Yoga philosophy, classes and teacher training

Scientific studies have shown that a regular practice of yoga is associated with an increase in physical strength, flexibility and balance and perhaps more importantly, helps develop mental clarity, stress reduction, coping skills and leads to a sense of calmness, contentment and a positive attitude in life. An increasing number of physicians regularly recommend yoga to combat stress and anxiety and manage other chronic conditions such as arthritis, back and/or neck pain, overweight or obesity, high blood pressure, auto-immune disorders such as multiple sclerosis and many others.

The Studio in Staunton has been providing yoga classes in various formats since November 2015. The studio also offers various workshops. Recently, the Soorya School of Yoga has been certified by Yoga Alliance as a 200-hour Registered Yoga School. The school will start the first 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) program on Nov. 17, 2023.

Yoga teacher training does not necessarily commit you to teaching yoga classes. You may enroll in yoga teacher training simply to enhance your own learning.

What sets the Soorya School of Yoga apart is the depth with which yoga philosophy and poses will be taught as well as the role that nature and natural beauty play in our wellbeing. At each session, time will be devoted to learning more about appreciation of nature, natural beauty and wonders and their power over us.

The 200-hour YTT will take place over 10 months. Each month, students will meet at the Studio in Staunton for about 20 hours over a weekend – four on Friday evening and eight hours each on Saturday and Sunday. There will be assigned readings and practice sessions, focusing on Yoga philosophy, ethics and practice of poses/sequences. In addition, a few field trips will be organized during the training period.

The assessments will include weekly reflections, monthly (1-page) papers, quizzes, practicums (teaching yoga classes) and a final exam.

For more information, send a message on Facebook/thestudioinstaunton or call (314) 828-2031.