GOYA-CYS300
GOYA-CYS300 Standards
OUR VISION INCLUDES VALUE
Your Membership Translates to Value
Embracing Authenticity, Diversity & Evolution
Deepening Paths through Advanced Yoga
The criteria established for the GOYA-CYS300 (GOYA - Certified Yoga School 300 Hour) credential are designed to meld structure with adaptability for advanced yoga schools. We understand and honour the diverse mosaic that yoga forms across the globe. Our standards act as guiding principles, ensuring in-depth competencies are achieved and that seasoned teachers are furnished with advanced tools and profound insights.
Simultaneously, we grant schools the latitude to weave their distinct methodologies, lineages, and specialities into their syllabi. This not only reveres the expansive diversity innate to yoga but also encourages originality and forward-thinking. Through this balanced approach, we aim to preserve the profound essence of yoga teachings while championing its modern evolutions and unique interpretations.
It is advisable for advanced yoga schools to recognize that students enrolling in a 300-hour program have likely completed the foundational 200-hour program. The decision to validate this prerequisite lies within the school's purview.
GOYA-CYS300 Standards
GOYA-CYS300
Curriculum Standards
As 300-Hour schools within the GOYA community, we trust in your discernment and expertise. We believe you possess the depth of knowledge and insight to identify your strengths and tailor your teachings accordingly. While we provide examples in areas like advanced anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology, we wholeheartedly encourage you to curate content that resonates with your unique perspective and experience. Your individual voice and approach not only enrich our collective tapestry but also ensure that students benefit from a diverse and comprehensive learning environment.
Purpose:
This curriculum ensures a deep awareness of muscular engagement, joint dynamics, and the physiological responses of the body. It also empowers teachers to cater to diverse bodies, recognize individual limitations, and offer modifications effectively.
Curriculum:
Schools have the discretion to select and tailor topics that best reflect their unique expertise and philosophical approach, while also having the flexibility to incorporate additional subjects as they see fit.
The following topics are strongly recommended for inclusion in the curriculum:
Anatomy, Physiology & Kinesiology
- Muscular and Skeletal Depth
In-depth study of major muscle groups, their origins, insertions, and roles in specific asanas.
Exploring the skeletal variations among individuals and how it affects their yoga practice.
- Joint Mechanics and Biomechanics
Delving into the intricacies of joint movements, range of motion, and potential restrictions.
Understanding the biomechanics behind specific asanas and transitions. - The Nervous System and Yoga
Understanding the role of the autonomic nervous system, especially the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, in relaxation and stress.
Exploring the effects of pranayama and meditation on the nervous system. - Respiratory Anatomy
A deep dive into the mechanics of breathing, exploring the diaphragm's role, intercostal muscles, and lung capacity.
Linking the physiology of breath with pranayama practices. - Yoga for Spinal Health
Detailed examination of the vertebral column, intervertebral discs, and major muscles supporting the spine.
Analyzing asanas beneficial for spinal health and those that require caution. - Functional Anatomy
How different body parts work in tandem during yoga practices.
Understanding the kinetic chains in the body and their importance in movement and alignment. - Endocrine System & Chakras
Mapping the endocrine glands with the chakras.
Exploring the physiological basis of energy centres. - Anatomy of the Pelvic Floor
Understanding the layers and muscles of the pelvic floor.
The significance of pelvic floor health in yoga and practices to strengthen it. - Injury Prevention & Management
Recognizing common yoga-related injuries, their causes, and prevention strategies.
Modifying asanas for students with specific injuries or physical conditions. - Yoga for Special Populations
Understanding anatomical and physiological considerations for teaching yoga to populations like seniors, pregnant individuals, or those with specific medical conditions. - Myofascial Release & Yoga
Exploring the fascial system and its significance in flexibility and movement.
Techniques and tools, like foam rollers or massage balls, to aid in myofascial release.
Within the GOYA community, our 300-Hour schools stand as pillars of profound knowledge and experience in yoga studies. We have faith in your wisdom and proficiency. While we provide curriculum suggestions in yoga history, philosophy, and language, we ardently support your endeavour to mold and shape content that mirrors your unique understanding and journey. Your distinct voice and methodology do more than just add to the community; they enhance and diversify the learning landscape for students, providing them with a holistic and multifaceted yoga education.
Purpose:
This curriculum ensures a more profound exploration of yoga, challenging students to not just practice, but to embody, question, and evolve their understanding of this ancient tradition.
Curriculum:
Schools have the discretion to select and tailor topics that best reflect their unique expertise and philosophical approach, while also having the flexibility to incorporate additional subjects as they see fit.
The following topics are strongly recommended for inclusion in the curriculum:
Yoga Studies: History, Philosophy, Language
- Advanced Scriptural Study
Dive deep into lesser-known texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita, and Shiva Samhita.
Interpretations and commentaries on primary texts by various yoga scholars.
- Neuroscience and Yoga
The mind-body connection explored through the lens of neuroscience.
The physiological effects of meditation, pranayama, and asanas on brain function. - Advanced Sanskrit Studies
Delving deeper into Sanskrit grammar (vyākaraṇa).
Exploring classical poetry and scriptures, revealing deeper yogic insights. - Yogic Psychology
The study of the mind according to yoga, including concepts like manas, buddhi, chitta, and ahamkara.
Techniques for managing and transcending afflictions (kleshas). - Advanced Pranayama & Energetics
A deep dive into advanced pranayama techniques and their effects on the subtle body.
Understanding pranic pathways, marma points, and their significance in yoga therapy. - Yoga & Ayurveda
Integrating Ayurvedic principles with yoga practices.
Personalizing yoga practice based on doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). - Mudras and Bandhas
An in-depth study of energy seals (mudras) and internal locks (bandhas).
Their impact on pranic flow and spiritual awakening. - Philosophical Debates & Dialogues
Engaging with conflicting perspectives within yogic philosophy.
Encouraging critical thinking and discourse among students. - Yoga and Social Responsibility
Exploring the role of yoga in social justice, equity, and environmental sustainability.
The ethics of teaching yoga in diverse settings, respecting cultural contexts. - Advanced Meditation & Contemplative Practices
Delving into deeper states of meditation, understanding states like dharana, dhyana, and samadhi.
Techniques from other contemplative traditions and their parallels in yoga.
Within the GOYA community, our 300-Hour schools are esteemed beacons of expertise and depth in asana teaching, methodology, and techniques. While we offer curriculum guidance, including the essential inclusion of 25 advanced asanas, we encourage you to sculpt content that reflects your unique pedagogical approach and experiential journey. Your individual voice and instructional style not only augment the collective wisdom of our community but also diversify and elevate the learning experience for students, ensuring they receive a well-rounded and in-depth exploration of asana practice and its teaching methodologies.
Purpose:
This curriculum is meant to significantly enrich the content of advanced yoga, offering students a more profound and comprehensive understanding of asana practice and its teaching methodologies.
Required:
A minimum of 25 advanced asana are required to be taught in a 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training.
Curriculum:
Schools have the discretion to select and tailor topics that best reflect their unique expertise and philosophical approach, while also having the flexibility to incorporate additional subjects as they see fit.
The following topics are strongly recommended for inclusion in the curriculum:
Asana: Teaching, Methodology & Techniques
- Advanced Sequencing
Mastering the art of designing effective, progressive sequences tailored to various levels and intentions.
Exploring themes, peak poses, and how to build up to advanced postures.
- Alignment and Adjustment
Deepening the understanding of alignment for complex asanas.
Hands-on adjustment techniques, ensuring safety and enhancing the student's experience. - Art of Demonstration
Perfecting the skill of demonstrating intricate poses clearly and effectively.
Exploring verbal cues versus physical demonstration. - Props and Modifications
Innovative use of props like belts, blocks, bolsters, and wall to support or challenge in asanas.
Creating modifications for advanced postures to cater to different bodies and levels. - Teaching Specialized Classes
Designing classes for specific groups: seniors, athletes, or individuals with specific medical conditions. - In-depth Pranayama & Bandhas
Exploring advanced breathing techniques and their physiological effects.
Understanding and teaching the application of bandhas (energy locks) in asana and pranayama. - Mudras in Asana Practice
Integrating and teaching various mudras (hand gestures) within the asana practice and understanding their energetic implications. - Therapeutic Applications of Yoga
Using yoga as a tool for addressing specific physical or emotional challenges, understanding contraindications, and creating therapeutic sequences. - Exploring Yoga Styles
Diving into the nuances of different yoga styles, like Iyengar, Ashtanga, Kundalini, or Yin, and how to teach them. - Voice and Presence in the Classroom
Cultivating an authentic teaching voice, building classroom rapport, and managing group dynamics. - Advanced Drishti (Gaze) Techniques
Teaching the use of drishti in advanced postures and understanding its effects on balance and concentration. - Integration of Mantras & Chants
Using mantras and chants to enhance the asana practice, setting intentions, or inducing specific energetic effects. - Feedback and Evaluation
Constructive techniques for giving and receiving feedback, enhancing the learning process for both teacher and students.
While the significance of practice teaching is universally acknowledged, the way in which they are integrated into the training curriculum may vary from one school to another. Schools are granted the autonomy to tailor these practices based on their philosophy, resources, and the specific needs of their trainee cohort. This flexibility ensures that the teaching methodologies remain organic, innovative, and resonate with the unique ethos of each institution.
This curriculum component ensures that yoga teachers emerge not just as instructors of poses but as guides, mentors, and lifelong students of this ancient practice. As each school navigates this journey, their discretion in integrating this component ensures that the essence of yoga remains fluid, vibrant, and ever-evolving.
In a globalized world, where standardization often dilutes uniqueness, school-specific, bespoke content in yoga teacher training offers an avenue for schools to uphold their unique values, methodologies, and expertise. This not only ensures that the teachings are relevant to modern-day challenges but also provides students with a holistic, comprehensive, and unique learning experience.
Tailoring Content for Unique Yoga Teacher Training Experiences
Unique Identity and Differentiation
Catering to Modern Needs
Quality Assurance
Responsive & Adaptive Learning
Enhanced Student Engagement
Preservation & Innovation
Community Building
Ethical & Sustainable Practices
In yoga teacher training, both written or verbal and practical assessments serve a pivotal role. The written or verbal evaluations ensure that students have a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical concepts, philosophy, and foundational knowledge of yoga. On the other hand, the practical assessments gauge the practical skills, teaching methodologies, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-life scenarios. Together, these evaluations ensure a holistic development of aspiring yoga teachers, equipping them with the necessary tools to guide and inspire their future students effectively and safely.
Embracing flexibility in assessment allows schools to craft methods that resonate deeply with their core educational principles, teaching strategies, and the varied needs of their students.
Requirements for Certified Yoga Schools
Written or Verbal Assessment
- Learners will engage in either a written or verbal evaluation.
- The specific format, whether it be multiple choice, module quizzes, short answer, or others, is at the discretion of each school.
- Schools are encouraged to offer accessible alternatives to accommodate all learners, particularly those facing challenges. For instance, provisions should be made for learners with visual impairments or other diverse needs to ensure an inclusive and equitable assessment experience for all.
Practical Assessment
- Learners will engage in a practical teaching experience or undergo an evaluation reflecting the program's core components.
- The specific format is at the discretion of the school's unique approach and preferences. Assessment methods span a broad spectrum, including live teaching demonstrations, video submissions, peer evaluations, self-reflections on teaching sessions, observational feedback, and group-based discussions or feedback rounds. This list isn't exhaustive; many other possibilities exist. Schools are urged to explore innovative methods to meet this requirement.
GOYA-CYS300
Trainer Standards
principal Trainers
Assistant Trainers
Program Structure
GOYA-CYS300
Delivery Standards
The manner in which content is delivered can take various forms, either being a singular approach or an amalgamation of multiple methods, ensuring versatility and adaptability for diverse learning preferences. This inclusive model ensures that all students can engage and benefit, irrespective of their circumstances. Additionally, it offers schools an economical method for content distribution, reducing conventional financial barriers and broadening the spectrum of available choices.
From hybrid learning models that combine both online and in-person sessions, to entirely face-to-face environments, and even to fully on-demand digital platforms, our experience post-pandemic has shown that each of these methods is effective. The mode of delivery does not compromise the program's quality. Rather, it offers flexibility and caters to diverse learning preferences, ensuring that the essence of the curriculum remains robust and impactful, regardless of the medium.
Online - Live
Online - On Demand
In Person
Hybrid
Investing in Your SCHOOL, IS INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
Understanding the Costs of a CYS300
Venturing into the realm of yoga education as a school requires dedication, vision, and resources. At GOYA, our commitment to clarity and fairness is reflected in the comprehensive breakdown of the obligations linked with each level of certification. While there is a modest financial aspect to consider, view it as an investment towards refining your institution's offerings and extending your outreach. Every penny you invest goes straight into fortifying resources and tools that uplift every school in our network. Your contribution amplifies not just your school's potential but also elevates the shared experiences and prospects for our entire community. Together, we're building a brighter, more inclusive, future for yoga education.
Certified School
Initial Fee ALL DESIGNATIONS
$99 one time
Taxes included. PRICING IN USD.
You are becoming a part of a transformative movement!
Register now to immerse your school in a worldwide network, amplify your influence, establish valuable relationships, and elevate the standard of your yoga education. Be a beacon of progress and innovation in the yoga teaching landscape
Certified School
Annual Fee ALL DESIGNATIONS
$40 per year
Taxes included. PRICING IN USD.
Let's Get Started
Certified School Application Request
Please make sure to thoroughly review this section, and watch the instructional video before initiating your request.
All schools interested in beginning the application process or grandfathering of existing credentials, start here at step one, which involves submitting a request for the full application.
It's important that this request is made by either the Owner, who must also be a Principal Trainer, or an authourized Principal Trainer of the school. Additionally, the person making this request must be an active, GOYA Certified Teacher who also qualifies as a Principal Trainer. This requirement ensures that the application process is initiated by someone with the appropriate qualifications and authourity.
Our goal is to make this process as smooth and seamless as possible for you. We are excited about the prospect of welcoming you and are committed to assisting you throughout the process.
Please make sure to thoroughly review this section, and watch the instructional video before initiating your request.
All schools interested in beginning the application process or grandfathering of existing credentials, start here at step one, which involves submitting a request for the full application.
It's important that this request is made by either the Owner, who must also be a Principal Trainer, or an authourized Principal Trainer of the school. Additionally, the person making this request must be an active, GOYA Certified Teacher who also qualifies as a Principal Trainer. This requirement ensures that the application process is initiated by someone with the appropriate qualifications and authourity.
Our goal is to make this process as smooth and seamless as possible for you. We are excited about the prospect of welcoming you and are committed to assisting you throughout the process.
Certified School Application Request Form
requirements
Qualify as a Principal (Teacher) Trainer
Principal (Teacher) Trainer Requirements
A Teacher with the GOYA-PT designation has met GOYA's standards of education and teaching expertise, as detailed below.
A Principal Trainer is a role held by a GOYA Certified Teacher who is either an existing owner of a Certified School or is in the process of registering one. This individual serves as the lead educator for the programs offered at their school.
There is NO fee associated with adding the Principal Trainer status.
During the Certified School registration review process, eligible individuals who meet the criteria as Principal Trainers will be granted the GOYA-PT designation, which will be featured on their profiles.
Only those who have the qualification criteria as Principal Trainers may register schools with GOYA.
requirements
Qualify as a Principal (Teacher) Trainer
Principal (Teacher) Trainer Requirements
A Teacher with the GOYA-PT designation has met GOYA's standards of education and teaching expertise, as detailed below.
A Principal Trainer is a role held by a GOYA Certified Teacher who is either an existing owner of a Certified School or is in the process of registering one. This individual serves as the lead educator for the programs offered at their school.
There is NO fee associated with adding the Principal Trainer status.
During the Certified School registration review process, eligible individuals who meet the criteria as Principal Trainers will be granted the GOYA-PT designation, which will be featured on their profiles.
Only those who have the qualification criteria as Principal Trainers may register schools with GOYA.
requirements
Qualify as a Principal (Teacher) Trainer
Principal (Teacher) Trainer Requirements
A Teacher with the GOYA-PT designation has met GOYA's standards of education and teaching expertise, as detailed below.
A Principal Trainer is a role held by a GOYA Certified Teacher who is either an existing owner of a Certified School or is in the process of registering one. This individual serves as the lead educator for the programs offered at their school.
There is NO fee associated with adding the Principal Trainer status. The GOYA-PT designation can be obtained either at the time of registration or added subsequently.
Only Principal Trainers are able to register Schools with GOYA.
For a GOYA-CYS200 (200 Hour) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-ECYT200 Designation.
For a GOYA-CYS300 (300 Hour) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CYT500 Designation.
For a GOYA-CYS500 (500 Hour) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CYT500 Designation.
For a GOYA-CCYS (Children's) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CCYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CPYS (Prenatal) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CPYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CRYS (Restorative) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CRYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CYYS (Yin) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CYYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CMS (Meditation) School >
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CMT Designation.
For a GOYA-CYS200 (200 Hour) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-ECYT200 Designation.
For a GOYA-CYS300 (300 Hour) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CYT500 Designation.
For a GOYA-CYS500 (500 Hour) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CYT500 Designation.
For a GOYA-CCYS (Children's) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CCYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CPYS (Prenatal) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CPYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CRYS (Restorative) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CRYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CYYS (Yin) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CYYT Designation.
For a GOYA-CMS (Meditation) School
A PT must possess a minimum GOYA-CMT Designation.
Still have questions?
We're here to help you navigate.
a focus on ethics & conduct
Essentials
Code of Ethics
Understand the ethical responsibilities that come with being a member.
Code of Conduct
Adhere to a set of behaviours and principles that ensure safe, inclusive environments.