hybrid YTT format

The accessibility of online study. The connection of an in-person training.

We recognize that a 3-week in-person teacher training program is not accessible to many. That’s why we developed our unique hybrid YTT course. This part online / part in-person format is optimized for accessibility, retention, and integration with your daily life, while retaining the core aspects of community and teacher-student connection.

* 100 Hours: 4 modules of self-paced, online learning with pre-recorded content with assignments. To be completed over the course of 3 months.

* 15 Hours: Bi-monthly livestream sessions (every new moon & full moon) with progressive practices of asana sequences, pranayama (breathwork), rituals, meditations and practical routines.

* 80 Hours: 8 Day In-Person Immersion in Alentejo, Portugal.

NOTE: Training Manuals available in English or Portuguese. Classes are bilingual.


What you will Learn

Gaya’s foundational 200-hr YTT is more than just a yoga teacher certification program. Our Yoga Sciences curriculum is focused on true integration of yogic philosophy as a way of life to empower you individually and act collectively. This unique training is based on the exploration of the deeper meaning of Yoga and its practical application to this modern day society. Our education provides a solid foundation for those who wish to embark on a journey of self-discovery and mastery in a safe space that encourages personal growth, free expression and deep connection.

 

Yoga Theory & Philosophy

  • Ashtanga Yoga Philosophy: The 8 Limbs of Patanjali

  • Yoga History: from Vedic to contemporary times

  • The 4 Sciences of Yoga

  • Applied Yoga: Developing an Integrated Yoga Lifestyle

Yoga Asana Practice & Embodied Study

  • Gaya Yoga Sequence: Modified Ashtanga Vinyasa

  • Creative Vinyasa Flows

  • Workshops and Asana Labs

  • Meditation


 

Yoga Anatomy & Physiology

  • Anatomy & Physiology in Context of Yoga

  • Intro to Yoga Therapeutics: Movement as Medicine

  • Intro to Neuroscience

  • Introduction to Ayurveda

Pranayama & Energetic Practices

  • The Subtle Body: Chakras, Koshas & Vayus

  • Pranayama: Practice, benefits, and therapeutic effects

  • Bandhas: Energetic locks in the body

  • Reiki & Energy Healing


 

The Art of Teaching

  • Creative & Intelligent Sequencing

  • Modifications and Variations

  • Hands-On Adjustments and Assists

  • Yoga Entrepreneurship

Ceremonies & Rituals

  • Bonfire Circles: Connecting with the Moon and cyclical living

  • Mantra: Chanting and voice liberation

  • Sound Baths: The healing power of vibration

  • Community Circles: Truthful speech and mindful listening


8-Day Yoga Immersion in Alentejo, Portugal

The in-person immersion will take place at Craveiral Farmhouse in Alentejo, Portugal. Tucked away amongst the scenic landscapes of southwest Portugal, this beautiful farmhouse is close to the beach and offers a down-to-earth yet comfortable environment. There are indoor and outdoor pools, plus a sauna, a gym, a hammam and a hot tub. Accommodation (in a single or double room) with buffet breakfast and dinner featuring local, farm-fresh produce are included during your stay.

What a day in the in-person immersion looks like:

7:00 - 07:30 - Meditation + Sankalpa (daily intention contemplation)

07:30 - 09:00 - Gaya Yoga (Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Modified) or Creative Flow

09:00 - 10:30 - Breakfast 

10:30 - 12:30 - Workshop on philosophy / history / methodology / anatomy

12:30 - 15:00 - Lunch break + reflection + integration time

15:00 - 17:00 - Asana Lab: pose breakdown + energetic and physical alignment | building up sequences

17:00 - 17:30 - Tea break

17:30 - 19:30 - Workshop + daily integration / winding down / Yin Yoga Methodology

19:30 - 21:00 - Dinner *

* some evenings we offer practices such as Nidra, Bhakti (chanting), Concerts, Bonfire Talks, among others.


Your Teachers

Sara Montes

Lead Teacher Trainer, Founder of Gaya

Egon Meerschaert

Yoga Anatomy Instructor

Ann Schreppers

Co-Lead Yoga Teacher Trainer

You can (and should) continue with your current teacher (if you have one) after and during the training - we aim for integration, not separation. This is a program to deepen your knowledge as a practitioner and teacher - first of yourself - then of others. Exploration and mutual empowerment are core ingredients of Gaya.


Yoga Alliance Accreditation

 
 

Yoga Alliance it is the leading governing body for qualitative yoga programs around the world.

Students have to accomplish all mandatory 200 Hours (partly online). The exams will be oral, practical and written. When finalizing this training, a 200-hr Yoga Alliance certification will be obtained.

Note: This is the 200-hr Foundation Training of the Advanced Training Education (500-hr) of Gaya Yoga Sciences Education.


Course Investment

2.950,00 € - all inclusive (course tuition + accommodation with two farm-to-table meals daily in the final 8 day immersion).

Flight, Transportation and other meals not included.

Payments & Cancellation Policy:

1st Payment: 50% upon registration (includes a 25% non refundable hold deposit)

2nd Payment: 25% - 30 days before the training start.

3rd Payment: 25% - 1 day before the training start.

  • Cancellation requests submitted within 30 days before training date, 25% will be refunded.

  • Cancellation requests submitted within 15 days of immersions date, 40% will be refunded.

  • Within 14 days of your training: sorry but no refunds given, no exceptions.

  • Any refunds allowed will incur a 3% processing fee.

Flexible payment plans are possible until the starting date of the course - please contact us for more information.

Please Note: In order to be admitted to the course a short call with Sara and / or Ann is required.


Upcoming Hybrid Teacher Training Sessions

May your quest and acquisition of knowledge never fade, and may your heart always remain open to share that knowledge with others.

Looking forward to an unforgettable training.

Namaste