Led by Joe Miller and Tara Lemerise, our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training program offers teachers-in-training a transformative experience as well as a comprehensive professional training.
Self-Study Grounded in Yoga Philosophy
Our journey together begins with intensive study of the philosophical roots of the rich yoga tradition. Through in-depth study and discussion of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, we will explore the application of these ancient tools to our daily lives as contemporary yogis. Throughout the course of the program, we build on this philosophical exploration and self-inquiry, developing the skills to share ideas that support a life of greater freedom, joy, and peace.
An Intelligent Approach to Asana
Essential to excellent yoga teaching is a solid understanding of how bodies work. Thus, our program offers a comprehensive overview of anatomy and biomechanics. We learn to use the best of modern physiological understanding as an expression of the Yogic principle of dharma, aligning with the intelligence of the body. Our teachers-in-training learn to honor that every body is different, and to teach asana classes that are safe, smart, and meet students where they are.
Skills for Sharing Yoga with Art and Authenticity
As the program progresses, our teachers-in-training methodically build skills and cultivate artistry for teaching excellent yoga. Our teachers-in-training receive ample instruction in and practice using techniques that build community and invite their students into sincere, deep experience. Our initial philosophical exploration and self-inquiry helps teachers to find their unique voice, and to tap into the yoga tradition to give their instruction more meaning and power.
Our focus is not on acrobatics but in connecting to - and developing the skills to share - yogic tools that support a life of greater freedom, joy, and peace.
The program includes:
- an exploration of key philosophical concepts that bring yoga off the mat
- study of biomechanics and applications to yoga postures and sequencing
- the techniques, art, and science of pranayama, meditation, mantra, kriya, bandha and ayurvedic self-care
- ample ways to stay engaged between weekends, including assigned reading, light homework assignments, and facilitated online discussion
- five opportunities practice teaching and feedback between program weekends
- apprenticeship in a Yoga I at Willow Street, to be taken as a participant/observer
- training in the basics of the business of yoga
- special discounted pricing on select workshops at WSY, as well as practice and study materials in our boutiques
- Everyday Practice Membership so that you can enjoy unlimited yoga during the program!
You can expect:
- a fuller understanding and deeper experience of yoga
- new insight into your dharma, your relationships, and your life’s journey
- to meet friends who share your commitment to growth and your desire to live wholeheartedly
Our teachers graduate with the skills to:
- teach asana clearly and fluently with sophisticated but accessible alignment instructions
- sequence effective, well-rounded classes
- understand and address common mis-alignments
- offer variations for different experience levels and body types
- convey the deeper meaning of yoga through inspiring themes
- teach meditation with an understanding of the relationships of breath, mind, and nervous system
- step into the role of teacher with consciousness and confidence
Why do teacher training at WSY?
Come see for yourself! Willow Street’s reputation for excellence is hard-earned.
In our public classes, you will find excellent teaching, extraordinary studentship, a diverse student body, and a peerlessly broad array of offerings.
In our teacher training, you will find that learning extends far beyond the individual program weekends. We take full advantage of Willow Street’s resources and give you unparalleled opportunities for guided practice, mentorship, feedback, and classroom learning.
Who can join the the WSY teacher training?
There are no physical limitations to the program. The main qualification is an enthusiasm for yoga and a willingness to look inside, ask tough questions and do the hard and rewarding work of self-reflection. You will need a willingness to stay in authentic, open-hearted relationship with fellow students and the leaders of the program.
We would recommend at least a year of continuous dedicated practice or at least 5 years of cumulative practice over the course of your life.
Questions? Please email Joe at codirectors@willowstreetyoga.com.