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Lifesong Yoga with Kathryn Downton
Viniyoga Teacher/Advanced Student Training
New Brunswick's First Yoga Teacher Training
Next trainings: Kathryn is considering a Spring 08 training beginning with a four day intensive, and a Fall 08 nine weekends/nine months training. Please see the Bulletin Board for current information, and contact Kathryn directly at info@lifesongyoga.com or call 506-455-3811 with questions, or to indicate interest.
Begins Aug 22nd, 2008
Min 6, Max 8 students
Have you been wondering what it takes to become a yoga teacher? Are you interested in moving more deeply into your own practice, wishing you had more time to learn from the wider tradition of yoga? Perhaps you’re ready for a Viniyoga teacher/advanced student training. If so, read on. The topics covered are as follows. If you’re ready to apply, then skip to #10.
Contents:
1. What are the primary goals of Lifesong’s Viniyoga teacher training?
A well-rounded program that covers the core principles of yoga practice and philosophy, including: personal practice and class design, asana (movement and postures), pranayama (breath work) and meditation, anatomy and physiology of yoga, yoga philosophy (yoga sutras) and historical context, teaching methodology and practice (see program content, below).
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2. What are the benefits of teacher training?
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be qualified to teach yoga privately and in multiple group venues, including schools, senior’s facilities, health clubs and yoga centers. Think of this certificate as preparation to become a "GP" of yoga, with encouragement to identify and specialize in the graduate’s special area of interest.
The benefits of completing an intensive yoga study are not limited to teaching, however. Many students who take teacher training programs never intend to teach. Participants find that in-depth programs deepen their own yoga practice significantly. Since each workshop builds on the one before it, the potential for growth is larger than the growth that can be attained in a normal group class setting.
Additionally, attending a long term training program gives you the opportunity to connect with and build a community of peers and friends who share your love of yoga. Many people find they stay in close contact with their teacher training classmates for many years to come.
Ultimately, graduates find that a “teacher training” is a first step in a life long journey. Yoga is so vast – a first training is like being given the keys to a huge and fascinating house. The next step is yours.
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3. Is Lifesong’s Viniyoga teacher training right for me?
Lifesong Yoga’s teacher training is appropriate for individuals who would like to deepen their own yoga practice and those who would like to teach using the viniyoga methodology. Specifically, this training is recommended for any of the following:
• Individuals who would like to deepen their yoga practice and learn to design their own personal practice
• Students interested in exploring broader aspects of yoga, including philosophy, lifestyle, pranayama (breath work), and meditation
• Individuals who would like to coach friends, coworkers, or others in 1:1 yoga practices
• Health care practitioners interested in integrating aspects of yoga and yoga therapy into their practice
• Anyone who wants to teach group classes at yoga studios, health clubs, schools, community centers, or other venues
• Experienced yoga teachers who want to learn the Viniyoga methodology of customizing yoga to the needs of individual students and who want to explore tools beyond asana to help students' physical and emotional growth.
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4. What are the course objectives?
On successful completion of this course, participants will have:
• an in-depth understanding and appreciation of the science and art of yoga principles and a basic understanding of core ayurvedic principles
• developed a comprehensive knowledge of the theory of asanas, pranayama and meditation
• gained skill and expertise in the practice of asanas, pranayama and meditation
• acquired the ability to teach yoga in a safe, effective and confident manner
• the ability to plan and design yoga programs to meet individual and special needs
• acquired the tools to enact positive changes in their own lives and to provide the same guidance and consultation for others
• been a part of a community of people who are similarly committed to a path of personal growth and transformation
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5. How do I become a Certified Teacher?
A Viniyoga Certificate of Completion of Hours will be awarded to all those who attend the course.
A Viniyoga Teacher's Certificate will be awarded to those who attend the 180 contact hours of the course and complete the 20 hour teaching project/practicum.
Those seeking teaching certification must complete all requirements for the course and successfully demonstrate their comprehension of the principles and practice of yoga and their ability to communicate this to others.
The Program meets the requirements of the Yoga Alliance 200 Hr Certification (180 contact hours plus 20 hours student project). Therefore, in addition to Viniyoga teacher certification, students will be eligible to apply for Yoga Alliance 200 hour standard teaching certification if they wish to complete the application process and submit the required fees (yogaalliance.org). There will be an additional fee to process Yoga Alliance documentation.
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6. Where and when does the training take place?
The training takes place at the Lifesong Studio in Marysville. In addition to a comfortable yoga studio, the house in uniquely suited to hosting workshops, with a large common area, additional studio and study areas, access to nearby walking trails, and a roomy 1 acre to enjoy through the season. Kitchen access is provided for breakfasts and lunches provided it is used responsibly and greatly adds to the spirit of community. There is also nearby dining if desired.
The weekend format would typically follow this schedule, subject to change depending on content, student needs, etc:
Friday |
5:00 to 8:00 PM with practice |
Saturday |
7:00AM-8:15AM (morning practice) |
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9:15AM-12:15PM (11:30AM practice or lab) |
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2:15-7:00PM (5:30 or 6:00PM practice) |
Sunday |
7:00-8:00AM (morning practice) |
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9:30AM-12:30PM (11:30AM practice or lab, optional) |
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1:30PM-5PM (late afternoon practice, optional) |
Contact hours may include: theory, small or large group discussion, student or senior teacher-led practices to illustrate theory and techniques, labs on specific topics, exploratory exercises, audiovisual presentations, and field trips. There will also be home study suggestions to follow-up on and assist with the integration of weekend content on a personal, pedagogical and theoretical level.
Although this is a non-residential program, it is highly advisable to treat the weekends as retreats. Past students emphasized the wisdom of not booking other activities during the weekend, and some booked time off before or after the weekend when able.
The weekend schedule for the 08/09 training will be:
Weekend 1 |
Aug 22-24 |
Weekend 2 |
Sept 19-21 |
Weekend 3 |
Oct 17-19 |
Weekend 4 |
Nov 14-16 |
Weekend 5 |
Dec 5-7 |
Weekend 6 |
Jan 16-18 |
Weekend 7 |
Feb 13-15 |
Weekend 8 |
Mar 13-15 |
Weekend 9 |
April 17-19 |
If in the event of weather or other adverse circumstances, it became necessary to consider a cancellation, we would consider how to best re-schedule at that time. If, due to sickness or other unforeseen circumstances, you miss hours during the training, there are a number of options for making up hours, including attending other trainings.
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7. Who can apply?
To apply, you must
• have at least one year’s experience in yoga and be physically sound (within reason – remembering the “Vini” means to start from where you are)
• be able to attend all of the retreat times
• commit to a daily personal practice and have a sincere interest in deepening your own practice
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8. What does it cost?
Fees for the program: $2700.
• Plus HST $324 = Total: $3024.
• Includes: 180 contact hours, hand-outs, practices, evaluation of non-contact hour projects and student teaching and Viniyoga (not Yoga Alliance) certification. Does not cover room & board if needed, or texts.
• A $600 deposit is due with the application form to secure your place in the program, and is refundable up to 10 days before commencement of the program.
• In fairness to myself and the other students, there are no refunds after commencement of the program unless due to documented illness or accident. You are reserving one place of eight in an intensive, individually-adapted program and the loss of a student during the program could potentially have a negative impact on the group and the training.
Payment Options:
• Pay with one cheque and receive a $100 reduction (+HST): Total $2912.
• In addition to the deposit, pay with four post-dated cheques for $606 each: Sept 1st, Nov 1st, Jan 1st, Mar 1st.
• In addition to the deposit, pay with eight post-dated cheques for $318 each (a financing charge of 5% has been added): Sept 1st, Oct 1st, Nov 1st, Dec 1st, Jan 1st, Feb 1st, Mar 1st, Apr 1st
• If financial circumstances or awkward dates (above) require a more suitable payment plan for you, please enquire!
Cheques are payable to: Kathryn Downton
A note on costs: if you have been researching teaching training programs, you know they average from $3500 to well over $5000 depending on residential and travel costs and class sizes range from 16 into the thirties. Many programs emphasize “fast”, as in all at once. Because Viniyoga is a depth tradition, it does not lend its self to a one-time intensive 30 day experience which tends to overwhelm the learner. The idea is to pace yourself, your readiness, your learning, your experiences. My intention is to create an affordable, small group, non-residential program for New Brunswickers which exceeds the current North American Standards. Think of a Viniyoga teacher as a GP – a highly qualified generalist, and as new areas of interest present themselves, a lifelong learner in the area of practice that most calls.
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9. Course Material (not included)
Required Reading:
• Yoga for Body, Breath and Mind by A. G. Mohan
• The Heart of Yoga by TKV Desikachar
Recommended Reading (for your interest, but not required):
• Yoga and the Quest for the True Self, Stephen Cope (an introduction to living the Sutras based on life experiences, very readable)
• Health, Healing and Beyond, TKV Desikachar (a history of Krishnamacharya and the early years of Viniyoga – very interesting, especially when Krishnamacharya decides to stop participating!))
• Yoga Therapy, A. G. Mohan (basic principles of Ayurveda)
Highly recommended but out of print (can often be found used):
•The Essence of Yoga, Bernard Bouanchaud (translation of the Yoga Sutras, out of print)
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10. How can I apply or get more information?
The application process includes a personal and health questionnaire, a letter of reference from your yoga teacher or another concerning your character and commitment (waived if a student of Kathryn’s), and a $600 deposit. You will find an application form on-line.
Call Kathryn Downton, at 506-455-3811, or e-mail info@lifesongyoga.com. She will arrange a time to discuss your goals, tell you more about the program as a whole, and help you assess if this program is right for you.
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11. About Kathryn Downton:
Kathryn Downton is the Senior teacher of Viniyoga in the Maritimes. She is both a certified yoga teacher and certified yoga therapist through the “Etude et Transmission du Yoga”. Kathryn has taken workshops with TKV and Kaustub Desikachar, as well as with other senior teachers. But her primary teacher has been Claude Marechal of Belgium, Europe’s renowned “teacher of teachers” with almost 4 decades of study in this tradition and trainings across Europe and in Quebec. The New Brunswick Yoga Teacher Trainings are a result of Claude’s request to Kathryn to provide opportunities for students to study Viniyoga in English, and his generous sharing of materials and pedagogical collaboration based on the well-established European 500 and 700 hour models.
A yoga teacher for 10 years, Kathryn founded the Lifesong Yoga and Wellness Centre in 2001, Fredericton’s first yoga and integrated wellness centre. Over those years, she taught 1500 classes to everyone from three week old babies to 80 year olds, coached more than 300 babies into the world through prenatal classes and work as a doula (birth coach), mentored 24 yoga teachers and wellness practitioners, taught volunteer classes and gave many talks to the non-profit and business sector, facilitated countless workshops, and met with many private clients from all walks of life. Kathryn was instrumental in founding the Fredericton Yoga Teachers’ Association, the Holistic Network, and was behind the popular summer tourism, “Yoga at the Lighthouse” program and Fredericton’s annual Yoga Day. Due to her pioneering efforts and public presence, Kathryn is often found in the local media, talking about some aspect of yoga as life, life as yoga. She is the first to say that teaching yoga is the easy part. It’s living your yoga in the midst of your… accounting, PR, marketing, scheduling, volunteering, juggling, that’s the interesting part of the path.
Kathryn is known for her sense of humor, down-to-earth approach, practicality, compassion, sound educational techniques and commitment to making all experience part of the learning. Her own experiences: healing a chronic illness and continuing to meet health challenges through the techniques of yoga and alternative healing; community development in Canada and overseas; work as an adult educator/facilitator in different fields… all contribute to her teaching, and understanding of yoga. She uses adult learning models to keep all of her trainings interactive and interesting. For more information, visit www.lifesongyoga.com
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12. About Viniyoga:
The Viniyoga approach is an ancient methodology for customizing yoga practices to individual student needs. This approach has been handed down for centuries in India. In the past 100 years, it has been sustained in India and expanded to Europe and the United States by Krishnamacharya and his son, TKV Desikachar. It has been effectively transmitted over the last 30 years through the work of Gary Kraftsow (US); Claude Marechal (Belgium) in Europe, and other senior teachers in England and Australia.
As described in the April 23, 2001 edition of Time magazine:
"Viniyoga... is the most highly customized form of yoga. Viniyoga teachers cater stretching positions to individual student needs and abilities. Function is stressed over form, with an emphasis on integrating the flow of movement of the breath with the movement of the spine." Viniyoga is a highly adaptable, meditative style of yoga that coordinates movement with the breath. It is a uniquely healing form of yoga and can be used by people of all levels and physical abilities, including those with limited mobility.
You will find references to this tradition both under the name “Viniyoga” and “Yoga of Krishnamacharya”. Over the last few years, TKV Desikachar, and Kaustub Desikachar, the son and grandson of Krishnamacharya have been moving to recognize only teachers trained at the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram in Madras, India and who are using the founders name. Nevertheless, Krishnamacharya himself and his son Desikachar taught or influenced many senior teachers who themselves have a huge influence in the current world of yoga (Pathabi Jois, Iyengar, Vanda Scaravelli, Esther Myers, Gary Krafsow) to name a few). Many of these teachers still pay homage to their roots, and/or continue to use the term “Viniyoga” to describe their work. In 2005, the Viniyoga Association of Europe voted to retain the name “Viniyoga” to describe their tradition, in part because Viniyoga is one of the better known traditions in Europe, in part to conserve 30 years of work under that title. Chapters of the “International Association of Viniyoga” are currently being organized around the world as a forum to support and foster communication amongst Viniyoga teachers and students from all walks of life.
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Lifesong Viniyoga Teacher Training
with Kathryn Downton
Course Content
Yoga Alliance 200 Hour Standards
13. Course Content:
1. Yoga Theory
• Introduction to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and their context
• Sanskrit Terminology
• The history of the different traditions of yoga
• Introduction to the classical yoga texts
2. Asana
• Theory of asana practice and the foundational asanas
• Adaptations and variations
• The fundamentals of moving and breathing
• The skills of observation
• Mudras and Bandhas
• The art of adapting each posture to meet specific or individual needs
3. Sequencing
• The principles of preparation and balancing for each asana
• How to sequence postures for individual needs
• How to plan and design sequences for different purposes
4. Pranayama
• The asana-pranayama link
• Theory of the practice of pranayama
• Major techniques of pranayama
• Theory and technique of relaxation
5. Sound
• The role of chanting and mantra
• Using sound in asanas
• Using sound in relaxation and meditation
6. Meditation
• Theory of meditation - the why of meditation
• Practice of meditation - the what and how of meditation
7. Anatomy and Physiology
• An introduction to key body systems and their functions
• Anatomy and physiology relevant to the practice of asanas and pranayama, including an introduction to energy anatomy
8. Introduction to Ayurveda
• The concept of the Doshas
• Concepts of Prana and Agni
• Ayurvedic guidelines on food and lifestyle
9. The Art of Teaching
• Establishing and maintaining a personal practice
• Designing and conducting classes for different groups
• Working with individuals
• Specialized classes
• The business of yoga: practical tips on marketing, accounting, etc
• Ethics and the yoga teacher
• Specialized classes
10. Practicum – student project on an area of interest
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14. Yoga Alliance 200 hour standards:
Techniques Training/Practice: Includes asanas, pranayamas, kriyas, chanting, mantra, meditation, and other traditional yoga techniques. A mix of analytical training and guided practice.
Minimum contact hours: 75
Teaching Methodology: Includes principles of demonstration, observation, assisting/correcting, instruction, teaching styles, qualities of a teacher, learning process, business aspects.
Minimum contact hours: 15
Anatomy and Physiology: Includes both human physical anatomy and physiology and energy anatomy and physiology (chakras, nadis). Study and application.
Minimum contact hours: 10.
Yoga Philosophy/Lifestyle and Ethics: Includes yoga philosophies, lifestyle, ethics for teachers.
Minimum contact hours: 20. (minimum 2 hours on Ethics)
Practicum: Practice teaching, feedback, observation, giving feedback, assists. At least 5 hours actively teaching.
Minimum contact hours: 5.
Remaining Contact Hours: distributed among the 5 categories above according to the school’s emphasis.
Minimum contact hours: 55
Total Contact Hours: 180
Remaining non-contact program hours: to be distributed among the above categories according to the school’s emphasis.
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15. Some Comments from the First N.B. Yoga Teacher Training:
1. Would you recommend this training to others? Why or why not?
Yes, definitely! It was so beyond anything I could have expected. It helped to have an appreciation of the Viniyoga tradition but I don’t see how anyone interested in a yoga path couldn’t find this training fantastic. - Yes, for anyone interested in knowing more about yoga theory or postures, personal growth, deepening your own practice. It’s life changing! - Absolutely. I grew emotionally and mentally. I have a greater foundation in understanding: yoga concepts, philosophy, “life” knowledge. - Life altering and enriching. - Whether this is for a career or for passion, regardless of where yoga leads any of us in the future, this is a good foundation.
2. What did you like best?
The theory – being able to deepen my own practice – forming close bonds – basically, everything! - the depth of the theory(knowledge) and postures was the best. It opened my eyes, and my desire to learn more on this journey - the support and compassion and caring of the other students – it became more than a training for me. It pointed the way to a supportive network united in a very deep, multi-layered way. - I loved the 1 weekend per month format. After each weekend, you are able to digest and put into practice what you have learned so that it gets incorporated into your life. - The posture labs were so beneficial and really improved my personal practice. - The chance to teach a class while being supervised. Nerve-wracking but valuable! - Relaxed, respectful, harmonious atmosphere – well-planned and balanced days, info given in an interesting manner. - Lots of insights, info and laughter. - Love the cookies!
3. Teaching Style/Facilitation Methods
KD is very knowledgeable, intellectual, disciplined and demanding of excellence. Lots of integrity – solid background of study and teaching – smart and fun! - So much knowledge and the ability to communicate it very well. - Thank you! I feel privileged to have been taught by someone whose vast knowledge and love of yoga is so evident. I look forward to more.
4. Agreement with Stated Objectives/Content:
Very balanced. I really admired the scope of the program content. we covered everything and more! Very impressed with KD’s ability to fit it all in. Masterful.
5. Evaluation Methods and Opportunities for Feedback:
Helpful and constructive – very positive and encouraging. - Strangely, getting teaching evaluations from the public was so affirming and liberating.
6. Location, Workshop Setting, Non-Residential Format:
Beautiful surroundings – very much like a retreat setting - wonderful to have such ready access to the walking trail and thanks for the kitchen privileges!
7. Cost: value for program, materials, certification:
Excellent! Great value for program. - Reasonable compared to others, for the amount of time, materials, level of certification. - Money well-spent.
8. Did the training meet your hopes and expectations?
Way beyond what I could have imagined! - Over-all, a great experience & opportunity for learning. I’m excited to get to the next part - I have confidence that I will be well equipped to teach what I’m learning. Very impressed with the in-depth knowledge. I feel as if I’m learning so much valuable information for myself and for teaching. - I learned more than I thought was possible.
9. Is there something you wished you’d known before you started that might
help new students as they begin their training?
 You will go through many changes – be prepared to know that you will. Don’t panic!
It’s going to be an experience! Use it as a laboratory, as a place to observe you, a human, dealing with the range of human experience. Keep the journal – I didn’t and regret that now.
I’d do my part differently. Stay more for lunches, etc. Enjoy the group. Let go and enjoy the ride! I wish I’d had a better idea of the amount of time and commitment involved. I would still have done it, but freed up other parts of my life better. Live and learn.
Be kind to yourself. Take Mondays off if you can.
Start the homework at the beginning and find the discipline to keep it up. Lots of learning opportunities here.
You will leave each Sunday with new glimpses of yourself. The rest is up to you!
Consider booking one-on-one time with the teacher to assist with health and personal practice issues that arise from the training.
It’s like having a baby. No matter what others tell you about the experience, it’s beyond words, explanations or warnings.
Just take it one bit at a time. Try not to have too many expectations.
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16. Some Comments from Recent Class Evaluations:
 I would drive to the other side of timbucktoo to go to one of your classes. I really enjoy the classes, on every level.
50+ student
I would certainly recommend this class to a friend. Excellent content and instruction. Nice even pace. I've really enjoyed the experience and find the handouts very helpful in setting up my own sessions at home. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and making each class so enjoyable.
Beginner Student
This has been my first experience with yoga. I leave every class feeling relaxed and energized, and proud of myself for learning something new. I should also mention that what attracted me to the class in the first place was it's name! The name removed any trepidation about having to be an expert before I start! I would certainly recommend this class to friends.
Out of Shape or Overweight Beginner Student
I have never been one to exercise, I like to walk, but I have to say I have enjoyed this class. Because you are relaxed, you make others feel the same. As I Have always thought yoga was something I would like to try, I am glad I took the class. I am always finding something to do so hopefully it will teach me how to relax a bit.......Thank you for this positive experience…
Beginner Student
Twice I enrolled in your pregnancy yoga classes and in both instances received great benefits from them. I know the classes I took definitely helped me “relax” during both my labours. In addition, I was able to meet other “moms” from that class and I am pleased to say that we still get together regularly almost two years later! I know many pregnant women/new moms who have benefited in one way or another from your work.
Yoga for Pregnancy Student
Sometimes we can hear something numerous times before the light bulb goes on as it did for me last week. At the end of the class you said "remember we can detoxify the mind just as we can detoxify the body". That statement has stayed with me all week and enabled me to move past some mental blocks. Thank-you. I would definitely recommend the class to others.
Intermediate Student
I like your teaching style and the content very much. I have learned a great deal which has helped me in my daily life.
50+ Intermediate Student
THIS PRESENT CLASS HAS BEEN MY VERY FIRST CLASS IN YOGA. I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NOTHING NEGETATIVE TO SAY! I THOROUGHLY ENJOY THE CLASS, YOUR PRESENTATIONS/TALKS ARE WONDERFUL AND I THOROUGHLY ENJOY LISTING TO YOU SPEAK. IT'S SO INTERESTING..... BEFORE I BEGAN YOUR CLASS, I WAS CONCERNED BECAUSE OF MY WEIGHT AND MY MEMORY, AS TO WHETHER OR NOT IF I WOULD BE ABLE TO DO THE POSTURES, BUT I AM WORKING AWAY AT THEM & ENJOYING IT..... PLEASE CONTINUE TO DO THE GREAT JOB THAT YOU ARE PRESENTLY DOING!!!!!!!!
Beginner Student in Yoga for the Overweight or Out of Shape
Kathryn, I truly enjoyed your class! I absolutely loved our talks at the beginning of class.....that alone seemed to calm me tremendously. I would highly recommend this class to any of my friends/family that would be expecting. The next time I am ready to have another baby, I will definitely be taking this class once again. Thank-You for easing my mind (a little....lol) on what to expect during childbirth. I know that if I remain a positive, powerful and focused I will be able to deliver naturally.
Yoga for Pregnancy Student
Firstly I would like to tell you I am really enjoying the Beginner yoga class. It is even better than I had anticipated in that I am getting so much out of it personally. I am a bookworm and am currently finishing Eckhart Tolle's book "A new Earth" and have found it to be a great compliment to the class. It is amazing how much our minds can influence our state of being and "presence". I am already seeing results with the practices I am doing at home. You were right about routines and how easy we can make them part of our lives. I wish I could do my practices in the morning however but with little ones I have been more successful in the evenings.
Beginner Student
You have made a FABULOUS contribution to the City and to many newly "on the path" to wellness and joy! Thank you for all that is uniquely and beautifully you and your beautiful team. Your * shining light* will no doubt continue to ' * twinkle*
Comments from Fredericton Healer on the closing of the York Street Lifesong.
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