Teacher Training

This brief overview summarizes the Shailja Yoga Fitness Teacher Training, which follows the traditional Sivananda lineage. The program is designed to transform personal discipline into professional teaching skills through an intensive, immersive schedule.

1. Core Philosophy & Curriculum

The program is built on the Five Points of Yoga (Proper Exercise, Breathing, Relaxation, Diet, and Positive Thinking/Meditation), which serve as a practical application of the Four Paths of Yoga (Karma, Bhakti, Raja, and Jnana).

Key Areas of Study:

• Hatha Yoga Practice: In-depth mastery of the 12 basic postures, advanced variations, and the science of Pranayama (breath control), including the use of Bandhas (energy locks).

• The Science of Meditation: A 12-step daily practice focusing on concentration, mantra initiation, and the "power of thought."

• Kriyas: Study and practice of the six classical purification techniques (Shatkriyas) for internal cleansing.

2. Anatomy & Lifestyle

• Yoga Anatomy: Understanding how yoga impacts the eight major body systems, specifically the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems.

• Nutrition & Diet: The spiritual and physical benefits of Vegetarianism and the healing effects of fasting.

3. Teaching Methodology

A significant portion of the course is dedicated to "Learning by Doing." You will learn:

• How to structure a Basic Sivananda Class.

• Adaptations for special populations (children, seniors, and pregnancy).

• Practical teaching workshops where you instruct peers under professional guidance.

4. Spiritual & Philosophical Studies

The course goes beyond physical fitness to cover deep Vedic philosophy:

• Sacred Texts: Detailed study of the Bhagavad Gita.

• Psychology of the Mind: Exploring Raja Yoga (the eight limbs) and Antahkarana (functions of the mind).

• Energy Anatomy: Study of Kundalini Yoga, including the seven chakras and the awakening of cosmic energy.

• Universal Laws: Understanding Karma, reincarnation, and the "Conquest of Death" through Jnana Yoga (Vedanta).

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5. Daily Ashram Life

The training follows a rigorous spiritual discipline:

• Satsang: Twice-daily group meditation, chanting, and lectures.

• Karma Yoga: One hour of selfless service daily to help the community and reduce the ego.

• Bhakti Yoga: Devotional singing (Kirtan) and traditional rituals (Pujas) to open the heart.

Would you like me to help you create a study schedule or a checklist of key terms based on this curriculum to help you prepare?