Yoga is a mind body practice that can support optimum wellbeing, and personal growth throughout your life.
Now more than ever the world needs people with the skills, values, virtues and competence that a yoga lifestyle embodies.
With modern yoga, you can spend months and even years practicing without so much as a taste of the profound insight and growth that is possible for you through the classical traditions of yoga.
I am a practitioner and lifelong learner with over 25 years experience teaching the classic and modern yogic traditions, I've developed a unique approach to help modern day practitioners experience a deeper connection with the highest self to learn, grow and experience the deep, life-changing fruits of the “inner” practices of Yoga.
In addition to learning how to be a competent yoga teacher able to craft yoga instruction to a variety of skill levels and abilities, during this training, you will learn the most potent tools and practices for inner transformation that will empower you to access greater levels of bliss, power, healing and interconnectedness to others.
The course offers multiple opportunities to delve into the study of yoga inclusive of all of its facets. You can attend 100% virtual or in person or in a combination of virtual and in person by your choice and within your comfort levels.
Now more than ever the world needs people with the skills, values, virtues and competence that a yoga lifestyle embodies.
With modern yoga, you can spend months and even years practicing without so much as a taste of the profound insight and growth that is possible for you through the classical traditions of yoga.
I am a practitioner and lifelong learner with over 25 years experience teaching the classic and modern yogic traditions, I've developed a unique approach to help modern day practitioners experience a deeper connection with the highest self to learn, grow and experience the deep, life-changing fruits of the “inner” practices of Yoga.
In addition to learning how to be a competent yoga teacher able to craft yoga instruction to a variety of skill levels and abilities, during this training, you will learn the most potent tools and practices for inner transformation that will empower you to access greater levels of bliss, power, healing and interconnectedness to others.
The course offers multiple opportunities to delve into the study of yoga inclusive of all of its facets. You can attend 100% virtual or in person or in a combination of virtual and in person by your choice and within your comfort levels.
In this training you will:
- Grow your yoga practice
- Access your innate gifts and tap into your unlimited creative potentials
- Develop an integrated healthy lifestyle
- Learn to share yoga and healthy lifestyle practices
- Be a part of a thriving, vibrant, and supportive yoga community
- Create a new you inside and out and share that radiance with others
This program is designed for:
- Anyone who wants to become a certified 200hr Yoga Teacher
- Therapists, counsellors, educators and mind-body professionals who want to integrate outside-the-box and integrative skills into their practice and professional tool box.
- Nurses, physicians, hospice workers and medical personnel looking for self-care and effective stress management skills and integrative tools to augment client and patient care integrating closer connection to the non-medical dimensions of healing
- Teachers, Coaches, Activists, Healers and Planetary Workers of all kinds who wish to step more fully onto their paths of personal and planetary transformation
- Anyone who wants to heal, live more fully in the present and create a brighter future for themselves, their families, their communities and the world
- Those who are ready to answer the call to be the change they long to see in the world
The fully matriculating curriculum includes:
- 200 hour certification as a yoga teacher qualifying you for registration with Yoga Alliance
- Monthly 1 on 1 mentorship with lead trainer Diane Speer for the duration of the course
- Ongoing mentorship for graduates and resources access
- An extensive e-manual for the entire course (We are green! $50 if you wish to have it printed.
Professionals who can benefit from this program include:
- Medical Professionals
- Ancillary Healthcare Professionals
- Body Work Therapists
- Acupuncturists
- Chiropractors
- Body Mind Therapists
- Counselors & Behavioral Therapists
- Energy Healers
- Business Professionals
- Corporate Professionals
- Education Professionals
- Healthcare Professionals
- Medical Professionals
- First Responders (Police, Fire, EMS)
MODULAR IMMERSIONS
Matriculate for a 200 hour certification or simply study the topics that interest you the most. If you are already a certified Yoga Teacher yoga can receive CEU’s for each module you take. Other licensed professionals can submit the certification for CEU consideration with licensing boards. You do not have to want to teach to join the course and can successfully complete the full 200hr certification or any of the modules with skills and basic competency in the curriculum topics.
The program will be open to 12 in person students, it is recommended to register early.
CERTIFICATION TUITION is $3500. $700 nonrefundable deposit due at registration to hold your place in the class. Save money with upfront payment in full and receive a $300 discount. Recruit a student and receive $300 off your tuition.
MODULAR TUITION is $397 per weekend. $200 deposit due at registration to hold your place in the session
Payment plans available. There are a few scholarship and work study opportunities available.
Tuition includes a comprehensive e-manual, ($50 for a printed version – we are greening), dozens of teaching library reference handouts and articles, teaching guides, yoga class outlines, meditation scripts, an hour long monthly 1 on 1 mentoring session for the duration of the course, ongoing mentoring after graduation. The text books and online anatomy course are not included in the tuition.
Call the program director Diane for details at 330.803.2022.
Matriculate for a 200 hour certification or simply study the topics that interest you the most. If you are already a certified Yoga Teacher yoga can receive CEU’s for each module you take. Other licensed professionals can submit the certification for CEU consideration with licensing boards. You do not have to want to teach to join the course and can successfully complete the full 200hr certification or any of the modules with skills and basic competency in the curriculum topics.
The program will be open to 12 in person students, it is recommended to register early.
CERTIFICATION TUITION is $3500. $700 nonrefundable deposit due at registration to hold your place in the class. Save money with upfront payment in full and receive a $300 discount. Recruit a student and receive $300 off your tuition.
MODULAR TUITION is $397 per weekend. $200 deposit due at registration to hold your place in the session
Payment plans available. There are a few scholarship and work study opportunities available.
Tuition includes a comprehensive e-manual, ($50 for a printed version – we are greening), dozens of teaching library reference handouts and articles, teaching guides, yoga class outlines, meditation scripts, an hour long monthly 1 on 1 mentoring session for the duration of the course, ongoing mentoring after graduation. The text books and online anatomy course are not included in the tuition.
Call the program director Diane for details at 330.803.2022.
CURRICULUM
Techniques Training/Practice
Yoga teachers must have a deep connection to their own practice in order to teach classes that speak to both the physical and deeper philosophical elements of yoga. Teachers must also develop an appreciation for body types and physical abilities other than their own. This module includes:
Techniques Training/Practice
Yoga teachers must have a deep connection to their own practice in order to teach classes that speak to both the physical and deeper philosophical elements of yoga. Teachers must also develop an appreciation for body types and physical abilities other than their own. This module includes:
- Asana immersion - techniques of analysis of poses
- Class sequencing
- Facilitating growth in the trainees’ personal practice and teaching tools
- Critical thinking about the fundamentals and themes of class structure and planning
- Asanas (Postures)
- Pranayamas (Breath practices)
- Mantras and Mudras
- Meditation and Specialized Mindfulness
- Outlines for classes, meditations and self-care techniques
Professional Essentials
Successful teaching requires a teacher to connect with his/her students, and to communicate in a way that considers the students’ level of knowledge, physical ability and personal history. Teaching Methodology covers:
Successful teaching requires a teacher to connect with his/her students, and to communicate in a way that considers the students’ level of knowledge, physical ability and personal history. Teaching Methodology covers:
- Principles of demonstration, observation, assistance and adjustments
- Teaching styles
- Qualities of a teacher
- Discernment of students’ process of learning
- Themes to unify classes
- Classroom management
- Teaching one-on-one
- Special populations
- Adapting one’s teaching according to body type, injury and ability
- Stress & Trauma
- Youth and elderly
- Chronic disease management
Anatomy and Physiology (20 hour online yoganatomy.com course has a separate fee of $50)
Understanding of the skeletomuscular system is important for conducting healthy classes, and the ability to observe and correct alignment of yoga poses, along with the physical alignment for pranayama and meditation. Understanding of the central nervous system aids in the ability to apply the healing aspects of yoga to the energetic and emotional aspects of the human body. This module provides a basic and practical understanding of yoga mechanics, embodied movement and yoga anatomy:
Understanding of the skeletomuscular system is important for conducting healthy classes, and the ability to observe and correct alignment of yoga poses, along with the physical alignment for pranayama and meditation. Understanding of the central nervous system aids in the ability to apply the healing aspects of yoga to the energetic and emotional aspects of the human body. This module provides a basic and practical understanding of yoga mechanics, embodied movement and yoga anatomy:
- Physical anatomy
- The nervous system
- Brain anatomy
- The Chakra system, Koshas, Kleshas
- Immersion anatomy training in an online interactive anatomy course
- Biomechanics
Yoga Humanities
Continual study of yoga philosophy is the key to continued growth along the path of yoga.
This module includes:
Continual study of yoga philosophy is the key to continued growth along the path of yoga.
This module includes:
- Ethics and the business of yoga for the yoga professional
- Group and self-directed study of Yoga Sutra, Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Myths of Asana
- Yoga lifestyle and self-care
- Practicum
Completion of the following requirements will certify you as a 200hr Certified Yoga Teacher that qualifies you to register with Yoga Alliance.
- Homework (4-8 hours per week which includes your daily practices)
- Demonstrate understanding and the application of curriculum material
- Completion of all home study assignments
- Personal practice development and practice teaching
- Create class plans and meditations
- Seva project (Develop and manage a yoga-based service-oriented project for a community)
- Anatomy Immersion Project
- Practicum teaching hours
Frequently Asked Questions
1. HOW IS THE UNIVERSAL YOGA TRAINING DIFFERENT FROM OTHER YOGA TRAININGS?
In addition to our emphasis on personal development and healthy lifestyle, the Universal approach will provide you with a solid foundation in yoga as a path of healing, growth and transformation. Not only will this allow you to tailor yoga to your own ever-evolving needs, it will allow you to develop customized private and group sessions that meet students where they are. This skill alone will set you apart many other yoga teachers who are only taught to teach a core set of classes. Our school shines in presenting the best of yoga from the most respected and time-honored yoga lineages. The directors strive to make the practice of yoga plus the practical application of philosophy, anatomy and therapeutic aspects engaging, fun, and inspiring. Our training and studio community is collaborative, supportive. We take our responsibility to the yoga profession seriously and we want you to succeed! We provide mentoring to graduated teachers.
2. CAN I STILL PARTICIPATE IF I DON’T WANT TO TEACH YOGA?
Absolutely. Regardless of whether you decide to teach, this course will give you the confidence to apply all the areas of yoga –mindfulness, movement, breathing, and lifestyle throughout your life for both healing and realization. Additionally, it will help you prevent common injuries that arise from poor movement habits on the mat. Of course, we would love for you to share yoga as a teacher…but only if you want!
3. WHAT IS THE ‘UNIVERSAL’ YOGA STYLE
Universal yoga is an integrative blend of best of the Krishnamacharya yoga lineages; alignment {Iyengar}, flow {Ashtanga}, therapeutic {Desikachar}, and classical yoga {Himalayan, self-study, pranayama, meditation and mindfulness}. In addition, our training emphasizes appropriate biomechanics in movement, tailoring of classes, and creating lifelong healthy habits from movement to philosophical outlook to nutrition practices, basically, positive personal development. The Universal approach is informed by the director, Diane Speer’s 30 years of study in the yogic arts and Eastern philosophies and her equally intense study in the journey of a yogic based transformative lifestyle.
4. HOW DO I KNOW UNIVERSAL METHOD YOGA IS FOR ME?
The Universal Method Yoga program is for you if you are ready to:
5. DO I HAVE TO BE EXPERIENCED AND HIGHLY SKILLED AT YOGA?
The short answer is No; however, 6-12 months practice experience is recommended. The practice sessions are tailored to encourage you to work at your capacity and challenge yourself when appropriate.
6. WHAT DOES A TYPICAL TRAINING DAY ENTAIL?
A typical day includes meditation and a yoga class in the morning or the afternoon, 2 practice sessions, 2 lecture sessions, and a lunch break.
7. WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE TO MISS A WEEKEND?
First, relax! We know that life happens and sometimes situations out of our control arise. That said, please understand that your enrollment and all fees paid are for a SPECIFIC PROGRAM FOR A SPECIFIC MEASURE OF TIME. You will be provided with a make-up opportunity (preferably within the same training); however, you will be responsible for any additional training fees at the rate of $100 per contact hour for mentoring beyond the training timeframe.
1. HOW IS THE UNIVERSAL YOGA TRAINING DIFFERENT FROM OTHER YOGA TRAININGS?
In addition to our emphasis on personal development and healthy lifestyle, the Universal approach will provide you with a solid foundation in yoga as a path of healing, growth and transformation. Not only will this allow you to tailor yoga to your own ever-evolving needs, it will allow you to develop customized private and group sessions that meet students where they are. This skill alone will set you apart many other yoga teachers who are only taught to teach a core set of classes. Our school shines in presenting the best of yoga from the most respected and time-honored yoga lineages. The directors strive to make the practice of yoga plus the practical application of philosophy, anatomy and therapeutic aspects engaging, fun, and inspiring. Our training and studio community is collaborative, supportive. We take our responsibility to the yoga profession seriously and we want you to succeed! We provide mentoring to graduated teachers.
2. CAN I STILL PARTICIPATE IF I DON’T WANT TO TEACH YOGA?
Absolutely. Regardless of whether you decide to teach, this course will give you the confidence to apply all the areas of yoga –mindfulness, movement, breathing, and lifestyle throughout your life for both healing and realization. Additionally, it will help you prevent common injuries that arise from poor movement habits on the mat. Of course, we would love for you to share yoga as a teacher…but only if you want!
3. WHAT IS THE ‘UNIVERSAL’ YOGA STYLE
Universal yoga is an integrative blend of best of the Krishnamacharya yoga lineages; alignment {Iyengar}, flow {Ashtanga}, therapeutic {Desikachar}, and classical yoga {Himalayan, self-study, pranayama, meditation and mindfulness}. In addition, our training emphasizes appropriate biomechanics in movement, tailoring of classes, and creating lifelong healthy habits from movement to philosophical outlook to nutrition practices, basically, positive personal development. The Universal approach is informed by the director, Diane Speer’s 30 years of study in the yogic arts and Eastern philosophies and her equally intense study in the journey of a yogic based transformative lifestyle.
4. HOW DO I KNOW UNIVERSAL METHOD YOGA IS FOR ME?
The Universal Method Yoga program is for you if you are ready to:
- Tune into your innate capacity for growth, transformation and healing
- Grow and improve your practice and capacities
- Change your life, for the better
- Open yourself to a supportive community of like-minded individuals
- Apply some of the deeper, lifestyle practices of the yoga traditions
- Develop an enriching practice and yoga teaching skills
5. DO I HAVE TO BE EXPERIENCED AND HIGHLY SKILLED AT YOGA?
The short answer is No; however, 6-12 months practice experience is recommended. The practice sessions are tailored to encourage you to work at your capacity and challenge yourself when appropriate.
6. WHAT DOES A TYPICAL TRAINING DAY ENTAIL?
A typical day includes meditation and a yoga class in the morning or the afternoon, 2 practice sessions, 2 lecture sessions, and a lunch break.
7. WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE TO MISS A WEEKEND?
First, relax! We know that life happens and sometimes situations out of our control arise. That said, please understand that your enrollment and all fees paid are for a SPECIFIC PROGRAM FOR A SPECIFIC MEASURE OF TIME. You will be provided with a make-up opportunity (preferably within the same training); however, you will be responsible for any additional training fees at the rate of $100 per contact hour for mentoring beyond the training timeframe.
What people are saying....
Diane Speer was a wonderful teacher. She was very caring, conscientious, and informative. She always took the time to make sure I completely understood all of the lesson material. The training course was perfect for me. Not only did I learn yoga, philosophy, history, teacher practices, instruction techniques, and safety; I also feel like I made many new friends that are like a close-knit family. I feel confident and very optimistic about striking out on my own and starting a yoga business. I highly recommend The Universal 200 hr. Yoga Teacher Training Course to everybody interested in profound personal development and/or wishing to become a yoga teacher.
Noi, Personal Trainer, Cultural Ambassador, Thailand
Diane Speer was a wonderful teacher. She was very caring, conscientious, and informative. She always took the time to make sure I completely understood all of the lesson material. The training course was perfect for me. Not only did I learn yoga, philosophy, history, teacher practices, instruction techniques, and safety; I also feel like I made many new friends that are like a close-knit family. I feel confident and very optimistic about striking out on my own and starting a yoga business. I highly recommend The Universal 200 hr. Yoga Teacher Training Course to everybody interested in profound personal development and/or wishing to become a yoga teacher.
Noi, Personal Trainer, Cultural Ambassador, Thailand
I truly believe that people come into our lives for certain reasons. I believe you came into mine to show me "My Purpose". A "Purpose" is what drives each and every one of us and I will be forever grateful for that and this Warrior is at Peace. With Sincere Gratefulness Kimberly Haley, Veteran, The Peaceful Warrior
I cannot say enough how wonderful this 200 hour YTT program was. Upon completion of the course, I feel totally confident to teach yoga safely and effectively. Diane Speer did an outstanding job in giving us the tools and flexibility we needed to succeed, and I’m certain the comradery with fellow students in the class will lead to lifelong friendships and an amazing support system. Jill Hayes, Business Owner
You are the greatest teacher and mentor. The YTT program changed my life. I look forward to continuing to connect with you when I am ready to develop any programs and/or continue my training. You’re feedback and guidance have been so wonderful.
Tessa Boehlert, Nurse
I cannot say enough how wonderful this 200 hour YTT program was. Upon completion of the course, I feel totally confident to teach yoga safely and effectively. Diane Speer did an outstanding job in giving us the tools and flexibility we needed to succeed, and I’m certain the comradery with fellow students in the class will lead to lifelong friendships and an amazing support system. Jill Hayes, Business Owner
You are the greatest teacher and mentor. The YTT program changed my life. I look forward to continuing to connect with you when I am ready to develop any programs and/or continue my training. You’re feedback and guidance have been so wonderful.
Tessa Boehlert, Nurse