Hatha Vinyasa
YOGA TEACHER TRAINING
The Full Spectrum of Yoga: A Foundation & Beyond
5 Feb-1 March 2011 | Koh Samui, Thailand | 200-Hour Yoga Alliance Course
Take a powerful step along the path: Join senior teacher trainer, Stephen Thomas, on Koh Samui Island for a 200-hour Yoga Alliance Certification course in Hatha Yoga!
BECOME A CERTIFIED YOGA TEACHER
Next Course: 5 Feb-1 March 2011
Location: Koh Samui, Thailand
*now accepting applications!
APPLY NOW
Date:September 2, 2010
From: Stephen Thomas (E-RYT 500)
Dear Yogis,
I will be spending the month of February on Koh Samui Island training a select group of students in the art and science of teaching yoga during a 200-hour Yoga Alliance Certification course.
I’ve learned that there are moments in your life when you realize that it’s time for a change, a transformation. The yoga tradition lays down a clear path for you to follow, and for most, a teacher training course is a giant step along that path.
“Grow your practice, learn to teach, and inspire others by sharing the healing benefits of the ancient practices of yoga with the world!”
For many people, an intensive teacher training course is one of the few opportunities they have to step out of the normal condition of life and transform though inner growth, learning and sharing. Training to teach yoga often initiates huge positive changes in people’s lives—on every level!
Yoga has a message for humanity, for the body, for the mind and the spirit. In the words of my Guru:
“Are there some… willing to step forward to learn so that this practice can be shared throughout the world?”
WHY DO YOU WANT TO TEACH?
- Inspire students & change lives
- Stay fit & healthy
- Work in a positive environment
- Live & work anywhere in the world
- Enjoy a flexible schedule
- Have plenty of free time (work less hours)
- Receive a good salary
10 Things You Must Know Before Enrolling
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PREPARE TO BE CHALLENGED, INSPIRED, AND TRANSFORMED!
The form of yoga taught requires previous Hatha Yoga experience and a good level of awareness of movement and breath. You will learn how to move deeper into your body and breath, slowly and with proper alignment and technique.
The training will be physically and mentally challenging. There will also be a strong pranayama and meditation component which means students must be prepared for the stamina of sitting. You will also learn and explore the cleansing kriyas of Hatha Yoga and how to incorporate a supportive diet into your lifestyle.
HERE’S AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
- How to teach a 90-minute Hatha Vinyasa-style class
- How to structure a class and sequence postures
- How to safely and appropriately adjust students in class
- Kriyas (yoga cleansing techniques) & pranayama (breathing exercises)
- Yoga history, philosophy & anatomy
- Ayurveda
"After just one class, I found what my
definition of a ‘dream class’ should be…"
After just one class, I found what my definition of a ‘dream class’ should be, after searching for such a long time. Stephen teaches a well-balanced class, and I always felt refreshed rather than tired even though it was actually a really deep practice.
- Jasmine Sun (China)
LET’S TALK ABOUT THE CLASSES
Hatha Vinyasa Yoga is a fun and powerful practice that teaches students to integrate their body, breath, and spirit. The yoga poses taught include standing asanas, seated postures, inversions, balancing poses, and twists—the same sequences that ancient yogis have done for thousands of years.
Hatha Vinyasa combines the dynamic vinyasas and internal heat practices of Ashtanga Yoga with detailed alignment instruction and a wide range of postures and sequences. It’s a challenging practice that is accessible to all students regardless of age or ability. On a more subtle level, Hatha Vinyasa includes specific breathing exercises, cleansing practices, and philosophies that make it a truly holistic approach to living more than just a yoga class. Hatha Vinyasa creates light bodies, clear minds, and open hearts.
THE LIFE OF A YOGA TEACHER
- Fulltime teachers usually teach 2-3 classes per day with one day off per week.
- Teachers’ can earn between $20-60 per class and might receive housing and transportation allowances when working overseas.
- Hatha Yoga studios are all over the world, so there are always many studios looking for new teachers.
- Most teachers have plenty of free time to pursue their hobbies and interests such as art, travel, writing, and learning foreign languages!
ARE YOU READY TO TEACH?
So how do you know if you’re ready to teach? You’re ready to teach when you fall in love with the practice; when you feel something deeper growing inside you; when your awareness extends beyond your physical body and out into the world.
When this happens, the natural urge is to share yoga with others… to teach!
BASIC COURSE REQUIREMENTS
- Must have an established, committed yoga practice (6-12 months minimum)
- Must be mentally and physically prepared for an intensive training
- Must bring a positive, healthy attitude and a sense of lightness and humor
AND WHAT ABOUT THE CERTIFICATION?
All students who successfully complete the course will receive a 200-Hour Yoga Alliance Teaching Certificate. This is the internationally-recognized standard certification for beginner and intermediate-level teachers. 200-hour Yoga Alliance certified teachers are fully qualified and prepared to teach.
“Stephen is to me a world-class teacher!”
I have studied yoga for 7 years and before I met Stephen, no one ever noticed my scoliosis. Every time I did meditation in padmasana, I came out with a terrible backache… the day Stephen noticed my problem, I was in tears, as I realized how his observation extended to include every one of his 45 students. He was so focused that he noticed the slightest problem of alignment in my back.
– John Ang (Director of Yoga Living, Taipei)
“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”
– Henry Adams
During our time together, I’ll help you explore the deeper dimensions of the sacred path of yoga from all angles, both on and off the mat! Together, we’ll embark on a 24-day journey into the depths of yoga asana, the power of pranayama, the centering bliss of meditation, and the healing science of Ayurveda.
A “DAY IN THE LIFE” OF A TRAINEE
07:00-07:30 Pranayama (breath work) & Kriyas (cleansing exercises)
07:30-09:30 Yoga Class
09:30-10:15 Breakfast (at the Love Kitchen)
10:30-12:30 Workshop*
12:30-13:30 Lunch (at The Love Kitchen)
13:30-15:30 Workshop*
15:30-17:00 Yoga Class
18:30-19:30 Dinner (at The Love Kitchen)
20:00-21:00 Satsang, Meditation, Questions or Yoga Films
*Workshops will include yoga lectures, practice teaching, posture clinics, and leadership skills.
There is 1 day off per week
PLEASE NOTE: The training will be conducted in English
Stephen’s inspiring teachings come straight from the heart
My training with Stephen at Absolute Sanctuary was perfect. I could
not have wished for a more beautifully rounded experience and
grounding for my yoga journey.
The Absolute Sanctuary was faultless, a great balance of boutique luxury and personal attention to detail. The food and juices are delicious and I will always remember morning prananyama sessions whilst the sun was coming up and the light falling into the beautiful yoga studio, a real privilege to learn in.
Stephen’s inspiring teachings come straight from the heart, and it also struck me how in tune with the needs of the group he was, as a whole and on an individual basis. I can only hope Stephen’s teachings are reflected in my own as they were passed on to us with such love and humility I will always hold them dear to my heart. Thank you with deepest gratitude to all involved.
- Nicola
All classes and most workshops will be held at Absolute Sanctuary, our newest yoga facility on Koh Samui nestled into a hillside overlooking the sea.
- Brand new hardwood floor studio
- State-of-the-art heating system
- Showers, lockers, changing rooms
- Cool, breezy space
- Excellent natural light and green hillside views
We serve simple, healthy meals every day in buffet style. To keep your training costs as low as possible, the food is self-serve (no waiters) and family-style. Don’t expect fine dining, but our Thai and international chefs do a great job preparing tasty, healthy meals made from scratch for you to enjoy.
- 3 group meals daily (included in tuition)
- Group menu includes : fruits, homemade breads, burritos, stir fries, rice, noodles, Italian, Thai, American, and Mexican foods
- Additional food, snacks, and beverages can be purchased at any time from The Love Kitchen
All trainees will stay at Absolute Sanctuary, our newly-opened, Moroccan-style resort with stunning sea views.
- Quite location with an infinity pool and full spa
- Outdoor gazebo (some sessions held here)
- TV, air-con, hot shower rooms
- Shared room (private rooms available for extra charge)
“Stephen has given me great inspiration…”
I’m so blessed to have Stephen as my teacher because of his great teaching techniques, adjustment skills, caring personality, and most important above all is his connectivity with students.
I feel so peaceful, motivated and anchored in all his classes because he is teaching us with his HEART.
– Cindy Chow (Hong Kong)
10 Things You Must Know Before Enrolling
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This training is rare opportunity to explore the wide spectrum of Hatha Yoga rooted in ancient teachings. The core of your studies will revolve around the practices of three of the most influential modern schools of yoga: Iyengar, Ashtanga, and Bihar. From the ancient scriptures,you’ll also study the philosophical teachings of Patanjali’s, Yoga Sutras, and the universal life lessons of the Bhagavad Gita.
On a physical level, you will study and practice vinyasa, bandhas, and breath. You will also learn to apply and teach precise alignment to make postures safer and more therapeutic.
On a subtler level, you’ll be introduced to the transformative teachings of pranayama, mudra and meditation along with music and mantra for uplifting the spirit!
To give you a well-rounded base of knowledge, you’ll also delve deep into the formal study of functional yoga anatomy, Ayurveda (including diet and cleansing), and yoga history and philosophy all taught in a fun and relevant way that you can apply in your daily life as a student and a teacher!
“You must first understand yoga through the body and the breath… but to teach, we must begin to awaken and experience our own essential nature!”
With this in mind, a big part of your journey will be experiential. Through trial and error, you’ll feel the real life effects of asana, pranayama, and meditation. This is challenging of course, but it’s also incredibly rewarding; a way to connect deeper into yourself and find your true essence.
“Great teaching comes from committing to the practice, living what you are taught, and sharing your experience with others,” says Stephen. “What I teach is rooted in the ancient scripture and traditions that have been passed down for generations, and my goal is to take you right into the heart of yoga!”
“Everyone is smiling and very excited about the experience…”
…in Stephen’s teaching, you can feel the build up of energy, the climax and then the smooth transition to cool down, it is very comforting! Like the journey of life! In addition, you will feel inspired with his thoughts and sharing in between, not to mention his sense of humor!
– Maria Law (Professional Dancer, Hong Kong)
MAIN STUDY POINTS:
• Asana (yoga postures) – There is much more to yoga postures than strength and flexibility. During the course, you’ll learn how specific poses affect the energy in our bodies and promote health and peace within.
• Pranayama (breathing exercises) – In the tradition of Sri. O.P. Tiwari, you’ll learn the subtle science of breath. For most students, it’s challenging enough to remain aware of their breathing, but our goal is to go much further… to learn to control and expand the breath consciously for health and spiritual growth.
• Kriya (yoga postures) – The ancient yogis developed a very specific set of cleansing practices that are just as powerful today as they were thousands of years ago. During the course, you’ll learn how to naturally detoxify your system.
• Mantra (vocal repetition of sacred sounds) – The yoga of sound is one of the easiest to experience. If you sit in a room and chant the sound of OM, immediately you feel the power of yoga mantra! During the course, we will learn and experiment with many different sacred sounds.
• Meditation (seated practice) – Perhaps the most challenging practice of all is the practice of stillness. Meditation can be very intimidating, but during the course, we’ll take baby steps as we learn to practice properly.
• Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) – Ayurveda and yoga are sister sciences. You’ll discover how your body’s constitution relates to you yoga practice, the foods you should eat, and even your behavioral tendencies.
• The Art of Teaching — Teaching a great class requires a delicate balance of skill, experience, and inspiration. You’ll learn how to bring out the best in any student through real-life practice sessions.
• Yoga History & Philosophy — Through the study of the ancient yogic texts, you’ll learn practical ways to apply these classical teachings in a modern world.
“I was working at a corporate job but
was thirsting for a change…”
…something that resonated more in my heart. I took a chance and enrolled in Stephen’s 4 week training at Pure Yoga, which turned out to be extremely rich, potent and an absolutely transformational experience for me.
Stephen’s teaching is highly emphasized on the spiritual elements as well as healing the body & soul by applying integrated alignment through asana, kriya (cleaning) to remove the samskara (impression) and the wisdom teaching by raising the level of consciousness and awareness.
The integrated alignment strengthens my asana practice and also have helped to heal some of my old injuries; the kriya washed away my long-time sinus problem; and the wisdom teaching have greatly guided me even since.
– Michelle Chu Yoga Teacher (Space Yoga. Taipei, Taiwan)
ABOUT STEPHEN THOMAS (E-RYT 500, course director)
Stephen Thomas is a senior international yoga teacher, who leads teacher trainings, workshops and immersions across Asia and Europe. His teaching is deeply rooted in the traditional yoga practices of asana, pranayama, and meditation. His philosophical background is influenced by studies in the classical systems of yoga philosophy as well as Tibetan Buddhism and Tantra, all of which have worked together to enrich and inform his personal approach.
In his teaching, Stephen encourages a synthesis of physical effort (asana, cleansing kriyas, pranayama, etc.), with the study of sanskrit, chanting, meditation and devotion. Integrating these deep practices into the daily spectrum of one’s life is a central theme of his work.
Stephen studies directly with O.P. Tiwari of Kaivalyadham, India and continues to evolve his knowledge in the fields of pranayama, therapy, healing and Ayurveda. He has completed advanced studies with Tiwari and continues to dedicate his personal practice and work to promoting health and transformation through this method of yoga.
The asana component of his teaching is used as a way to purify and stabilize the system, and to re-integrate the mind/body/spirit complex. Through the asana, the joy of the body and breath are re-discovered and a gateway into the deeper realms of the practice is revealed. His asana studies form a major part of his teaching and have been influenced by the alignment principals of Iyengar, and the transformational elements of the Ashtanga Vinyasa system.
He embodies the spirit of joy, respect and deep gratitude for those who have influenced him over the years, including, Sri.K. Patthabi Jois, B.K.S. Iyengar, Richard Freeman, Aadil Palkhivala, Paul Dallaghan and Patrick Creelman.
Stephen currently divides his time between his base in Asia and Zurich, Switzerland. For more information, or to see his teaching schedule, please visit his website, at
www.stephenthomasyoga.com
“Stephen combines serious guiding with warmth and humor”
Stephen is a unique yoga instructor, as he seems to have an interest to facilitate access to the yoga wisdom for everybody who is interested in it. He takes away barriers instead of creating new ones. Unlike other teachers who simply like being the teacher and giving lessons, he provide serious guiding on the one hand and shares wisdom on the other hand, but he also combines it with lightness and even humor (which is so rarely seen in western yoga classes) and that is so
motivating and encourageing! He creates a spirit of community in his class and it is this atmosphere he creates that makes such a big difference from all the other classes I have gone to so far. In your class I experienced the energizing power of yoga, as if a ventile had opened up and a huge amount of energy started to flow.
– Katrin (Thailand)
MY TEACHING TEAM
Rachel Zinman (ayurveda, chanting, nutrition)
Rachel has been practicing yoga for over 20 years and has taught for 18. Prior to her initial yoga education Rachel trained as a professional dancer and choreographer in the USA and in Australia. Discovering yoga she originally trained in the Iyengar and Ashtanga methods and first began teaching in her role as Head of Dance at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium where she introduced yoga to the curriculum.
Her teaching style continues to reflect her deep engagement with the arts – dynamic and precise with an emphasis on mindfulness. While again living in New York from 2000–2004 Rachel met Yoga Works and ISHTA yoga founder Alan Finger teaching in his BeYoga studios for four years. There she co-created and coordinated the Be Yoga Teacher Training Program, becoming a senior facilitator and mentor.
Rachel returned to Australia to teach in the Yoga Arts Teacher Training, and since 2005 has created and facilitated her own teacher trainings and workshops in the ISHTA System in Australia, India, Bali, Japan, New York and in many major cities in Europe.
In 2006 she began practicing Bhakti Yoga and has incorporated Yantra, Mantra, Mudra and Tantric rituals into her workshops and trainings. Rachel¹s deep personal experience and investigation of meditation allows her to be both intuitive and creative in her work and she feels grateful to be able to share her passion with others.
Rachel also co-created and produced a popular Australian Yoga Video series and a Kid’s Yoga Video. She is an award-winning musician for her album of chanting and devotional song, Sita Ram, and is a published poet.
I’ve noticed an incredible change in the flow of energy within my body
Rachel – I have been wanting to touch base with you in person to let you know how amazing for me your classes have been., Not only have I noticed an incredible change in the flow of energy within and around my body, but friends and family have noticed it also. I feel so alive and vibrant and cannot thank you enough for enabling me to shift a lot of stuck emotional energy that I have not been able to shift for years, despite many different types of body work sessions and some counseling sessions. The effect is dramatic and wonderful. Thank you.
– Fran (Australia)
Richard Hackenburg (Functional Yoga Anatomy)
In 1979, Richard started practicing hatha yoga and pranayama because of a severe breathing problem. His interests in psychology and anatomy along with his passion for music and travelling have been balanced by his yoga practice ever since.
In 1998 he discovered the basic alignment of B.K.S. Iyengar and completed a 3 year 750 hrs teacher training. He studied anatomy with the intention of merging the western scientific approach with the traditions of the east like Ayurveda and Hatha Yoga.
Although Richard has studied with many influencal modern yoga teachers and practiced asthanga, anusara and vinyasa; he always feels drawn back to basic hatha yoga.
Richard got his E-RYT 500 in 2006 and is currently teaching and training teachers in anatomy, pranayama and basic alignment in Europe and Asia. His therapeutic work is influenced by gestalt and biodynamics.
Richard is grateful for being tought by Roger Cole, Adil Palkivala, Michael Forbes, Lois Steinberg, Rita Keller and O.P. Tiwari.
I highly recommend joining Stephen’s retreats and trainings
After taking part in a one week immersion course with Stephen at Yoga Thailand, I realised It would not be the last time I studied with him. He is a deeply spiritual person with broad knowledge of yoga as a traditional and contemporary practice. He calmly guides his students through the subtle and dynamic aspects of yoga for a complete and full experience. I highly recommend joining Stephen’s retreats
and trainings if you wish to develop your own practice in a meaningful way.
– Daniel Stringer (yoga student)
“Stephen is a truly inspiring yoga teacher!”
Stephen is a truly inspiring yoga teacher who manages to effortlessly combine both the yin & yang aspects of yoga in his classes, the “ha” & the “tha” so effortlessly that you can’t help but become seriously addicted to his teachings!”
– Bobsy Gaia, Co-Owner/Founder of Life Cafe (Hong Kong)
SO HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
This teacher training will change your life, but luckily, it won’t cost you nearly as much as you thought! Our training facility is located on the beautiful but affordable island of Koh Samui so accommodation, food, and transportation costs are lower than most parts of the world—and we pass those savings on to you!
Tuition includes all training materials and certification.
3,875 USD (Level I and II): 200-Hour Yoga Alliance Certification Course
1,000 USD: Shared room (1 roommate)
700 USD: 3 meals daily
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5,575 USD all inclusive (no extra fees)
Early Discount: Save 300 USD – You pay just 5,275 USD
How it Works: We get a discount for early booking at the training center that we’re happy to pass along to you. So for students who pay tuition before 15 November 2010, you’ll save 300 USD on your tuition cost.
Please Note: Most graduates will be able to earn back their tuition within 4 months! For Exchange Rates: www.xe.com
But Wait… There’s More!
Extra Bonus #1: Free Yoga Mat
Along with your early discount, if you apply and register in full be fore 15 December, you’ll also receive a free yoga mat (yours to keep) so you don’t have to bring yours on the flight!
Extra Bonus #2: Free Welcome Foot Massage
Thailand is famous for its masseurs, and Absolute Sanctuary’s spa staff is exceptionally good at helping to relax our yoga students. So after you check in, treat yourself to a complimentary foot massage on us!
Extra Bonus #3: VIP Training Pass
As an Absolute Yoga graduate, you’ll be given 20% off any additional trainings within a full 2 years of graduation…this includes retreats, workshop, advanced courses, and more!
TAKE THE NEXT STEP!
My objective is to give you all the tools needed so that you’ll walk away with the personal experience and knowledge that builds the foundation for all inspired teaching. It will be a challenging and rewarding course to be sure, so ask yourself:
“Where do you want to be a year from now, and how does yoga fit into your life?” Form a clear vision in your mind, and begin to make some declarations.
If a yogic life is for you, then you need to take steps in that direction. I’d be honored to be your guide and share with you what I’ve learned from my teachers, so we can walk on this path together.
In peace,
Stephen Thomas (E-RYT)
stephenthomasyoga@gmail.com
p.s. We are now accepting applications. To learn more, please follow the link below… I hope you can join us.
Something deep inside me shifted on this course
I did the teacher training course with Stephen in June 2009. Absolute Sanctuary was a great place to do the training, especially the yoga room with its great view on banana and palm trees it’s an almost sacred place. Food and beverages were always satisfactory and delicious, and the team was always keen to do everything for our well-being. It was great to relax in the spa and use the steam room and pool.
To describe my individual experiences and outcomes of this course is not so easy: Although I am the same person I always was, something deep inside me shifted and is still shifting. Bit by bit, not always in a way I can explain. I am sure that the long time period gave me the possibility to really shift something within myself and in my life. In everyday life, it is hard work to keep up the spirit and continuity, to keep a consequent practice of Pranayama and Asanas, to not become overwhelmed by ‘real life’.. But I’ll always know how I felt after the weeks in Thailand and so I can always use that memory to come back to it.
– Liz Kirchmair (Austria)
“Students will be inspired to set off into the path of their own growth…”
I was able to full immerse myself into the training programme from the very first day… Stephen has a way of seeing and shaping to the needs of the group and its individuals.
– Veronika Dangl (Australia)
