An Exploration of Self Study
A deeper look into Humble Haven’s 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Program featuring shares from a few of our recent training graduates.
We’ve often wondered if we should change the name of our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training because the in-depth, holistic study of the yoga practice that it provides is not just for those who want to teach yoga. Sure, the course will give you the tools to teach a guided asana (physical), meditation, or guided breathing practice, but it will also create a pathway to navigating the deep self study that the yoga practice provides while fostering an environment for community connection.
We asked a few of our most recent training graduates to share about their experience, in hopes of inviting in more conversation about what can be expected throughout our 200-Hour teacher training. Read on to hear what they had to say…
“Yoga teacher training with Humble Haven has opened a window for me to begin to see and embrace what yoga really means for me.” - Donia S.
“YTT was a transformative opportunity to examine myself, my relationship to others and the world around me, and to deepen my connection to all aspects of yoga.” - Brittany M
Our 200-HR YTT is broken up into 18 sections, each of which focuses on a specific area of learning, and are intended to offer a comprehensive foundation for those that wish to pursue teaching or students wishing to deepen their practice. Each segment of learning aims to balance the physical and intangible elements of the yoga practice. When asked which of sections of instruction were most impactful or most engaging, students shared the following:
“Amy Walter's anatomy portion was incredible. We were told to read the Anatomy of Vinyasa Flow by Ray Long in advance of her weekend "not for understanding, but to be prepared." I love anatomy, but the material itself is overwhelming. Amy was a breath of fresh air. She made us laugh whilst holding us in a revolved crescent lunge for what felt like an eternity. She is a small little thing but she sure is packed full of personality and wisdom. As a forever student, I hope to frequent future lectures with Amy. Our weekend with Amy was earlier on in the program and I think it was a turning point weekend for us because we really became a family that weekend. All the laughing and information overload reminded us that we're all doing this together and that's the sweet stuff right there. Personally, as a white woman, reading Skill in Action was an important aspect this 200hr program. It's a short book that is hands-on. It's one of those that you can revisit time and time again and pull something new from it. Something that maybe didn't land with you the first time you read it. An important tool to lean on if you plan to hold space in the yoga industry.” - Rachel B.
“The in-depth learning with talented and trusted HHY teachers was amazing--they taught us honestly and authentically from their own experience. We were encouraged to teach from our own practice, and this was modeled skillfully for us by the instructors.” - Donia S.
“This is so hard to answer. I have to give two: -the discussion of the yamas and niyamas broadened my spiritual connection to the universe. It gave definition to my intrinsic values and gave me a place to look for direction in advancing my commitment to those values. -the hands on assist segment transformed my view on asana and opened my eyes to what my role as a teacher truly is: to encourage what already exists in a practitioner's body to shine through.” - Brittany M
“YTT was a transformative opportunity to examine myself, my relationship to others and the world around me, and to deepen my connection to all aspects of yoga.”
Often we hear from previous graduates about the things they did NOT expect to learn while in teacher training. Sometimes the most impactful moments come from the inner work being done, or from those who have shown up to be in community and learn with you.
“YTT has taught me the importance of meditation and taking time to intentionally manipulate energy vs. letting my unregulated nervous system project all over the place. It doesn't have to be this grand gesture, it can be 5 minutes of breath work and a few minutes of a body scan or even just a mantra that's repeated for a period of time. I always thought meditation was something that had to be silent but the incorporation of guided meditations has really helped me navigate my thoughts and energy.” - Rachel B.
“I was skeptical about spending so much time with such a large group, but it has been a beautiful time of connection, support, and encouragement.” - Donia S.
“I was not expecting the group connection we have formed. I feel bonded with each and every person in the training. The safety and trust we built with each other will stay with me even if the individual connections cease with training.” - Brittany M.
Just like when we show up to take a class, each day of teacher training offers the chance to connect on a deeper level with oneself, both physically and emotionally. From excitement, to fear, grief or elation, the moments of accomplishment are shared equally by the end as graduates reflect on how they may have changed throughout the courses and over all training.
“The first time I taught a peer the whole JIP sequence! It was very rewarding to be able to call the poses without hesitation.” - Donia S.
“I was initially very nervous about the hands on assist segment but I felt proud of myself during and after our round robin of hands on assist. My ability to provide support by listening with my whole body surprised me. The feedback from my fellow YTT’s made me feel good about the assists I offered. I was surprised that I enjoyed this segment so much because typically the idea of touching people intimidates me! I look forward to diving deeper into hands on assisting in the future.” - Brittany M.
If you are an interested or avid yoga practitioner, a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training may be the next step as a student.
Consider joining us in our next teacher training, kicking off in December 2023!