IYV is a Registered School both with the U.S. and Canadian Yoga Alliance, both are internationally recognized associations.
Level 1 – Integrative Yoga Therapy 200hr Yoga Teacher Training is our FOUNDATION program this program is offered yearly in Nanaimo 3rd weekend monthly for 9 months Starts in September
Level 2 – 550 hr Ayurveda Yoga Wellness Consultant 10 modules over a year in Nanaimo- 5 -4 day weekends Starts in September
Level 3 -450 hrAyurveda Yoga Wellness consultant – Spa Specialist 5 weeks in India each February
Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda belong together. When we think of Yoga as therapy we must have a method of assessment, there must be some medical model that prescribes Yoga as the healing modality. Some of our Western doctors are beginning to do that, but largely they look at Yoga as being a physical exercise that can be adapted for various illnesses, they are often not seeing Yoga as the spiritual practice that it is. An Ayurvedic medical perspective on the other hand can view the person in their wholeness, and long before the individual has become chronically ill, the practitioner can recommend many lifestyle and dietary changes, as well as spiritual practices and yogic techniques.
Yoga is not a medical system; it aims at relieving spiritual suffering through understanding the Kleshas which are the afflictions or obstacles that lead us away from our pure nature. Yoga understands that it is through false identification with ourselves as limited bodies and minds that we suffer. When our ignorance is removed we identify with our true self and true nature of pure consciousness. Most medical doctors are not going to prescribe this integral view of Yoga for wellness. However Ayurveda does.
“Modern Yoga Therapy largely consists of the application of Yoga asanas as an adjunct physical therapy for the treatment of diseases as primarily diagnosed and treated by modern medicine. Modern Yoga Therapists aim at working with doctors, nurses and other biomedically trained professionals in hospitals, and rehabilitation settings. Such a Yoga therapist, we should note, is not himself or herself necessarily a doctor or primary health care provider but functions more like a technician, applying the techniques of asanas as guided by a doctor or nurse. While there is nothing wrong with this approach and much benefit can be derived from it, Yoga therapy as asana therapy does not unfold the full healing potential of classical Yoga and its many methods. It keeps Yoga subordinate in a secondary role, reduced primarily to a physical application.” – David Frawley
Dr. David Frawley is an author on Yoga and Ayurveda, and is the founder and director of the ‘American Institute for Vedic Studies’ in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
“Ayurveda is one of the four Upavedas or secondary Vedic teachings, along with Gandharva Veda (music), Sthapatya Veda (directional science), and Dhanur Veda (martial arts). These Upavedas apply Vedic knowledge along specific lines to supplement the Vedic quest for wholeness and liberation. Ayurveda is probably the most important of these because it addresses all aspects of healing and well-being for body and mind.
In this classical Vedic scheme, Ayurveda is the Vedic system developed specifically for healing purposes. There is no other Vedic system of healing apart from Ayurveda. Yoga is the Vedic system of spiritual practice or sadhana. All Vedic sadhana or spiritual practice involves some form of Yoga practice.” – David Frawley
The aim here is not to turn Yoga into a medical system; this is not its purpose. The true purpose of Yoga is to relieve spiritual suffering. We turn to Ayurveda for guidelines in assessing and maintaining health and we apply Yoga accordingly as part of its healing tools.
Ayurveda provides us methods such as diet, herbs, and clinical procedures (such as Pancha Karma) as well as lifestyle modifications to promote health, rejuvenation and longevity . Traditionally, Ayurveda also incorporates Yogic practices such as asanas and pranayama, as well as mantra and meditation as part of its healing treatment.
I agree with Dr. Frawley in that, with the broader perspective of Classical Yoga along with the medical model that Ayurveda provides, we now have the optimal application of Yoga and Ayurveda for health and healing. This is what I am calling Ayurvedic Yoga Wellness and this is what this training will involve.
“Any therapy must rest upon a system of medicine for diagnosis and overall treatment strategies. A therapeutic method – whether herbs, drugs, asana or pranayama – cannot be applied independently of a medical orientation and an examination of the patient as a whole. So if one is practicing Yoga therapy, the question arises as to according to what system of medicine that therapy is being applied?
For a full application of the methods of Yoga for healing purposes, we need a complete medical system that follows the philosophy, principles and practices of Yoga and that can employ not only asana as a therapy but also pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi, and which follows a yogic life style (yamas and niyama). While modern medicine can be helpful as a background for applying the physical aspects of Yoga, it lacks the yogic understanding of life and the human being for a full application of all the branches of Yoga for body, mind and spirit. Such a greater yogic system of medicine need not be invented. It already exists in the form of Ayurveda. Ayurveda develops its view of the body and mind, nature and healing from the background of Yoga philosophy as outlined through the twenty-five tattvas of the Samkhya system. Ayurveda provides us a complete mind-body system of medicine in terms of all aspects of diagnosis and treatment that reflects a Vedic and Yogic approach, values and wisdom.” – David Frawley
What we need are Ayurveda Yoga Wellness Consultants who are well trained in both Yoga and Ayurveda and are in a position to interact with allopathic doctors, not from an alternative perspective, but from a cooperative and complimentary one. Not as ‘technicians’ of asanas but as well trained professionals of Ayurveda and Yoga
The 550 hours of training required to complete the first level of the Ayurveda Yoga Wellness Consultant Certification is divided into 10 modules with time built between to allow integration of the learning. You are encouraged to commit to the full program however, space permitting, there may be a possibility of attending the modules independently or completing the Apprenticeship over a few years. If you would like to become a certified Ayurvedic Yoga Wellness consultant, the full program would need to be completed within five years.
The below dates are firm though some of the module topics may change dates due to scheduling of the special guest presenters.
Level 2 – PAYTA – 10 Modules
INTRODUCTION to Ayurveda Yoga Wellness Consultant
MODULE 1, November 27-28-29/2020
You will receive a general introduction to the perspective and intent of the Ayurveda Yoga Wellness consultant program and how you will be able to apply it in your life and in your work as an Ayurveda Yoga Professional. We will review a basic understanding of some of the components of Classical Yoga such as the Kleshas, Gunas and Koshas as well as the Ayurvedic Doshas. You will have the opportunity to experience the format of the group sessions. We will also have time for questions and discussion.
The setting of this program is ISLAND YOGA VISTA , a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a retreat from your daily life, to immerse in the teachings in a sattvic environment and to build community with like-minded people. You will have time to enjoy the natural surroundings and the nutritious Ayurveda cuisine from the organic kitchen.
Guest Speaker: Fiji McAlpine ERYT500hr
Guest Speaker: Acharya Thommas Michaud
MODULE 2 Ayurveda in General, November 29-30 Dec 1/2020
This is an introduction to the basics of Ayurveda and how to make practical use of the information in a group session. You will experience one Ayurveda Yoga therapy Group Session as a sample class. Each session has a 45 minute asana practice built on the theme as well as appropriate breathing practices and a Yoga Nidra session that integrates the knowledge. We will have a lecture from a local Ayurveda Practitioner on food and meal preparation as well as enjoying the lunch you make. You will add to your skills and knowledge in both practical and experiential ways. Yoga and Ayurveda both recommend taking time away from your daily life on a regular basis and immersing yourself in yoga, nature and self-reflection. Asana Clinics continue throughout the program to build your own practice as well as learning to teach the postures.
Guest Speaker:Joanne Cooper, Ayurvedic Chef
Guest Speaker: Acharya Thommas Michaud, Philosophy Instructor
MODULE 3 Yoga Psychology, January 22-23-24/2021
We will begin an exploration of Yoga Psychology. Using the same format of group sessions involving experiential and practical methods, we will explore classical principles of yoga; the benefits of a yogic lifestyle; a view of the personality and its evolvement from a yogic perspective; as well as the different paths of yoga. You will build on asanas that are suitable for a variety of people and deepen your Yoga Nidra experience. Learning to work with individuals in private sessions is essential to the training. The retreat environment is part of the process of knowing ourselves. We need time to contemplate and assimilate information as well as to see ourselves clearly. You will have time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and be nourished by the organic cooking. Asana Clinics continue throughout the program to build your own practice as well as learning to teach the postures, Fiji McAlpine is one of our lead asana teachers.
Guest Speakers: AcharyaThommas Michaud, Philosophy Instructor
Guest Speaker: Fiji McAlpine, ERYT550hr
MODULE 4 Meditation, Mantras, Yantras & Mudras ,January 24-25-26/2021
Our minds are fed by sensory perceptions; by changing the subtle input we can affect our emotional, mental and physical states. As we continue with the group session structure, we deepen the experience and introduce more subtle practices and how they can be introduced and used for various groups and purposes. We will explore various kinds of meditations, and the use of yantras. You will learn a variety of mantras and their meanings and uses. Reconnecting with this community and retreating to this beautiful environment are part of the experience. Joanne will return to teach Marma Therapy and Indian Head Massage. The ashram like schedule with regular meals inevitably is healing for all participants on many levels. Asana Clinics continue throughout the program to build your own practice as well as learning to teach the postures.
Guest Speaker: Acharya Thommas Michaud
Guest Speaker: Fiji McAlpine
Guest Speaker: Joanne Cooper, Ayurvedic Practitioner
MODULE 5 Yoga Nidra Guided Imagery Relaxation March 26-27-28/2021
The use of Yoga Nidra for healing and wellness is well documented through the Bihar School of Yoga and it is from this tradition that we have been exposed to this wonderful practice. You will learn its origins, applications and how to build the practice in an intelligent way. Yoga Nidra is a systematic method of inducing complete physical, mental and emotional relaxation while remaining completely aware. This well structured course will give teachers a sound basis to teach the practice responsibly and effectively, as we continue with learning to teach asana in group settings. By this time you have experienced the practice in it’s original form many times and felt the benefits, now you can begin learning to lead others. Asana Clinics continue throughout the program to build your own practice as well as learning to teach the postures. Seasonal diet for spring with Lunch.
Guest Speaker : AcharyaThommas Michaud
Guest Speaker:Joanne Cooper: Ayurvedic Chef
MODULE 6 Anatomy, Physiology, Energy Systems March 28-29-30
Essential for any teacher of Yoga is a thorough knowledge of the human systems — how the anatomy is structured both physically and energetically. We will blend this knowledge into our continued expansion on the asanas portions of the group sessions as well as hearing lectures on the topic. In its practical application you will learn asanas for body systems, asanas for different Ayurveda body types, and asanas for building or calming energy. At this time in the training you will begin to practice leading groups. Learning to retreat and heal ourselves is the basis for encouraging others to take care of themselves in the same way. Asana Clinics continue throughout the program to build your own practice as well as learning to teach the postures.
Guest Speaker:Acharya Thommas Michaud
MODULE 7 Ayurveda in Practice, May 28-29-30/2021
Continued learning of the principles of Ayurveda by Sandra offering in depth training on conducting individual sessions and Anita Kalyna introducing Ayurveda Aromatherapy. Joanne will return to continue Marma therapy and teach foot and leg massage. This is an exceptional opportunity to learn from seasoned practitioners. Our three-day program will continue with further training in group session work and private sessions,; more practice in developing Yoga Nidra scripts; and of course relaxing in this beautiful, spiritual environment with community. Asana Clinics continue throughout the program to build your own practice as well as learning to teach the postures.
Guest Speaker: Anita Kalnay, Flying Colours Aromatherapy
Guest Speaker: Joanne Cooper, Ayurvedic Practitioner
Guest Speaker: Acharya Thommas Michaud
Module 8 Ayurveda Marma Therapy May 30-31, June 1/2021
MODULE 9 Cycles of Stress and the Kleshas -July 23-24-25/2021
The effects of stress and stress-related diseases are explored from a yogic perspective. An in-depth understanding of the Kleshas will show us how we clear our path to wellness. For all humans, it is a sense of unity and oneness that are at the heart of our striving for wellness, yoga shows us how to reach this ultimate goal. Until we can finally realize this potential there will be struggle. The tension that is caused by looking for a sense of oneness in the wrong places, and the subsequent disturbance of the Gunas is the cause of stress. We explore these cycles of stress and imbalance and learn methods to reduce the symptoms and ultimately to remove the root cause which is separation from nature, other people and our source of energy. Learn about Soma Yoga for Stress as well as Pain and Trauma Management through Yoga. Asana Clinics continue throughout the program to build your own practice as well as learning to teach the postures.
Guest Speaker: Donna Williams ERTY550hr, Somatic Yoga Teacher
Guest Speaker: Lisa Woolman, Trauma Informed Yoga
Taking PAYTA into your Community – Module 10, July 25-26-27/2021
You will have practice conducting individual sessions and group sessions. We will explore possibilities of how you can take this into your community, and what area of interest is most suited to you. Business practices and ethics will be covered. Joanne returns to teach the Summer Diet and make lunch with us.
Guest Speaker: Joanne Cooper, Ayurvedic Chef
Guest Speaker: Acharya Thommas Michaud
Home Study, Practicum, Certification – to be completed individually within 2 years of completing all 10 Modules
Certification will involve designing an 8-week program and implementing it in your community. You will have all the support and mentoring you need to be successful with your program. You will report in with evaluations from the participants. You will also be required to conduct 20 individual sessions with evaluations, and report on completing the process. The reading requirements are essential prior to the Module: there will be no grading but a report on 5 books is required. We will meet either in person or by Skype throughout your practicum, and I will encourage you to complete this home study part as soon after the training as possible. Please note it must be completed within two years. I will be available as your mentor throughout the entire training.
TUITION COSTS:
BONUS Early Bird price 3600 before August 1 2020
Early Bird Price $3780 before September 1 2020
Regular Price $3870
not including meals or accommodation
“Combining Yoga and Ayurveda in their full applications and in the greater context of Vedic science offers a complete system of well-being for body, mind and consciousness, such as perhaps has no parallel anywhere else in the world. It can become the prime force of planetary healing that is so desperately needed today. It can add a spiritual and preventative dimension to modern medicine as well as adding important new keys for the understanding of disease and for applying natural therapies that can reduce the growing cost of high tech medicine.” – Dr. Frawley
References:
Yoga and Ayurveda: A Complete System of Well Being, by Dr. David Frawley
Banyen Botanicals Web site: http://www.banyanbotanicals.com/ (excellent resource)
Suggested Reading:
Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha, by Swami Satyananda Saraswati
Four Chapters on Freedom, by Swami Saytananda Saraswati