School Yoga Institute Avis 

I received my 200 hour yoga teacher training through The School Yoga Institute this fall at the beautiful retreat center, Munay Sonqo in Peru. The location was set in the Sacred Valley amongst the Andes Mountains.

I thought I knew what to anticipate during training because I had been through a program before. The profound level of healing that occurred was way more than I expected! Our teachers Janani and Javi put together healing ceremonies, meditations, and were masters at holding space for our group. I was able to release patterns, relationships, and doubts that were holding me back from following my dreams. We learned way more than asanas. They showed us how to incorporate yogic philosophy as well as the Peruvian Shamanic medicine wheel in every aspect of our life. I will use these life skills to continue to grow and evolve forever.

My biggest takeaway was as Javi put it “remembering who I am.” It was emotional to look at all the little ways I gave my power away and fell into fear along my path. The SYI teachers gave me the gift of seeing who I am without shame or fear. This shift in perspective was exactly what I needed. I now feel confident to share my gifts with the world.

I truly enjoyed my experience with the 200 hour YTT in Costa Rica back in March 2023. The teachers were excellent, their level of knowledge and their methods, were at the highest level in my opinion. The teachers made me feel wanted and the sense of belonging and the union they carved out of the class, everything they did and said was so to the point and perfect. I will do it again and in a year or so I might take the 300 hours training with the same teachers.

My experience was because I was accepted as myself and supported by the women that attended the program.

Overall this program helped me deepen my yoga practice and connected me to a beautiful land (Mal Pais, Costa Rica) with tons of animals everywhere and incredible women from all around the world. However, leaving the program I don't feel fully prepared to teach. There was too much focus on philosophy and chanting for my liking and not enough compromise or compassion for those who struggle to adhere to a vegan diet. This program is great for learning proper alignment, touch/massage, and unlocking new postures. It was not great at building confidence to create and teach your own sequences and build a yoga business that will translate into western society. The evening programs were fun and the environment itself was comfortable but rugged (right in the jungle). It was difficult to process everything day by day because a lot was jam-packed into 3 weeks however I am glad I did it in that short period of time. Challenging but worth it!

Great education! Costa Rica is a perfect location for training.

I had a wonderful experience. My teachers Nichole, Xyloh, & Bea were amazing. They were very knowledgable. The rooms were so beautiful and comfortable. It felt amazing being around another culture. I love this school so much.

The facilitators really displayed a high level of professionalism, love for yoga and all beings. They spent each day sharing their wisdom and knowledge with the group. Patiently explaining things in depth or demonstrating specific poses we might have had difficulty with. The curriculum was in depth but not overwhelming. Each day was well planned and there was no wasted time. I enjoyed the flow and pace with free time each morning to maintain our own routines/rituals.

Patient kind. Still in practice :)

Amazing school. It was a great location, absolutely beautiful. Amazing knowledgeable teachers gave a great balance of asana ceremony and spirituality.

Such a transformative experience that will carry with me for the rest of my life! So many great memories made and new learnings! Jed and April were great leaders, teachers, space holders, and friends!