A flagship certification training program 🌍
Our Yoga for Mental Health facilitator training is a specialised course designed for yoga teachers and mental health professionals. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of how to facilitate yoga practices that are specifically tailored to support individuals facing mental health challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. The course integrates traditional yoga techniques with modern psychological insights and world-class research, offering participants the tools and knowledge necessary to create a safe and effective environment for those on a healing journey.
A flagship certification training program 🌍
Our Yoga for Mental Health facilitator training is a specialised course designed for yoga teachers and mental health professionals. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of how to facilitate yoga practices that are specifically tailored to support individuals facing mental health challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. The course integrates traditional yoga techniques with modern psychological insights and world-class research, offering participants the tools and knowledge necessary to create a safe and effective environment for those on a healing journey.
Pioneer in the field
“Learning, in detail, about trauma-sensitivework. Even though yoga focused it could be extended into all other group work too. Also mindfulness. Learning what does it mean to be trauma sensitive and experiencing it first-hand with Candice. Wow! Truly transformational. Authentic. Effective. Experiential. Informative. Cutting-edge. Trustworthy. We need more of you!”
– Nicole Mansour
Personally powerful too!
“I have learnt how to create a safe space for myself in order to successfully facilitate classes. Candice Clark is such a gentle, beautiful and intelligent soul that is very passionate about her field.”
– Keikemetse Segone
Deeply meaningful training
“I will forever hold my training with Cands close to my heart. It was interactive, well paced and offered at a level which allowed me to understand & learn without frustration. Candice, YOU are incredible. So much love and consideration was poured into this training.”
– Waseelah Whitford
Confidence building
“Candice is a brilliant facilitator. I have learnt how to create a safe space and hold space for others, and introduce various techniques. My confidence has grown immensely!”
– Lynsey Biggert
Pioneer in the field
“Learning, in detail, about trauma-sensitivework. Even though yoga focused it could be extended into all other group work too. Also mindfulness. Learning what does it mean to be trauma sensitive and experiencing it first-hand with Candice. Wow! Truly transformational. Authentic. Effective. Experiential. Informative. Cutting-edge. Trustworthy. We need more of you!”
– Nicole Mansour
Personally powerful too!
“I have learnt how to create a safe space for myself in order to successfully facilitate classes. Candice Clark is such a gentle, beautiful and intelligent soul that is very passionate about her field.”
– Keikemetse Segone
Deeply meaningful training
“I will forever hold my training with Cands close to my heart. It was interactive, well paced and offered at a level which allowed me to understand & learn without frustration. Candice, YOU are incredible. So much love and consideration was poured into this training.”
– Waseelah Whitford
Confidence building
“Candice is a brilliant facilitator. I have learnt how to create a safe space and hold space for others, and introduce various techniques. My confidence has grown immensely!”
– Lynsey Biggert
Cands is a licensed counselor and yoga therapist that specialises in trauma and mental health. She leads a successful private practice in Johannesburg, South Africa and has also successfully built a renowned global, training practice for yoga teachers, somatic practitioners and mental health professionals. She has been featured on a number of local and international podcasts, professional bodies and training organisations.
She is furthermore completing her Masters thesis on trauma-sensitive yoga in the South African context. This means that you are not only receiving training direct from Cands, based on many hours of personal and professional experience and training, but training that is also based on current world-class academic research in this field.
Cands is a licensed counselor and yoga therapist that specialises in trauma and mental health. She leads a successful private practice in Johannesburg, South Africa and has also successfully built a renowned global, training practice for yoga teachers, somatic practitioners and mental health professionals. She has been featured on a number of local and international podcasts, professional bodies and training organisations.
She is furthermore completing her Masters thesis on trauma-sensitive yoga in the South African context. This means that you are not only receiving training direct from Cands, based on many hours of personal and professional experience and training, but training that is also based on current world-class academic research in this field.
Who should attend this flagship certification program?
- Yoga Teachers and Somatic Practitioners: Enhance your ability to guide students through practices that support mental and emotional well-being no matter where they are at on their healing journey.
- Mental Health Professionals: Incorporate yoga as a therapeutic modality to complement traditional mental health approaches.
- Health and Wellness Coaches: Expand your expertise in holistic approaches to supporting mental health.
- Beginners and the simply curious are so welcome too!
Course Objectives:
1.) Understanding Common Mental Health Challenges: Gain in-depth knowledge of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression, including their symptoms, triggers, and how they impact the body and mind.
2.) Yoga and the Nervous System: Explore how yoga practices can regulate the nervous system, promote emotional balance, and reduce the physiological impact of stress.
3.) Trauma-Informed Yoga: Learn to create a trauma-sensitive yoga environment that prioritises safety, choice, and empowerment for individuals who have experienced trauma.
4.) Grief Support Through Yoga: Understand the grieving process and discover yoga practices that can provide solace and support during times of loss.
5.) Yoga for Anxiety and Depression: Learn specific asanas, pranayama, and meditation techniques that research shows us as most effective for those struggling with anxiety and depression.
6.) Ethics and Boundaries: Discuss the ethical considerations and boundaries necessary when working with vulnerable populations in a yoga setting.
7.) Integrating Yoga with Traditional Therapy: Explore how yoga can be used alongside conventional mental health approaches and therapies to offer a holistic approach to healing.
Who should attend this flagship certification program?
- Yoga Teachers and Somatic Practitioners: Enhance your ability to guide students through practices that support mental and emotional well-being no matter where they are at on their healing journey.
- Mental Health Professionals: Incorporate yoga as a therapeutic modality to complement traditional mental health approaches.
- Health and Wellness Coaches: Expand your expertise in holistic approaches to supporting mental health.
- Beginners and the simply curious are so welcome too!
Course Objectives:
1.) Understanding Common Mental Health Challenges: Gain in-depth knowledge of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression, including their symptoms, triggers, and how they impact the body and mind.
2.) Yoga and the Nervous System: Explore how yoga practices can regulate the nervous system, promote emotional balance, and reduce the physiological impact of stress.
3.) Trauma-Informed Yoga: Learn to create a trauma-sensitive yoga environment that prioritises safety, choice, and empowerment for individuals who have experienced trauma.
4.) Grief Support Through Yoga: Understand the grieving process and discover yoga practices that can provide solace and support during times of loss.
5.) Yoga for Anxiety and Depression: Learn specific asanas, pranayama, and meditation techniques that research shows us as most effective for those struggling with anxiety and depression.
6.) Ethics and Boundaries: Discuss the ethical considerations and boundaries necessary when working with vulnerable populations in a yoga setting.
7.) Integrating Yoga with Traditional Therapy: Explore how yoga can be used alongside conventional mental health approaches and therapies to offer a holistic approach to healing.
Trauma survivors and individuals reached on our group therapy programs.
Counselors and facilitators trained and graduated in our certification programs.
Trauma survivors and individuals reached on our group therapy programs.
Counselors and facilitators trained and graduated in our certification programs.
As a licensed counselor and yoga therapist that specialises in trauma and mental health, with a strong public health background, it’s important to me that this yoga for mental health facilitator training is evidence-based, experiential, accessible and rooted in local context.
Evidence-based
This training program is and will continue to be informed by current and world-class academic research in mental health, somatic approaches to supporting mental health and integrating the ancient practice of yoga in mental health and wellness settings. Not all yoga is helpful to those on a healing journey, it’s important to study those methods proven in research and clinical trials to be safe and effective for the populations we may be working with. We ensure we do no harm in this way.
Experiential
It is hard, if not impossible, to facilitate from a place of little lived experience. It is for this reason that this training program also has a strong component of self-reflection, and practical hours training (personal and facilitation practice). This is a training program that will teach you about yourself too, and promote your own personal growth. From this foundation, you are able to start facilitating highly effective, evidence-based yoga for mental health.
Accessible
We appreciate the difficulty some students may face in traveling to and attending training, both in terms of cost and personal care responsibilities. For this reason our training is conducted entirely online and is self-paced. We have ensured the quality and integrity of the training while simultaneously keeping it at a level of financial and time investment that is accessible. You have 4 months to complete the program. Payment plans are available, and scholarships are also available periodically. Please ensure you are following us on Instagram and are on our mailing list to be notified of scholarship opportunities.
Rooted in local context
It would be remiss to facilitate yoga for mental health in a way that is not sensitive to the local context we work in. Mental health and mental health challenges do not occur in a vacuum, they cannot be separated from the contexts in which they are born and continue to occur. It is for this reason that effective yoga for mental health is deeply rooted in local context. We will learn to take international, world-class research and understand it through a local lens. This ensures effectiveness in our individual contexts, for our participants.
As a licensed counselor and yoga therapist that specialises in trauma and mental health, with a strong public health background, it’s important to me that this yoga for mental health facilitator training is evidence-based, experiential, accessible and rooted in local context.
Evidence-based
This training program is and will continue to be informed by current and world-class academic research in mental health, somatic approaches to supporting mental health and integrating the ancient practice of yoga in mental health and wellness settings. Not all yoga is helpful to those on a healing journey, it’s important to study those methods proven in research and clinical trials to be safe and effective for the populations we may be working with. We ensure we do no harm in this way.
Experiential
It is hard, if not impossible, to facilitate from a place of little lived experience. It is for this reason that this training program also has a strong component of self-reflection, and practical hours training (personal and facilitation practice). This is a training program that will teach you about yourself too, and promote your own personal growth. From this foundation, you are able to start facilitating highly effective, evidence-based yoga for mental health.
Accessible
We appreciate the difficulty some students may face in traveling to and attending training, both in terms of cost and personal care responsibilities. For this reason our training is conducted entirely online and is self-paced. We have ensured the quality and integrity of the training while simultaneously keeping it at a level of financial and time investment that is accessible. You have 5 months to complete the program. Payment plans are available, and scholarships are also available periodically. Please ensure you are following us on Instagram and are on our mailing list to be notified of scholarship opportunities.
Rooted in local context
It would be remiss to facilitate yoga for mental health in a way that is not sensitive to the local context we work in. Mental health and mental health challenges do not occur in a vacuum, they cannot be separated from the contexts in which they are born and continue to occur. It is for this reason that effective yoga for mental health is deeply rooted in local context. We will learn to take international, world-class research and understand it through a local lens. This ensures effectiveness in our individual contexts, for our participants.
-
TSYFT-L2: trauma-sensitive yoga facilitator training, level 2 (online, 50 hours)
R9900,00 -
Sale!
Yoga for mental health facilitator training (online, 30 hours)
Original price was: R5900,00.R4900,00Current price is: R4900,00. -
Short Course in Trauma Counseling (online, 15 hours), cohort: 5 September – 10 October’24
R3900,00 -
TSYFT-L1: trauma-sensitive yoga facilitator training, level 1 (online, 20 hours)
R3900,00
Training Program Structure
- Enrolment: Upon enrolling and completing payment, you will receive a personal details form and liability waiver.
- Prep week: Once this has been completed, you will receive your first manual insert. This contains all your preparatory material and your reading for week 1.
- Week 1 – 6: The first Friday thereafter you will receive access to your first module to watch, related homework to complete and your next set of reading material. Each Friday for 6 weeks you will receive the same as the above (module to watch, homework to complete and next set of reading material).
- Week 7 – 8: Once the homework related to the above 6 weeks has been completed, you will receive the details of your final homework assignment.
- You will have 5 months to complete all of the above, from the date of your enrolment / payment.
- Consulting with Cands: The third Thursday of each month at 2pm – 3:30pm SAST is a consulting session with Cands. You can attend this to discuss any of the training material in-depth should you wish, it is not compulsory. To ensure you extract the most value from this, booking in advance with your questions you’d like to discuss is required to attend.
- The 30 hours are made up as follows: 12 hours theory training (video modules are accessible for full duration of 5 months), 10 hours of homework training (1 – 2 hours of homework per/week for the first 6 weeks), 5 hours practical training, 3 hours final assignment (final written and practical homework assignment, you will receive feedback within 6 weeks of submission).
- All components need to be completed within 5 months of enrolment / payment for you to graduate successfully.
Program Features:
- Interactive Sessions: Participate in hands-on consulting sessions that demonstrate how to apply the principles learned in real-world scenarios.
- Case Studies: Analyse case studies to better understand the application of yoga in different mental health contexts.
- Expert Instruction: Learn directly from Cands, an experienced licensed counselor and yoga therapist who specializes in integrative approaches to mental health.
- Community and Support: Join a network of like-minded professionals committed to making a positive impact on mental health through yoga.
Duration:
The course is spread over 5 months, with a mix of live group consulting sessions and self-paced learning modules. Each module focuses on a different aspect of mental health and yoga, allowing for a deep and comprehensive exploration of the topics.
Certification:
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Yoga for Mental Health Facilitator certification, which acknowledges their expertise in using yoga as a tool for mental health support.
Empower yourself with the knowledge and skills to support those in need. Whether you are a yoga teacher looking to deepen your practice or a mental health professional seeking holistic tools, this program offers a unique opportunity to enhance your ability to facilitate healing and well-being.
Explore the modules:
Module 1: Understanding Common Mental Health Challenges
1.1 Introduction to Mental Health Challenges:
- Overview of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression.
- Understanding the prevalence and impact of these conditions.
1.2 Trauma
- Definition and types of trauma (e.g., acute, chronic, complex).
- Common symptoms and triggers.
- How trauma affects the body (e.g., fight-or-flight response, hyperarousal).
1.3 Grief
- The grieving process and its stages (we use the lesser-known but incredibly powerful 4 stage creative process).
- Variations in grieving experiences (e.g., anticipatory grief, complicated grief).
- The physical and emotional manifestations of grief.
1.4 Anxiety
- Types of anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety).
- Symptoms and triggers.
- The impact of anxiety on the nervous system and overall health.
1.5 Depression
- Understanding different types of depression (e.g., major depressive disorder, dysthymia).
- Symptoms, causes, and contributing factors.
- The effects of depression on the body and mind.
1.6 Integrating Knowledge
- How these mental health challenges intersect and overlap.
- Case studies to illustrate real-life applications.
Module 2: Yoga and the Nervous System
2.1 The Nervous System: An Overview
- Introduction to the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
- Sympathetic vs. parasympathetic nervous systems.
- The role of the vagus nerve in regulating stress responses.
2.2 Yoga and Stress Regulation
- How yoga practices can shift the nervous system from sympathetic to parasympathetic dominance.
- The physiological effects of yoga on stress hormones (e.g., cortisol, adrenaline).
2.3 Pranayama (Breathwork)
- Techniques for activating the parasympathetic nervous system (e.g., deep breathing, alternate nostril breathing).
- The impact of breath control on heart rate variability and emotional regulation.
2.4 Asana (Postures)
- Yoga postures that support nervous system regulation (e.g., forward bends, restorative poses).
- The role of movement and stillness in balancing the nervous system.
2.5 Meditation and Mindfulness
- How meditation practices calm the mind and body.
- The benefits of mindfulness for stress reduction and emotional balance.
2.6 Integrating Practices
- Designing yoga sequences that promote nervous system balance.
- Practical exercises for participants to experience and teach.
Module 3: Trauma-Informed Yoga
3.1 Understanding Trauma-Informed Yoga
- Principles of trauma-informed care in a yoga context.
- The importance of creating a safe and supportive environment.
3.2 Safety in the Yoga Space
- Establishing physical, emotional, and psychological safety.
- Modifications and adaptations to accommodate trauma survivors.
3.3 Empowerment and Choice
- Encouraging autonomy and choice in yoga practices.
- Avoiding triggering language and touch.
3.4 Sensory Awareness and Grounding
- Techniques to help students stay present and grounded.
- Using props, breath, and mindful movement to foster safety.
3.5 Trauma-Sensitive Sequencing
- Designing yoga sequences that avoid re-traumatization.
- Balancing challenge and ease in practice.
3.6 Integration and Application
- Case studies and role-playing exercises.
- Developing trauma-informed yoga classes.
Module 4: Grief Support Through Yoga
4.1 Understanding Grief and Loss
- The psychological and emotional aspects of grief.
- How grief manifests in the body.
4.2 Yoga as a Tool for Grieving
- The role of yoga in supporting the grieving process.
- Benefits of yoga for emotional release and acceptance.
4.3 Breathwork for Grief
- Pranayama techniques to calm and soothe the grieving heart.
- Breathing exercises to release held emotions.
4.4 Restorative Yoga and Grief
- Restorative poses that support deep relaxation and emotional healing.
- Creating a nurturing space for grief processing.
4.5 Meditation and Reflection
- Guided meditation practices for honoring and processing grief.
- Journaling and reflective practices integrated with yoga.
4.6 Creating Grief-Sensitive Classes
- How to design yoga sessions that cater to individuals experiencing grief.
- Holding space for grief in a group setting.
Module 5: Yoga for Anxiety and Depression
5.1 Understanding Anxiety and Depression through Yoga
- How anxiety and depression affect the body-mind connection.
- The benefits of yoga for managing symptoms.
5.2 Breathwork for Anxiety and Depression
- Pranayama techniques to calm anxiety and uplift the spirit.
- Breath practices that promote mental clarity and focus.
5.3 Asana for Anxiety
- Yoga postures that release tension and promote relaxation.
- Sequencing for calming the nervous system and reducing anxiousness.
5.4 Asana for Depression
- Energizing and heart-opening postures that combat lethargy and soothe sadness.
- Evidence-backed and neuroscience informed yoga sequences to boost mood and energy levels.
5.5 Meditation and Mindfulness
- Mindfulness practices for managing anxious thoughts and depressive tendencies.
- Guided meditations that promote self-compassion and inner peace.
5.6 Integrating Yoga into Daily Life
- Creating personalized yoga routines for ongoing support.
- Inviting in and nurturing consistency and mindfulness in everyday activities.
Module 6: Ethics and Boundaries
6.1 Ethical Considerations in Yoga for Mental Health
- Understanding the ethical implications of teaching yoga to vulnerable populations.
- The importance of maintaining professional integrity and compassion.
6.2 Establishing Boundaries
- Setting clear boundaries with students and clients.
- Recognizing and managing transference and countertransference.
6.3 Consent and Communication
- The role of informed consent in yoga practice.
- Effective communication strategies that respect student autonomy.
6.4 Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity
- Understanding cultural differences in the context of mental health and yoga.
- Creating an inclusive and respectful yoga environment.
6.5 Self-Care for Practitioners
- The importance of self-care for yoga teachers and mental health professionals.
- Strategies for preventing burnout and maintaining personal well-being.
6.6 Case Studies and Scenarios
- Exploring real-life ethical dilemmas.
- Discussions and role-playing to practice ethical decision-making.
Module 7: Integrating Yoga with Traditional Therapy
7.1 Understanding the Complementary Role of Yoga
- How yoga can enhance traditional mental health therapies.
- The benefits of a holistic approach to healing.
7.2 Collaborative Care Models
- Strategies for working with mental health professionals and healthcare providers.
- The role of yoga in a multidisciplinary treatment plan.
7.3 Case Studies of Integrated Approaches
- Reviewing examples of successful integration of yoga with psychotherapy, medication, and other therapies.
- Lessons learned from integrated care models.
7.4 Yoga as a Complementary Therapy
- Exploring how specific yoga practices can support therapy goals.
- Designing yoga sessions that align with therapeutic objectives.
7.5 Challenges and Opportunities
- Identifying potential challenges in integrating yoga with traditional therapies.
- Exploring opportunities for growth and innovation in integrative mental health care.
7.6 Final Integration Project
- Participants will design a yoga program that integrates the knowledge and skills from the course.
- Presentation and feedback from peers and instructors.
Training Program Structure
- Enrolment: Upon enrolling and completing payment, you will receive a personal details form and liability waiver.
- Prep week: Once this has been completed, you will receive your first manual insert. This contains all your preparatory material and your reading for week 1.
- Week 1 – 6: The first Friday thereafter you will receive access to your first module to watch, related homework to complete and your next set of reading material. Each Friday for 6 weeks you will receive the same as the above (module to watch, homework to complete and next set of reading material).
- Week 7 – 8: Once the homework related to the above 6 weeks has been completed, you will receive the details of your final homework assignment.
- You will have 5 months to complete all of the above, from the date of your enrolment / payment.
- Consulting with Cands: The third Thursday of each month at 2pm – 3:30pm SAST is a consulting session with Cands. You can attend this to discuss any of the training material in-depth should you wish, it is not compulsory. To ensure you extract the most value from this, booking in advance with your questions you’d like to discuss is required to attend.
- The 30 hours are made up as follows: 12 hours theory training (video modules are accessible for full duration of 5 months), 10 hours of homework training (1 – 2 hours of homework per/week for the first 6 weeks), 5 hours practical training, 3 hours final assignment (final written and practical homework assignment, you will receive feedback within 6 weeks of submission).
- All components need to be completed within 5 months of enrolment / payment for you to graduate successfully.
Program Features:
- Interactive Sessions: Participate in hands-on consulting sessions that demonstrate how to apply the principles learned in real-world scenarios.
- Case Studies: Analyse case studies to better understand the application of yoga in different mental health contexts.
- Expert Instruction: Learn directly from Cands, an experienced licensed counselor and yoga therapist who specializes in integrative approaches to mental health.
- Community and Support: Join a network of like-minded professionals committed to making a positive impact on mental health through yoga.
Duration:
This course is spread over 5 months, with a mix of live group consulting sessions and self-paced learning modules. Each module focuses on a different aspect of mental health and yoga, allowing for a deep and comprehensive exploration of the topics.
Certification:
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Yoga for Mental Health Facilitator certification, which acknowledges their expertise in using yoga as a tool for mental health support.
Empower yourself with the knowledge and skills to support those in need. Whether you are a yoga teacher looking to deepen your practice or a mental health professional seeking holistic tools, this program offers a unique opportunity to enhance your ability to facilitate healing and well-being.
FAQ’s:
What does this qualify me to do?
It is dependent on the scope of practice you currently hold. For yoga teachers and somatic practitioners it will enhance your ability to guide clients through practices that support mental and emotional well-being no matter where they are at on their healing journey. For mental health professionals and coaches, this will support you in learning how to incorporate yoga as a therapeutic modality to complement traditional mental health and coaching approaches respectively.
Can I attend this training if I'm not a certified yoga teacher?
Yes, you are welcome to. This is an open training program.
Who is this training registered through?
This is our own, indepedent training. It is not registered through any external body. This is for a few different reasons but primarily because we have a specific vision for the training and where we believe this field is heading. It’s an exciting time!
Will I be able to facilitate on your group therapy programs?
At this stage, we only allow facilitators trained in our methodology to facilitate on our group therapy programs. However, there is an application process per program and those shortlisted will be invited to facilitate.
Do you offer refunds?
As this is a self-paced program, where you immediately have access to course materials – no refund or credit note is provided should you not start the course, exit the course, or do not complete the course within the time frame provided above (5 months).
Will I have access to you & questions during the program?
Absolutely. You will be able to ask me questions at any stage of the training program (in our consulting sessions described above and on email should you prefer).
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. 50% (non-refundable) payment is required to begin, the remaining 50% is due within 30 days of enrolment. Please mail me here for information on this. NB: this does not apply to discounted prices.
Can I share this with friends, family, clients and others?
Yes you are welcome to! It is open to anyone who feels this could be their heart work.
Explore the modules:
Module 1: Understanding Common Mental Health Challenges
1.1 Introduction to Mental Health Challenges:
- Overview of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression.
- Understanding the prevalence and impact of these conditions.
1.2 Trauma
- Definition and types of trauma (e.g., acute, chronic, complex).
- Common symptoms and triggers.
- How trauma affects the body (e.g., fight-or-flight response, hyperarousal).
1.3 Grief
- The grieving process and its stages (we use the lesser-known but incredibly powerful 4 stage creative process).
- Variations in grieving experiences (e.g., anticipatory grief, complicated grief).
- The physical and emotional manifestations of grief.
1.4 Anxiety
- Types of anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety).
- Symptoms and triggers.
- The impact of anxiety on the nervous system and overall health.
1.5 Depression
- Understanding different types of depression (e.g., major depressive disorder, dysthymia).
- Symptoms, causes, and contributing factors.
- The effects of depression on the body and mind.
1.6 Integrating Knowledge
- How these mental health challenges intersect and overlap.
- Case studies to illustrate real-life applications.
Module 2: Yoga and the Nervous System
2.1 The Nervous System: An Overview
- Introduction to the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
- Sympathetic vs. parasympathetic nervous systems.
- The role of the vagus nerve in regulating stress responses.
2.2 Yoga and Stress Regulation
- How yoga practices can shift the nervous system from sympathetic to parasympathetic dominance.
- The physiological effects of yoga on stress hormones (e.g., cortisol, adrenaline).
2.3 Pranayama (Breathwork)
- Techniques for activating the parasympathetic nervous system (e.g., deep breathing, alternate nostril breathing).
- The impact of breath control on heart rate variability and emotional regulation.
2.4 Asana (Postures)
- Yoga postures that support nervous system regulation (e.g., forward bends, restorative poses).
- The role of movement and stillness in balancing the nervous system.
2.5 Meditation and Mindfulness
- How meditation practices calm the mind and body.
- The benefits of mindfulness for stress reduction and emotional balance.
2.6 Integrating Practices
- Designing yoga sequences that promote nervous system balance.
- Practical exercises for participants to experience and teach.
Module 3: Trauma-Informed Yoga
3.1 Understanding Trauma-Informed Yoga
- Principles of trauma-informed care in a yoga context.
- The importance of creating a safe and supportive environment.
3.2 Safety in the Yoga Space
- Establishing physical, emotional, and psychological safety.
- Modifications and adaptations to accommodate trauma survivors.
3.3 Empowerment and Choice
- Encouraging autonomy and choice in yoga practices.
- Avoiding triggering language and touch.
3.4 Sensory Awareness and Grounding
- Techniques to help students stay present and grounded.
- Using props, breath, and mindful movement to foster safety.
3.5 Trauma-Sensitive Sequencing
- Designing yoga sequences that avoid re-traumatization.
- Balancing challenge and ease in practice.
3.6 Integration and Application
- Case studies and role-playing exercises.
- Developing trauma-informed yoga classes.
Module 4: Grief Support Through Yoga
4.1 Understanding Grief and Loss
- The psychological and emotional aspects of grief.
- How grief manifests in the body.
4.2 Yoga as a Tool for Grieving
- The role of yoga in supporting the grieving process.
- Benefits of yoga for emotional release and acceptance.
4.3 Breathwork for Grief
- Pranayama techniques to calm and soothe the grieving heart.
- Breathing exercises to release held emotions.
4.4 Restorative Yoga and Grief
- Restorative poses that support deep relaxation and emotional healing.
- Creating a nurturing space for grief processing.
4.5 Meditation and Reflection
- Guided meditation practices for honoring and processing grief.
- Journaling and reflective practices integrated with yoga.
4.6 Creating Grief-Sensitive Classes
- How to design yoga sessions that cater to individuals experiencing grief.
- Holding space for grief in a group setting.
Module 5: Yoga for Anxiety and Depression
5.1 Understanding Anxiety and Depression through Yoga
- How anxiety and depression affect the body-mind connection.
- The benefits of yoga for managing symptoms.
5.2 Breathwork for Anxiety and Depression
- Pranayama techniques to calm anxiety and uplift the spirit.
- Breath practices that promote mental clarity and focus.
5.3 Asana for Anxiety
- Yoga postures that release tension and promote relaxation.
- Sequencing for calming the nervous system and reducing anxiousness.
5.4 Asana for Depression
- Energizing and heart-opening postures that combat lethargy and soothe sadness.
- Evidence-backed and neuroscience informed yoga sequences to boost mood and energy levels.
5.5 Meditation and Mindfulness
- Mindfulness practices for managing anxious thoughts and depressive tendencies.
- Guided meditations that promote self-compassion and inner peace.
5.6 Integrating Yoga into Daily Life
- Creating personalized yoga routines for ongoing support.
- Inviting in and nurturing consistency and mindfulness in everyday activities.
Module 6: Ethics and Boundaries
6.1 Ethical Considerations in Yoga for Mental Health
- Understanding the ethical implications of teaching yoga to vulnerable populations.
- The importance of maintaining professional integrity and compassion.
6.2 Establishing Boundaries
- Setting clear boundaries with students and clients.
- Recognizing and managing transference and countertransference.
6.3 Consent and Communication
- The role of informed consent in yoga practice.
- Effective communication strategies that respect student autonomy.
6.4 Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity
- Understanding cultural differences in the context of mental health and yoga.
- Creating an inclusive and respectful yoga environment.
6.5 Self-Care for Practitioners
- The importance of self-care for yoga teachers and mental health professionals.
- Strategies for preventing burnout and maintaining personal well-being.
6.6 Case Studies and Scenarios
- Exploring real-life ethical dilemmas.
- Discussions and role-playing to practice ethical decision-making.
Module 7: Integrating Yoga with Traditional Therapy
7.1 Understanding the Complementary Role of Yoga
- How yoga can enhance traditional mental health therapies.
- The benefits of a holistic approach to healing.
7.2 Collaborative Care Models
- Strategies for working with mental health professionals and healthcare providers.
- The role of yoga in a multidisciplinary treatment plan.
7.3 Case Studies of Integrated Approaches
- Reviewing examples of successful integration of yoga with psychotherapy, medication, and other therapies.
- Lessons learned from integrated care models.
7.4 Yoga as a Complementary Therapy
- Exploring how specific yoga practices can support therapy goals.
- Designing yoga sessions that align with therapeutic objectives.
7.5 Challenges and Opportunities
- Identifying potential challenges in integrating yoga with traditional therapies.
- Exploring opportunities for growth and innovation in integrative mental health care.
7.6 Final Integration Project
- Participants will design a yoga program that integrates the knowledge and skills from the course.
- Presentation and feedback from peers and instructors.
FAQ’s:
What does this qualify me to do?
It is dependent on the scope of practice you currently hold. For yoga teachers and somatic practitioners it will enhance your ability to guide clients through practices that support mental and emotional well-being no matter where they are at on their healing journey. For mental health professionals and coaches, this will support you in learning how to incorporate yoga as a therapeutic modality to complement traditional mental health and coaching approaches respectively.
Can I attend this training if I'm not a certified yoga teacher?
Yes, you are welcome to. This is an open training program.
Who is this training registered through?
This is our own, indepedent training. It is not registered through any external body. This is for a few different reasons but primarily because we have a specific vision for the training and where we believe this field is heading. It’s an exciting time!
Will I be able to facilitate on your group therapy programs?
At this stage, we only allow facilitators trained in our methodology to facilitate on our group therapy programs. However, there is an application process per program and those shortlisted will be invited to facilitate.
Do you offer refunds?
As this is a self-paced program, where you immediately have access to course materials – no refund or credit note is provided should you not start the course, exit the course, or do not complete the course within the time frame provided above (5 months).
Will I have access to you & questions during the program?
Absolutely. You will be able to ask me questions at any stage of the training program (in our consulting sessions described above and on email should you prefer).
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. 50% (non-refundable) payment is required to begin, the remaining 50% is due within 30 days of enrolment. Please mail me here for information on this. NB: this does not apply to discounted prices.
Can I share this with friends, family, clients and others?
Yes you are welcome to! It is open to anyone who feels this could be their heart work.