First Week
An excellent first week of training ended yesterday. Today is a well-deserved day off exploring the enchanting surroundings of the center. I picked the short but fairly steep walk to the beach blessed by blissful sunshine.
The location of Nydum is stunning, with a view of the Mediterranean sea worth a postcard. I immediately felt home with the most gracious welcome of attentive Amelia and the team. The grassy area outdoors is very spacious, and even if it is not summer, having been the weather beautiful, we had the pleasure to hold our first day’s opening circle blessed by the bright sunshine.
The week was a good balance of early morning's Ashtanga and Vinyasa practices conducted by led teachers, including pranayama and meditation. The practices were, of course, intense, but the teachers had offered plenty of modifications to ease the way in while observing the sensations in the body.
The morning sessions were complemented by Teaching Methodology, Alignment and Anatomy classes personally conducted by Amelia. Her knowledge of anatomy and physiology, coupled with her patience and experience, helped everybody understand the practical aspects of the morning’s practice. During the frequent opportunity to revise the absorption of the fundamentals, we had plenty of time for asking questions and experiencing the first steps in leading classes, from instructions to reminders.
I find the manual provided very well done. The manual is not the course, and punctuality, concentration as well as the ability to take notes are essentials. The delivery method addresses all learning styles, which is of great help.
The books recommended are only two, Yoga Mala of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and Ashtanga Yoga from Gregor Maehle. I find the second book vital for the training and I recommend having your copy although public ones are available. You will also find public copies of Thomas W. Myers’ Anatomy Trains book, a perfect complement.
We all loved the Acro-yoga and Transitions workshops. We were definitely out of the comfort zone, but the teachers' attentive observation, guidance and affirmations made us courageous. Interesting exchanges happened during the Philosophy sessions, but some concepts require inner reflection.
The food is nutritious and easily digestible with vegan options. We all had plenty of energy to spare throughout the week. I have eaten more than necessary this last week, but the taste is so good that indulging is almost inevitable.
Two moments were revelatory for me:
The first happened during one of the Teaching Methodology sessions when the “why you want to be a yoga teacher?” question was presented.
The second was at the end of the last day when another question was asked. "What was, for you, the gem of the week?”.
Here I can only offer my perspective as we are all beautifully unique. Still, I would suggest connecting to your heart and answering the question, even if you did not embark on teacher training to teach.
I had ventured in my first training wanting to understand the foundation elements of the Science while making space for myself after my professional burnout, and I would have never imagined that one day I had led yoga classes.
Secondly, you might not be fully aware, as I was not, of your gifts and abilities when it comes to supporting others. There is a need out there, and your uniqueness might allow another beautiful person to open up with you on their quest for support in whichever way you can.
Returning to the answer to the same question I had written during my first teacher training, I found out that I have somehow fulfilled a mission of mine.
This time around, this teacher training is my Renewal of Wows. Being a little over five years from my first experience and I wanted to celebrate my dedication and review the fundamentals with another trainer and teachers. I had plenty of opportunities to study further and attend the required continuing education hours, but a 200-hour teacher training is something else. I am allowing myself to be out of my comfort zone again and embrace growth. Receiving and accepting valuable feedback is one of the gems. A client in a studio or retreat will never do that. Amelia, the assistants and the students you work in groups, do it, and it is a blessing.
All renewals in life also come with more maturity, and at 57, I believe I am.
Another gem is the physical struggle I am embracing with the needed compassion. Last four months, I did not support my body as I usually do. It is ok. I am embracing my present limitations, knowing that I am also re-setting the pace for many years to come.
Namaste
Sal