimum of two years of training, plus a prerequisite of two years of recent formal classes in hatha yoga. The YAA-TTP is geared to mature students who will take responsibility to complete the hours required and who have the time and finances to do so. The full cost of the program depends on the overall number of classes and workshops attended, for which payment is made at the time of the classes and workshops. The approximate minimum cost is $3000.00, the payment of which is spread over the time that the student is in the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program. In order to qualify for the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program, the applicant:

• must be at least 18 years old, • must be a full member of the YAA, • must be an Alberta resident, • must be familiar with the Level One required practices as outlined in Appendix C, and • must provide a letter of introduction / recommendation from a yoga teacher with evidence of at least 2 years of

recent formal classes in hatha yoga (see Appendix A for definition). This letter should state that the applicant is familiar with the Level I syllabus of asanas (see Appendix C) and is ready and suitable to enter into a yoga teacher training program. Please note that workshops and classes taken prior to applying the YAA TTP are credited towards meeting the 2-year pre-requisite requirement and are not credited to meeting the TTP Certification requirements. The only exceptions are workshops and classes taken during the month prior to applying to the YAA Teacher Training Program, upon approval. A rural applicant without the full pre-requisite must submit a letter proposing how he / she could upgrade to the 2-year requirement (e.g. weekend workshops, etc.).

3. Teacher Training Program Summary By the end of the YAA Hatha Yoga TTP, a student is required to have an understanding of Level One and Level Two Asana / Pranayama Required Practices (Appendix C) and is required to be able to teach them safely, in order to be eligible to apply for certification. A summary of requirements for the 300-Hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Certification is as follows. Full requirements are outlined in Appendix G and details are provided in Appendix G-1 through G-7.

• 100 hours of weekly Hatha Yoga classes with Senior and/or Intermediate Teacher • 100 hours of Hatha Yoga Workshops including regular Monthly Teacher Training Classes, 3 YAA-TTP Teaching

Skills Workshops and 3 International Teacher Workshops • 10 hours of Anatomy and Physiology • 20 hours of Psychology / Philosophy • 10 hours of Breath Awareness • 10 hours of Meditation • 10 hours of Special Concerns & Therapeutic Applications • 40 hours of Apprenticeship and Supervised Teaching


• 10 written assignments • CPR Certification • an extra 10 hours of Karma Yoga (actions performed with yogic awareness and in service to others on a volunteer

basis) for the YAA or for another non-profit or charitable organization. The YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program may be completed in a minimum of 2 years providing the student fulfills all requirements (300 hours). If a TTP student is in the program for longer than 5 years, his / her status will be reviewed by the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training and Certification Committee. With further training and experience, YAA Certified Teachers may also qualify for YAA 500-Hour Certification, as well as YAA Intermediate Teacher Status (600-Hours+) and YAA Senior Teacher Status (800-Hours+). Further details and application forms can be found on the Recertification page of our website. 4. Registration Process and Fees To Register: • Submit a Teacher Training Application Form (Appendix F-1) and fees to the YAA office. Include a letter of

recommendation and details of at least 2 years of attendance in formal hatha yoga classes, or have the letter sent directly. The processing of an application may take up to 4 weeks. Students will be notified by phone and letter mail.

• Contact the Yoga Association of Alberta office at: Tel.: (780) 427-8776; Fax: (780) 422-2663; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: www.yoga.ca

Fees: • Registration fee: $125.00 for administrative costs, photocopies and materials. • YAA Membership is required and must remain current throughout your program and certification. ($30/year) • Other fees are paid directly by the TTP student to the organizer or teacher of the classes and workshops attended. Materials: In order to gain maximum benefit from classes and workshops, the following props are required: 1 sticky mat, 4 foam blocks, 1 strap, 2 blankets and 1 wood block. Bolster recommended. See Appendix D for Required and Recommended Reading Lists. Props and books are available for purchase at the YAA Office at a discount to YAA members. Tax Receipts: • The YAA-TTP is tax deductible for registered TTP students. • Submit to the YAA office, original receipts and one photocopy of each receipt, for fees paid for YAA and for non-YAA

held classes, workshops and retreats. Do not include props or books purchases. (Ask your accountant about using these against self-employed income.) An Official Income Tax Receipt Summary of tuition expenses will be issued for workshops and classes (both YAA and non-YAA) taken from the date of the student’s registration in the YAA-TTP to completion of the program. The original receipts will be returned to the student along with the Income Tax Receipt. The student is responsible for providing ALL receipts including those for YAA activities. Some restrictions may apply.

• All receipts must be received by the YAA office by January 31 of the year the tax return is to be filed. Receipts received after this date will be processed as time permits.

• The YAA does not issue T2202 forms (Educational Amount Certificate). Insurance: The YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training and Certification Committee does not endorse TTP students teaching in a formal setting without supervision before they are certified. YAA Certified Teachers may obtain discount insurance rates under the umbrella of the YAA's insurance policy. 5. Student Responsibilities

• YAA-TTP students are required to adhere to the YAA Code of Ethics – Guidelines for YAA Certified Teachers (Appendix B).

• Within 4 months of acceptance to the program, a student must choose a YAA Certified Senior Teacher with whom to apprentice. A YAA Certified Intermediate Teacher may also be chosen if those weekly classes are more accessible, but this is optional. See below for Senior Teacher / Intermediate Teacher Guidelines and Appendix F-4 & F-5 or the website for a current list of YAA Certified Senior Teachers and Intermediate Teachers. Once chosen, return the ‘Senior Teacher Letter of Agreement’ (Appendix F-2) and ‘Intermediate Teacher Letter of Agreement’ (Appendix F-3), if applicable, to the YAA Office. If students have difficulties finding or choosing a Senior Teacher, they should consult with the TTP Coordinator.


• Students will periodically consult with their Senior Teachers regarding their schedule of classes, workshops and assignments and plan for attendance in weekly classes, YAA Monthly Teacher Training Classes, YAA TTP Teaching Skills Workshops, International Teacher Workshops and other classes and workshops in order to fulfill all the requirements of the program (See Appendix G for full details).

• During participation in the program, students must actively and accurately document: 1. Hours of involvement in classes and workshops from the date of registration on the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher

Training Summary Spreadsheet following the Spreadsheet Guidelines (Appendix G-2 & G-3), 2. Attendance and summaries from the study of the YAA Monthly Teacher Training Classes (Appendix G-4 &

G-7), and 3. Completion of the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Assignments (Appendix G-5).

• Students must maintain regular communication with both their Senior Teacher and the TTP Coordinator in regards to their program progress.

• Any questions or difficulties that arise with the program or the student’s progress should be directed to the TTP Coordinator.

Ultimately, fulfillment of the requirements of the YAA-TTP is the student’s responsibility. That includes the responsibility to be familiar with every aspect of this document, and to make sure his / her Senior Teacher (and Intermediate Teacher, if applicable) has an updated copy of these Guidelines.

6. Senior Teacher / Intermediate Teacher Guidelines The YAA recognizes the abilities of many fine teachers in the yoga community. It is required that TTP students seek the guidance and training from a YAA Certified Senior Teacher. A student may also access weekly training classes from a YAA Certified Intermediate Teacher, but this is optional. Note that classes taken with an Intermediate Teacher may be used towards the weekly class hours, but may not be used towards apprenticeship hours. It is the responsibility of the Senior Teacher to guide the student as to how to fill out the TTP documentation completely and correctly and to sign the documentation once it is filled out. Each student is expected to practice teach under the supervision of his / her Senior Teacher, who is responsible for recommending when his / her apprentice is ready to teach classes safely and effectively on their own. A. The Characteristics of a Senior Teacher (or Intermediate Teacher) are those of someone who:

• is a mature person with recognized training in hatha yoga (see below), • has YAA Hatha Yoga Certification or its equivalency, • is an active teaching member of the yoga community, • participates in continuous upgrading through workshops, classes and lectures, • exhibits a willingness to share extra time and supervision, and to communicate with his / her TTP student, and • communicates with the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training and Certification Committee as necessary.

B. Definitions of Senior and Intermediate Teachers:

A YAA Certified Senior Teacher (or YAA Certified Intermediate Teacher) is a person who meets the applicable requirements below and has submitted an Application for Senior or Intermediate Teacher Status (see YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Recertification Requirements and Guidelines) which has been approved by the YAA Teacher Training and Certification Committee. YAA Certified Senior Teachers and YAA Certified Intermediate Teachers must maintain up-to-date YAA membership and recertification for this status to remain valid. 1. A Senior Teacher is a person who trains hatha yoga practitioners to become teachers of hatha yoga in alignment

with the training principles of the YAA; and who has long-standing experience as teacher and practitioner with: • 20 or more years of on-going learning and practice of hatha yoga, including • 10 or more years of on-going teaching experience as a certified hatha yoga teacher.

2. An Intermediate Teacher is a person who teaches weekly hatha yoga classes that YAA Teacher Training Program

students are able to attend in order to meet the 100 hour weekly hatha yoga classes requirement; who works in collaboration with the TTP student’s chosen Senior Teacher in supervising the student; and who has long-standing experience as teacher and practitioner with: • 10 or more years of on-going learning and practice of hatha yoga, including • 6 years or more of on-going teaching experience as a certified hatha yoga teacher.


Section II - YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Certification Guidelines

1. Required Documentation for Initial Certification

The Yoga Association of Alberta also recognizes and certifies teachers from other training programs. For details on this program please see the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Equivalency Certification Requirements and Guidelines.

Initial Hatha Yoga Teacher Certification with the YAA may be obtained by completing the YAA’s Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program and by submitting the following documentation to the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training and Certification Committee for review and recommendation, which is then approved by the YAA Executive: 1. Up-to-date YAA Membership. (Current expiry date is listed on the mailing label of your Yoga Bridge newsletter). 2. Initial Certification Application Form (Appendix G-1) with fee payment. Karma hours verified by Senior Teacher

or other non-profit organization. 3. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet (Appendix G-2) signed by YAA Certified Senior

Teacher. Follow the Summary Spreadsheet Guidelines (Appendix G-3) to break out your training hours into the appropriate columns.

4. YAA Monthly Teacher Training Class Topics List signed by YAA Certified Senior Teacher (Appendix G-4). Please note the Summary Sheets (Appendix G-7) are to be submitted to your Senior Teacher only.

5. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Assignment List signed by YAA Certified Senior Teacher (Appendix G-5). 6. CPR Certification (Level A or higher). 7. A Letter of Recommendation from a YAA Certified Senior Teacher with whom the applicant has studied or

apprenticed (Appendix G-6). 8. A Character Reference Letter written by a friend, colleague, fellow yoga practitioner or yoga teacher, who has

known the applicant for at least two years and who is willing to write a letter describing how the applicant’s qualities / character benefit him / her as a yoga teacher.

2. Application Processing Procedure An applicant must submit an application, with the required and accurately filled-out documentation, to the YAA Hatha

Yoga Teacher Training and Certification Committee through the YAA office by due dates, March 1st for May Certification, July 1st for September Certification, or November 1st for January Certification. When the YAA Teacher Training and Certification Program Coordinator confirms that all documentation and references are in order, she / he presents the application to the Committee for review. If the Committee approves the Coordinator’s assessment and recommendation, the applicant’s name is put forward for approval to the YAA Executive. Upon approval by the Executive, a YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher’s Certificate, valid for a 3-year period, is sent to the applicant.

NOTES:

1. In any case where the applicant is dissatisfied with certification decisions, an appeal for clarification and reevaluation may be directed to the Executive.

2. YAA Certified Hatha Yoga Teachers’ names, addresses and phone numbers will be entered into the YAA Teachers’ Directory and website only if a teacher submits a signed permission form, sent to teachers each year.

3. Certification requirements are subject to review and change. 4. Teacher Certification: All certifications are contingent upon continued membership renewal in the YAA and are

only valid as long as the applicant is a YAA member in good standing. 3. YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Recertification

YAA Certified Hatha Yoga Teachers meet professional upgrading standards and maintain regular attendance in both classes/workshops and teaching hours. YAA Certified Hatha Yoga Teachers must apply for recertification every three years in order to maintain certification status. With further training and experience, YAA Certified Teachers may also qualify for YAA Extended Training Certification (500-hours), as well as YAA Intermediate Teacher Status (600-hours+) and YAA Senior Teacher Status (800-hours+). See the Hatha Yoga Teacher Recertification Requirements and Guidelines for details. YAA Certified Teachers may also obtain discount insurance rates under the umbrella of the YAA's insurance policy.


APPENDIX A


DEFINITION OF HATHA YOGA HATHA YOGA, also called hatha-vidya (science of hatha), is a branch of yoga that historically refers to a "vast body of doctrines and practices geared toward Self-realization by means of perfecting the body" (Georg Feuerstein, Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga [EDY]). As such, hatha yoga sees the body itself as the primary vehicle for personal transformation. Its central practices include ritual techniques to purify the body and yogic postures (asana) and breath control practices (pranayama) to progressively culture and transform the body. While all schools practise asana and pranayama while applying the yamas (moral principles) and niyamas (moral restraints), some contemporary schools of hatha yoga still retain a strong emphasis on the practice of purification techniques while others direct their teachings almost exclusively toward asana and pranayama as sufficient tools for mental and physical purification. The literal meaning of the word "hatha" is "force" or "forceful," which derives from the intended difficulty and austerity of the practices. The word has further significance in that "its two component syllables, "ha" and "tha"are frequently explained as standing for the microcosmic "sun" (surya) and "moon" (chandra) respectively, while yoga is the "union" between these two principles." (EDY) Hatha yoga is sometimes contrasted with raja yoga and kriya yoga; the former being directly associated with Patanjali's eightfold path (ashtanga yoga) as expounded in his Yoga Sutras. Many schools of hatha yoga adopt the higher stages of ashtanga yoga practice – concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana) and absorption (samadhi) -- and see the emphasis on practising the first five limbs (yama and niyama, asana, pranayama and pratyahara / sense withdrawal) as a stepping stone to raja yoga. The teacher credited as its inventor is Goraksha (9th century C.E.). The two main texts that describe its principles and characteristics are the Hatha-Yoga-Pradipika (Light on Forceful Yoga) by Svatmarama (mid-14th century C.E.) and the Gheranda Samhita (Gheranda's Collection) by the sage Gheranda (late 17th century C.E.). Among western practitioners hatha yoga is identified primarily with the yoga postures. All initial levels of teaching in hatha yoga concentrate first on asana practice, leading the student gradually toward breathing and meditation techniques.


APPENDIX B


MISSION STATEMENT AND CODE OF ETHICS Mission Statement The Yoga Association of Alberta (YAA) is a non-profit organization that offers yoga activities to the public for the purpose of providing self-development opportunities. In order to develop yoga on a provincial level, the Association has representation from different regions of the province. This ensures that the Association can address the different needs of members through Alberta. The Association will establish the number of regions deemed appropriate from time to time to meet its goals. Initially, there will be three regions: Northern (Edmonton and north), Central and Southern (Calgary and south). Code of Ethics The Yoga Association of Alberta views its activities as promoting increased public knowledge and availability of yoga. All individuals in the association are encouraged to participate in these activities in an atmosphere of cooperation. The Code of Ethics as adopted at the 1979 annual meeting of the Association is: • To treat others with dignity, respect and consideration of their circumstances • To act in such a manner so as to maintain and honour the traditions of yoga • To study, practice and expand the knowledge of yoga • To improve the standards of yoga within the community

Guidelines for YAA Certified Teachers based on the above Code of Ethics • Teachers receive a copy of the Code of Ethics and Guidelines with their YAA certification. • Teachers support the YAA in carrying out its Mission, Goals and Role of the Association. • Teachers adhere to the policies of the YAA. • Teachers provide accurate information regarding their credentials and training. • Teachers deepen their knowledge, keep up to date with new developments in yoga and maintain and improve their

teaching skills. This is a requirement for both receiving recertification and for maintaining permanent certification. • Teachers act with financial integrity. • Teachers refrain from making exaggerated claims about the benefits of yoga. • Teachers inform students of their personal yoga philosophy and style, and practice tolerance and acceptance of the views

of others. • Teachers do not malign other yoga professionals. • Teachers are respectful, compassionate and truthful with all practitioners of yoga – fellow students and teachers alike. • Teachers do not discriminate against students based upon their race, religion, nationality, gender, sexual preference, age

or physical ability (except in the interests of providing a yoga class suitable to the student’s needs). • Teachers unable to assist potential students will refer them to other teachers or to the YAA office. • Teachers practice some form of karma yoga based upon their skills.

Guidelines for YAA Members based on the above Code of Ethics • Members of the YAA should be aware of the Code of Ethics and Guidelines, which will be published annually in the

Fall issue of the Yoga Bridge. • Members of the YAA should adhere to the Code of Ethics on an honour basis. • Members are aware of and support the Mission, Goals and Role of the YAA. • Members adhere to the policies of the YAA. • Members with suggestions or input may convey their ideas in writing to the YAA for consideration by the Executive. • Members with specific concerns regarding the conduct of a YAA certified teacher can convey these specifics in writing

to the YAA Executive. • Members interested in becoming teachers should familiarize themselves with the YAA Teacher Training Syllabus.


APPENDIX C


ASANA / PRANAYAMA REQUIRED PRACTICES Applicants considering entering the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program must be familiar with the following Level One required practices. They comprise, along with Level Two Practices, the basis of study in the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program. By the end of their YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program students are required to have a working understanding of Level One and Level Two and be able to teach them safely in order to be eligible to apply for YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Certification. Level One Asanas And Pranayama

Asanas:

Adho Mukha Svanasana Akarna Dhanurasana Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby) Anantasana Ardha Chandrasana Baddha Konasana Bakasana Balasana (Child’s) Bharadvajasana I Bhujangasana Dandasana Dhanurasana Garudasana Gomukhasana Halasana Janu Sirsasana Krounchasana

Malasana Marichyasana I & III Naraviralasana (Sphinx) Padangusthasana Parighasana Parsvottanasana Pasasana Paschimottanasana Plank Prasarita Padottanasana Purvottanasana Salabhasana Salamba Sarvangasana Savasana Setu Bandha Sarvangasana Siddhasana Simhasana

Sukhasana Supta Baddha Konasana Supta Balasana Supta Padangusthasana Tadasana Trianga Mukhaikapada

Paschimottanasana Upavistha Konasana Ustrasana Utkatasana Uttanasana Utthita Parsvakonasana Utthita Trikonasana Viparita Karani Virabhadrasana I, II & III Virasana Vrksasana

Asana Series: Surya Namaskar Pranayama: Diaphragmatic Breath, Complete Breath, Ujjayi

Level Two Asanas And Pranayama

Asanas:

Adho Mukha Vrksasana Agnistambhasana (Fire Log) Ardha Matsyendrasana I Ardha Navasana Bharadvajasana II Bhekasana Chaturanga Dandasana Dwi Pada Viparita Eka Pada Rajakapotasana Eka Pada Sarvangasana

Jathara Parivartanasana Kurmasana Matsyasana Mayurasana Padmasana Paripurna Navasana Parivrtta Ardha Chandrasana Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana Parivrtta Parsvakonasana Parivrtta Trikonasana

Parsva Bakasana Pincha Mayurasana Salamba Sirsasana Supta Virasana Urdhva Dhanurasana I Urdhva Mukha Svanasana Urdhva Prasarita Padasana Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana Vasisthasana

Pranayama: Anuloma, Bhastrika, Bhramari, Chandra Bheda, Kapalabhati, Kumbhaka, Nadi Sodhana,

Pratiloma, Sitali, Sitkari, Surya Bheda, Viloma, Vrtti Pranayama Notes: Descriptions and spellings for the above list have been taken from Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar and may

differ from other books and traditions. Common names have been added for those not found in this source.


APPENDIX D


READING LIST Currently Under Revision

For YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program in Coordination with the Syllabus (subject to change).

I. REQUIRED (Minimum of one book report from this section.)

• T.K.V. Desikachar, The Heart of Yoga, Developing a Personal Practice • B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Yoga • B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Pranayama • B.K.S. Iyengar, The Tree of Yoga • Geeta S. Iyengar, Yoga, A Gem for Women • Lucy Lidell with Narayani & Giris Rabinovitch, Sivananda Companion to Yoga • Swami Rama, Joints and Glands Exercise Book • Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, MD., Alan Hymes, MD, Science of Breath • Eric Schiffmann, Moving Into Stillness ANATOMY: All teachers should know the basic skeletal system, the large and important muscles of the body, the main organs and their functions and have a general understanding of the joints and other systems of the body. One or more of the following sources are suggested for that purpose:

• Edward Alcamo, Anatomy Colouring Book • Blandine Calais-Germain, Anatomy of Movement • H. David Coulter, Anatomy of Hatha Yoga • Wynn Kapit & Lawrence M. Elson, The Anatomy Colouring Book • Elaine Marieb, Human Anatomy & Physiology • Philip J. Rasch, ed., Kinesiology and Applied Anatomy • Gerard J. Tortora, Principles of Anatomy and Physiology YOGA SUTRAS OF PATAÑJALI: select from one of these recommended texts or choose one of your own with the approval of your Senior Teacher: • Roy Eugene Davis, Life Surrendered in God • T.K.V. Desikachar, Reflections on Yoga Sutras of Patanjali • Georg Feuerstein, The Yoga-Sutras of Patañjali, trans. and commentary • B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patañjali • Barbara Stoller Miller, Yoga: Discipline of Freedom, trans. and commentary • Swami Prabhavanda & Christopher Isherwood. How to Know God • Rama Prasada, trans., The Aphorisms of Yoga: Patañjali's Yoga Sutras, with the Commentary of Vyasa & the Gloss

of Vachaspati Misra • Fernando Tola and Carmen Dregonetti, The Yogasutras of Patañjali: On Concentration of Mind, Part 1, 'Samadhi

Pada', trans. K.D. Prithipaul BHAGAVAD GITA: select from one of these recommended texts or choose one of your own with the approval of your Senior Teacher: • Roy Eugene Davis, The Eternal Way, Translation of Bhagavad Gita • Barbara Stoller Miller, Bhagavad-Gita: Krishna's Council in Time of War • Swami Nikhilananda, trans., The Bhagavad Gita, or Song of the Lord • Swami Prabhavananda and Christropher Isherwood, The Song of God (Bhagavad-Gita) • S.Radhakrishnan, The Bhagavad Gita • Swami Rama, The Perennial Psychology of the Bhagavad Gita • Alladi Mahadeva Sastri, trans., The Bhagavad Gita, with Text, Translation and Commentary by Sri Shankaracharya • Mitchell, Stephen, Bhagavad Gita


II. RECOMMENDED (Maximum of two book reports from this section)

PHILOSOPHY & PSYCHOLOGY (suggested editions):

Upanishads

• Juan Mascaro, Upanishads • S. Radhakrishnan, trans. & ed., The Principal Upanishads • Thomas Wyatt, Upanishads, trans. Juan Mascaro Other notable complete multi-volume editions may be available through university or local libraries. See especially those by Max Müller and Joseph Campbell.

Other

• Mircea Eliade, Yoga: Immortality and Freedom, trans. Willard Trask • Georg Feuerstein, The Shambhala Encyclopedia of Yoga • Georg Feuerstein, The Lost Teachings of Yoga (Audio Book) • B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Life • Jack Kornfield, A Path with Heart, a Guide Through the Perils and Promises of Spiritual Life • Mira Mehta, Yoga Explained • Swami Nikhilananda, Vivekananda: the Yogas and Other Works, includes Vivekananda's commentaries on Jñana,

Karma, Bhakti & Raja yoga, which are also available in separate books • S. Radhakrishnan, Indian Philosophy, vol. 1 & 2 • Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, M.D.Swami Ajaya, Allen Weinstock, PhD, Yoga and psychotherapy: the

evolution of consciousness • Swami Rama, Lectures on Yoga • Shunryu Suzuki, Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind The following multi-volume texts are available through university and public libraries: Max Müller, The Six Systems of Indian Philosophy; C.G. Jung, Psychology and the East included in Complete Works.

TEACHING RESOURCES • Rajiv and Swati Chanchani, Yoga for Children: A Complete Illustrated Guide to Yoga • Jean Couch, The Runner's Yoga Book • George Feuerstein, Sacred Paths • Sandra Jordan, Yoga for Pregnancy • Judith Lasater, PhD, P.T., Relax and Renew: Restful yoga for Stressful Times • Kit Laughlin, Overcoming Neck and Back Pain • Mira Mehta, How to Use Yoga • Silva, Mira & Shyam Mehta, Yoga: The Iyengar Way • Christine Northrup MD, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom • Ken O'Donnell, Pathways to Higher Consciousness • Swami Radha, Hatha Yoga: the Hidden Language • Vanda Scaravelli, Awakening the Spine • Mary Pollig Schatz, M.D., Back Care Basics AYURVEDA • Dr. David Frawley, Ayurvedic Healing • Dr. Vasant Lad, The Science of Self-Healing • Dr. Robert Svoboda, Prakriti, Your Ayurvedic Constitution


APPENDIX E


EXPECTED EFFECTIVE TEACHING SKILLS Currently Under Revision

Yoga Association of Alberta Goal: To promote high standards of yoga instruction through teacher training and certification.

ROLE OF TEACHER

Teacher acts as a mirror to students’ experiences, conditioning. 1. To be the overseer / the witness to students’ conditions. To observe their physical patterns, emotional challenges,

habitual actions, etc. 2. To make the practice about the students in the class, not about the teacher’s own needs. 3. To help students to see the reality of their situations. To empower students to notice for themselves – leads to autonomy /

freedom. 4. To give students permission to be where they are and to respect their current condition. 5. To begin where students are and take them where they haven’t been before by giving them a tool that will help them. 6. To direct students to focus on their actual experience over techniques. 7. To help students cultivate beneficial attitudes and actions. 8. To develop practices that work on the body, breath, thinking mind, intellect, emotional state. 9. To treat students equally and appropriately. 10. To teach by modeling or inspiring rather than telling.

ATTITUDE OF TEACHER Follow the Yamas and Niyamas. 1. Stay centered. 2. Show your love and enthusiasm for yoga through your practice and actions; through your gestures and expressions;

through your voice and words. 3. Be inspirational and motivational. 4. Show and admit to your limitations in any area – physical limitations, scope of your knowledge, etc. 5. Be modest. Be honest. 6. Be non-discriminatory. 7. Give honest feedback in a non-harming way. 8. Be respectful, polite, compassionate and courteous. 9. Be patient with yourself and with your students. 10. Be confident and strong in your words and actions. 11. Honour and respect the sources of your knowledge.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TEACHER AND STUDENT

Relationship between teacher and student is one of the keys to success. 1. Teacher must act in such a way as to inspire trust. 2. Teacher and student must respect each other. If they don’t the relationship may not last. 3. Teacher: “I have experience. I am not just a scholar. I have tested these teachings and I know they have worked for me.

You (student) must experiment and evaluate whether they also work for you and become curious and eager to explore them in either case in order to get knowledge and benefits. I (teacher) am willing to support you and assist you in that exploration.”

4. Teacher: “I must do my best to support my students in their journey and honour my own teacher.” 5. Teacher must respect and maintain teacher / student relationship, e.g., teacher must avoid developing sexual relationships

with students.


LESSON PLANNING What do you want the students to learn, enjoy and experience? 1. Observe students and match the practice to their needs. Observation and reflection are important in determining the

purpose of the practice, that is, in determining what is needed. 2. Identify purpose of practice. For example:

• Srsti - Build up the body. • Ciksana - Perfect the body. • Raksana - Maintain or sustain student where he / she is at in order to be able to carry out his / her responsibilities. • Cikitsa - Therapeutic approach for health problems, mental disturbances, etc. • Adhyamika - Inner search. Inner aspects become more important.

3. Use one tool rather than many. This often leads to greater insight. 4. Keep things simple. 5. Adapt for special concerns, situations, and conditions. Design to fit a particular context. 6. Move from gross to subtle. 7. Set up something and then take it deeper, more subtle. 8. Set the intention.

TEACHING A CLASS

Teach from your experience and knowledge. Remember how it felt being a beginner.

Time 1. Arrive early and make sure that the room is ready, e.g., right temperature, tidy, etc. 2. Start class on time. 3. At the end of class, give students time and energy to ask questions. 4. End class on time. 5. Leave room ready for next teacher. Room Arrangement Arrangement is affected by size (large, small) and shape (round, rectangle, square) of room. 1. Large room – use a corner or smaller space for optimal communication and spatial reference. 2. Small room – register only the number of students that comfortably fit in the room and that allows for each participant to

have his / her personal space. 3. Arrange mats and props in a neat and orderly pattern (saucha), e. g., rectanglar room – mats parallel to short wall; place

props on side of mat. Neatness makes moving around the room efficient and safe and fosters clarity. 4. Reduce distractions like doors, windows, mirrors, clocks, etc. 5. Arrange according to the poses being taught. Teacher Position 1. Position yourself and the students in such a way that you can see all or as many of the students as possible and that they

can see you, e.g., taller students at the back. 2. Face the students when speaking. 3. Stand and walk around the room to connect with students. 4. Move around the room in the same direction rather than randomly in order to make sure that all students are noticed and

/or given attention and to maintain a grounded, focused atmosphere. Student Position 1. Group students in such a way that they feel comfortable, e. g., with friends or with like limitations or physical concerns. 2. Let students have some choice in where they want to be. For example, if a student’s height or size blocks your view of

other students too much, then either change your position or ask the student if he / she would be willing to change position.


First Class 1. Greet / meet students. 2. Indicate where shoes, coats and valuables can be placed. 3. Give the location of washrooms, yoga equipment and props, fire exits, etc. 4. Direct placement of mats and props. 5. Ask students about their yoga stories, physical limitations or injuries.

Pacing 1. Pace according to the level of the students. For example, give new students more freedom to make mistakes. 2. Pace fast enough to get students’ attention, yet slow enough for them to understand and absorb ideas; to work and adjust

according to their needs. Fast pace can lead to contracted and inhibited breathing. Slow pace can lead to fatigue. 3. Pace the class such that you have taught a well-rounded class within the time allotted. 4. Pace class to have time for relaxation, breath work, meditation, closure, clean up, etc. Voice 1. Speak loud enough for all students to hear. Project your voice to the back of the room. 2. Stay relaxed and grounded. Speak on your out breath. 3. Exhibit mature tone – like you are talking to adults. 4. Use an inspiring, enthusiastic, commanding, authoritative, yet kind tone. 5. Adjust your tone and tempo to focus the students’ attention on the quality of the practice, e.g., strong and quick for

energizing poses; soft and slow for relaxation. 6. Do not speak too quickly while explaining a pose, or the philosophy, and enunciate well. Instructions All students – beginners and advanced – should be given proper instruction. Two types of Instruction:

• Command – press, draw, extend, lengthen, ground, firm – creates power • Passive – feel, sense, release, allow – creates the state of the pose

1. Speak clearly. 2. Use plain language. 3. Define specific terms when necessary, e.g., anatomy terms, Sanskrit words. 4. Clarify intentions of postures. Mention cautions. 5. Give just the right amount of information. Be economical. 6. Give one thing to focus on. 7. Be direct and precise with your instructions, e.g., “Stand in Tadasana.” 8. Choose words that are associated with the immediate experience of the students. 9. Be direct. Avoid using expressions such as: “ If you want to…” or “If you feel like…” 10. Focus on the students’ experiences, rather than prescriptions. Use expressions such as:

• “Notice what you are doing.” “Notice your own experience.” or “What happens if...?” Avoid saying “You should...”.

• You are working with people, not a condition. Have students do something and then see how they react or respond to it. Say, “If you do this look what might happen.” or “Try this and observe what happens.” Avoid using “Do... “; “Don’t do...” for a condition.

11. Specific instructions – Make it clear when instructions are general or specific for an individual student by using his / her name and changing your voice.

12. After giving the instruction, pause and repeat. 13. Direction of Movement

• Acknowledge if you are mirroring the students or not. • Refer to front/back leg or left/right leg. • Use parts of the room for reference – back, front, doors, windows, etc. • Ask questions – Is the front knee turned in or out? • Use comparisons – Move this way and then that way and experience the difference.


Observation 1. Give instructions and then observe students carrying out your instructions. 2. Teach from what you observe. 3. Look for what is right then improve. 4. After giving the instructions, pause and observe. If instructions are not carried out REPEAT, REPHRASE AND TRY

AGAIN. 5. Walk around so you do not miss anyone. 6. Identify students with limitations or special concerns. 7. Observe attitude, breath, skin, facial expression, energy, eyes, form, etc. 8. Observe where the students are touching their bodies. This will show you where they are experiencing discomfort or

pain. Demonstrations 1. Useful, but they can slow down a class. 2. Timing of the demonstration – before or after students do a pose. 3. Get props ready before demonstration. 4. Position yourself so that all the students can see you. The students in front should sit / kneel so that the students in the

back can see. 5. Wait until everyone is present before starting the demonstration. 6. Make eye contact to ensure students are watching. 7. Name the pose (Sanskrit / English). Talk about the the benefits of the pose. 8. Demonstration can include modifications first and then final pose, if appropriate. 9. Point or gesture to the body part that you are focusing on. 10. Make demonstration clear and concise – short is more effective than long. 11. Repeat demonstration concisely once or twice to make your points clear. 12. Ensure verbal instructions match physical movements. 13. Show how to move into and out of a pose. MORE INJURIES OCCUR WHEN COMING OUT OF A POSE. 14. Demonstrate misalignments only after you have observed them, not before. 15. If you cannot demonstrate what you are teaching, choose and ask a student so you can be clear and effective. Thank the

student for demonstrating. Adjustments 1. Let students know you do adjustments. 2. Let them know that they can request to not be adjusted. 3. Adjust those students that need improvement the most. 4. Use verbal instructions prior to physical adjustments. 5. Ensure verbal instructions connect to physical adjustments. 6. Let the student know you are going to adjust him / her before adjusting. 7. Position yourself for the most effective and beneficial adjustment. 8. Stabilize the student with your body, a prop, etc. Touching Types of touch:

• Appropriate - directing, alerting, adjusting, stabilizing, comforting. • Inappropriate / unethical - random, unnecessary, sensual, invasive, e.g. touching sexual, sensitive or vulnerable

areas. 1. Ask permission. 2. Convey specific qualities - kindness, sensitivity, safety, confidence, professionalism and authority. 3. Release touch slowly so that the student does not become unbalanced or shocked. 4. If you should accidently touch a inappropriate body part or area, apologize and move on.


APPENDIX F-1


HATHA YOGA TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM

11759 Groat Road, Edmonton AB T5M 3K6

Phone: 780.427.8776; Fax: 780.422.2663; Website: www.yoga.ca; E-mail: [email protected]

Name: E-mail Address:

Address:

City/Province: Postal Code:

Home Phone : Alternate Phone:

Date of Birth: Present Occupation:

In order to qualify for the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program, applicant must be at least 18 years old, be a resident of Alberta, be a full member of the YAA, and provide evidence of at least 2 years recent classes in hatha yoga. Please submit this form to the above address with the following:

! $125 TTP Registration Fee.

! YAA full membership fee ($30.00) with completed and signed membership form.

! Letter of recommendation / introduction from a yoga teacher with whom you have taken classes. This letter should state that the applicant is familiar with the Level I syllabus of asanas (see Appendix C) and is ready and suitable to enter into a yoga teacher training program.

! Details of at least 2 years of recent classes in hatha yoga (see Appendix A for definition). A rural applicant without two years of hatha yoga training, must submit a letter proposing how he / she could upgrade to the 2-year requirement (e.g. weekend workshops, a week of classes in major centre / month, etc.).

1. For how many years have you practiced yoga regularly? _______ years.

2. For how many years have you taken hatha yoga classes? _______ years. See Appendix A for definition. Attach details. 3. List your yoga instructors. Attach one recommendation (see above). 4. Are you presently teaching Yoga? If you are, how long have you been teaching and how often do you teach? 5. What aspects of Yoga most interest you or are part of your practice? Do you follow a particular lineage or style? 6. Why do you want to take the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program? 7. What do you expect to learn? 8. Do you currently have the time to complete all the requirements of this program? Yes / No

9. Do you currently have the finances available to fund your program? Yes / No


10. Is there a history of physical or mental conditions that will affect your participation in this program? Do you have any

limitations or injuries that affect the performance of the poses? Please describe. 11. What volunteer skills and time do you have to contribute to the YAA in order that you can fulfill your ten hours of karma

yoga requirements? 12. A Senior Teacher must be chosen within 4 months of entering the program. (List of Senior Teachers Appendix F-4). If

you already have chosen a Senior Teacher, please print his / her name here, and ensure that you also submit signed Letter of Agreement within 4 months (Appendix F-2):

13. An Intermediate Teacher is optional, and must work in conjunction with a Senior Teacher. (List of Intermediate Teachers Appendix F-5). If you have already chosen an Intermediate Teacher, please print his / her name here, and ensure that you also submit signed Letter of Agreement within 4 months (Appendix F-3):

✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦ The information on this form is used to determine eligibility in YAA programs. By signing below, I ___________________ (print name) certify that the answers on this application are correct and true to the best of my knowledge. I have read, understood and accept the Teacher Training Program as outlined in the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Syllabus and Guidelines and will adhere to the YAA Code of Ethics – Guidelines for YAA Certified Teachers (Appendix B). I will make the necessary time and funds available to complete the requirements of this program. I also understand that by signing below I am giving permission for the above information to be made available to the executive, certification committee, yoga teachers and staff at the YAA. As well, I agree to have my name, phone number, training and description of my teaching listed in the YAA Teacher Directory which is published in Yoga Bridge and on the YAA website. All other information is kept confidential. The YAA does not sell databases to third parties. I also agree to receive commercial electronic emails from the YAA. I am a resident of Alberta. *Program requirements subject to change during the course of the program. I the undersigned, hereby represent, warrant and advise the Yoga Association of Alberta that I have taken all reasonable steps to assess my medical condition and warrant that I am free of any physical conditions, limitations or general health problems that would impede my ability or would result in injury or worsening of any health problem or physical condition due to my participation in yoga or stretching activities. I acknowledge that yoga activities involve certain exercises and exertions and that I will immediately advise the YAA if I have any concern, knowledge or reason to believe that my medical or physical condition or general health would be impacted by participating in the yoga and stretching activities. In consideration of membership and permission to participate in Yoga granted me by the Yoga Association of Alberta, a registered charity, I hereby release and discharge the Yoga Association of Alberta, directors, members, agents, officers, consultants and employees from all claims, demands, actions, judgments, and executions which the undersigned heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns may have, or claim to have, for all personal injuries, known and unknown, and injuries to property, real or personal, caused by or arising out of the participation in the activity of yoga. I, the undersigned, fully understand that this sport activity has inherent risks involved, and I am fully aware of the nature of these risks, but waive rights, claims, cause of action, etc. as heretofore enumerated, and do hereby assume the risk. I give my permission for photographs of myself taken at this workshop to be used for publication purposes. My photograph can be used for YAA business or newsletter. Signature: Date of Application: Office Use Only Application Fee: Accepted to Teacher Training Program: Yes / No YAA Teacher Training and Certification Committee Member’s Comments: Date of Acceptance: Committee Member’s Name (please print): Committee Member’s Signature:


APPENDIX F-2


YAA CERTIFIED SENIOR TEACHER LETTER OF AGREEMENT


Phone: 780.427.8776; Fax: 780.422.2663; Website: www.yoga.ca; E-mail: [email protected] To: YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training and Certification Committee Yoga Association of Alberta Re: Senior Teacher for YAA TTP Student To Whom It May Concern: I hereby agree to be YAA Certified Senior Teacher for the above-named student. I am familiar with the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Syllabus and Certification Guidelines. I agree to take the responsibility of having the above-named student apprentice with me for the duration of his / her registration within the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program. Sincerely, Senior Teacher Signature Date Senior Teacher (Print Name) E-mail: Phone Number: (Please return this letter to Yoga Association office.)


APPENDIX F-3


YAA CERTIFIED INTERMEDIATE TEACHER LETTER OF AGREEMENT


Phone: 780.427.8776; Fax: 780.422.2663; Website: www.yoga.ca; E-mail: [email protected] To: YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training and Certification Committee Yoga Association of Alberta Re: Intermediate Teacher for YAA TTP Student To Whom It May Concern: I hereby agree to be Intermediate teacher for the above-named student. I am familiar with the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Syllabus and Certification Guidelines. I agree to take the responsibility of having the above-named student in my weekly hatha yoga classes and to collaborate with his / her YAA Certified Senior Teacher in supervising the student. Sincerely, Intermediate Teacher Signature Date Intermediate Teacher (Print Name) E-mail: Phone Number: (Please return this letter to Yoga Association office.)


APPENDIX F-4


YAA CERTIFIED SENIOR TEACHERS (Certified for > 10 years; Practicing yoga for > 20 years)

Name Location Baker, Richard Barrhead Bardoel, Rose Edmonton Bram, Frema Edmonton Bunton, Catherine Edmonton Carnegie-Fehr, Paula Red Deer Cassady, Edie Edmonton Checknita, Melanie Edmonton DeSorcy, Lonnie Calgary Dodd, Kathy Calgary Dumont, Linda Edmonton Dunbar, Bonnie Calgary Dusel, Patty Sherwood Park Duxbury, Isa Edmonton Eastham, Barbara Calgary Eder, Carole Edmonton Erdmann Boyko, Chris Sherwood Park Eshpeter, Helen Drayton Valley Fairhurst, Betty Edmonton Frick Istvanffy, Claudia Calgary Hamdon, Karen Edmonton Hyndman, Teddy Edmonton Irwin, Alison Edmonton Irwin, Jeanne St. Albert Jeong, Julie Edmonton Jobanputra, Manju Calgary Johannesen, Shirley Jayanta Peachland Jones, Melanie Edmonton Kilarski, Dawn Camrose

Name Location Kitchen, Margot Calgary Krebs, Gerda Sherwood Park Kunimoto, Val Lethbridge Labonte, Katherine Cochrane Langenberg, Marcia Edmonton LeBlanc, Mary Duffield Lindner, Oda Ontario Maskey, Nora Calgary McAmmond, David Calgary McCann, Beth Edmonton McConnell, Marion (Mugs) Scotch Creek, BC Meyer, Elfriede Edmonton Michielsen, Elisabeth Courtenay Mirus, Judith Edmonton Moore, Beverley Sherwood Park Nash, Kathy Calgary Nash, Newton Calgary Nixey, Evelyn Saskatoon Radyo, Anna Edmonton Randolph, Joan Sherwood Park Ross, Barbara Calgary Sartore, Glenda Sherwood Park Sielecki, Anita Edmonton Strachan, Ken Edmonton Ursuliak, Zena Edmonton Vogel, Dariel Westbank Waschuk, Ann Red Deer Wilson, David Edmonton Yapp, Paul Edmonton

See www.yoga.ca/find-a-teacher/ for current up-to-date list and contact information.


APPENDIX F-5


YAA CERTIFIED INTERMEDIATE TEACHERS

(Certified for > 6 years; Practicing yoga for > 10 years)

Name Location Ackerman, Angie Vancouver Bell-Hiller, Audrey Edmonton Boehm, Kat Edmonton Breau, Barbara Red Deer Campbell, Donalee Ardrossan Chavda, Taruna (Tina) Edmonton Cheshire, Pat Athabasca Deneka, Barb Sherwood Park Dombro, Lawrence Edmonton Evans, Sonja Calgary Forster, Rhonda Airdrie Foster, Rachel Canmore Gaumont, Jill Fort Saskatchewan Gehrke, Colleen High River Grant, Wendy Golden, BC Hagen, Barbara St. Albert Haggard, Neil Edmonton Headrick, Sandra Spruce Grove Hong, Nancy Calgary McGettigan, Sharon Hinton Michie, Erin Calgary Miller, Jennie Wainwright Moskie, Pam Camrose Parr, Sandra Edmonton Robinson, Dorothy Edmonton Scott, Keely Edmonton Sharma, Skjei Calgary Sharp, Lynnda Edmonton Smyth, Diane Edmonton

See www.yoga.ca/find-a-teacher/ for current up-to-date list and contact information.


APPENDIX G


CHECKLIST FOR INITIAL CERTIFICATION

YAA-TTP STUDENTS

! Up-to-date YAA membership (current expiry date listed on the mailing label of your Yoga Bridge newsletter).

! Initial Certification Application Form with Fee Payment. Karma hours verified by YAA Executive Director, YAA Certified Senior Teacher or other non-profit organization (Appendix G-1).

! YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet signed by YAA Certified Senior Teacher approving detailed, accurate documentation of hours (Appendix G-2). Follow the Summary Spreadsheet Guidelines (Appendix G-3) to break out your training hours into the appropriate columns. Include all of the classes and workshops you have taken since the start of your teacher training program. Highlight required International Teachers and Teaching Skills Workshops. Workshop hours may be credited under the specific class categories where applicable depending on the material covered in the class, or under Hatha Yoga Workshops - General, provided the same hours are not used in more than one column. Workshop hours may not be credited to Weekly Hatha Yoga Classes except by special written permission by the TTP Coordinator (e.g. rural students with no access to weekly classes).

! YAA Monthly Teacher Training Program Class Topics List signed by Senior Teacher (Appendix G-4). Please note the Summary Sheets (Appendix G-7) are to be submitted to your Senior Teacher only.

! YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Assignment List signed by Senior Teacher (Appendix G-5).

! Copy of CPR Certification (Level A or higher).

! Senior Teacher Letter of Recommendation (Appendix G-6).

! Character Reference written by a friend, colleague, fellow yoga practitioner or yoga teacher, who has known the applicant for at least two years and who is willing to write a letter describing how the applicant’s qualities / character benefit him / her as a yoga teacher.


APPENDIX G-1


YAA HATHA YOGA TEACHER INITIAL CERTIFICATION APPLICATION FORM

For YAA-TTP STUDENTS


Phone: 780.427.8776; Fax: 780.422.2663; Website: www.yoga.ca; E-mail: [email protected]

* Completed Applications must be received by March 1st for May Certification, July 1st for September Certification, and November 1st for January Certification. *

Name: E-mail Address:

Address:

City/Province: Postal Code:

Phone Number: (Home) (Alternate)

Please submit this form to the above address with the following:

! Up-to-date YAA membership (applicants must maintain YAA membership in good standing),

! $75 Certification Fee,

! Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet (Appendix G-2),

! Monthly Teacher Training Class Topics List (Appendix G-4),

! Teacher Training Assignment List (Appendix G-5),

! Copy of CPR Certificate,

! Senior Teacher Letter of Recommendation (Appendix G-6),

! Character Reference Letter,

! Karma yoga requirement:

I certify that the above-named applicant has completed a minimum of 10 hours of karma yoga (actions

performed with yogic awareness and in service to others on a volunteer basis) for the YAA or for another non-

profit or charitable organization.

Authorized Signature:

Print name:

Position:

Organization:

Please be advised that any applicant may be subject to an audit of submitted documentation at anytime.

Signature of Applicant: Date:


APPENDIX G-3


SUMMARY SPEADSHEET GUIDELINES To be considered for YAA Certification, a student must have successfully completed the requirements and have accurately and completely documented them on the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet (Appendix G-2). When filling out the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet, refer to the following guidelines for an explanation as to what hours are to be put under what columns. This form can also be downloaded as an Excel Spreadsheet or as a pdf file from www.yoga.ca (use as many sheets as needed). Date(s) - Date(s) of workshops or classes. Regular classes may be grouped by term. Title & Description of Workshops or Classes - Title and description, if the title does not specify the nature of what is being taught / practiced (e.g. asana, pranayama, meditation, etc.). Highlight required International Teachers and Teaching Skills Workshops (see details below). Instructor - Both first and surname of the instructor or instructors teaching the class or workshop. Total Hours of Workshop or Classes (Minimum 300 Hours) - Total hours of workshop or classes on this specified date(s). Split total hours into applicable categories as outlined below. Please total at bottom of sheet. Note: Workshop hours may be credited under the specific class categories where applicable depending on the material

covered in the class, or under Hatha Yoga Workshops - General, provided the same hours are not used in more than one column. It is advisable to split out hours into the specific class categories whenever possible, until the minimum requirements in each category have been exceeded. (e.g. In any workshop, depending on the content presented, a certain number of hours may be placed under specific categories such as philosophy, breath awareness, etc., and any remaining hours not otherwise accounted for would be placed under workshops.) Consult the instructor for the specific breakdown, as each class will differ in the allocation of hours depending on the subject matter, format, etc. Consult the TTP Coordinator if required.

Weekly Hatha Yoga Classes with Senior / Intermediate Teacher (Minimum 100 Hours) - Number of hours of attendance in regular weekly hatha yoga classes taught by Senior Teacher(s) and / or Intermediate Teacher(s). Consult the TTP Coordinator for approval if teachers are not YAA Certified. Please see Section 1.6 for Senior Teacher / Intermediate Teacher Guidelines, Appendix A – Definition of Hatha Yoga, and Appendix C – Asana / Pranayama Required Practices. Please total at bottom of sheet. Note: Workshop hours may not be credited to Weekly Hatha Yoga Classes except by special written permission from

the TTP Coordinator (e.g. rural students with no access to weekly classes). Anatomy and Physiology (Minimum 10 Hours) - This is designed to initiate the study of anatomy for yoga teaching purposes. Upon completion of the Teacher Training Program, the student must have a working knowledge of the basic anatomy of the body including the major muscle groups and their movements, the skeletal system and joints, and the internal organs and their basic functions. (Students should make a formal application to the TTP Coordinator to obtain advanced credit for previous coursework.) Attendance at specialized workshops is required for these hours. Monthly TTP Class hours may not be applied toward these hours. Please total at bottom of sheet. Yoga Philosophy and Related Psychology (Minimum 20 Hours) - Attendance at monthly TTP classes or specialized workshops can be credited toward these hours. Please total at bottom of sheet. Breath Awareness Training (Minimum 10 Hours) - Attendance at monthly TTP classes or specialized workshops can be credited toward these hours. Please total at bottom of sheet. Meditation Training (Minimum 10 Hours) - Attendance at monthly TTP classes or specialized workshops can be credited toward these hours. Please total at bottom of sheet.


Special Concerns and Therapeutic Applications of Yoga (Minimum 10 Hours) - Some examples include: Multiple Sclerosis, back problems, knee or shoulder injuries, pregnancy, handicapped, fibromyalgia, etc. Attendance at monthly TTP classes or specialized workshops can be credited toward these hours. Please total at bottom of sheet. Apprenticeship and Supervised Teaching (Minimum 40 Hours) - Apprenticeship is not met by class attendance only or by substitute teaching. A portion of the attendance at YAA Teaching Skills Workshops can be credited toward these hours. Consult the instructor for the specific breakdown as each workshop may differ. Consult your Senior Teacher as each one may have different requirements for final assessment before recommending Certification. Please total at bottom of sheet.

• 35 hours of which includes: peer teaching (teaching other TTP students or teachers) which can be met in TTP workshops or TTP classes conducted by YAA Certified Senior Teachers; observation of Senior Teacher teaching; assisting Senior Teacher in a class; consultation with Senior Teacher about lesson plans, teaching / assisting and students.

• 5 hours of which must be teaching a class or portion of a class in a classroom setting under the supervision of your Senior Teacher.

Hatha Yoga Workshops – General (Minimum 100 hours) - Number of hours of attendance in hatha yoga workshops in the following areas. Please total at bottom of sheet.

• YAA Monthly Teacher Training Program Classes – Classes are given by YAA Certified Senior Teachers and are held monthly, usually on Saturdays. See Appendix G-4 for a list of topics covered in the classes. The sequence of classes repeats every two years. Students may begin the program at any time during the year. Students will be expected to verify to their Senior Teacher that they have completed each category required by writing a few paragraphs summarizing the nature of the training (Appendix G-7). If a student is unable to attend a particular class, it can be taken in the next two-year sequence, or else the material must be covered in a different form, at the Senior Teacher’s discretion. For example, the student may cover the material in other classes and/or workshops, and submit a longer written report on the material. By initialing beside each category, the Senior Teacher confirms that he / she has seen evidence that the student has satisfactorily completed each element.

• International Hatha Yoga Teacher Workshops - Minimum of 3 complete weekend-long workshops (10 or

more hours) given by different international teachers who are not local to your community. (Please highlight in Summary Spreadsheet.)

The designation "international teacher" refers to an instructor who has been invited to give a workshop and is not local or near to the community hosting that workshop. This teacher is recognized within his / her chosen yoga tradition as having a level of expertise beyond that of the senior instructors local to that community. In this way students can be exposed to different styles, directions and expertise beyond the level in their community. If in doubt, consult the TTP Coordinator for advance approval.

Note: If an international teacher workshop is longer than 10 hours; is primarily on another aspect of yoga other

than hatha yoga (e.g. yoga nidra, philosophy), but has a component of hatha yoga in it; and is attended by a student who has already fulfilled the hatha yoga workshop hours, a student can receive credit for this workshop as an international teacher workshop.

• YAA TTP Teaching Skills Workshops - Minimum of 3 complete weekend-long workshops given by YAA

Certified Senior Teachers (or equivalent). This is specialized time for learning teaching skills and for practice teaching. A portion of these hours may be used under Apprenticeship & Supervised Teaching. Consult the instructor for the specific breakdown as each workshop may differ. Equivalencies may be considered. Consult the TTP Coordinator for advanced approval. (Please highlight in Summary Spreadsheet.)

• Hatha Yoga Workshops provided in your local area given by YAA-recognized teachers or equivalent. If in

doubt, consult the TTP Coordinator for advance approval.


APPENDIX G-4


CLASS TOPICS The Teacher Training Program Classes are held once a month, usually on Saturdays. The topics below are covered in the classes. The sequence of classes repeats every two years. Students may begin the program at any time during the year. Students will be expected to verify to their Senior Teacher that they have completed each category required by writing a few paragraphs summarizing the nature of the training (Appendix G-7). If a student is unable to attend a particular class, it can be taken in the next two-year sequence, or else the material must be covered in a different form, at the Senior Teacher’s discretion. For example, the student may cover the material in other classes and/or workshops, and submit a longer written report on the material. These hours can be credited on the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Summary Spreadsheet (Appendix G-2) under the Hatha Yoga Workshops or under any of the applicable class categories except for anatomy (each class will differ in hours allocation depending on the subject matter, instructor, etc.). Note to Students: Please come to class prepared to peer teach the asana listed on the syllabus (as illustrated in Light on Yoga, by B.K.S. Iyengar), even if you do not personally practice them. Refer to a resource from the yoga style/tradition in which you are studying and practicing for details on how to perform the asana, its’ benefits and contradictions. Think about warm-ups and modifications and where they might fit into a class plan. Please bring the following props to each class: 1 sticky mat, 4 foam blocks, 1 strap, 2 blankets and 1 wood block. Bolster recommended. Note to Senior Teachers: By initialing beside each category, the Senior Teacher confirms that he / she has seen evidence that the student has satisfactorily completed each element in the first and second year. Students will be expected to verify to their Senior Teachers that they have completed each category by writing a few paragraphs summarizing the nature of the training. #1. Asana: Seated Poses: Sukhasana, Siddhasana, Virasana & variations, Simhasana, Dandasana, Baddha

Konasana, Upavista Konasana, Krounchasana, Akarna Dhanurasana, Mudras Theory: Origins & History of Yoga / Intro to Major Texts Pranayama: Breath Awareness / Body-Breath Connection #2. Asana: Warm-up Exercises, Modifications, Counterposes, Basic Sequencing Theory: Definitions of Yoga (Sutras 1.1-1.29) + Gita & other selections / Samkhya – Purusha/Prakrti & 3

Gunas Pranayama: Breath Relaxation/Release #3. Asana: Surya Namaskar and variations Theory: Kleshas / Kriya Yoga / 8 Limbs – Overview (Sutras 1.30-2.29) Pranayama: Diaphragmatic Breath #4. Asana: Basics: Balasana (Child’s), Adho Mukha Svanasana, Plank, Tadasana Virabhadrasana II, Uttanasana,

Prasarita Padottanasana, Malasana, Supta Padangusthasana Theory: Subtle Body Anatomy (Prana, Nadis (Ida, Pingala & Sushumna), Kundalini, Chakras Overview,

Koshas Pranayama: Complete Breath #5. Asana: Standing Poses: Tadasana, Virabhadrasana I, Parsvottanasana, Utthita Trikonasana, Utthita

Parsvakonasana, Utkatasana, Parighasana Theory: Yamas (Sutras 2.30-2.39) / Ethics / Muladhara Chakra / Pada & Mula-Bandhas / Foot & Knee

Alignment & Anatomy Pranayama: 6 Part Breath (low/mid/high, front & back) #6. Asana: Hip Openers & Forward Bends: Padangusthasana, Gomukhasana, Janu Sirsasana, Marichyasana I,

Paschimottanasana, Trianga Mukhaikapada Paschimottanasana, Kurmasana, Agnistambhasana (Fire Log), Padmasana

Theory: Niyamas (Sutras 2.40-2.55) / Svadhisthana Chakra / Pelvis & Lumbar Spine Anatomy / Pre- and Post-Natal Issues

Pranayama: Ujjayi


#7. Asana: Balancing: Vrksasana, Garudasana, Ardha Chandrasana, Virabhadrasana III, Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana

Theory: Asana (Sutras 2.46-2.48) / Class Planning & Sequencing / Review Nadis Pranayama: Nadi Sodhana #8. Asana: Standing Twists, Seated Twists: Parivrtta Trikonasana, Parivrtta Parsvakonasana, Parivrtta Ardha

Chandrasana, Bharadvajasana I & II, Ardha Matsyendrasana I, Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana, Pasasana Theory: Bhagavad Gita: History & Intro / Karma Yoga Pranayama: Review of Year One Pranayama / Students bring a plan to teach one pranayama to beginners #9. Asana: Core: Supta Padangusthasana, Anantasana, Paripurna Navasana, Ardha Navasana, Jathara

Parivartanasana, Urdhva Prasarita Padasana Theory: Pranayama (Sutras 2.49 – 2.53) / Manipura Chakra / Uddhiyana Bandha / Anatomy of Breath & Core Pranayama: Vrtti Pranayama (Sama Vrtti & Visama Vrtti) #10. Asana: Backbends: Bhujangasana, Salabhasana, Naraviralasana (Sphinx), Ustrasana, Dhanurasana,

Bhekasana, Urdhva Mukha Svanasana, Eka Pada Rajakapotasana, Matsyasana, Urdhva Dhanurasana Theory: Pratyahara (Sutras 2.54-2.55) Emotions & Body, Breath, Mind / Bhakti Yoga / Anahata Chakra /

Thoracic Spine & Shoulder Anatomy Pranayama: Surya Bheda/ Chandra Bheda #11. Asana: Arm Balances: Adho Muhka Svanasana, Plank, Chaturanga Dandasana, Purvottanasana,

Vasisthasana, Bakasana, Parsva Bakasana, Mayurasana, Pincha Mayurasana, Adho Mukha Vrksasana Theory: Meditation, Samyama (Sutras Pada 3): Dharana / Dhyana/ Mindfulness / Raja Yoga / Arm & Hand

Alignment & Anatomy Pranayama: Anuloma / Pratiloma #12. Asana: Inversions A & Maha Mudra: Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, Halasana, Salamba Sarvangasana, Eka

Pada Sarvangasana Theory: Mantra & Yantra / Tantra / Visuddha & Ajna Chakras / Jnana Yoga /Jalandhara Bandha (review all

Bandhas) / Cervical Spine Anatomy Pranayama: Viloma / Bhramari #13. Asana: Supine / Restorative: Balasana (Child’s), Supta Balasana, Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby), Salamba

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, Supta Baddha Konasana, Viparita Karani (Legs up the Wall), Supta Virasana

Theory: Samadhi / Samskaras / Sutras (Pada 4) / Relaxation Response Pranayama: Kumbhaka #14. Asana: Inversions B: Prasarita Padottanasana, Salamba Sirsasana (for those who could practice) Theory: Bhagavad Gita: Themes / Sahasrara Chakra / Skull Anatomy (review Cervical) Pranayama: Kapalabhati / Bhastrika #15. Asana: Special Concerns & Limitations: Ongoing students bring a plan of two asana (or modifications) that

would be helpful for alleviating or for avoiding further damage for each of the following injuries: shoulder, knee, neck, and back (optional for new students)

Theory: Special Concerns & Limitations Pranayama: Sitali / Sitkari #16. Asana: Teaching Skills / Review and Questions Theory: Teaching Skills / Hatha Yoga Styles & Lineages Pranayama: Teaching Skills

I affirm that TTP student has completed the above requirements.

SIGNED: (Senior Teacher) DATE: Notes: Descriptions and spellings for the above list have been taken from Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar and may

differ from other books and traditions. Common names have been added for those not found in this source.


APPENDIX G-5


ASSIGNMENTS

Over the course of the program and in consultation with their Senior Teacher, YAA Teacher Training students are expected to read as many books from the Reading List (Appendix D) as they can, and in so doing cover the many different aspects of yoga. Over the course of the program, students must complete three book reports and seven papers. The following Assignment Checklist outlines the assignment requirements. Details are at the discretion of the Senior Teacher. Submit the completed assignments to your Senior Teacher only. When all assignments have been completed, have your Senior Teacher sign this sheet and submit with your application for certification. Note: If completed assignments were not exactly as outlined below, please provide a list of assignments completed. Assignment Checklist: A) Three book reports from the Reading List (Appendix D):

Minimum of one from the Required List / Maximum of two from the Recommended List.

Name of book:

Name of book:

Name of book:

B) Seven papers:

Brief synopsis of Patanjali's 8-fold path. In light of your reading of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, identify the central point or focus of each of the four

Padas (chapters). Feel free to refer to introductory comments of the translator / commentator from your chosen source, but document any ideas that aren’t your own.

Definitions of Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Raja Yoga, Kriyas, Chakras and the Gunas. Outline of the content and significance of the Bhagavad Gita. Describe 5 of the main, simple special concerns or therapeutic applications you might encounter in a

beginner’s class. Choose one of those areas and describe five supportive, related asanas for that need (or area). Some examples include: Multiple Sclerosis, back problems, knee or shoulder injuries, pregnancy, handicapped, fibromyalgia, etc.

Define Kundalini and name the 3 central nadis of the body and their connection to the Kundalini. YAA Monthly Teacher Training Class Topics Summaries (Appendix G-7). These are to be submitted to the

Senior Teacher only. I affirm that TTP student has completed the above requirements. Signed: (Senior Teacher)

Print Name: Date:


APPENDIX G-6


SENIOR TEACHER LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION

As a Senior Teacher for a student in a Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program, please provide the following information in your letter of recommendation for YAA Teacher Certification (to be completed after student has completed all Teacher Training Program requirements): • A character reference for the student - how long have you known him / her and how well do you know him / her? • A record of the time the student has been involved in your classes and in yoga practice. • An assessment of the student’s knowledge of the yoga asanas as outlined in the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training

Program (see Appendix C). • An assessment of the student’s teaching capabilities. Are you confident that this person can teach and is ready to

conduct a class safely? • Any comments or reservations that you think are relevant or might assist us in awarding a certificate. Please note that the information you supply will be treated in strict confidence. Send the letter directly to the YAA office at the address below: Yoga Association of Alberta 11759 Groat Road Edmonton AB T5M 3K6 Phone: 780.427.8776 Fax: 780.422.2663 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.yoga.ca


APPENDIX G-7


CLASS TOPICS SUMMARY SHEET The Teacher Training Program Classes are held once a month, usually on Saturdays. See Appendix G-4 for a list of topics covered in the classes. The sequence of classes repeats every two years. Students may begin the program at any time during the year. Students will be expected to verify to their Senior Teachers that they have completed each category required by writing a few paragraphs summarizing the nature of the training and submitting these summaries to their Senior Teachers. Use this sheet – copy one for each class topic. Submit these sheets to your Senior Teacher only. At the end of your program, have the YAA Monthly Teacher Training Class Topics List (Appendix G-4) signed and initialed by your Senior Teacher and submit with your application for certification. Monthly Class hours may be credited under the specific class categories where applicable depending on the material covered in the class, or under Hatha Yoga Workshops - General, provided the same hours are not used in more than one column. If a student is unable to attend a particular class, it can be taken in the next two-year sequence, or else the material must be covered in a different form, at the Senior Teacher’s discretion. For example, the student may cover the material in other classes and/or workshops, and submit a longer written report on the material. Note to Senior Teachers: Senior Teachers must ensure that the student has covered and understood the syllabus material. Details of components covered in Monthly Classes can be found in the YAA Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Syllabus and Certification Guidelines, Appendix G-4 and online at www.yoga.ca. Please sign and initial Appendix G-4 to verify completion of each topic. STUDENT NAME: SENIOR TEACHER: DATE OF CLASS: LOCATION: INSTRUCTOR: TEACHER TRAINING TOPIC: CLASS SUMMARY / OVERVIEW (use the back of this page if required):

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