Among the myriad considerations that arise when delving into the world of yoga teacher training, I am delighted that you are considering my offering. Amongst the YTTs available in our vicinity, the Joy Collective's program stands apart. We are devoted to not merely scratching the surface but deeply immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of traditions that yoga encompasses. Our commitment goes beyond the physical realm, venturing into the realms of the mind, spirit, and somatic experience. At the Joy Collective, we embrace the celebration of the full experience of life through alignment and heart-centered practice. 

While many YTTs focus primarily on the physical aspects of practice, at the Joy Collective, we take a holistic view. We delve into the therapeutic dimensions of yoga—physical, mental, and psychosomatic—allowing us to embrace the practice not just as a workout, but as a profound tool for transformation and healing.

Below, you will find a treasure of information: the comprehensive training schedule, monthly commitments, and a detailed breakdown of the workshops that are interwoven into the 6-month journey. Please note that this journey extends beyond the formal training period; you will have the space to complete any pending asana practices and completed assigned reflections after the official training concludes. Your certificate will be awarded upon the fulfillment of all requirements, ensuring your readiness to guide and inspire others.

Let's delve into the 2023-2024 YTT schedule, which takes us on a captivating journey of self-discovery:

October 13 - 15: Embark on the Grounding Retreat at Big Sioux Recreation Area, connecting us with the earth's steady energies, establishing a steady foundation and an intention for our time of study together

November 10 - 12: 

• Saturday: Backbends: Strong back and soft heart, exploring the exhilarating energy of backbends

• Sunday: Rest & Restore: Diving into the nourishment of yin, yoga nidra, restorative, and activating the parasympathetic nervous system

December 15 - 17:

• Saturday: Hip Mobility: A source of major expansion and freedom or pain and frustration.... 

• Sunday: Ayurveda & Vedic astrology: Learn the beautiful nourishment of the ancient Indian science tailored to your unique disposition with Jenn Fast

January 12 - 14:

• Saturday: Inversions: Upside down or right side up? Explore a new way of looking at the world, trying something scary and redeveloping playfulness in your life

• Sunday: Mantra, Kirtan, & Sanskrit: Deep dive into the time tested tools to enhance your practice. Led by seasoned practitioner Jenn Fast

February 9 - 11:

• Saturday: Arm Balances: Oofda! Core strength and an embolded spirit lend to a time of encouragement, fortification and power

• Sunday: What does it mean to be an ethical yoga professional? Develop your conscious branding allows you to stand out and share your gifts with the world. Hone your unique teaching voice and how to authentically market. Excel at hands-on assists, working with special populations, while practicing inclusivity and invitational language

Mar 15 - 17: Embrace the blossoming energy of spring in our practice and offer the fruits of our studies to the world

• Saturday: Yoga with Another: No one can exist in isolation. Grab a pal and enjoy the freedom and pure joy that come from practicing with a trusted friend

• Sunday: Day long expansive retreat exclusive for YTT grads

The weekend format is thoughtfully designed to optimize engagement even with a busy lifestyle:

• Friday: 5:30-8:30pm - Initiating the weekend with mindful intent

• Saturday: 9am-6pm - A deep dive into the heart of practice

• Sunday: 9am-4pm - Integrating and resonating with our experience

Our training includes additional engagements:

• Delve into Asana: Engage in reflective journals, capturing the essence of your asana practice

• Seek Wisdom: Immerse in selected readings, sharing insights through journal submissions.

• Monthly Kula Meetups: Connect virtually to discuss readings and exchange insights. This is our collective space for troubleshooting and growth, nurturing bonds among peers.

• Guided Mentorship: one on one time with our lead trainer, enriching your learning experience.

As we journey through these transformative weekends, the asana families will all be explored. Saturdays present an opportunity for a workshop-style immersion into an asana family, culminating in a public workshop followed by an afternoon session dissecting and weaving teachings into a teacher's perspective. The intricacies of alignment, anatomy, and tradition intertwine to form a comprehensive understanding. Sundays hold a special draw, as we dive into "Deepening the Practice," a day-long exploration of the themes you'll find attached.

With the array of information before you, I invite you to explore and inquire. My door is open, awaiting your questions or areas needing clarification. 

In closing, as you contemplate this journey, let your curiosity be imbued with the joy of growth, the wisdom of the somatic experience, and the serenity that comes from aligning with your authentic self. 

Peace and warmth to you, dear friend,

Sarah

P.S. An added bonus awaits your commitment: a monthly unlimited pass to the studio throughout the training period. By signing up early, you'll gain 7 months of this pass, a value of $700!