Sivananda Yoga

Teacher Training Courses

Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training

A LIFE TRANSFORMING EXPERIENCE

The Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Course was created by Swami Vishnudevananda in 1969.  In 1957, Swami Sivananda sent Swami Vishnudevananda to America when yoga was still relatively unknown.  Swami Vishnudevananda was the first yoga master to train people in the West in yoga teacher training courses.  He designed the course to give students a comprehensive knowledge of both the practice and the philosophy of yoga.  

  • Uniquely, this course is intended to promote world peace as participants come to know inner peace and then radiate that peace all around.
  • The course is now taught by senior disciples of Swami Vishnudevananda throughout the world, to more than 1,200 students each year.
  • Now with over 47,000 graduates, the Sivananda yoga teacher training is the largest classical yoga training in the world.

Benefits of TTC

EXPERIENCE INNER PEACE AND SHARE IT WITH OTHERS

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Deepen your practice

Improve your health and regain vitality and clarity

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Classical Tradition

Connect to a tradition and be supported in your own practice and teaching

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Develop Confidence

Develop the intuition, knowledge and confidence to teach others

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Yoga Lifestyle

Experience a Yogic lifestyle (applying the 5 points of yoga) and learn how to teach it to others

Upcoming Dates

REGISTER NOW

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Teacher Training Course

February 24 – March 23, 2024

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Advanced Teacher Training Course (ATTC)

March 2025

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Teacher Training Course

July 6 – Aug 3, 2024

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Teacher Training Course

Nov. 9 – Dec. 7, 2024

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Yoga Alliance Certified

In the Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training you will deepen your practice and gain the skills needed to teach Yoga. After graduation participants will receive an certification from the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers that confirma that they have the knowledge and experience to teach Hatha Yoga, and which qualifies them to apply for Registered Yoga Teacher (200 hour) status from the international Yoga Alliance

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“My mission in life was to reduce the negative influences by positive suggestions and a positive way of life”

 – Swami Vishnudevananda

Course Curriculum

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THE SIVANANDA YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

Asanas – Yoga Postures

Each day you will study and practice yoga poses as the senior teachers guide you how to teach asanas and pranayama.  The daily practice with individual corrections includes:

• Sun salutation
• 12 basic Yoga postures
• 125 Asana variations, from intermediate to advanced level
• Postural alignment
• Concentration techniques
• Deep relaxation with autosuggestion
• Facilitating energy flow and releasing blocked energy

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Pranayama – Yogic Breathing

Pranayama, the science of prana control, consists of breathing exercises to enhance the health of body and mind.  You will learn Kapalabhati and Anuloma Viloma (alternate nostril breathing) and practice daily.  Also, you will be introduced to advanced pranayama.  Pranayama may offer the following benefits:

• Expanded lung capacity
• Increase oxygen intake for the cells
• Removal of carbon dioxide and toxins
• Recharging your “energy battery”
• Relaxing the nervous system
• Balanceing the two hemispheres of the brain
• Purifying the nadis (subtle energy channels)
• Awakening the inner spiritual energy

Nutrition – Yogic Diet

Food is responsible for building our physical body.  The foods we eat and the manner in which we eat also affect our mind, senses, energy, capacity of thinking and  intellect.

Course topics include:

• Proper Diet

• Vegetarianism for ethical, spiritual, and health reasons
• How diet affects the mind
• Proper balance of the main nutrients
• Ayurvedic principles of nutrition
• Healing effects of fasting

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Meditation and Mantra

Meditation is an integral part for the practice of Yoga.  During this course you will learn the practical steps of meditation, what meditation is, and what meditation is not.  In addition, you will learn that meditation is a spiritual journey to the realization of oneness.

During the course there will be a focus on japa meditation, or mantra repetition.  We will learn how a Sanskrit mantra is a mystical energy encased in a sound structure. Through mantra repetition we will help create positive thought patterns.

Anatomy and Physiology

This study helps you to improve the understanding of your body during your own yoga practice, and how to apply that understanding in your teaching practice.  the curriculem includes:

• Introduction to the major body systems
• The effects of asanas and pranayama on the cardiovascular, respiration, digestion, skeletal, muscular and endocrine systems
• Yoga and physical culture
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Yoga Philosophy

Yoga philosophy will give you insight into understanding our true nature and the nature of reality, removing mistaken beliefs. A deeper understanding of yourself will help you find detachment and and release stress, bringing your mind and body into harmony with your life purpose.  You will learn about karma and will start to understand the causes of your obstacles and challenges.

The philosophy classes are considered the main teaching of the course, and will benefit you for a long time as the seeds of knowledge are being transmitted.  You will also study the classical yoga text “Bhagavad Gita”, and the writings of our own yoga masters.

Kirtan and Chanting

Kirtan is singing the names of the Self, or the mantra, with devotion, love and faith.  Through this practice you will learn how kirtan helps to purify the heart and calm the mind.

Kriyas

Yogic cleansing exercises, known as “kriyas” assist nature in removing waste products from our bodies. Practicing cleansing is important as the Yogi regards their bodies as a vehicle in which to evolve toward higher consciousness. You will learn and practice, with guidance, yoga kriya exercises.

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TTC Students in Action

A Modern and Ancient Tradition

FOUR WEEKS IMMERSION IN YOGA LIFE

During the Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training Course you will study in the traditional gurukula system.  Students will be fully immersed in a live-in yoga training.  During the 4-week course students will practice the classical yoga curriculum which can promote deep personal transformation.  The spiritual essence of yoga will be learned through in-depth lessons shared from heart to heart by senior disciples and experienced teachers.  This will help awaken self-awareness, leadership, health and vitality.  In addition the course will prepare students to transmit the knowledge of yoga to others.

The Daily Schedule

05:30am    Wake Up
06:00am    Meditation, Kirtan chanting, Lecture, or Silent Walk (Satsang)
08:00am  Asanas and Pranayama
10:00am    Brunch
11:00am     Karma Yoga
12:00pm    Bhagavad Gita or Chanting Class
02:00pm   Main Lecture
04:00pm    Asanas and Pranayama
06:00pm    Dinner
08:00pm    Meditation, kirtan chanting and lecture (Satsang)
10:30pm     Lights Out

Practical Information

Students will enjoy special cultural programs, ceremonies, concerts and lectures offered by special guests teachers in allied Vedic sciences such as Ayurveda and Jyotish.

There is one weekly day off. During the day off students are only required to attend morning and evening satsangs and to perform their Karma Yoga duties.

During the course  punctual attendance at all activities is mandatory.

There will be a final exam at the end of the course.

The Four Paths of Yoga

An important component of the yoga teacher training is that for one month you will study the lessons of the Four Paths of Yoga.  By learning with the Gurukula system, you will transform detailed theory into practical understanding.

The practice of selfless service helps to reduce selfishness and egoism and keeps you fit, healthy, and joyful. You will learn how to transform karma into dharma.

Bhakti Yoga is the Yoga of Devotion and teaches us how to open the heart and sublimate the emotions. You will enjoy the practice of Kirtan (chanting of classical Sanskrit mantras), learn about Indian mythology, and other traditional Indian rituals.

Raja Yoga is a system of 8 limbs yoga (also known as ashtanga yoga) starting with guidelines in ethical behavior and ending with meditation.  Students will understand the interconnectedness of the different aspects of yoga techniques, all leading to better control of body and understanding of the mind.  In fact yoga is meditation and meditation is yoga.  Additionally, you will learn yoga psychology, positive thinking, and concentration theory and practice.

Jnana yoga or yoga of knowledge is the study and practice of vedanta philosophy.  Practically it is the practice of self-inquiry and the understanding of the 3 bodies, 5 layers, and karma.  Also one would learn to detach from illusory understanding of self and other and realize oneness.

“I am Peace”

 – Swami Vishnudevananda

Registration Information

SIGNING UP FOR THE YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

The practice and teaching of yoga demands a high degree of self-discipline and moral virtue.  In order to ensure the success of the program, participants are required to attend all activities, sessions, lectures, and yoga classes.

Please note that a basic knowledge of yoga postures and philosophy is helpful but not essential.   Most important is to come with an open mind and a willingness to learn new ideas.

In order to maintain the pure environment and elevated vibration necessary for the practice of yoga and meditation certain items are prohibited.  These include: meat, fish, eggs, black tea, coffee, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and also nudity are all during the course (and in the ashram).  Any participants who do not comply with the ashram rules may be dismissed from the course.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to cater to all personal dietary preferences.  We will offer a lacto-vegetarian (and almost fully organic) menu and dairy-free and wheat-free dishes. Side dishes, desserts and snacks may contain gluten and dairy.

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WHAT TO BRING (COURSE MATERIALS)

SIGNING UP FOR THE YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

You can find out all about what to expect at the ashram on our guest information page.  During the yoga teacher training course the following course materials and items should be brought with you, or purchased on location in our boutique, which will be open daily. 

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Included in course fee and provided at course inauguration are:
  • 2 yoga pants, 2 t-shirts, TTC Manual

     

Other required materials, not included in the course fee but available in our boutique for purchase are:

  • The “Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga by Swami Vishnudevananda, Three Rivers Press
  • Bhagavad Gita  with a commentary by Swami Sivananda, the Divine Life Trust Society
  • Yoga mat
  • Notebook and pen
  • Kriya set (including Neti Pot)

 

Also please bring with you:
  • Comfortable as well as warm clothing (covering shoulders and knees)
  • Flashlight
  • Sandals or slippers for indoors
  • Walking shoes
  • Towel
  • Water Bottle and Travel mug or tumbler (for hot tea)
  • Rain gear
  • Toiletries
  • For tent space only: bring your own tent and sleeping bag
  • Meditation cushion, meditation shawl (recommended)

COURSE PREPARATION

The yoga teacher training course requires a high degree of discipline and commitment. Prior mastery of Yoga practices is not necessary, however, previous practice of asanas and meditation is preferable. In order to best prepare for the intensive yoga teacher training schedule we recommend you to take a course at the yoga resort prior to the training.  You may check our calendar for upcoming courses.

The following reading is recommended for home study:

  • Sivananda Beginner’s Guide to Yoga” by Sivananda Yoga Centre, Gaia Books
  • Yoga Mind & Body” by Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Dorling Kindersley
  • Meditation and Mantras” by Swami Vishnudevananda, Motilal Banarsidass Publishers
  • Essentials of Yoga Practice and Philosophy” compiled by Swami Sitaramananda
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Testimonials

There were a number of reasons that led me come to Sivananda Training Center in Da Lat at the beginning of 2018, and then decide to come back here to take TTC just one month later  for 4 weeks intensive training course. I learned & received knowledge that I think it would have taken me a whole year to study on my own.

Thank you Swamiji for being very patient and always encouraging and inspiring us. Thank you all volunteers and staff for being very suppostive and caring. Thank to all students – coming from different countries for being commited, hard-working and sharing with each other.

Nguyễn Susan (Sundari)
Hà Nội, Việt Nam – TTC Feb 2018
Human Resources Manager

I want to say special thanks to all Swamis teachers and staffs staying here was really precious experience to me. I was very lucky to come here. After 1 month, I became stronger than before both in my mind & body. At first, I had little regret about coming here because the schedule is taugh and I had a lot of posing I can’t. however I used to the life and all activitives and people purify my mind. I want to share whati learned here to my important people. And I want to come back here for ATTC.
Thank you very much.

Ayumi Terasawa (Chandora)
Japan
TTC Feb 2018

1 month in TTC course is the most wonderful time I ever have in my life. I learned a lot of lessons in practical ways. Helping me open my mind and my heart. TTC was a big chance for me to continue the journey to answer the question “Who am I”. This question was always a part in my head for a long time ago. Now I still can not know but at least I have a clue and more motivation to continue that journey. Because I know I am not alone, I have Guru, Swami, Staff and classmates, and a lot of people keep supporting and going with me. Thank you Sivananda Yoga, Guru, all Swamis, Staff, Karma Staff for giving me and other people flames in our heart. I will continue to practice Yoga for the rest of my life.

Đậu Thu Hà ( Jayadevi)
Lâm Đong, Việt Nam
TTC Feb 2018
Accountant

A wonderful enriching experience. The views were stunning, the atmosphere peace and calm. People absolutely amazing, students, staffs, Swamijis. OM 😊

Bhupesh Bhika –
Sivarai, South Africa
TTC 2017

Amazing Experience. What a great month, with a beautiful environment surrounded by positive vibes from everyone. Great food too. I have learnt so much from the Swamijis and staffs even while doing karma yoga. Met so many people from different parts of the world but with similar interests. Leant so much from listening to their perspectives too. Truly a blessing to be here.

Aj Mougli Ram
Singapore
TTC July 2017

This course has tought me the true meaning at yoga and has given me guidance & invaluable teachings. I am definitely some steps closer on my path to peace.

Harriet Hansler
Harapriya
Australia
TTC Feb 2017

What’s Next?

CONTINUE YOUR YOGA LEARNING

ATTC is the advanced teacher training course where students go deeper

Advanced Teacher Training Course (ATTC)

Deepen the spiritual knowledge obtained during Sivananda Teacher Training with another month of intense yoga practice and study of Vedanta philosophy. Created by Swami Vishnudevanada for Sivananda Teachers looking to advance their teaching and practice.

Prerequisite: Sivananda TTC

Student practices Pranayama outdoors

Sadhana Intensive

Designed by Swami Vishnudevananda, this two-week course is centered around advanced Pranayama and is based on the Hatha Yoga practice which he himself followed during a six month period of intense Sadhana in the Himalayas.

 Prerequisite: Sivananda TTC

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TTC Reunion

The TTC Reunion is meant to tune the teachers, graduates, and serious students of Sivananda Yoga to the spiritual path as laid out by the Gurus, for their own growth and the upliftment of their students.   All with the view to get more inspiration and insights from each other and from the more experienced teachers. Step on the path and surrender to it!

Prerequisite: Sivananda TTC

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Yoga Health Educator Training

We are now offering an IAYT accredited 2-year 800-hour Sivananda Yoga Health Educator Training (SYHET) program which trains students in the therapeutic application of the 5 Points and 4 Paths.

Prerequisite:
200-hour YTT graduate

To see a list of all the Sivananda Teacher Training Courses around the world you can check our Headquarters website.

Teachers

GET INSPIRED BY THE LINEAGE

 Swami Sitaramananda

Swami Sitaramananda

Swami Sitaramananda is an international teacher of Yoga, Meditation, and Philosophy for more then 35 years. She is a direct disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda and is a representative of the teachings of International SYVC in Vietnam. She is in charge of West coast USA centers and Asia centers. She is presently the main teacher of the Yoga Teachers Training Courses offered at the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm, Grass Valley, CA where she is serving as the director for more then 20 years. She also teaches yearly at other Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashrams & Centers in India, Bahamas, Japan, and China.

Swami Narayanananda

Swami Narayanananda

Swami Narayanananda, who was born in London, England, has been a teacher of Yoga and meditation in the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers since 1999. He has served in the ashrams in California and New York, also as director of the Centers in New York and Chicago. He is a regular teacher for our Teacher Training and Advanced Teacher training courses in the USA, India and Vietnam. Swami Narayanananda has a compassionate and accessible teaching style firmly based in his own practice and in the study of scripture.

 

Swami Pranavananda

Swami Pranavananda

Swami Pranavananda, from the USA, and has been a Yoga and meditation teacher since 1995 in the US and abroad. He teaches mainly the Hatha Yoga and Anatomy sections for the TTC courses. He was the director of the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers in Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA for some years. Currently he is serving in Vietnam teaching in the Hochiminh center. He enjoys taking classes to learn Vietnamese.

 

Ganga Chaitanya

Ganga Chaitanya

Ganga Chaitanya graduated from International Sivananda Yoga teacher training course in 2009 and Advanced yoga teacher training course 2010 at the Yoga Farm in Grass Valley USA. She is also a graduate of the “Yoga as Medicine”, “Yoga Psychology”, and “Ayurveda and Yoga Wellness” course. She has been the director of the very dynamic Sivananda Yoga Centre in Ho Chi Minh City since 2011.

 

Saraswati

Saraswati

Saraswati graduated from International Sivananda Yoga teacher training course 2010 in Vietnam. She is also a graduate of the, “Yoga Psychology”, “Ayurveda and Yoga Wellness” course and “Ayuvedic massage therapist”. She was staff at Sivananda Yoga Vedanta center in Ho Chi Minh from 2010 – 2013.   In 2014 she assumed the responsibility of directing the Sivananda Yoga Centre in Dalat City and since 2017 has been assistant director of the new Sivananda Ashram in Dalat.  She enjoys teaching beginner courses, yoga for kids along with study of Ayurveda and healing.