***Certified Yoga Teacher Training***

[Guest guest]

So...

It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4 years

ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my knowledge

to others. This has been something that I have thought long and hard about. The

dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of the highest priority.

Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga Teachers

here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short Forms. From

there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio that

offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they offer is

strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the " Masters " as

they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I have contacted

David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are " Not " certified. the

only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place where they have a

festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way there. Just not a reality

at this moment.

Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru to

student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem to

stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

 

Steve

 

" Breath Into Your Heart "

[Guest guest]

Don't worry so much about getting " certified " . Certification really says

nothing about your ability to teach. To the contrary, many who get

certified are led to believe they know more than they do.

 

The " teacher training certification " in this country is 200 hrs. --Thats

nothing -- most states require more training to cut peoples hair, and there

you not putting somebody's health at risk.

 

Just study with great teachers whenever you have the opportunity. Also,

don't limit yourself to ashtanga teachers. There's a whole lot to be

learned from a good iyengar teacher, a good vini-yoga teacher, a good

kundalini teacher etc.

 

All that being said, in my opinion, if you want to really experience

ashtanga -- you need to find a place that offers a mysore-style practice and

do that for a few years (at least). No led class, no home practice will

ever be the same.

 

If you want to take a course about teaching ashtanga -- Tim Miller's teacher

trainings are excellent.

 

On Sun, Dec 6, 2009 at 5:10 AM, Steven <stevenlarock wrote:

 

>

>

> So...

> It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

> years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

> knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and

> hard about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of

> the highest priority.

> Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

> special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga

> Teachers here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short

> Forms. From there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

> go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio

> that offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they

> offer is strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the

> " Masters " as they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I

> have contacted David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are

> " Not " certified. the only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place

> where they have a festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way

> there. Just not a reality at this moment.

> Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

> to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem

> to stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

> Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

>

> Steve

>

> " Breath Into Your Heart "

>

>

>

 

 

 

[Guest guest]

There are many sides to this debate.

On the one hand, it is true that the 'purest' form of Ashtanga is only, and can

only be, the exact form as taught by Sharath. Even though that has changed

considerably from the sequences as first taught by Guruji in the 1970s.

On the other hand there is the pragmatic view, that modifications are sensible,

that stopping a student at the pose they 'can do' is too OTT, and that it is

better to have a student do a daily practice that they enjoy than try to

struggle with something that will injure them if they persevere.

And then again, there is the school which recognises that Ashtanga is a great

foundation but that more variety and flexibility can be better still, and

endorses the 'vinyasa flow' systems. Similar to Ashtanga, but with different

asanas.

 

Then there are the Ashtanga Police, who take a sharp intake of breath if they

see anyone in an Ashtanga class doing ANYTHING which is not part of the counted

sequence that Sharath currently teaches.

 

Where I'm leading to on this is that, you are right, there can be no 'Certified'

courses other than the one that Sharath runs. But on the other hand, there are

many excellent teachers who can transmit and pass on a wider and more pragmatic

knowledge, perhaps better suited to Western bodies.

 

I would suggest that you find a teacher you like - you mention David Swenson -

and then follow his teacher trainings. Does it lead to 'Certification' ?

Probably not, but 'trained by David Swenson' says as much.

 

I am 60 with many injuries, and my ideal teacher is one which allows me to do my

'Old Ladies Ashtanga' practice without condemnation because its not the 'pure'

sequence. Only rarely do I encounter a teacher so dyed in the wool that they

prohibit the modifications which suit my body and mind.

 

Om shanti, Annie

ashtangayoga , " Steven " <stevenlarock wrote:

>

> So...

> It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and hard

about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of the highest

priority.

> Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga Teachers

here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short Forms. From

there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio that

offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they offer is

strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the " Masters " as

they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I have contacted

David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are " Not " certified. the

only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place where they have a

festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way there. Just not a reality

at this moment.

> Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem to

stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

>

> Steve

>

> " Breath Into Your Heart "

>

[Guest guest]

Steve-

I have to agree with you; there is not a lot of Ashtanga here in Atlanta. I was

lucky to find 2 studios that offer it. Neither stuio is " certified " in Ashtanga.

However, they as teachers are certified to teach and have been practicing

Ashtanga for several years. Some teachers have gone to India to work under

Guruji and Sharath.

Also many of the teachers still take workshops and " trainings " by Manju Jois,

Kino Macgregor, Paul Dallangahan and David Swenson.

I want to one day be able to share my love of Ashtanga. I am taking a 200 hour

vinyasa teacher training right now. I personally want to take the week training

by Manju Jois and Kino Macgregor (who is certified by SKP Jois)has a 2 week

Ashtanga course. She is very clear that this is not a Teacher Training. You do

obtain a certificate of completion. I've found the teachers that I admire and

feel as if they have a strong practice and sense of this method. I hope to

continue to learn under their guidence. If the time comes I feel I am able to

share this method correctly I believe I will go back to my teachers for their

advice; however I know at this time I am not a person who can comfortably share

this method as I am still very much a student.

I am comfortable teaching Vinyasa flow yoga; but to me that is different from

the Ashtanga Method.

Just my personal opinion - I believe you were asking for that correct?

love & light

Flo

 

ashtangayoga , " Steven " <stevenlarock wrote:

>

> So...

> It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and hard

about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of the highest

priority.

> Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga Teachers

here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short Forms. From

there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio that

offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they offer is

strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the " Masters " as

they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I have contacted

David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are " Not " certified. the

only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place where they have a

festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way there. Just not a reality

at this moment.

> Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem to

stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

>

> Steve

>

> " Breath Into Your Heart "

>

[Guest guest]

We define our own limits, Steve.

 

Is it necessary to begin with certification? To begin with Ashtanga? Are

there any students in the area? Do they demand Ashtanga?

 

D (who grew up in New Hampshire)

 

On Sun, Dec 6, 2009 at 8:10 AM, Steven <stevenlarock wrote:

 

>

>

> So...

> It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

> years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

> knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and

> hard about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of

> the highest priority.

> Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

> special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga

> Teachers here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short

> Forms. From there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

> go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio

> that offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they

> offer is strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the

> " Masters " as they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I

> have contacted David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are

> " Not " certified. the only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place

> where they have a festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way

> there. Just not a reality at this moment.

> Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

> to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem

> to stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

> Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

>

> Steve

>

> " Breath Into Your Heart "

>

>

>

 

 

 

[Guest guest]

I understnd and see both sides of the teaching debate. I live in an area where

anyone with $2500 and a few weeks open on their scedule, can be a teacher.

Though this has opened the market of oportunity for worthy teachers, the market

is flooded and teachers are a dime a dozen. Students don't care rather you

studied 30 years or 3 months. As long as the time and place is conveniant, they

will be there.

 

Having to go to Mysore to be certified keeps the tradition pure, the teachers

trained well, and ensures the market is not flooded. The negative is that people

who are householders or who work jobs that they don't want to loose by spending

2 months in Mysore, or who just don't have the resources to travel so far, from

being teachers. It also results in disinformation about what Ashtanga is because

people can't experiance it themselves or can only study with one teacher who may

be a jerk or yoga Nazi.

 

I think it would be nice if certified ashtanga teachers could certify others

with parameters that would keep the market from being flooded and result in well

trained teachers who love Ashtanga. And David swenson is a wonderful teacher

with a big heart. There are plenty good teachers our there teaching without

being certified. I am not telling you to do it. I'm just saying.

 

 

Shanna

[Guest guest]

Stephen,

This is a good question and brings up a lot of different opinions. When

I began teaching yoga, it was not required to be 'certified'. Today

because yoga is so popular, it may be the reason for studios/gyms

requiring certification. I have seen both extremely great teachers who

are not certified and I have seen certified teachers who can not teach.

If you have been practicing and studying for 4 years and have teaching

ability, I wouldn't worry about getting 'certified' unless it is

required of you by the places you are planning to teach at. I have been

'certified' by both Tim Miller and Richard Freeman who are both great

teachers who are not 'certified' to my knowledge, and do not need to be.

Just remind yourself to keep up with your own practice and continue to

learn from other teachers/practices....I believe that there is no end to

learning, so even if you become 'certified' keep studying and growing,

for yourself, your students and the people of this planet.

Good luck and enjoy teaching!

Gayle

 

Steven wrote:

>

> So...

> It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice,

> about 4 years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to

> pass some of my knowledge to others. This has been something that I

> have thought long and hard about. The dedication and responsibility,

> to my students, must be of the highest priority.

> Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

> special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga

> Teachers here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's

> Short Forms. From there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the

> means to go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I

> looked at a studio that offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I

> think the course they offer is strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will

> also keep my eye out for the " Masters " as they do happen to migrate up

> to New England every so often. I have contacted David Swenson. He

> offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are " Not " certified. the only

> way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place where they have a

> festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way there. Just not a

> reality at this moment.

> Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From

> Guru to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure

> does seem to stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to

> get Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

>

> Steve

>

> " Breath Into Your Heart "

>

>

[Guest guest]

hi there,

 

i am sorry i have come into this thread quite late, but may i suggest caroline

klebl - i studied with her,

 

take care,

sophie

 

 

 

 

________________________________

Tom Hunter <thunter01

ashtangayoga

Thu, 10 December, 2009 17:16:08

Re: ashtanga yoga ***Certified Yoga Teacher Training***

 

 

Don't worry so much about getting " certified " . Certification really says

nothing about your ability to teach. To the contrary, many who get

certified are led to believe they know more than they do.

 

The " teacher training certification " in this country is 200 hrs. --Thats

nothing -- most states require more training to cut peoples hair, and there

you not putting somebody's health at risk.

 

Just study with great teachers whenever you have the opportunity. Also,

don't limit yourself to ashtanga teachers. There's a whole lot to be

learned from a good iyengar teacher, a good vini-yoga teacher, a good

kundalini teacher etc.

 

All that being said, in my opinion, if you want to really experience

ashtanga -- you need to find a place that offers a mysore-style practice and

do that for a few years (at least). No led class, no home practice will

ever be the same.

 

If you want to take a course about teaching ashtanga -- Tim Miller's teacher

trainings are excellent.

 

On Sun, Dec 6, 2009 at 5:10 AM, Steven <stevenlarock@ > wrote:

 

>

>

> So...

> It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

> years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

> knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and

> hard about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of

> the highest priority.

> Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

> special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga

> Teachers here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short

> Forms. From there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

> go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio

> that offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they

> offer is strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the

> " Masters " as they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I

> have contacted David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are

> " Not " certified. the only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place

> where they have a festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way

> there. Just not a reality at this moment.

> Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

> to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem

> to stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

> Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

>

> Steve

>

> " Breath Into Your Heart "

>

>

>

 

 

[Guest guest]

Annie,

VERY WELL SAID!! BRAVO!!!

jana

 

AnnieG wrote:

 

>

>

>

> There are many sides to this debate.

> On the one hand, it is true that the 'purest' form of Ashtanga is

> only, and can only be, the exact form as taught by Sharath. Even

> though that has changed considerably from the sequences as first

> taught by Guruji in the 1970s.

> On the other hand there is the pragmatic view, that modifications are

> sensible, that stopping a student at the pose they 'can do' is too

> OTT, and that it is better to have a student do a daily practice that

> they enjoy than try to struggle with something that will injure them

> if they persevere.

> And then again, there is the school which recognises that Ashtanga is

> a great foundation but that more variety and flexibility can be better

> still, and endorses the 'vinyasa flow' systems. Similar to Ashtanga,

> but with different asanas.

>

> Then there are the Ashtanga Police, who take a sharp intake of breath

> if they see anyone in an Ashtanga class doing ANYTHING which is not

> part of the counted sequence that Sharath currently teaches.

>

> Where I'm leading to on this is that, you are right, there can be no

> 'Certified' courses other than the one that Sharath runs. But on the

> other hand, there are many excellent teachers who can transmit and

> pass on a wider and more pragmatic knowledge, perhaps better suited to

> Western bodies.

>

> I would suggest that you find a teacher you like - you mention David

> Swenson - and then follow his teacher trainings. Does it lead to

> 'Certification' ? Probably not, but 'trained by David Swenson' says as

> much.

>

> I am 60 with many injuries, and my ideal teacher is one which allows

> me to do my 'Old Ladies Ashtanga' practice without condemnation

> because its not the 'pure' sequence. Only rarely do I encounter a

> teacher so dyed in the wool that they prohibit the modifications which

> suit my body and mind.

>

> Om shanti, Annie

> ashtangayoga

> <ashtangayoga%40>, " Steven " <stevenlarock

> wrote:

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Tom...

I wanted to thank you for your reply and good advice. I will try to get to New

Hampshire more often for Mysore. My Home practice is doing very well. Seems to

me that that is what most people are trying to attain. Mysore meens 1.5 Hrs each

way drive for me. o Mysore is not always my best resource. I would pay for

private hour with my teacher instead. I do this to tune up.

I think that " Certification " is so ingrained in our society. That we expect

that the credentials should be available. When it becomes too exclusive, due to

the distance and time restriants, We will call it an Ashtanga " Intensive "

workshop. I am ok with this as well. It is when the Studet asks the Teacher " Do

you have the right credentials to perfom this Science? " You then have to bring

out this " Story " of a Little place called Mysore and a man named Patahbbis Jois.

Wasn't there supposed to be an authorized Shala in Florida at one time? Guruji

was coming but got ill and Sharat came to open it. Was I dreaming this or did it

never come to fruition?

Thank you again... I love this Practice... I will teach this Practice... But

not at the detriment to my Students. That is a Vow I will never surender.

Best regards,

Steve

 

" Breath Into Your Heart "

 

ashtangayoga , Tom Hunter <thunter01 wrote:

>

> Don't worry so much about getting " certified " . Certification really says

> nothing about your ability to teach. To the contrary, many who get

> certified are led to believe they know more than they do.

>

> The " teacher training certification " in this country is 200 hrs. --Thats

> nothing -- most states require more training to cut peoples hair, and there

> you not putting somebody's health at risk.

>

> Just study with great teachers whenever you have the opportunity. Also,

> don't limit yourself to ashtanga teachers. There's a whole lot to be

> learned from a good iyengar teacher, a good vini-yoga teacher, a good

> kundalini teacher etc.

>

> All that being said, in my opinion, if you want to really experience

> ashtanga -- you need to find a place that offers a mysore-style practice and

> do that for a few years (at least). No led class, no home practice will

> ever be the same.

>

> If you want to take a course about teaching ashtanga -- Tim Miller's teacher

> trainings are excellent.

>

> On Sun, Dec 6, 2009 at 5:10 AM, Steven <stevenlarock wrote:

>

> >

> >

> > So...

> > It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

> > years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

> > knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and

> > hard about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of

> > the highest priority.

> > Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> > My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

> > special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga

> > Teachers here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short

> > Forms. From there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> > I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

> > go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio

> > that offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they

> > offer is strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the

> > " Masters " as they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I

> > have contacted David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are

> > " Not " certified. the only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place

> > where they have a festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way

> > there. Just not a reality at this moment.

> > Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

> > to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem

> > to stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> > Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

> > Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

> >

> > Steve

> >

> > " Breath Into Your Heart "

> >

> >

> >

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi AnnieG...

I Wanted to thank you for your reply. I got a big chuckle out of the Ashtanga

Yoga Police. I guess in anything there are purests. It all seems so judgemental.

I like what David Swenson says, It's not weather it is a " Good " practice or a

" Bad " practice. Because, You were on the mat, They are all good....

Where would I be If I didn't have a modification or two. We all need these

because we are all different. We are also at different places in our Lives and

our Practices. With those Modifications we can gauge our progress in the

stringing of our own Yoga Mala. I will string My Mala differently that you...

and so on...

I will continue to search trainings from David Swenson, Maju Jois, Nacy Gilgoff

and any of the numbers of people that have recieved this transmission of

Knowledge from Guruji... Wait... Isn't that what Sharath is someone who recieved

Guruji's Transmisson of this practice.

Thank you Again... OM Shanti.. OM

 

Steve

[Guest guest]

Hi Flo...

Thank you for your reply. I am looking at the same avenue. Vinyassa Yoga 200

Hrs and then getting as much of the " Masters " classes in as they Migrate to New

England Once in a while.

I want to teach this practice. But I will go the " back door " to achieve that

if I have to. We gotta do what we gotta do... lol

 

Thanks again...

 

Steve

 

" Breath into Your Heart "

 

ashtangayoga , " flo_sheffield " <flo_sheffield

wrote:

>

> Steve-

> I have to agree with you; there is not a lot of Ashtanga here in Atlanta. I

was lucky to find 2 studios that offer it. Neither stuio is " certified " in

Ashtanga. However, they as teachers are certified to teach and have been

practicing Ashtanga for several years. Some teachers have gone to India to work

under Guruji and Sharath.

> Also many of the teachers still take workshops and " trainings " by Manju Jois,

Kino Macgregor, Paul Dallangahan and David Swenson.

> I want to one day be able to share my love of Ashtanga. I am taking a 200 hour

vinyasa teacher training right now. I personally want to take the week training

by Manju Jois and Kino Macgregor (who is certified by SKP Jois)has a 2 week

Ashtanga course. She is very clear that this is not a Teacher Training. You do

obtain a certificate of completion. I've found the teachers that I admire and

feel as if they have a strong practice and sense of this method. I hope to

continue to learn under their guidence. If the time comes I feel I am able to

share this method correctly I believe I will go back to my teachers for their

advice; however I know at this time I am not a person who can comfortably share

this method as I am still very much a student.

> I am comfortable teaching Vinyasa flow yoga; but to me that is different from

the Ashtanga Method.

> Just my personal opinion - I believe you were asking for that correct?

> love & light

> Flo

>

> ashtangayoga , " Steven " <stevenlarock@> wrote:

> >

> > So...

> > It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and hard

about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of the highest

priority.

> > Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> > My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga Teachers

here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short Forms. From

there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> > I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means

to go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio

that offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they offer

is strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the " Masters "

as they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I have contacted

David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are " Not " certified. the

only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place where they have a

festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way there. Just not a reality

at this moment.

> > Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem to

stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> > Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

> >

> > Steve

> >

> > " Breath Into Your Heart "

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Re: ***Certified Yoga Teacher Training***

Posted by: " Gayle " gayle gaylediehl

Fri Dec 11, 2009 1:53 pm (PST)

 

Stephen,

This is a good question and brings up a lot of different opinions. When

I began teaching yoga, it was not required to be 'certified'. Today

because yoga is so popular, it may be the reason for studios/gyms

requiring certification. I have seen both extremely great teachers who

are not certified and I have seen certified teachers who can not teach.

If you have been practicing and studying for 4 years and have teaching

ability, I wouldn't worry about getting 'certified' unless it is

required of you by the places you are planning to teach at. I have been

'certified' by both Tim Miller and Richard Freeman who are both great

teachers who are not 'certified' to my knowledge, and do not need to be.

Just remind yourself to keep up with your own practice and continue to

learn from other teachers/practices....I believe that there is no end to

learning, so even if you become 'certified' keep studying and growing,

for yourself, your students and the people of this planet.

Good luck and enjoy teaching!

Gayle

---------------

Hi Gayle, just a correction, Tim Miller and Richard Freeman are senior teachres

and actually hold the title " certified " within the traditional Mysore, India

ashtanga system. that is a big distinction and is difficult for someone to

reach. if you attended workshops with them, you would not have been " certified "

by them; you might have obtained a document that stated you attended a workshop,

if you needed it for the educational credits in the American system of yoga.

cheers,

Arturo

[Guest guest]

Hi Steve:

Just to clarify about the Florida shala. There is a K Pattabhi Jois Astanga

Yoga Shala in Islamorada, Florida, which opened in May 2008. Both Guruji and

Saraswathi were there, but not Sharath. I know because I attended the led

classes that were taught during the opening weekend. I believe today the shala

continues hold classes taught by a local authorized teacher.

Best,

Joe

 

 

 

ashtangayoga on behalf of Steven

Fri 12/11/2009 5:28 PM

ashtangayoga

Re: ashtanga yoga ***Certified Yoga Teacher Training***

 

 

Hi Tom...

I wanted to thank you for your reply and good advice. I will try to get to New

Hampshire more often for Mysore. My Home practice is doing very well. Seems to

me that that is what most people are trying to attain. Mysore meens 1.5 Hrs each

way drive for me. o Mysore is not always my best resource. I would pay for

private hour with my teacher instead. I do this to tune up.

I think that " Certification " is so ingrained in our society. That we expect

that the credentials should be available. When it becomes too exclusive, due to

the distance and time restriants, We will call it an Ashtanga " Intensive "

workshop. I am ok with this as well. It is when the Studet asks the Teacher " Do

you have the right credentials to perfom this Science? " You then have to bring

out this " Story " of a Little place called Mysore and a man named Patahbbis Jois.

Wasn't there supposed to be an authorized Shala in Florida at one time? Guruji

was coming but got ill and Sharat came to open it. Was I dreaming this or did it

never come to fruition?

Thank you again... I love this Practice... I will teach this Practice... But

not at the detriment to my Students. That is a Vow I will never surender.

Best regards,

Steve

 

" Breath Into Your Heart "

 

ashtangayoga , Tom Hunter <thunter01 wrote:

>

> Don't worry so much about getting " certified " . Certification really says

> nothing about your ability to teach. To the contrary, many who get

> certified are led to believe they know more than they do.

>

> The " teacher training certification " in this country is 200 hrs. --Thats

> nothing -- most states require more training to cut peoples hair, and there

> you not putting somebody's health at risk.

>

> Just study with great teachers whenever you have the opportunity. Also,

> don't limit yourself to ashtanga teachers. There's a whole lot to be

> learned from a good iyengar teacher, a good vini-yoga teacher, a good

> kundalini teacher etc.

>

> All that being said, in my opinion, if you want to really experience

> ashtanga -- you need to find a place that offers a mysore-style practice and

> do that for a few years (at least). No led class, no home practice will

> ever be the same.

>

> If you want to take a course about teaching ashtanga -- Tim Miller's teacher

> trainings are excellent.

>

> On Sun, Dec 6, 2009 at 5:10 AM, Steven <stevenlarock wrote:

>

> >

> >

> > So...

> > It has come to this. After Starting this Transformative Practice, about 4

> > years ago, I am making it a lifelong commitment. I want to pass some of my

> > knowledge to others. This has been something that I have thought long and

> > hard about. The dedication and responsibility, to my students, must be of

> > the highest priority.

> > Here is the reason I am writing this topic...

> > My first Love is Ashtanga. When this practice found me, I knew it was

> > special... This was " MY " practice. I live in Maine. Not many Ashtanga

> > Teachers here... to say the least. So I started with David Swenson's Short

> > Forms. From there I developed a Home practice. ***I was Hooked***

> > I want to get certified, as a teacher. I do not, however, have the means to

> > go to Mysore India to learn from Saraswati and Sharat. I looked at a studio

> > that offers Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Certification. I think the course they

> > offer is strongly Ashtanga influenced. I will also keep my eye out for the

> > " Masters " as they do happen to migrate up to New England every so often. I

> > have contacted David Swenson. He offers 40 hr teacher trainings. They are

> > " Not " certified. the only way... to get that... Is Far far away. In a place

> > where they have a festival for Ganesha once a year. I will find my way

> > there. Just not a reality at this moment.

> > Is there any other way... Transmission of Knowledge is revered, From Guru

> > to student. I respect this and understand to some degree. It sure does seem

> > to stunt the Teaching of this beautiful practice.

> > Please comment: Do you feel that Ashtanga Teachers should be able to get

> > Certified. As long as it is taught to them by a Certfied Teacher.

> >

> > Steve

> >

> > " Breath Into Your Heart "

> >

> >

> >

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Gayle,

 

Arturo is right: you are not yet certified whereas both Tim Miller &

Richard Freeman have been one of the first batches that got certified by

Guruji. Please get this distinction correct.

 

Cheers,

Amy

[Guest guest]

Or are we defined by our limitations... ?

 

Necessity is the fuel, that Propels Us, to Do what We Belive in.

 

Yes... there are Students in the Area. With a Shortage of Teachers. We are like

Birds all flocking to the next workshop within 100 miles of us.

 

New Hampshire... Has an awesome Studio. Yoga East of Portsmouth. About an Hour

and a Half drive for me. Three hours round trip. I have made that my latest

" Necessity " lol

Thank you for your reply...

Steve

 

PS>>> Was that your Answer?

 

ashtangayoga , Darrell King <DarrellGKing wrote:

>

> We define our own limits, Steve.

>

> Is it necessary to begin with certification? To begin with Ashtanga? Are

> there any students in the area? Do they demand Ashtanga?

>

> D (who grew up in New Hampshire)

[Guest guest]

Hi Shanna...

There are People looking to make a fast buck on thier Students. With little or

not much awareness given to the Students Emoitional, Physical or Spiritual

wellbeing. " OK Everyone... Grab your Wii Fit Mats and follow Me " . " Snake oil "

Salesmen. Enterprize and not sympathise, with the Beings that wish guidance from

them.

So I feel that the " Middle Road " is the best road traveled. I respect the

Purity of the Exclusivity. I also would like to be able to have some sort of

Official Credit of Knowledge. I am sure this debate will continue, I am sure it

has for many Years. I feel that certification is not just for the Student. It is

as much for the Teacher, if not more so. Certification brings Confidence. It

provides an external confidence to support the internal knowledge.

Like I mentioned before... I want to teach " this " practice... but never to the

detriment of my Students. I guess we all got to do what we gotta do... Lol

 

David Swenson does have a Big Heart... I did a workshop with him a few years

ago. What a wonderful Man. Learned some Pranayama from him. He helped me with

with floating through (Lolasana helped me alot)

 

Thanks again...

 

Steve

[Guest guest]

Hi Gayle...

 

I believe you are right. Too much confusion...

The responsibility of the Teacher is to Guide the student. Proper alignment,

and recognizing your students limitations at both ends. Where they can push

further... and where they need to soften.

Tim Miller's Studio is on the West coast. I would love to practice with him.

Richard Freeman another Master. I believe I could soak up all kinds of Ashtanga

from him as well. You are fortunate. I am learning Everytime I link a breath to

movement...

Thank you again...

Steve

[TakeOneBreath 0]

Try TELLING THE TRUTH FOR ONCE IN YOUR LIFE, that might be the biggest first step you could ever take.