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Frequentlty Asked Questions - YogaMea School, Italy

Will I be qualified to teach when I graduate and at what level?

Yes. You will be qualified to teach beginner to intermediate level practitioners upon completion of your 200-hour training. You will be qualified to teach all levels of practitioners after your 300- and/or 500-hour registered yoga teacher training course. Your ability to teach will be reinforced by your commitment to your personal practice and continued self-study.

Can you teach yoga without a certification?

Yes. You can teach without having a certificate, although it is not recommended. Gaining proficiency and an awareness of how to teach are benefits of a yoga teacher training program. Completing a certified yoga teacher program builds integrity and trust with those you are teaching and you increase your confidence in front of classes.

How long does it take to become a certified yoga teacher?

Depending on the level of your yoga teacher training program, it can take anywhere from 21 days to 63 days at a time. YogaMea School’s 200-Hour teacher training course is a 28 day commitment. Our 300-Hour course is an additional 28 day commitment. Complete the two courses back-to-back and earn your 500-Hour YogaMea School certificate, which is a 63-day commitment; because there is a week break before the 300-Hour courses begin.

How do you get certified with the Yoga Alliance?

Yoga Alliance does not certify its members. Their credentialing system is a directory, not to be confused with other types of credentialing systems (such as certifications, accreditations, licensure, etc.). Yoga Alliance is a non-profit membership organization representing the interests of the yoga community. To register as a member of the Yoga Alliance, click here to create a profile https://www.yogaalliance.org/AccountSetup. Follow the steps provided to complete your registration. You will need to upload your YogaMea School certificate and pay a fee.

I want to join the course to deepen my practice and not teach. Is this fine?

Yes. Many students join YogaMea School’s teacher training programs for the benefit they receive in terms of elevating their own practice. Whether your desire is to learn for yourself or teach others, our programs are a great fit for you.

Will certificate issued by YogaMea School work in my home country?

Yes. YogaMea School’s curriculum complies with the Yoga Alliance, USA standards. Upon completing your training with us, you will be eligible to register with the Yoga Alliance as RYT 200, RYT 300 or RYT 500, allowing you to teach internationally at various levels.

How do I verify school credentials?

To verify a school’s credentials and to find whether your school is a Registered Yoga School with the Yoga Alliance, USA, visit https://www.yogaalliance.org/Directory.

Does yoga certification expire?

No. Your certification with YogaMea School does not expire. However, your commitment to the path of yoga is a lifelong journey. As such, we encourage you to embrace the concept of being the perpetual learner.

Will I need to apply for Yoga Alliance USA separately?

Yes. Yoga Alliance is a membership organization and does not certify yoga teachers. You will need to register with them after receiving your YogaMea School yoga instructor certificate.

Are weekends off?

No. There are classes on Saturdays and you will be immersed in trainings six days per week. However, students do have the option to relax on Sundays or join fellow classmates and staff on excursions.

How do I sign up for Yoga Alliance?

To sign up with the Yoga Alliance, USA, visit the link to create a profile "https://www.yogaalliance.org/AccountSetup". Follow the steps provided to complete your registration. You will need to upload your Yoga School certificate, provide the start and end date of your training, and pay a fee online using a credit card or PayPal. An RYT must complete training with a Registered Yoga School (RYS®), be confirmed by RYS and keep current with Continuing Education and their annual fees.

What is Yoga Alliance? Is your school registered with it?

The Yoga Alliance® is the largest nonprofit association representing the yoga community. Their mission is to promote and support the integrity and diversity of the teaching of yoga. They do this through various initiatives which can be found in their home page by visiting them at "https://www.yogaalliance.org/". YogaMea School is Registered with the Yoga Alliance.

What is 200 hour yoga teacher training?

A 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training course is a comprehensive program designed to teach future yoga teachers practical hands-on and theoretical aspects of Yogic philosophy and lifestyle in a manner that allows yoga aspirants and instructors alike to deepen their practice and simultaneously elevate them from student to teacher. It is so-named because the curriculum is designed to deliver this information over 200 hours of experiential practice and discourse.

What does RYT 200 stand for in yoga?

RYT 200 is an acronym which stands for Registered Yoga Teacher 200-Hour. He 200-Hour means you have studied and accumulated 200 hours of information and study time. It typically means that the yoga aspirant has endeavoured to elevate their awareness of the principles which form the foundation of yoga: such as moral and ethical code, discipline, mindfulness, inner awareness, all qualities which promote a well-rounded human being and productive contributor to society. Or at least, that is our intention.

How long does it take to become a certified yoga instructor?

The 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Courses in Italy and India with YogaMea School are a 28 day commitment. Students can arrive early and leave later if they choose to spend a few extra days taking in the sights. Upon completion of a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training course, students are equipped to teach others; whether in private one-on-one classes or public classes.

Do I need to register with Yoga Alliance?

Although it is not necessary to register with the Yoga Alliance, many regulated institutions, such as gyms and corporations, may require their yoga teachers to register with the Yoga Alliance because it is an authority in the yoga community; and, registering with them suggests this governing body will hold its members accountable to adhere to the standards set by the Yoga Alliance.

How much does 200 hour yoga teacher training cost

Costs for training vary depending on location, school, whether it is high, mid or low season, and accommodations (which also varies from location to location). The 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course in India with YogaMea School costs $1,700 USD. Whereas, the 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course in Italy begins as low as €1,990 for shared accommodations and can go as high as €5,320 for single accommodations in high season. We recommend reviewing the dates and prices of each course individually, according to when and where you would like to study, as well as your specific needs. Contact us at info@yogamea.com for further assistance.

Can you teach yoga with 200 hour certification?

Yes. Upon completion of a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training course, students are equipped to teach others; whether in private one-on-one classes or public classes.

What is 300 hour yoga teacher training?

The 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training course is an advanced, second level course for yoga instructors who have already attained a 200-hour yoga instructor certification. It is designed for teachers who seek to continue studying and practicing, reinforcing the foundation of their awareness. Teachers can also upgrade their qualifications with the Yoga Alliance. It is recommended that teachers in the 300-Hour course have at least two years of practice and some teaching experience; as well as foundational knowledge of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, familiarity with Sanskrit terms and a basic knowledge of human anatomy.

Can I teach yoga without being certified?

Yes. It is possible to teach yoga without having a certificate; but, it is not recommended. While gaining proficiency and an awareness of how to teach are benefits of a yoga teacher training program, completing a certified yoga teacher program builds integrity and trust with those you are teaching. As an added bonus, you increase your confidence in front of classes. Qualified teachers from a well-established, legitimate yoga teacher training program are often able to guide future yoga teachers towards transformative experiences that inspire self-inquiry and growth. It really is a journey like none other.

How long does it take to become a certified yoga instructor?

The 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Courses in Italy and India with YogaMea School are a 28 day commitment. Students can arrive early and leave later if they choose to spend a few extra days taking in the sights. Upon completion of a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training course, students are equipped to teach others; whether in private one-on-one classes or public classes.

Does yoga certification expire?

No. Your certification with YogaMea School does not expire. However, your commitment to the path of yoga is a lifelong journey. As such, we encourage you to embrace the concept of being the perpetual learner. As for your membership with the Yoga Alliance, you are required to pay annual dues to keep your membership active. Learn more about these requirements at https://www.yogaalliance.org

Do I need to be a trained yoga professional to join the course?

For the 50-, 100- and 200-hour yoga teacher training courses, you do not need to be a trained yoga professional. We do recommend, however, that you have some experience with yoga prior to joining these courses. For the 300- and 500-hour yoga teacher training courses, you will be required to have prior experience teaching and a 200-hour yoga teacher training certificate.

Does a Yoga Teacher need to Renew their certification? And How?

No. Yoga Teachers do not need to renew their certification. Certifications are eternal. However, Yoga Teachers must renew their registration with the Yoga Alliance by paying their annual renewal fees, completing the continuing education requirements every three years, and abide by the Yoga Alliance Code of Conduct and Policies.

Can I join this course, if I am completely new to yoga?

Yes. You can join our course if you are completely new to yoga. We do ask, however, that you spend some time studying a little bit about what it is you are getting into. You can do this by reading books, attending yoga classes, speaking to others who are practicing yoga regularly. Yoga is more than just exercise and being physically fit. It is a way of life. To practice yoga is to practice mindfulness and the purpose of the postures that have been popularized in the west is so that the student can sit in meditative postures for longer periods of time. Click here to see a Recommended Reading list that our highly qualified and skills yoga practitioners have compiled.

What does RYT 500 mean?

RYT 500 means Registered Yoga Teacher who has studied and completed 500 hours of study. Teachers can register as a RYT® 500 if they have successfully completed a 500-hour yoga teacher training that is registered with Yoga Alliance. The 500 hours of training can either come from one school or can be a combination of a 200-hour teacher training plus 300 hours of advanced training from a RYS 300. Advanced training is defined as training that requires participants to have completed a 200-hour training.

What is 500 hour yoga teacher training?

The 500 hour yoga teacher training can be accomplished over a longer or a short period of time by first completing a 200 hour yoga teacher training, then completing a 300 hour advanced yoga teacher training course. The 200 hour course is an introductory course designed for beginner to intermediate level yoga practitioners. Advanced level practitioners can also join the 200 hour course, which gradually advances in intensity until the last week of training. The 300 hour course picks up with the 200 hour course leaves off by taking the student into more advanced philosophy, anatomy and physiology and postures. The 300 hour course is ideal for Yoga Instructors who have been studying and teaching for at least 2 years prior to joining. After completing the 300 hour course, the student is eligible to register with the Yoga Alliance as an RYT 500 hour. In addition to RYT 500 eligibility, you can open your own RYS, lead workshops, register with the Yoga Alliance as a continuing education provide, or continue your self-study, to name a few paths that open up to this individual.

Are schools/ashrams/centers/institutes (name) Certified by Yoga Alliance?

No. The Yoga Alliance® is the largest nonprofit membership organization representing the interests of the yoga community. They do not certify yoga schools, ashrams, centers, institutes, etc. Their credentialing system is a directory, not to be confused with other types of credentialing systems (such as certifications, accreditations, licensure, etc.). Schools, etc., are required to maintain good standing by complying with standards set by Yoga Alliance, as well as by paying their annual renewal fees.
Not all schools, ashrams, yoga centers or yoga institutes register with the Yoga Alliance. It is important to thoroughly research each Yoga Teacher Training provider to determine whether or not they are.

Will I have free time?

Yes. While your days are relatively full from sunup to sundown, the daily schedule has amply apportioned free time for rest and self-study. If you would like some assistance, one of our staff will be happy to make suggestions and assist with arranging activities of your choice.

Do you have students from different cultures and backgrounds?

Yes. Students come to learn with YogaMea School from all over the world from an array of cultures. To date, we have representation from students from over 120 countries around the globe.

What is 100 hour yoga teacher training?

The 100-Hour Yoga Teacher Training curriculum runs parallel to the 200-Hour course, and takes place over 15 days and 14 nights. This intensive residential teacher training is offered in Italy and India and is designed for the beginner to intermediate level yoga aspirant who is unable to be away from home for too long a period at one time.

Is the 100 hour yoga teacher training a certification course?

Yes. Students receive a YogaMea School certification after completing the 100 hour yoga teacher training course. However, students will become eligible to register for the Yoga Alliance RYT 200 only after completing both phases for a total of 200 hours.

What is YACEP?

YACEP, or Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider®, is a Yoga Alliance designation for individuals that teach continuing education courses. As a YACEP, you can teach courses that will count as Continuing Education hours for RYTs. You can also list your courses on the Yoga Alliance YACEP Directory. For more information, click here.

Is this course valuable for the YACEP?

The YACEP designation is only available to an E-RYT registrant. However, the 100 hour certificate is an important step towards becoming a YACEP. If you are registered with Yoga Alliance as a teacher but are not yet an E-RYT, check with the Yoga Alliance to see if you are eligible to upgrade.

After 100 hour yoga teacher training, in order to complete the 200 Hour, can I continue my education with another school?

No. According to the Yoga Alliance standards, all training hours must come from the same school and multiple trainings from different schools cannot be combined to meet the 200-hour requirement. In order to obtain your 200 Hour yoga teacher training certificate, you must complete both phases with YogaMea School.

What kind of certificate will I receive after I complete the 100 hour Yoga Teacher Training Course?

You will receive a YogaMea School certificate of completion indicating that you have completed 100 hours towards the 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training certification. Yoga teachers who have completed all requirements of the 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course in compliance with Yoga Alliance, USA, standards will be given a certificate and be eligible to register for RYT 200.

What is 50 hour yoga teacher training?

The 50 hour yoga teacher training program offered by YogaMea School further refines and distills the essence of the 200 hour yoga teacher training program for students unable to stay away from home for longer periods of time. It is offered over 8 days and 7 nights in Italy and India and is a residential program, immersing the students in a yogic way of life. The curriculum follows the 200-hour training and is offered in four phases. Assignments are given during Phase I of the program, so it is recommended to start here. Students must complete all four phases to comply with Yoga Alliance standards and be eligible to register for RYT 200.

What kind of certificate will I receive after I complete the 50 hour Yoga Teacher Training Course?

You will receive a 50-Hour Yoga Teacher Training certificate of completion for the phase you have completed. Complete all four phases and receive a YogaMea School 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Certificate. YogaMea School is RYS 200, RYS 300, RYS 500. With a 200-Hour certificate from YogaMea School, you can register with the YogaAlliance, USA, as an RYT 200. The 50-Hour curriculum is only available for the 200 Hour course, and not yet available for the 300- or 500-hour courses.

Is the 50 hour yoga teacher training a certification course?

Yes. Students receive a YogaMea School certification after completing the 50 hour yoga teacher training course. However, students will become eligible to register for the Yoga Alliance RYT 200 only after completing all four phases of 50 hour training for a total of 200 hours.

Is this course valuable for the YACEP?

The 50 hour certificate is a vital first step in your journey. However, the YACEP designation is only available to an E-RYT registrant, which means you would have to complete the 500 hour course (or one 200-hour followed by one 300-hour course) and teach for a minimum of four years.

After my first 50 hour yoga teacher training, in order to complete the 200 Hour, can I continue my education with another school?

No. According to the Yoga Alliance standards, all training hours must come from the same school and multiple trainings from different schools cannot be combined to meet the 200-hour requirement. In order to obtain your 200 Hour yoga teacher training certificate, you must complete all four 50-Hour phases with YogaMea School.

What is Iyengar yoga teacher training?

Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar, also known as B.K.S. Iyengar, was the founder of the style of modern yoga known as "Iyengar Yoga,” a form of Hatha yoga that emphasizes precision and physical alignment of the body in the performance of posture (asana) and breath control (pranayama). An Iyengar yoga teacher training curriculum is designed to help students gain flexibility, balance, and strength, and give them the necessary tools to help manage chronic conditions like lower back pain. Strength, mobility and stability are gained through the asanas.

What style of yoga will I be learning?

YogaMea School advances expression, education and awareness of Ashtanga, Vinyasa and Hatha Yoga. While the focus will be on these practices, it is not uncommon to explore other styles of yoga as well, such as Iyengar, Restorative, Yin, Children’s and Elderly. The latter practices, however, will play a secondary role in the practitioners studies with us.

What is Hatha yoga teacher training?

Hatha yoga is a branch of yoga derived from one of the six schools of Hinduism. It is the science of yoga which purifies the whole physical body by means of shatkarma (six cleansing practices), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing practices), mudra (seals), bandha (locks) and concentration, as a prelude to raja (or Kingly) yoga and samadhi (higher state of awareness commonly referred to as “bliss”). All of which are explored during your teacher training program in various forms.

What is Ashtanga yoga teacher training?

The eight-limbed yoga of Sage Patanjali: yama (moral code), niyama (self-restraints), asana (posture), pranayama (breathing practices), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), samadhi (bliss). Ashtanga Yoga is often confused with the popularized vinyāsa style of yoga developed by K. Pattabhi Jois in 1948. Both the origin and sequences developed by Jois, as well as Patanjali’s teachings, will be explored during an Ashtanga yoga teacher training course.

What is Vinyasa yoga teacher training?

A “vinyāsa” is a smooth transition between asanas in styles of modern yoga such as Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and Bikram Yoga, especially when movement is paired with the breath. Vinyasa yoga teacher training bridges Hatha yoga with pranayama in an intricate manner, creating a foundation for a holistic approach to the path of healing through breath and movement. This yoga training combines the wisdom of the yoga lineage with contemporary understanding of the body, emotional system, and spiritual practices.

What is Kundalini yoga teacher training?

Kundalini, in Hinduism refers to a form of primal energy said to be located at the base of the spine. In yoga, latent female energy is also believed to lie coiled at the base of the spine. Kundalini yoga is practices to awaken this energy. It is a blend of Bhakti Yoga (the yogic practice of devotion and chanting), Raja Yoga (the practice of mediation/mental and physical control) and Shakti Yoga (for the expression of power and energy). A teacher training program through this school of yoga is influenced by Shaktism and Tantra schools of Hinduism.

What is Meditation yoga teacher training?

Meditation Yoga Teacher Training courses immerse students in residential programs intended to guide practitioners through various levels of self-awareness and inner awakening. It’s goal is to prepare others who seek to offer meditation instruction in a group setting such as a yoga class, school group, nursing home, library, on a one-to-one basis with the necessary skills to do so. This teacher training program is recommended for yoga students, yoga teachers, social workers, school teachers, health care workers, caregivers and leaders in any field.

What is the difference between RYT and E-RYT?

A Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) is a distinction given to yoga teachers whose training and teaching experience meet Yoga Alliance requirements. An RYT must complete training with a Registered Yoga School (RYS), be confirmed by Yoga Alliance and current with annual fees and Continuing Education. RYTs can earn a variety of designations based on their level of training and experience. E-RYT means Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher. Teachers can register either as an E-RYT 200 or E-RYT 500 with the Yoga Alliance. To register as E-RYT 500, the yoga instructor must have successfully completed 500 hours with an RYS and have taught a minimum of four years since completing training with a 200-hour RYS. The 500 hours of training can either come from one school or can be a combination of a 200-hour training plus an additional 300-hour advanced teacher training from a different RYS. Applicants must submit 2,000 teaching hours for this designation; 1,500 of the teaching hours must have been taught after completing training with a RYS 200 or 500 and the remaining 500 teaching hours must have been taught after completing training with a RYS 300 or 500. Once registered, an E-RYT 500 is able to provide continuing education workshops to other teachers and can be a Lead Trainer of a 200-hour, 300-hour or 500-hour teacher training. To learn more about E-RYT 500, click here.