Teacher Education Programs

“Thinking knowledge of the head combined with the experienced understanding of the heart should be the dharma of a teacher.”
– B.K.S. Iyengar

The question “How do I become a yoga instructor?” begins with a spark of curiosity, an eagerness to learn, and years of dedicated practice. Our Teacher Education Programs help you establish and evolve the skillful means to communicate the art, science, and philosophy of yoga in the Iyengar tradition. The programs offer a deeply rewarding experience.

ART OF TEACHING PROGRAM

Recognized for its tradition of excellence, the program at the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco has trained students and teachers from the United States and around the world since 1974. Our Art of Teaching program provides a thorough grounding in the art, science, and philosophy of teaching yoga in the lineage of Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar and his family. It provides a foundation for becoming a Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher (CIYT) at the Introductory level. Students in this program learn progressively within a supportive community, develop teaching skills, and refine their practice throughout the 6-module program.

Learn and Build

• Deepened self-awareness through practice and self-study
• Teaching proficiency in a time-honored, respected methodology
• Skillful means to communicate the art and science of yoga
• Observation, correction and adjustment skills
• Practical experience of body mechanics in asana
• Clarity of purpose and meaning of teaching in the Iyengar tradition
• Connection to the Iyengar Yoga community and lineage

Program Requirements

The program is open to students of Iyengar Yoga with maturity in practice, curiosity to learn, and passion to share the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar. Applicants must have:

• 3+ years of continuous study in the Iyengar method with a CIYT
• a clear commitment to the Iyengar method and becoming a CIYT
• stability and maturity in Intermediate classes and a personal practice
• a letter of recommendation from primary CIYT teacher
• IYANC membership

Curriculum

The program includes 6 three-day modules, each covering a range of topics in an inclusive community of engaged practitioners. Topics include:

• Teaching skills
• Sequencing, Pacing, and Linking
• Observation and Correction
• Modifications and adjustments
• Yoga Philosophy and its practical application
• Ethics and practical application in the classroom
• Mentorship

The program emphasizes practice, experiential learning, and intensive study as the means to evolve practical knowledge of the subject of yoga. During off-months, students will be assigned personal and collaborative projects to deepen and broaden their learning.

Mentoring is an essential aspect of the program. To ensure consistency and honor the essence of the mentoring relationship, students of the program are welcome to explore mentoring toward IYNAUS certification with program faculty. Mentoring relationships already established between program students and their CIYT mentor will be supported by the program. All students of the program will be guided to participate progressively as a student, observer, and assistant in a Beginner level class taught at IYISF or their home studio.

Modules

Each module of the program will be scheduled Friday 4-7pm, Saturday 2-6pm & Sunday 1-5pm. 2020 dates are: January 24-26, March 6-8, April 17-19, May 8-10, July 24-26, and August 28-30.

Friday sessions feature themed teaching practicums and are integral to the weekend module. They provide a unique opportunity for participants to learn in both teacher and student roles, gain an understanding of their strengths and challenges among supportive peers and senior teachers, and guide the remaining weekend sessions’ focus.

Faculty

Faculty rotate each year of the program. The 2020 program will be taught by Brian Hogencamp.

Application Process

• Submit the 2020 Art of Teaching Application with a $35 non-refundable application fee. 
• Upon acceptance into the program, a deposit or full payment is due. See Tuition information below.

Tuition

How to obtain teaching certification

The Art of Teaching program is an IYNAUS (Iyengar Yoga National Association of the United States) approved teacher education program. Students completing the Art of Teaching program are not awarded a certificate or degree, nor are they able to identify themselves as Iyengar Yoga teachers. IYNAUS is the organization that carries out all aspects of Iyengar Yoga teacher certification in the U.S.; students interested in pursuing certification can find detailed information at www.IYNAUS.org/prerequisites.