Tantra yoga is the style of yoga that follows the science of energy. Through this style and practice we are able to find the knowledge of the chakras and the dual energy that empowers them. In a traditional yoga practice this is referred to as the Pingala and Ida, the two currents of energy that work together and which create a complete flow. These are referred to as feminine and masculine energy that together manifest life as we see it in the material world. Yoga teacher training will guide you through this new area of thinking and practice and you build you knowledge.
Through yoga teacher training and Tantra yoga these two forces are brought together in a union. Working with these energies that connect our basic life functions, we need to be cautious and keep healthy and balanced. Yoga teaching will help you work through these energies and stay strong and focused at the same time.
Training
Deciding to take the step for becoming a teacher is the first move. Then deciding which style and focus you want to pursue is another. Once you have your decision the time has come to find the right location to complete a program. Yoga teacher training is an ongoing process that includes hors of concentrated study. The program is very diverse and you may be exposed to a variety of modalities and cultural disciplines. There is no need to have any yoga teacher training prior to this step. Training is available to anyone such as educators, yoga teachers, dance teachers, physical therapists, psychologists, massage therapists, relationship coaches and more.
Curriculum and Objectives
Some of the curriculum areas that you may be involved with are:
- Your relationship to your real self
- Self-discipline
- Breath Alive
- Body and Mind Awareness
- Communication skills
You will also focus on some new objectives to be able to deepen your understanding of Tantra yoga and feel a stronger connection to teaching methods such as:
- Self-respect and Inner development
- Yoga styles such as Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kundalini, and Restorative
- Meditation
- Mind-Body-Soul meditation
- Coaching and leadership skill building
- Mudras, Chakras, Bandhas, mantra, Yantras, Kriyas, Puja Initiation
- Life Management
- Medicine and Disease with Nutrition
- Body energy
Why study Tantra Yoga?
Tantra yoga is the style of yoga that has a holistic approach to its practice. Tantra yoga incorporates Ayurveda, astrology, alchemy, numerology, physics and psychology into its practice and technique. The goal of a strong Tantra yoga practice is to expand your awareness in all states of your consciousness and to create balance.
Some Tantra yoga programs are recognized by Yoga Alliance, which is an organization that regulates yoga teaching standards, but there are some yoga programs that do not. So make sure you do your research and if you want to be within yoga teaching standards and certified make sure you have a reliable program. Registration with the Yoga Alliance will require a completion or a recognized yoga teacher training, an application and application fee.
Types of Training Programs
Each style of yoga and their respected yoga teacher training program has different ways for you to become certified depending on your life schedule and location.
Module Training Programs
Yoga teacher training programs that are done completely in a workshop format over several months or years and are called Module Programs. There are program training courses that are recognized by Yoga Alliance and to earn a certificate you must complete specific workshops. Here you will be taught the 64 ancient tantric texts as well as healing, releasing, cleansing, purifying and opening techniques.
Retreat Training
There are also some yoga teaching training courses that are offered in a retreat type setting where you can travel to a location and spend a few weeks or months studying to earn your certificate. This type of program offers yoga practice, teacher training sessions, lectures on Tantra, yogi philosophy, psychology, sociology and spiritual cultures.
Immersion Study
Another interesting approach to yoga teacher training is to find a teacher to study closely with. This type of yoga teacher training is often referred to as an apprenticeship which gives you in-depth education as well as hands on learning approach so that you can apply what you are learning. Depending on the teachers credentials this may not be recognized by the Yoga Alliance.
