Dive deeply into yoga studies

This 20-hour course explores the techniques and methodology of restorative yoga, a gentle, calming therapeutic style of practice that restores the nervous system. This training covers a broad range of healing techniques and modalities that can be incorporated into restorative classes, including theory and Science of restorative yoga, hands-on assists, props and poses for restorative yoga, breath work and guided imagery, yoga nidra,  acupressure yoga, and trigger points, essential oils for healing, gong and sound therapy for relaxing the nervous system, restorative Sequencing & class pacing, and anatomy of the nervous system.

 Yin yoga training is devoted to yin studies that include the yin history, theory, methodology, sequencing, and postures of yin yoga as a specific practice for spiritual, physical, and energetic enhancement and as a compliment to a traditional yang practice. Two hours are devoted specifically to anatomy with special emphasis on ligaments and fascia tissue. This course also covers meridians and energy pathways as well as the use of essential oils to stimulate the energetic body. 

Yoga for Seniors focuses on the specific needs and considerations of older populations to help yoga teachers design and lead an appropriate senior yoga practice. The course includes anatomy for older populations, yoga for beginners, and material covering the following issues: Knee and hip replacements, Wrist & bone density issues,  Arthritis, Parkinson's, the side effects of medications, and specific emotional and physical challenges facing those age 60 and above. Posture modifications, props, & sequencing yoga for seniors are reviewed, as well as creative class ideas to keep seniors engaged, developing affirming attitudes and connections to the class.​

This course will provide yoga teachers with a strong understanding of Chair Yoga: theory and practice.  Participants will gain the skills required to bring yoga to students who might otherwise not be able to embrace the practice as they learn how to adapt the classical Yoga asanas to the chair rather than the floor in a therapeutic context. Material is offered for students of a variety of skill levels and circumstances, but the emphasis is on mature adults and those with physical limitations who need a chair to make yoga accessible. 

Aerial Yoga Weekend explores a wealth of alternative yoga exercises, assisted postures, and safe inversion techniques using the Om Gym system of yoga hammocks and handle supports as well as traditional Aerial Silks. We cover the history of aerial yoga and aerial yoga class levels – designing a safe class for different skill levels/ using aerial slings for private sessions. Careful exploration and teaching techniques of more than 50 supported yoga poses based on Iyengar theory, physical safety issues and concerns, Warm-ups, proper pose progression, and class sequencing. Yoga Therapeutics uses gravity and the swing for effective spinal traction and/or internal cleansing.  Inversion theory of physiology and anatomy, Aerial teaching practicum, and learning hands-on assists.​

This course is partially a group endeavor but includes independent study. It begins with a seminar on how to plan, implement, and organize a workshop or retreat along any yogic theme or purpose. Students learn the dynamics of teaching a longer program, with budgeting, marketing, organizing, and the business of executing such a program.  Afterward, they work one-on-one with the program directors to refine and evolve their workshops or retreats and they are encouraged to follow through and offer this to the public. Heartwood makes the facility available for the manifestation of these special programs We finish with follow-up communications about what was learned. The seminar includes group dynamics and other considerations.