Detailed Curriculum:
Morning Embodiment Sadhana- Each Weekend Morning Sadhana will introduce and deepen topics covered throughout the training including alignment,both energetic and physical as well as basic principles of connective sequencing.
Adventures in Asana- In each session, a different category of asana will be broken down with the use of the training manual. Individual postures within each category will be embodied. We will discuss proper cues,correct alignment and cover foundational modifications/use of props for each posture. Key muscular actions will be discussed as well as how the posture relates to the energetic system.
Assists and Enhancements- This section will include a detailed breakdown of how to assist each of the postures covered within the context of the training. Students will learn how and when to safely adjust postures structurally and when to offer energetic enhancements. This section will also include a discussion and practice of how to see structure and energy as a teacher.
The Art of Breathing/Pranayama- Students will learn to embody the breath as a gateway between the physical and spiritual practice of yoga. Classical techniques of pranayama will be broken down in terms of technique and energetic effect and students will embody and reflect on each.
The Power of Sound Vibration/Mantra- Mantra will be defined and explained as a pathway to meditation and connection to divine source. Students will learn the correct pronunciation and meaning of some fundamental mantra and will have the oportunity to practice mantra both in a group setting and individually.
The Inner Journey/ Meditation- In these sessions, students will learn about meditation and from a practical and esoteric standpoint. Different basic meditation techniques from a variety of traditions will be explored in theory and practice with an eye to understanding how these techniques may serve unique individuals in different ways.
Beginner’s Mind- This will be a specialized section dedicated to undertanding how to deeply modify postures,techniques and sequences for the absolute beginner with the awareness to common postural misalignments, challenges and misconceptions.
Personal Embodiment- An invitation to create a dedicated at home practice to support the teacher in training and to anchor key concepts within the asana.
Illuminated Sequencing- This is Illumina’s primary philosophy and underlying focus. The art of proper vinyasa (placing in a special way) with strong intention in alignment with lifeforce and the natural rhythms of the universe. Students will explore the philosophy of Vinyasa krama and learn to sequence in a variety of ways, from classical category, to peak pose, to illuminated cycle.
The Creative Stream- Illumina believes that the creative stream of each individual is the pathway to universal truth. This section will show students how to link their individual truth to the universal through theme, light-filled language, and all elements that affect the Bhavana or feeling state of the class.
Pathways to Communication- As many individuals as there are, there are equally as many ways of learning. In this section we will explore different learning styles (visual, kinetici, auditory etc.) and how to effectively teach to reach the broadest expanse of possibilities. Positive and affirmative communication methods will also be explored
Yoga Biz- Tools to guide the new teacher in the practical work of teaching. Included will be legal requirements and the preparation of documents, branding and websites, pricing guidelines and the art of networking.
Private Yoga- An exploration of the differences between private sessions and public classes. We will explore ways of crafting unique practices for the individual client. Students will receive sample worksheets to help them understand the needs of the individual and to design a personal program accordingly.
Essentials of Anatomy- Illumina students will receive a 2 day intensive immersion in the beauty and complexity of the body and will explore the essential components for understanding and teaching from a safe modern biomechanic standpoint.Topics will include the 12 systems and structures of the body, the planes of the body and associated movement, the control systems (endocrine and nervous), compression vs. tension,anatomy of the breath, and basic pre-natal awareness. Practical application and fun embodiment exercises included.
The Anatomy of Energy- Students will study the landscape of the subtle body (the Chakras, Nadis and Koshas) and will explore the power of these systems in the healing of the whole human system and in bringing energetic depth to the creation of the class. We will also investigate how the energy systems relate to the physical.
Practical Application of Anatomy- Students will independently connect their anatomy learning (physical and subtle) to the physical postures with the worksheet asigned each asana within the manual. Students will also complete a take home anatomy exam and an on site subtle body exam.
The Origins of Yoga- Students will learn and discuss the origins, meaning and evolution of yoga through the years. They will learn the contributions of Key figures in Yoga’s passage to the west such as Vivekananda,Krishnamacharya,Iyengar, Jois, Indra Devi and Desikachar.
Ethics/ First Do No Harm- We will discuss the ethics of being a yoga teacher through the lense of the Yamas, in particular ahimsa (non-violence) in all the ways a teacher may interact with students.
The Eight Limbed Path- The Eight Limbed Path as described in the Yoga Sutras will be discussed in depth as a key tool in accessing the depth and richness of the full practice of yoga. Students will be required to journal on and speak about their personal relationship to each of the limbs.
The Yoga Sutras- We will explore this foundational text of Ashtanga Yoga in a very personal way. Each student will be required to read the text in advance and write 4 personal reflections, one on each pada. We will discuss each pada as a whole. Students will be asked to present their thoughts on one sutra of choice and explain how they might access the wisdom of the Sutra in the context of class creation.
The Bhagavad Gita- We will explore this classic and heroic text from the context of the archetype of the inner hero. Students will be invited to read the text as metaphor. We will also explore the different paths of yoga as outlined in the text. A written personal reflection will be required as well as a classroom presentation of themes that resonate within the heart of the student.
Deities and Archetypes- In this section, we will dive into the many archetypes revealed by the pantheon of deities from the Hindu tradition which inform the yoga practice. Particular attention will be given to how to relate each archetype/deity to the modern human condition and the context of class creation.
Teaching Skills- Students will have a weekly opportunity to step to the front of the room and guide their fellows through individual asanas, small flows and energetic exercises with feedback from the instructor. They will also be required to practice teach independently at home and log those hours. This practice teaching will culminate in the practical exam where each student will teach a portion of a final class created by a small group of fellows. This final project will bring all of the elements together from physical, to subtle to the sequencing that holds it together.
Observation- Each student will be required to observe 6 hours of staff teaching. They will complete evaluation forms that help them look for details such as theme, peak pose, key actions, arc of the class and bhavana.
Assisting- Each student will be required to assist 3 hours of class with staff towards the end of the training to anchor the feeling of what it is like to be a teacher in the room, to demo and apply simple assists.