Yoga training originates from ancient India. It has become very popular in modern times. Though the practice begins with the physical body, the ultimate goal of yoga is to transcend the limitations of the body to attain enlightenment and complete liberation from all forms of suffering. There are many types of yoga training available today.
Identification
Yoga training can simply involve taking yoga classes or a yoga retreat or vacation to learn more about and actually practice yoga. There are different styles of yoga you can train in, including Vinyasa, Iyengar, Anuasara, Jivamukti, Kripalu, Hatha, power, prenatal and Kundalini yoga. In ancient times, yoga training was always done through a one-on-one apprenticeship with an advanced yoga teacher. These days, this is a type of yoga training that is often done after one has already completed a yoga teacher training.
History
Author Swami Satyananda Saraswati writes in "Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha" that yoga training started in ancient times, when yoga techniques were kept secret from the general public. Back then, yoga training was passed down from teacher to student in an unbroken lineage. Fully enlightened master teachers helped beginners confront the confusion and misunderstandings that arose in students, particularly when they focused excessively on the intellectual aspects of the teachings.
Time Frame
The time frame of yoga training has a lot of variety. Modern yoga classes, for example, last for one to two hours. Yoga retreats and vacations last from one to 14 days. A yoga teacher training program usually ranges from four-week intensives to two-year training programs. The two-year yoga teacher training courses usually take place only on the weekends or other specified times that are spread out throughout the years.
Features
Yoga training can simply involve learning the physical aspects of yoga, including asanas (yoga postures), pranayama (breathing exercises) and shavasana (final relaxation). Yoga training can also involve training in proper nutrition and lifestyle habits. Kirtan (chanting) and karma yoga (the practice of selfless service) are additional features of some yoga trainings.
Considerations
If you are interested in yoga training, it is best to begin by taking a couple beginner level courses to get familiar with the practice over a period of at least a year or two before moving into more advanced classes and teacher training programs. It is also a good idea to start practicing yoga every day from the start, as the benefits of yoga training come to you after spending a lot of time in uninterrupted practice.
References
- "Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha"; Swami Satyananda Saraswati; 2008
- Yoga Journal: Not All Yoga is Created Equal
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