Category: YAI blog

What is Prana?

Have you ever heard of Prana? The basic energy that courses through us? In this video, Lauren offers you a little tidbit about yoga philosophy. Simply doing the movements does not a yogi make. Postures with no intention is just exercise. Yoga helps us understand, build and harness our prana.

What is Prana?

Have you ever heard of Prana? The basic energy that courses through us? In this video, Lauren offers you a little tidbit about yoga philosophy. Simply doing the movements does not a yogi make. Postures with no intention is just exercise. Yoga helps us understand, build and harness our prana. 

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300hr yoga
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Advance your teaching career and gain additional certifications. We offer modules in Yin Yoga, Kids Yoga, Acro Yoga, Chakra-Vinyasa Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Tantra Yoga and more! Available in person and online. 
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Yoga Basics: Downward Facing Dog

In Sanskrit this posture is called Ado Mukha Svanasana. Breaking it down, Ado means downward direction. Mukha is a face and Svana is the Sanskrit word for dog. Downward dog is seen throughout almost every yoga class, so let’s break it down so that you can practice this posture with the best possible alignment.

    Yoga Basics: Downward Dog

    Ado Mukha Svanasana

    In Sanskrit this posture is called Ado Mukha Svanasana. Breaking it down, Ado means downward direction. Mukha is a face and Svana is the Sanskrit word for dog. Downward dog is seen throughout almost every yoga class, so let’s break it down so that you can practice this posture with the best possible alignment. 

    Yoga Academy International founder, Lauren Rudick takes your through this iconic basic yoga posture, downward Facing Dog!

    Warrior 2 strengthens the legs, is therapeutic for sciatica and flat fee. It tones the arms and helps build focus. It helps open the hips and build flexibility in the groins and adductors. 

    Be careful in this pose if you have ankle, knee, hip or groin injuries. Remember, always consult with a doctor before taking on a new exercise regimen. 

    Train with us:

    200hr yoga
    teacher training

    The perfecti foundation to becoming a professional yoga teacher. 
    learn more

    300hr yoga
    teacher training

    Advance your teaching career and gain additional certifications. We offer modules in Yin Yoga, Kids Yoga, Acro Yoga, Chakra-Vinyasa Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Tantra Yoga and more! Available in person and online. 
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    What does “yoga” even mean!?

    Okay, so when we think “yoga” we think about one thing: postures.
    ​
    Did you know that ASANA or yoga posures is just 1 out of 8 branches of the yoga tree?
    ​
    In THIS video, YAI founder, Lauren Rudick, explains what the word ASANA actually means and what it means for you as a yogi.

    What does "Yoga" even mean!?

    Debunking ASANA

    Okay, so when we think “yoga” we think about one thing: postures. 

    Did you know that ASANA or yoga posures is just 1 out of 8 branches of the yoga tree? 

    In THIS video, YAI founder, Lauren Rudick, explains what the word ASANA actually means and what it means for you as a yogi.

    UPCOMING TRAININGS:

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    Yoga Basics: Utkatasana

    Yoga Basics: Fierce Pose

    Utkatasana

    Fierce pose or chair pose is a great standing posture that can be included in to almost ANY yoga sequence !

    It strengthens the legs and arms, tones the quads and heats up the body!

    In the video below, Yoga Academy International founder Lauren Rudick takes you step by step through fierce pose

    This pose is also therapeutic for flat feat, can help build stamina AND boost confidence. 

    Be careful in this pose if you have ankle, knee, hip or groin injuries. Remember, always consult with a doctor before taking on a new exercise regimen. 

    Want more?

    Take a class in our virtual studio! 

    Get the Yoga Academy International experience LIVE in your own home!

    Times are changing and many yogis are seeking virtual classes. At Yoga Academy International’s virtual studio you can join our morning flows right from our gorgeous teacher training locations, practice with our expert teachers and take classes with our outstanding graduates. 

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    Class level 
    (1-3)

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    Stretchy

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    Strengthening

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    Heating

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    Cooling

    Missed your LIVE class? Don’t worry! The class will be e-mailed to you when it’s over and you will have access to it for 24hrs. 

    Check out our virtual classes!

    Train with us in person...

    200hr yoga
    teacher training

    in playa maderas
    Taking place on the spectacular cliffs of Maderas Beach, this 200hr Yoga-Alliance Registered Teacher Training is the perfect foundation for becoming a professional yoga teacher.
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    Ashtanga Yoga intensive

    in Lembongnan, Bali
    THIS is an amazing course with KPJAY Authorized level 2 teacher Tina Bock! Tina has spent years studying in Mysore, India under Sharath Jois and takes a very traditional but fun approach to Ashtanga Yoga. This program is an ELECTIVE MODULES THAT MAKES UP OUR ADVANCED 300HR YOGA TEACHING CERTIFICATION.
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    30-day yoga challenge

    Join Yoga Academy International’s 30-day challenge!!!

    This is a virtual, online yoga challenge that will include a full-length livestream yoga class every day.

    For less than $2 per day you get not just a live-stream yoga class daily, but also FULL access to our ENTIRE on-demand library.

    Miss your live class? Don’t worry, it will be e-mailed to you!

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    30 day challenge!

    LET'S FILL THIS NEW YEAR WITH MINDFULNESS, MOVEMENT,
    NEW ENERGY, RELEASING OLD STUFF, GRATITUDE AND POSITIVITY.

    starts January 18, 2021

    Sign up now!!
    Days
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    Join Yoga Academy International’s 30-day challenge!!! 

    This is a virtual, online yoga challenge that will include a full-length livestream yoga class every day. 

    For less than $2 per day you get not just a live-stream yoga class daily, but also FULL access to our ENTIRE on-demand library. 

    Miss your live class? Don’t worry, it will be e-mailed to you! 

    As a bonus, your 30-day challenge also comes with a reflective journal. Your journal is complete with exercises and prompts to help you start this year with intention and purpose.

    Full 30-day challenge plus access to our ENTIRE on-demand library + your intention setting journal is only $60! 

    Join now!!
    Gift this challenge to a friend

    Your questions answered by our students

    Your techer training questions answered

    We asked our students to answer your questions… 

    Every training we ask our students not only to give us feedback about their experience, but also to answer some of YOUR most frequently asked questions about Yoga Teacher Training at Yoga Academy International. 

    In the video below we had our students answer your questions.

    Our Yoga Teacher Trainings are STILL HAPPENING!! 

    We are excited for SUN, for fun, for daily yoga practices, for SURFING and to create yet another COVID-free bubble where we can feel some semblance of our normal lives again.

    Is this the training where you finally say yes to this adventure? 
    Hit reply and let us know!
    xoxo
    Lauren & Team YAI

    UPCOMING TRAININGS:

    Tropical 200hr yoga
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    in Playa Maderas
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    Luxury 200hr yoga
    teacher training

    in Amorgos, Greece
    Join us on the spectacular Greek island of Amorgos.The same teachers and same curriculum as our famous 200hr ytt in Nicaragua, only Greekier this 200hr Yoga-Alliance Registered Teacher Training is the perfect foundation for becoming a professional yoga teacher.
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    Acro Yoga 
    teacher training

    in Playa Maderas
    Join Nicholas Coolridge aka Modern Tarzan for our most playful training! Get Acro Yoga certified! This course is also a module of our ADVANCED 300HR YOGA TEACHING CERTIFICATION. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TRAINING YOU WILL BE A CERTIFIED Acro YOGA TEACHER AND COMPLETE PART OF YOUR 300HR YTT.
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    Luxury Yin yoga teacher training

    in Marrakech, Morocco
    THIS 60HR PROGRAM IS A COMPLETE TRAINING ON ITS OWN. IT IS ALSO ONE OF THE ELECTIVE MODULES THAT MAKES UP OUR ADVANCED 300HR YOGA TEACHING CERTIFICATION. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TRAINING YOU WILL BE A CERTIFIED YIN YOGA TEACHER AND COMPLETE PART OF YOUR 300HR YTT.
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    7 Ways to get through the “x-mas is cancelled” Blues

    7 ways to get through the "X-mas is cancelled" Blues

    I know this is going to be a challenging holiday season for many of you. As someone who has had to celebrate 3 of our BIGGEST holidays of the year without seeing my family I would love to offer some bits of what helped me get through it. I live alone. I haven’t seen my sisters in 9 and 7 months respectively. I haven’t seen my parents in 4. I haven’t seen my some of my best friends in 8 months because we all live in different cities and have not been permitted visits.
    ⁣
    So here are some ideas to get you through this messed up time in no particular order:

    1. recognise that zoom is not the same.

    Do it anyways, just to say “Hello”.

    2. Dress up for you. Decorate the house for you.

    Make Christmas cookies and eat them for YOU.

    3. write down 3 things that you can be grateful for every day.

    Like deep breaths, a roof over your head, a smart phone to read this. Many are not so blessed. 

    4. create your own personal and private holiday traditions just for you.

    For example- this year on hannukah, I lit the candles and sang prayers anyways, even though I was alone. I set my own tradition of what time I would do it and what songs I would sing afterward. Then I made French fries instead of latkes- still potatoes, still fried in oil, still festive, but my own personal spin on it. This made hannukah still feel special for me.

    5. take some time to make homemade gifts or cards or photo collages.

    Send them to loved ones or keep them for yourself. This will make you feel like you are still in the holiday spirit. 

     

    6. allow yourself to grieve the loss of this holiday season.

    Give yourself permission to get angry, be sad, cry, get aggravated. It sucks, feel that. It is okay. 

    7. count your blessings again.

    Share this with someone who needs to hear it this holiday season. xox 

    UPCOMING TRAININGS:

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    8 signs that it’s time to take a yoga teacher training

    if you’re wondering if you’re ready, you probably are. But here are ways to be sure! Here are 8 signs that it is probably time for you to take a YTT.

    8 signs that it's time to take a 
    yoga teacher training

    How do I know if I'm ready for YTT?

    We get asked this A LOT…

    if you’re wondering if you’re ready, you probably are. But here are ways to be sure! Here are 8 signs that it is probably time for you to take a YTT.

    1. You feel most like yourself when you're at yoga or on your mat

    Practicing yoga is where you feel GOOD. It gives you a sense of calm, grounding feeling fulfilled. 

    2. you are starting to wonder what is beyond the postures

     Maybe you’e reading more philosophical books or simply asking your teacher more questions. There’s a marked curiosity that goes beyond just sun salutations a savasana.

    3. You've started to dabble in other yoga modalities

    Not only have you gotten more curious, but youve also began to try other yoga styles and different mindfulness modalities. Maybe you’ve even attended talks or specialty workshops on these subjects. Perhaps you are getting more spiritually curious. Maybe you are seeking out teachers and mentors to help you become more mindful and present in your life. 

    4. You are craving to go deeper, learn more advanced asana

    You want understand your body better, get more flexible. You’ve peaked in your home studio. You’re one of the most dedicated students but you find that your local teacher can no longer push you in the ways your craving.

    5. It's time to get to know yourself better

    You just want to get away, heal, breathe, be. You are craving the opportunity to just get out of your head for a while…


    6. you are itching to travel but want a meaningful experience

    A vacation isn’t enough. You want to go on a trip that feels purposeful and meaningful. You are searching and seeking for more. You want to find answers to questions you haven’t even asked yet. You want to go away and learn something about yourself and the world as you understand it. It’s not enough to just vacation right now. You want your trip to have PURPOSE. You want to grow. You want to come back feeling better

    7. you want to make a big life change but aren't sure what that is yet

    You’re feeling frustrated and uncomfortable with your life as it is, but you really don’t know how to make that change. This is the perfect opportunity to reflect, be still and begin to figure it out.

    8. you want to find a community of likeminded people

    You want to make friends with people you have so much in common with! You want to find a community if like-minded yogis who love nature, travel and eating delicious meals. You’re ready to be in a place where you just fit in. Where everyone around you shares common interests and ideals.

    Do any of these reasons resonate with you? If more than 1 or 2 of them do, it’s probably time to take a yoga teacher training! 

    UPCOMING TRAININGS:

    200hr yoga
    teacher training

    this 200hr Yoga-Alliance Registered Teacher Training is the perfect foundation for becoming a professional yoga teacher.
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    Yoga Basics: Pigeon Pose

    Misaligning your pigeon pose can lead to knee injury so it is very important to so this pose safely.

    Yoga Basics: Pigeon pose

    Eka Pada Raja Kapotasana

    Pigeon pose- Eka Pada Raja Kapotasana is often sprinkled in beginner yoga classes. Unfortunately, this pose is also often taught with very little safety cues. Misaligning your pigeon pose can lead to knee injury so it is very important to so this pose safely. Remember the golden rule of knees: NO PAIN IS EVER ACCEPTABLE! Knees have NO muscles in them. So if you’re experiencing knee pain, it is a warning sign. Stop what you are doing. Try another variation. 

    Pigeon pose is calming, cooling and a beautiful hip opener. It is a great restorative pose when done properly. We absolutely LOVE pigeon pose. It’s a great way to introspect and relax. Please practice this pose safely! 

    Want more?

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    FULL ACCESS to our online studio for only $98 for the entire year.

    We have classes in English, French and Norwegian and have just added almost a dozen new practices.

     
    Hundreds of practices available – unlimited yoga for all levels – beginners to super advanced – continuing education for yoga teachers

    Whether you are brand new to yoga, super advanced or on your yoga teaching journey, we have practices and classes for you. Our online instructors have been handpicked for their teaching style, commitment to practice and specialty in their individual yoga discipline. We have classes ranging from 2 – 90 minutes waiting for you!

    Membership is just $98 per year!

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    Train with us in person...

    200hr yoga
    teacher training

    in playa maderas
    Taking place on the spectacular cliffs of Maderas Beach, this 200hr Yoga-Alliance Registered Teacher Training is the perfect foundation for becoming a professional yoga teacher.
    learn more

    Ashtanga Yoga intensive

    in Lembongnan, Bali
    THIS is an amazing course with KPJAY Authorized level 2 teacher Tina Bock! Tina has spent years studying in Mysore, India under Sharath Jois and takes a very traditional but fun approach to Ashtanga Yoga. This program is an ELECTIVE MODULES THAT MAKES UP OUR ADVANCED 300HR YOGA TEACHING CERTIFICATION.
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    Yoga Basics: Triangle Pose

    Yoga Basics: Triangle Pose

    Trikonasana

    Triangle pose! Contrary to popular belief, this pose is NOT about touching the ground. 

    It’s about strengthening the obliques and the legs, cultivating balance, working the core, stretching the groins adductors and hamstrings as well as toning the arms. There are so many amazing benefits to triangle pose! 

    This posture can also be therapeutic for sciatica. It is empowering and grounding. 

     

    Make sure to be mindful of your neck and top shoulder when practicing this pose. 

    If the neck feels sensitive, look down toward your front foot. You can also place the top hand on the hip if the arm or shoulder feel fatigued. 

    Want more?

    We want to invite you to practice with us from the comfort of your home.

    FULL ACCESS to our online studio for only $98 for the entire year.

    We have classes in English, French and Norwegian and have just added almost a dozen new practices.

     
    Hundreds of practices available – unlimited yoga for all levels – beginners to super advanced – continuing education for yoga teachers

    Whether you are brand new to yoga, super advanced or on your yoga teaching journey, we have practices and classes for you. Our online instructors have been handpicked for their teaching style, commitment to practice and specialty in their individual yoga discipline. We have classes ranging from 2 – 90 minutes waiting for you!

    Membership is just $98 per year!

    [register_form id=2]

    Train with us in person...

    200hr yoga
    teacher training

    in playa maderas
    Taking place on the spectacular cliffs of Maderas Beach, this 200hr Yoga-Alliance Registered Teacher Training is the perfect foundation for becoming a professional yoga teacher.
    learn more

    Ashtanga Yoga intensive

    in Lembongnan, Bali
    THIS is an amazing course with KPJAY Authorized level 2 teacher Tina Bock! Tina has spent years studying in Mysore, India under Sharath Jois and takes a very traditional but fun approach to Ashtanga Yoga. This program is an ELECTIVE MODULES THAT MAKES UP OUR ADVANCED 300HR YOGA TEACHING CERTIFICATION.
    learn more

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    The MOST important advice for yoga teachers

    The MOST important advice to yoga teachers

    This is really important!

    Whether you’re a new yoga teacher fresh out of training or a seasoned one, it is SO important to advocate for yourself. When coming to an agreement in yoga we often do so very casually over tea or kombucha. Regardless, we also must remember that these are still business negotiations and that due diligence is needed.

    Watch the video below for some very important advice for doing business as a yoga teacher. 

    Make sure you have a very clear understanding of what is expected of you and those who you are working with in turn know what you expect of them. 

    Be honest, clear and transparent. 

    Good luck!! 

    Like netflix, but yoga.

    We want to invite you to practice with us from the comfort of your home.

    FULL ACCESS to our online studio for only $98 for the entire year.

    We have classes in English, French and Norwegian and have just added almost a dozen new practices.

     
    Hundreds of practices available – unlimited yoga for all levels – beginners to super advanced – continuing education for yoga teachers

    Whether you are brand new to yoga, super advanced or on your yoga teaching journey, we have practices and classes for you. Our online instructors have been handpicked for their teaching style, commitment to practice and specialty in their individual yoga discipline. We have classes ranging from 2 – 90 minutes waiting for you!

    Membership is just $98 per year!

    [register_form id=2]

    UPCOMING TRAININGS:

    200hr yoga
    teacher training

    in playa maderas
    Taking place on the spectacular cliffs of Maderas Beach, this 200hr Yoga-Alliance Registered Teacher Training is the perfect foundation for becoming a professional yoga teacher.
    learn more

    Ashtanga Yoga intensive

    in Lembongnan, Bali
    THIS is an amazing course with KPJAY Authorized level 2 teacher Tina Bock! Tina has spent years studying in Mysore, India under Sharath Jois and takes a very traditional but fun approach to Ashtanga Yoga. This program is an ELECTIVE MODULES THAT MAKES UP OUR ADVANCED 300HR YOGA TEACHING CERTIFICATION.
    learn more

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    Yoga Basics: Warrior 2

    Yoga Basics: Warrior 2 pose

    Virabadhrasana II 

    Warrior 2: A totally iconic yoga posture! We want you to know how to align yourself properly so you practice safely. 

    Warrior 2 is a great pose for building strength and confidence. It is heating, energizing and grounding. 
    In the video below, Yoga Academy International founder Lauren Rudick takes you step by step through warrior 2 pose. 

    Warrior 2 strengthens the legs, is therapeutic for sciatica and flat fee. It tones the arms and helps build focus. It helps open the hips and build flexibility in the groins and adductors. 

    Be careful in this pose if you have ankle, knee, hip or groin injuries. Remember, always consult with a doctor before taking on a new exercise regimen. 

    Want more?

    We want to invite you to practice with us from the comfort of your home.

    FULL ACCESS to our online studio for only $98 for the entire year.

    We have classes in English, French and Norwegian and have just added almost a dozen new practices.

     
    Hundreds of practices available – unlimited yoga for all levels – beginners to super advanced – continuing education for yoga teachers

    Whether you are brand new to yoga, super advanced or on your yoga teaching journey, we have practices and classes for you. Our online instructors have been handpicked for their teaching style, commitment to practice and specialty in their individual yoga discipline. We have classes ranging from 2 – 90 minutes waiting for you!

    Membership is just $98 per year!

    [register_form id=2]

    Train with us in person...

    200hr yoga
    teacher training

    in playa maderas
    Taking place on the spectacular cliffs of Maderas Beach, this 200hr Yoga-Alliance Registered Teacher Training is the perfect foundation for becoming a professional yoga teacher.
    learn more

    Ashtanga Yoga intensive

    in Lembongnan, Bali
    THIS is an amazing course with KPJAY Authorized level 2 teacher Tina Bock! Tina has spent years studying in Mysore, India under Sharath Jois and takes a very traditional but fun approach to Ashtanga Yoga. This program is an ELECTIVE MODULES THAT MAKES UP OUR ADVANCED 300HR YOGA TEACHING CERTIFICATION.
    learn more

    questions for us? 
    Get in touch now!

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