500 HOUR TEACHER TRAINING
AND OTHER SPECIALIZED TRAINING
NEW! FIRST SPECIALIZED ĀSANA TRAINING: September 2025–June 2026 Contact us to inquire
NEXT VEDIC CHANT TRAINING: October 2025–June 2026 Contact us to observe current training
AND OTHER SPECIALIZED TRAINING
NEW! FIRST SPECIALIZED ĀSANA TRAINING: September 2025–June 2026 Contact us to inquire
NEXT VEDIC CHANT TRAINING: October 2025–June 2026 Contact us to observe current training
FUNCTION OVER FORM: ĀSANA PRACTICE AND TEACHING
IN THE DESIKACHAR TRADITION
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Introducing The Yoga School NY’s first-ever Specialized Āsana Training. This year-long course is for practitioners and teachers of yoga who would like to explore a comprehensive approach to āsana as it is taught in the Desikachar tradition. Here āsana is presented as a tool for self-observation. While letting go of preconceived notions of what a pose should “look like,” we endeavor to have each āsana be initiated, informed, and sustained by our full, slow breathing, thus creating an opening for careful sensing, observing and inner listening. |
We will explore, in practice and theory, the principles underlying each āsana category, highlighting how to define, and make more accessible, each posture’s primary and secondary function. Adaptations, modifications and variations of postures will be discussed as well as counter indications. We will also point to how other tools of yoga, such as breath ratios, visualization, and sound, can help give a deeper understanding and feeling of āsana practice. A teaching exploration will conclude each day, where participants design and teach practices, learn to observe students, and where we will discuss teaching methodology.
DAILY SCHEDULE:
1:00-2:00pm—Practice Class:
Explore an āsana category in the context of a practice class that combines āsana, prānāyāma, visualization, nyāsa and sound.
2:00-2:30pm—Time for Discussion of Practice Class:
Student feedback and questions; course plan; adaptations/variations; teaching methodology.
2:30-4:00pm—Āsana Exploration:
We will look at each āsana category in depth, discussing its functionality, its bhāvanā, possible adaptations and variations, and how to highlight them through layering with other modalities.
4:00-5:00pm—Teaching Exploration:
Students have the opportunity to present teaching assignments and receive feedback on the design and delivery of the assignment.
CURRICULUM:
Session 1:
Samasthiti: “Be here now.” Reference poses as beginning and end of each pose’s vinyāsa, and of each practice.
Session 2:
Paścimatāna 1: “Letting go.” Poses of surrender—standing, supine and seated forward bends with useful adaptations and variations.
Session 3:
Paścimatāna 2: The concept of sthiti, going step by step—standing and seated forward bends.
Session 4:
Pūrvatāna: “Less is more.” Opening the heart; standing, kneeling, supine and prone backbends and their adaptations and variations.
Session 5:
Pārśva: “Sidedness.” Standing and supine side bends and how to adapt them.
Session 6:
Parivrtti: “Rotating from lower to upper.” Standing, supine and seated twists.
Session 7:
Viparīta 1: “A different view.” Simple and more complex inversions.
Session 8:
Viśesa: “Special poses for special occasions.” Looking at purpose and function in viśesa poses.
Session 9:
Standing and Kneeling Sun Salutations: symmetrical and non-symmetrical sequences into and out of a prostration.
Session 10:
The art of teaching. How to conduct a group class to convey its bhāvanā and highlight function.
DATES & TIMES
September 2025 till June 2026, one Sunday per month, from 1:00 to 5:00pm EST
FORMAT
In-person at the studio at 119 West 23rd Street #406; online participation via zoom is possible too. A limit of 10 students, to guarantee an individualized approach. Each student will have four 45-minute-long private sessions with Director Guta Hedewig throughout the year to go over āsana questions and refinement in practice and theory.
TUITION
$1,500—includes four private lessons. Payment plans available.
PRE-REQUISITES
All are welcome to join.
CERTIFICATION
Students will receive a certificate of participation from the Yoga School NY upon completion of the training. The hours of this training count towards continuing education credit with Yoga Alliance. They can also be applied towards further teacher training studies in your certification process with The Yoga School NY.
APPLICATIONS
Due June 1, 2025. To apply, please email your application form to: T[email protected]m
QUESTIONS
Please contact director Guta Hedewig at T[email protected]m - Tel. 212-566-4631
September 2025 till June 2026, one Sunday per month, from 1:00 to 5:00pm EST
FORMAT
In-person at the studio at 119 West 23rd Street #406; online participation via zoom is possible too. A limit of 10 students, to guarantee an individualized approach. Each student will have four 45-minute-long private sessions with Director Guta Hedewig throughout the year to go over āsana questions and refinement in practice and theory.
TUITION
$1,500—includes four private lessons. Payment plans available.
PRE-REQUISITES
All are welcome to join.
CERTIFICATION
Students will receive a certificate of participation from the Yoga School NY upon completion of the training. The hours of this training count towards continuing education credit with Yoga Alliance. They can also be applied towards further teacher training studies in your certification process with The Yoga School NY.
APPLICATIONS
Due June 1, 2025. To apply, please email your application form to: T[email protected]m
QUESTIONS
Please contact director Guta Hedewig at T[email protected]m - Tel. 212-566-4631
Āsana Training Application Form to Download:
| asana_training-app.pdf |
VEDIC CHANT TRAINING:
DISCOVER THE POWER OF MANTRA
The Yoga School NY is featured in OM Yoga Magazine!
A student wrote an article on Vedic Chanting and our Vedic Chant Training:
https://www.ommagazine.com/making-a-space-for-chant-in-your-yoga-practice/
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Students share their experience learning to chant:
Catherine M., 300-hr-certified
It's always been a challenge for me to focus my mind, whether in āsana practice or meditation. With chanting, my mind cannot wander.
Adriane D., 600-hr-certified, current Vedic Chant Training student
Just learning the Sanskrit, meditating on the meanings of the words—the power of the sounds—so much that draws me in. It’s not boring. It’s more like, yay I get to chant, get to do something powerful and good that clears my mind and gives me peace.
Barbara G., 700-hr-certified, current Vedic Chant Training student
At first it was hard for me to pick up some of the sounds, the tongue movements. I would put my earphones in and sing along at the supermarket. Guta made it so easy. When I chant, I feel every part of my body—the chanting and vibrating wakes up every part of my body.
Catherine M., 300-hr-certified
It's always been a challenge for me to focus my mind, whether in āsana practice or meditation. With chanting, my mind cannot wander.
Adriane D., 600-hr-certified, current Vedic Chant Training student
Just learning the Sanskrit, meditating on the meanings of the words—the power of the sounds—so much that draws me in. It’s not boring. It’s more like, yay I get to chant, get to do something powerful and good that clears my mind and gives me peace.
Barbara G., 700-hr-certified, current Vedic Chant Training student
At first it was hard for me to pick up some of the sounds, the tongue movements. I would put my earphones in and sing along at the supermarket. Guta made it so easy. When I chant, I feel every part of my body—the chanting and vibrating wakes up every part of my body.
We will begin by reviewing the basics of Sanskrit pronunciation and the six main rules of Vedic Chanting. We will proceed to chanting exercises that gain in complexity throughout our studies and learn the Closing Chants.
In the beginning of our year-long training, we will learn two chants honoring the force of creativity: Sarasvatī Prārthanā, which evokes the flow of creativity; and Mantrapuspam, honoring water as the main force of creation.
Next, we will practice three powerful mantras dealing with Inner Strength: the intricate Śiva Mantrāh; Mrtyuñjaya Mahāmantrah, in honor of healing and liberation; and the fierce Durgāsūktam.
We will engage with two chants of exuberance: Hā vu, the jubilant end of the Taittirīya Upanisat; and the beginning of the grand Mahānārāyana Upanisat.
Lastly, we will learn two chants of purification: Ārogya Mantrah, said to spiritually cleanse us; and Pavamānasūktam, recited for cleansing rituals.
DAILY SCHEDULE:
1-2pm—Practice Class:
Explore a mantra in the context of a practice class that combines āsana, prānāyāma, visualization, nyāsa and sound.
2-5pm—Chanting Practice:
We will learn chanting exercises and mantras about creativity, inner strength, exuberance and purification.
CURRICULUM:
Session 1: Introduction
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Introduction to Vedic Chanting
Review of basic Sanskrit pronunciation
Chanting exercises, short parts of mantras, Invocation, Closing Chants
Session 2: ”Creative Power” 1
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Exercises
Chants Celebrating the Power of Creativity—Sarasvatī Prārthanā
Session 3: “Creative Power” 2
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Exercises
Chants Celebrating the Power of Creativity—Mantrapuspam
Session 4: “Inner Strength” 1
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Exercises
Chants for Inner Strength—Śiva Mantrāh
Session 5: “Inner Strength” 2
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Review
Chants for Inner Strength--Mrtyuñjaya Mahāmantrah
Session 6: “Inner Strength” 3
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Review
Chants for Inner Strength--Durgāsūktam
Session 7: “Exuberance” 1
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Review
Chants of Exuberance--Hā Vu
Session 8: “Exuberance” 2
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Review
Chants of Exuberance--Mahānārāyana Upanisat (beginning)
Session 9: “Purification” 1
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Review
Chants for Purification--Ārogya Mantrah
Session 10: “Purification” 2
Practice class: Movement/Breathing/Sound
Chanting Review
Chants for Purification--Pavamānasūktam
DATES & TIMES
October 2025 till June 2026, one Sunday per month, from 1-5pm EST
FORMAT
In-person at the studio at 119 West 23rd Street #406; online participation via zoom is possible too. A limit of 10 students, to guarantee an individualized approach. Each student will have four 45-minute-long private chant sessions with Director Guta Hedewig throughout the year to work individually on correct pronunciation/intonation.
TUITION
$1,500—includes four private lessons. Payment plans available.
PRE-REQUISITES
No prior knowledge of chanting or Sanskrit required. All are welcome to join.
CERTIFICATION
Students will receive a certificate of participation from the Yoga School NY upon completion of the training. The hours of this training count towards continuing education credit with Yoga Alliance. They can also be applied towards further teacher training studies in your certification process with The Yoga School NY.
APPLICATIONS
Due June 1, 2025. To apply, please email your application form to: T[email protected]m
QUESTIONS
Please contact director Guta Hedewig at T[email protected]m - Tel. 212-566-4631
October 2025 till June 2026, one Sunday per month, from 1-5pm EST
FORMAT
In-person at the studio at 119 West 23rd Street #406; online participation via zoom is possible too. A limit of 10 students, to guarantee an individualized approach. Each student will have four 45-minute-long private chant sessions with Director Guta Hedewig throughout the year to work individually on correct pronunciation/intonation.
TUITION
$1,500—includes four private lessons. Payment plans available.
PRE-REQUISITES
No prior knowledge of chanting or Sanskrit required. All are welcome to join.
CERTIFICATION
Students will receive a certificate of participation from the Yoga School NY upon completion of the training. The hours of this training count towards continuing education credit with Yoga Alliance. They can also be applied towards further teacher training studies in your certification process with The Yoga School NY.
APPLICATIONS
Due June 1, 2025. To apply, please email your application form to: T[email protected]m
QUESTIONS
Please contact director Guta Hedewig at T[email protected]m - Tel. 212-566-4631
Vedic Chant Training Application Form to Download:
| vedic_chant-teacherapp.pdf |
500 HOUR ADVANCED TEACHER TRAINING
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WHAT TO EXPECT Building on your 200 hour studies, the additional 300 hours of advanced study will culminate in 500 hour certification, enabling you to enhance your teaching expertise and refine your teaching to suit the individual student’s needs. Emphasis is placed on practical application, refinement of techniques (asana, pranayama, chanting, meditation, nyasa, bhavana, and incorporating the understanding of yoga for different ages and stages of life), and becoming a committed and confident practitioner and teacher of yoga. |
YOU WILL LEARN/GAIN
• Comprehensive reinforcement and review of the materials presented in the 200 hour training, for a deeper exploration of asana, pranayama, meditation, chanting, and yoga philosophy
• How to do adaptations for individuals of a wide range of conditions, abilities, and restrictions
• Layering of different modalities: How to enhance the primary direction or function of a technique by layering it with another (for example, moving while chanting; moving while employing breathing ratios; breathing with appropriate visualization and nyasa; etc.)
• Introduction to creating individualized home practices, an essential first step in the direction of yoga therapy
• Continuing enrichment of your individualized personal practice, modified throughout the training by TYSNY director, and greater insights into your life-long fruitful practice and study of yoga
• 500 hour Yoga Alliance-registered teaching certification.
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CURRICULUM DETAILS
Asana
Observations; defining primary function of postures; complex adaptations and vinyasa; theory of asana.
Advanced Course Planning
Planning towards multiple goals; progressing a practice over time; layering modalities; how use energetic qualities (brahmana, langhana, samana) in course planning; incorporating pranayama.
Pranayama
Advanced ratios and advanced techniques; approaches for group classes and individuals; how postures affect the breath; working with breath krama.
Meditation
A practical approach, putting yoga philosophy into action. Practice and theory/course planning.
Yoga Sutra Study
Study of pada 3 and 4 in theory, practice, chanting and discussion; reciting of additional sutra-s from pada 1, 2, and 3.
Bhagavad Gita Study
In-depth exploration of this foundational text through discussion, practice, and recitation.
Classical Indian Philosophy
From the early Vedic period to the Upanisad-s.
Vedic Chanting
Theory and practice of longer and more complex mantras; how to teach Vedic chant.
Creating Individualized Yoga Practices
How to work one-on-one according to the student’s needs; creating intake forms and considering certain common health conditions; orchestrating individualized sessions; how to conduct follow ups; meditation/mantra teaching in the one-on-one context; how to draw stick figures to represent the practice direction.
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Introduction to Basic Principles of Ayurveda
Using these principles in our own daily life, where relevant, and applying these principles when working one-on-one.
Subtle Anatomy
“Reading” a student on various levels; detailing the Panca Maya-s (the “bird” model from the Taittiriya Upanisad).
Practicum Sessions/Group
Teaching assigned group classes, and receiving feedback on class planning and teaching methodology.
Practicum Sessions/One-on-one
Working together as a group to create individualized home practices for volunteers.
Anatomy
In-depth explorations of the various anatomical structures and systems through a Body-Mind-Centering approach of experiential learning.
Prenatal and Postpartum Yoga
What to take into consideration when teaching pregnant people or people who recently gave birth.
Sanskrit
Immersion in the sounds and meaning of the Sanskrit language.
Book Presentations
Students analyze and present various books and ancient texts, including A History of Modern Yoga (de Michelis), Yoga Body (Singleton) Hatha Yoga Pradipika (Svatmarama), and other required reading.
Practice Classes
Group classes structured around various bhavana (intentions or themes), to practice and reinforce recently-studied principles.
Community Classes
Students create and teach classes to fellow students and invited guests.
Teaching Support
Regular feedback, discussion, and problem solving for teaching issues that may arise.
PREREQUISITES
Students will ideally have completed The Yoga School NY 200 hour teacher training. Teaching experience is preferred but not mandatory. Graduates of other 200 hour teacher training programs may also apply, but must work with TYSNY director to become familiar with this traditional method of yoga. Contact the director to discuss.
SCHEDULE
The 500 hour training takes place on approximately 18 weekends throughout two years, Saturdays 2–7pm and Sundays 9am–4pm. The two year-long span of training allows for trainees to integrate the teachings thoroughly, to be able to practice daily, read and reflect on assigned books and texts, complete homework assignments, start teaching regularly, and let the rich teachings sink in deeply. Yoga is, after all, a life-long study and practice.
COST AND PAYMENT INFORMATION
Total cost: $4,700
$500 deposit (non-refundable) due with application.
$250 DISCOUNT if paid in full by October 1, 2024.
Private sessions and mentoring by TYSNY director to create and update your personalized home practice are included, no extra charge.
Monthly installment plans possible. One partial work study position is available. Please note that payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Space is limited to 10 students per training.
LOCATION
All our trainings are held at 119 West 23rd Street #406 (between 6th and 7th Ave.), New York, NY 10011
Virtual or hybrid participation is possible at the discretion of the director. Some guest teachers may teach online.
CONTACT
Director of Teacher Training, Guta Hedewig
T[email protected]
212-566-4631
Students will ideally have completed The Yoga School NY 200 hour teacher training. Teaching experience is preferred but not mandatory. Graduates of other 200 hour teacher training programs may also apply, but must work with TYSNY director to become familiar with this traditional method of yoga. Contact the director to discuss.
SCHEDULE
The 500 hour training takes place on approximately 18 weekends throughout two years, Saturdays 2–7pm and Sundays 9am–4pm. The two year-long span of training allows for trainees to integrate the teachings thoroughly, to be able to practice daily, read and reflect on assigned books and texts, complete homework assignments, start teaching regularly, and let the rich teachings sink in deeply. Yoga is, after all, a life-long study and practice.
COST AND PAYMENT INFORMATION
Total cost: $4,700
$500 deposit (non-refundable) due with application.
$250 DISCOUNT if paid in full by October 1, 2024.
Private sessions and mentoring by TYSNY director to create and update your personalized home practice are included, no extra charge.
Monthly installment plans possible. One partial work study position is available. Please note that payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Space is limited to 10 students per training.
LOCATION
All our trainings are held at 119 West 23rd Street #406 (between 6th and 7th Ave.), New York, NY 10011
Virtual or hybrid participation is possible at the discretion of the director. Some guest teachers may teach online.
CONTACT
Director of Teacher Training, Guta Hedewig
T[email protected]
212-566-4631
The next 500 hour teacher training will run January 2025 through December 2026. If you are interested, please contact us now to inquire and sit in with the current training group to learn more.
Applications are due by October 1, 2024. Space is limited.
Email: T[email protected]
Applications are due by October 1, 2024. Space is limited.
Email: T[email protected]
500 Hour Application Form to Download:
| tysny_500-teacherapp.pdf |
FAQ
Why would I need a 500 hour certification if I have my 200 hour certification?
We consider 200 hour teacher trainings foundational trainings that are a very important first step in a life long learning process. Our advanced 500 hour training builds on this basic training and focuses on practical application and the refinement of your teaching skills to a point where you can take into consideration a student’s specific needs and individualize your teaching according to those requirements. You will learn how to create individualized one-on-one practices. Few teachers have this skill. A 500 hour certification from a reputable training will not only give you greater teaching skills, it will also make you stand out and give you better teaching opportunities, working in varied settings with different kinds of populations.
How will the training be offered, in-person or online?
We are offering the training in-person in a sunny, airy studio on 23rd Street between 6th and 7th Avenues in Manhattan. If you are from out-of-town or prefer to take the training hybrid or fully online, we can accommodate this too. All sessions will be recorded for review.
Do I have to be actively teaching already to take the 500 hour training?
You do not have to be a teacher before starting training, but we expect everyone enrolled in the 500 hour program to start teaching throughout the training in order to apply what you’ve learned. Part of the training includes teaching of whole classes, which gives you additional practical experience.
Is the teacher training registered with Yoga Alliance?
Yes. Both our 200 and advanced 500 hour trainings are registered with Yoga Alliance.
What if I have to miss some hours of the training?
Ideally, you will not miss any training hours. If you have to miss some hours, due to an emergency, arrangements need to be made with the program director, preferably ahead of time. You can always participate remotely; and we are video recording all training sessions for review.
Will I have personal guidance during the training?
Yes! It is one of our highest concerns to ensure that every student receives individual attention and guidance throughout the training. Each student has mentoring sessions for individual support and to receive and periodically update their personalized home practice. And our trainees are highly supervised by our faculty in their studies.
What do graduates of The Yoga School NY's teacher trainings do once they complete their training?
Click here to read about the paths some of our graduates have taken.
We consider 200 hour teacher trainings foundational trainings that are a very important first step in a life long learning process. Our advanced 500 hour training builds on this basic training and focuses on practical application and the refinement of your teaching skills to a point where you can take into consideration a student’s specific needs and individualize your teaching according to those requirements. You will learn how to create individualized one-on-one practices. Few teachers have this skill. A 500 hour certification from a reputable training will not only give you greater teaching skills, it will also make you stand out and give you better teaching opportunities, working in varied settings with different kinds of populations.
How will the training be offered, in-person or online?
We are offering the training in-person in a sunny, airy studio on 23rd Street between 6th and 7th Avenues in Manhattan. If you are from out-of-town or prefer to take the training hybrid or fully online, we can accommodate this too. All sessions will be recorded for review.
Do I have to be actively teaching already to take the 500 hour training?
You do not have to be a teacher before starting training, but we expect everyone enrolled in the 500 hour program to start teaching throughout the training in order to apply what you’ve learned. Part of the training includes teaching of whole classes, which gives you additional practical experience.
Is the teacher training registered with Yoga Alliance?
Yes. Both our 200 and advanced 500 hour trainings are registered with Yoga Alliance.
What if I have to miss some hours of the training?
Ideally, you will not miss any training hours. If you have to miss some hours, due to an emergency, arrangements need to be made with the program director, preferably ahead of time. You can always participate remotely; and we are video recording all training sessions for review.
Will I have personal guidance during the training?
Yes! It is one of our highest concerns to ensure that every student receives individual attention and guidance throughout the training. Each student has mentoring sessions for individual support and to receive and periodically update their personalized home practice. And our trainees are highly supervised by our faculty in their studies.
What do graduates of The Yoga School NY's teacher trainings do once they complete their training?
Click here to read about the paths some of our graduates have taken.
500hr. and 700hr/postgraduate class
Congratulations to our Advanced Teacher Training Graduates 2024!
“I just know this training has given me a yoga I never expected or anticipated. Yoga is now an incredibly profound experience of deep self connection and I have no idea if there is a destination or if it is purely about the exploration. Wherever it leads, I am just so grateful to be having this journey into myself.”
M. M., 200 and 500 hour teacher training graduate
To see what some of our teacher training graduates are doing after the training, click here!
700 HOUR POST GRADUATE TEACHER TRAINING
This program entails:
• The intensive study of advanced yoga philosophy and chanting
• Specialized courses in working with special conditions
• Teaching assignments and tutoring in TYSNY's 200/500 hour teacher trainings
• Mentoring for teaching one-on-one and group classes
• Observation of group and therapeutic one-on-one classes
• Regular mentoring sessions for own personalized practice
Pre-requisite to register: A TYSNY 500 hour teaching certification
Application deadline: individualized
Because of the hands-on and one-on-one nature of this program, only 5 students are accepted into this training.
Tuition: $3,500. Payment plans are available. Please note that tuition payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
For information, please contact Director of Teacher Training, Guta Hedewig: T[email protected] — 212-566-4631
• The intensive study of advanced yoga philosophy and chanting
• Specialized courses in working with special conditions
• Teaching assignments and tutoring in TYSNY's 200/500 hour teacher trainings
• Mentoring for teaching one-on-one and group classes
• Observation of group and therapeutic one-on-one classes
• Regular mentoring sessions for own personalized practice
Pre-requisite to register: A TYSNY 500 hour teaching certification
Application deadline: individualized
Because of the hands-on and one-on-one nature of this program, only 5 students are accepted into this training.
Tuition: $3,500. Payment plans are available. Please note that tuition payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
For information, please contact Director of Teacher Training, Guta Hedewig: T[email protected] — 212-566-4631
Darren Zeller