200 Hour Teacher Training

Overview

Our 200h Teacher Training incorporates ancient techniques of classical hatha yoga combined with vinyasa flow and kriya yoga in an unique and authentic way. This programme was carefully developed over the last decade by our senior teacher Shiva.

Shiva and our other teachers will educate you in

Techniques, alignment and modifications
Teaching methodology and practical experience
Anatomy
Yoga philosophy

You will ultimately feel safe and adequately prepared to instruct a general adult population. Certified by Yoga Alliance USA, a successful completion of this yoga teacher training qualifies you to teach yoga worldwide!

Prices and Availability

Month		Price		Availability
From	To	Private Room	Shared	Availability
2025
3 September	30 September	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
3 October	30 October	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
3 November	30 November	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
3 December	30 December	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
2026
3 January	30 January	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
3 February	3 March	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
7 March	3 April	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
7 April	4 May	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
7 May	3 June	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register
7 June	4 July	1200€ 1050 €	1050€ 950 €	Register

An extra charge of €100 applies for an air-conditioned room.

Early Bird Discount

If you book 3 months in advance of your selected course date, we offer an early bird discount of 90 €

If you book a shared room with a friend or your partner we offer an early bird discount of 90 € per person

If you want to come with your partner or a friend we can offer you a discount if you want to share a room. Please contact us directly for more information.

Check Availability

Don’t Shortchange Your Yoga Training: Skip the 21-Day Myth

Why a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Cannot Be Completed in 21 Days

In the yoga world, the 200-hour yoga teacher training (YTT) is often seen as the foundation of a teaching path. It’s the program that lays the groundwork for understanding asana, philosophy, anatomy, pranayama, meditation, and the ethics of being a yoga teacher.

And yet, many yoga schools advertise “200-hour yoga teacher training in 21 days.” At first glance, this may sound efficient — a quick way to get certified, save money, and move on with life. But the reality is very different. Compressing 200 hours of study, practice, and integration into only 21 days is not only unrealistic — it’s misleading.

Let’s take a closer look at why.

What’s included?

27 Days Program with 6 Days Class and one Free Day per Week
International Yoga Teacher Certificate by Yoga Alliance USA
Private Twin bed Room with Bathroom and Balcony
Full Vegetarian Sattvic Yogi Diet (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) 6 Days a Week
Daily Yoga Asana Classes
Daily Teachings (Philosophy, Anatomy, Pranayama)
Puja Ceremonies and Bhajans
Free Wifi
Free Airport Pickup (from Airport Trivandrum)
Sightseeing around Varkala (i.e. boat tour to Golden Island/beach meditation/temple visit)

YOU GRADUATED!!! WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

You are proficient in 200 Hour Level Teaching Skills as set forth by Yoga Alliance

You are eligible to Register with Yoga Alliance as a 200 Hour Level Teacher
You still have MUCH to LEARN!
We become great teachers by teaching! So Go TEACH!!
Practice greatly improves your skills.
Integrate and share what you’ve learned in your own voice
Your Practice is your best friend. The best teachers are the best practitioners.

QUALIFICATIONS: ASSIST / TEACH / PRACTICE through Yoga Teacher Alliance

Daily Schedule

Timetable :
6:15 - 7:00	Pranayama
7:00 - 9:00	Asana
9:15	Breakfast & Break
11:30 - 13:00	Theory/Alignment
13:15	Lunch & Break
14:30 - 16:00	Theory
16:30 - 18:00	Asana
18:30	Dinner and Freetime

Deepen Your Practice

By attending the shiva Rishi yoga 200TTC program

In order to be a good teacher, it is also important to establish / deepen your self-practice. To do so we will practice morning and evening together in a group setting, supervised and instructed by lead trainers.
In the morning we will practice Vinyasa Kriya Flow Yoga. It entails the practice of varying flow sequences uniting asanas with breath and mantras followed by relaxation, pranayama and kriyas.
In the beginning of the TTC we will start these classes with basic flow exercises that are gradually improved over time, preparing to eventually flow through various asanas in a meditative way, fully aware of movement and respiration.
You can experience their physical and energetic effects, as also observe how different categories of asanas (bends, twists, inversions... that are investigated in theory classes) harmonize in a set.
Towards the evening, when the sun sinks tranquilly behind palm trees in the sea and climate cools down a little
we will practice Classical Hatha Yoga. In an atmosphere charged with peace and devotion, we will practice recreational shanti asanas in the tradition of Swami Sivananda and his disciple Swami Satyananda Saraswati, who framed ancient yogi teachings in a modern language, that incorporates both traditional and scientific understandings. By harmonizing all levels of human life and experience through practical means of asanas, pranayama, kriyas, bandhas and mudras we start balancing sun and moon energies (ha-tha), purify nadis and chakras and ultimately practice to gain mastery of prana in order to control the mind.
Learn to teach and to practice a broad range of yoga asanas.
Experience how to draw on the physical, emotional, energetic and spiritual benefits of yoga
Learn the appropriate and correct alignments for each posture
Explore the modifications and variations of the most common asanas.
Learn and practice the art of hands-on-adjustment.
Understand the basic concepts of functional yoga anatomy.
Experience and practice different types of pranayama and meditation techniques.

Curriculum

According to the standards set by Yoga Alliance the training divides in 5 blocks:

1. Techniques

Standing Asanas

Asanas stretch and strengthens back, shoulders and leg muscles. This is especially important to relieve stiffness and back pain difficulties, which increasingly arise in modern times through long hours of sitting. In this section you will learn common standing postures, how to explain their benefits, and experience their balancing effects on the root chakra. We will further discuss how to provide effective verbal cues to direct practitioners coming in and out of the poses, how to verbally adjust, and how to breathe properly.
Bending Postures
Bending asanas loosen the back by separating vertebras and improve blood circulation around the spine. This brings vitalizing and overall health improving effects on all organs and the brain. You will receive analytical training by demonstration, conversation and the use of the TTC guidebook in how to teach, practice and adjust bending postures. The learning objects herein are to explain bending postures and their benefits; verbalize and demonstrate alignments; be aware of common misalignments and risk factors; learn how to direct practitioners coming in and out; and how to breath in these positions.
Pranayama
Pranayama is considered to be the foundation of yoga. It is perhaps the most essential aspect of yoga and life. Pranayama is the best precursor for calming and centering the mind for meditation. Pranayama regulates prana flow in the nadis of the pranamaya kosha. Through practice, observation, and discussion you will learn most common breathing techniques, how to explain benefits, and how to direct practitioners through these exercises. We will also practice pranayama on occasional spiritual trips and breath the fresh air in the mountains or on the rocks by the sea shore. Learning objectives are to get an overview and practice experience of multiple pranayama techniques and learn to use powerful breath workout and pranayama techniques to: detoxify your body, balance hormones, boost immunity and energy, calm the mind, awaken your full potential to discover the true nature of the self, and brings you deeper into the yoga practice. When the mind is focused on the breath, the nervous system gets calmed down, and there is less stress on the body and it experiences better digestion and elimination. Regular practice of pranayama trains the lungs and improves the capacity of the respiratory system immensely (especially important during these covid times).
Mudras
These are some of the most common hand mudras in pranayama practice
- Nasikagra mudras (nose tip position)
- Jnana mudra (psychic gesture of knowledge)
- Chin mudras (psychic gesture of consciousness)
- Chinmaya mudra (gesture of manifest consciousness)
- Aadi mudra (primal or first attitude)
Mantras
According to Samkhya, one the schools of Hindu philosophy, the very first element that manifested itself in this plane was sound and that the element of sound itself originated from Lord Shiva’s Drum. Sanskrit mantras are energy-based sounds that have the power to vibrate and resonate throughout the entire body. Sound travels five times more efficiently through water than through air, and as the human body is comprised of more than 70% water, it is therefore an excellent conductor for both sound and vibration. The regular practice of mantras especially balance the agitations of manomaya kosha. Once a week we hold a Yajna yoga in the evening time with a puja with meditation, mantras, breathing techniques and offerings.
Meditation
- What meditation is, and why it’s practiced
- Variety of meditation techniques and tools
- Quieting the mind to develop deeper levels of awareness
- Connecting with nature and the world you live in
- Connecting with the true Self

2. Teaching Methology

The Art of Teaching curriculum includes

Teaching clinics
How to address a group of students
How to use your own body as a teaching tool
How to use your voice, volume, tempo, and pacing
How to correct postures
Choosing the right words
Energy, passion, confidence, humor

Using your own presence and Self-awareness as a transformative teaching tool
- The Business of Yoga
- Teacher guidelines & etiquette
- Appropriate conduct inside and outside the yoga room
- How to apply for a teaching position
- Teacher expectations
- Student interaction
- Role playing
- Feedback

3. Anatomy and Physiology

Herein you will broaden your understanding about the physical anatomy of the human body and combine important aspects of postures and anatomy with contemplative and internal facets of yoga. Next to physical anatomy, we will go deeper into the realms of energy anatomy of Chakras, Kunadlini, Gunas, Tattwas, Koshas, Nadis & the Vayus.

Yoga Posture & Alignment

How your bones determine the range of motion in all the yoga postures.

How and why everyone does yoga postures differently and what they can do about it.

How joint compression and muscle tension or resistance plays role in all the yoga asana.

Learn muscular and skeleton restrictions for proper alignment.

How to improve yoga posture for individuals

4. Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle Ethics & Ayurveda

A yogic lifestyle is a journey to create unity on all levels. This means to live every day consciously, with a focused, calm mind, seeking inner perfection at all times. This teacher training places an emphasis on studying the vast heritage of yoga philosophy. By introducing the Samkhya system of evolution and discuss traditional texts (such as the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali) we will explore the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga in more detail and take a glimpse beyond the first limbs towards the ultimate goal of yoga. Next to getting inspiration from these sacred texts, it may make us recognize the importance of a firm foundation in these first limbs, as prerequisite to progress on this path of liberation -and how you, as prospective yoga teachers, can assist other beings along this journey. We are looking forward to inspiring conversations about the precept of non-violence (ahimsa), the concepts of dharma and karma, and finally the value of teaching yoga while being of service to others (seva).

Ayurveda

Ayurveda is the science of living. Our practice depends on us being in balance. Through an understanding of Ayurveda, we learn about our bodily constitution, and what kinds of diets and lifestyles are most suitable to one’s character. Our Ayurvedic Doctor will teach you about the theoretical basics of Ayurveda, helping you to discover a diet fitting to your type of body and individual needs and intellectually understand the positive effects of the high qualitative sattvic yogi diet you are served throughout the TTC. If you like to relax from the training, you will be delighted to find the yoga studio surrounded by several skilled ayurvedic massage salons.

5. Practicum

Reflection On The Process Of Becoming A Yoga Teacher

Reflection on the Process of Becoming a Yoga Teacher
Discussion on what Certification Provides
Code of Ethics
Yoga Alliance Registration
Group conversation about options for teaching and sharing
Discussion about how to maintain appropriate skill and inspiration

Our Teachers

◈ Shiva

yoga teacher training institutions in kerala

Shiva's life is totally dedicated to yoga. He has been practicing Vinyasa and Hatha yoga for over 15 years. Trained in Sivananda Yoga Ashram, his teachings are based on Swami Satyananda, Swami Sivananda and Mark Stephens. He’s constantly deepening his knowledge trough self study and practice. By placing practice within the context of Indian culture and philosophy his classes are an ever deepening experience of the true tradition of yoga.

◈ Shalini

300 hour teacher training courses available

Attained her MSc degree in yoga and philosophy at the University of Chennai and is currently taking her doctoral degree while teaching philosophy classes at the school. In a compassionate and dialogic teaching style, she will guide your self-understanding towards a clear realization of the yoga sutras of Patanjali, of how yoga derived from the Vedic age and how scriptures can benefit your practice.

◈ Dr Anish S Ajayan

Dr. Anish BAMS is an Ayurvedic doctor and he will teach you anatomy classes. Here you will also discuss the benefits of asanas, how to address specific problems, or what to avoid during that time. Moreover, he will introduce you to the ancient healing science of Ayurveda, which ideally complements the yogic practices.

◈ Dr Priya Anish

Dr. Priya is born in Kerala. She completed her BAMS(Ayurvedacharya) in Kerala University. She emphasizes a healthy diet and cooking by following ayurvedic rules is her passion. She believes in Ayurveda and Yoga as a good combination for complete health. She is practicing and teaching Ayurveda since nearly a decade.

◈ Kavita

Raised in a spiritually rooted family in Karnataka, Kavitha was introduced to the path of yoga and meditation early in life. Her formal journey began in 2006 with intensive practice and study in pranayama, meditation, and yogic philosophy, which she deepened through years of dedicated training in traditional ashrams. Committed to sharing this knowledge, she began teaching in Karnataka, where she successfully brought yogic wisdom to over 40 villages. Since 2015, she has continued her teaching journey in Rishikesh and, for nearly a decade, has been guiding students at various yoga schools on Varkala Cliff while traveling to share her practice more widely.

Testimonials

Reeta

The 200-hour yoga teacher training was well-structured and truly worth the price. Shiva and the other teachers are highly professional and knowledgeable. This training goes beyond just asanas, offering deep insights into philosophy, pranayama, meditation, and overall yogic lifestyle. Classes run from Monday to Saturday, with Sundays free for rest or exploration. I stayed in a house just a 3-minute walk from the school. While my room didn’t have a balcony, there was a shared terrace, and my room was comfortable and spacious. The food was excellent—healthy, delicious sattvic meals that nourished both body and mind. The location of the school is ideal, just a short walk from the beach, and Varkala itself offers a relaxed atmosphere. I highly recommend this teacher training for anyone looking for a truly immersive and holistic yoga experience – it’s a valuable investment in both knowledge and personal growth!

February 2025

Margherita

Doing the 200h TTC at Shiva Rishi was one of the best things I could ever experience and it’s very hard to
resume it in few words. I’m extremely fullfilled and grateful for all that I got to learn about yoga and life. All
the teachers, Ashok, Sanathanan, Anish ecc. are very passionate in sharing their knowledge with autenthicity,
and Shiva is beyond a great teacher, a great person with such a unique personality, dedicating all his time to his
students. Food is amazing (thanks to Bina) and all the ladies working at the school are incredibly kind and smiling. The location of the school is great, rounded by bautiful nature, between palm trees and just 1min walking from the beach where you can have sunset swimming everyday. I really can’t wait to be back and do my next TTC!!
Jai Shiva, Hari om tat sat✨

January 2025

Tom

He course was great I really enjoyed the morning and afternoon practices, I learned different types of sequences and I understood deeply how to practice better. Kitchen staff and house keeping were great thank you all

December 2024

Yoga FAQ

Answers To Questions You Were Embarrassed To Ask!

1. In what languages do you offer yoga classes?

All courses are in English, BUT we offer to our students a guide book that resume most of the theory classes and photos of Asanas to help you for your study and future teachings, so it should help you to have a better comprehension of theory classes. Also students tend to help each other’s.

2. What type of yoga are you teaching?

We focus on traditional Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa Flow. Shiva has developed his own style, incorporating mantra with the breath. We follow ancient techniques based on Patanjali's philosophy. We believe that yoga is more than just bending and stretching; it is a path of total transformation, purifying negative tendencies through self-inquiry.

3. Do you teach Meditation ?

Yes, we do practice meditation and Pranayama everyday, it is also an important part of our teachings.

4. What food are you serving?

We offer 3 vegetarian meals per day, featuring traditional Kerala cuisine made with coconut oil. Our menu includes gluten-free dishes such as dosa (flatbread made with rice flour, similar to chapati) along with salads, fruits, beans, and a wide variety of vegetables,

Our food is served frehsly cooked and suitable for most diets and presented as a buffet. We do not use too many spices or chili, focusing more on herbs for flavor.

We accommodate special dietary needs and allergies, please let us know in advance!

5. I don’t speak english that well. Can I still attend the course?

All courses are in English, but we offer our students a guidebook that summarizes most of the theory classes and includes photos of asanas to assist with your studies and future teachings. This should help you gain a better understanding of the theory classes. Additionally, students tend to help each other.

6. What type of yoga are you teaching?

We focus on traditional Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa Flow. Shiva has developed his own style, incorporating mantra with the breath. We follow ancient techniques based on Patanjali's philosophy. We believe that yoga is more than just bending and stretching; it is a path of total transformation, purifying negative tendencies through self-inquiry.

7. Do you teach Meditation ?

Yes, we do practice meditation and Pranayama everyday, it is also an important part of our teachings.

8. What food are you serving?

9. Do you offer a diploma recognized by Yoga Alliance ?

We are registered with YOGA ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL so you will receive a certificate after completion of the 28 days TTC. We have theory’s and practice exams. All our teachers are very qualified and they have been teachings for many years, you can check our curriculum.

10. How experienced in my yoga practice do I have to be to attend this course?

We had students who were beginners but had a strong mind. They followed through, and rested when needed during Asana class in Savasana, which is totally acceptable. However, be aware that a teacher training is very intense. You will have to practice Asanas 2 hours twice a day (morning and evening) for 6 days a week. Therefore you need to be dedicated and fit to follow this routine. Additionally you will have theroy classes, practice meditation and pranayama. All of this takes a lot of time and energy. If you are rather looking for a challenging or relaxing Yoga vacation, we recommend you to book one of our retreats instead.

11. What type of accomodation do you offer?

We offer private rooms, with a private bathroom and balcony for max 2 persons. We provide towels and sheets that are changed and washed weekly.

12. Do you have a washing machine?

No, but we can share the adress of local laundry services with you who will wash your clothes at low cost.
You also have a bucket in your room that you can use to wash your clothes by hand. By are happy to provide washing powder.

13. Do you have AC rooms?

Yes, we have 4 AC rooms available at extra cost, which depends on the length of your stay. Just ask us for the availability and we'll send you all the information.
Every room is equipped with a ceiling fan and mosquito nets.

14. Is your school far from the beaches and restaurants and stores ?

We are located at 5 m. Walking distance to beaches and store and restaurants for your convenience

15. Is it ATM machine on the cliff and can we change money ?

There is an ATM machine in Varkala town, 15 m from our School you can get there by rickshaw for low cost. Also it is possible to change money at TRAVEL AGENCIES on Varkala Cliff, 5m. Walking distance from our School.

16. What is the closest airport to your school ?

Trivandrum Airport We offer free pickup at Trivandrum airport only. We can help you to organize your departure, or travelling interest in Kerala or India with local travel agencies.

17. How Is The 300 Hour Different From The 200 Hour

Our 300h students have the opportunity to practice more teaching classes and get different study material. Furthermore, they will be trained in more detail in sequencing and will have more alignment classes with our Lead Instructor Shiva Rishi.

200 Hour Teacher Training

Overview

Prices and Availability

An extra charge of €100 applies for an air-conditioned room.

Early Bird Discount

If you want to come with your partner or a friend we can offer you a discount if you want to share a room. Please contact us directly for more information.

Don’t Shortchange Your Yoga Training: Skip the 21-Day Myth

Why a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Cannot Be Completed in 21 Days

What’s included?

YOU GRADUATED!!! WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

QUALIFICATIONS: ASSIST / TEACH / PRACTICE through Yoga Teacher Alliance

Daily Schedule

Spiritual Day Trips

Deepen Your Practice

By attending the shiva Rishi yoga 200TTC program

Curriculum

1. Techniques

2. Teaching Methology

3. Anatomy and Physiology

Yoga Posture & Alignment

4. Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle Ethics & Ayurveda

Ayurveda

5. Practicum

Ancient Yoga Technique For Attaining Mastery Of The Mind

Our Teachers

◈ Shiva

◈ Shalini

◈ Dr Anish S Ajayan

◈ Dr Priya Anish

◈ Kavita

Testimonials

Reeta

Margherita

Tom

Yoga FAQ

1. In what languages do you offer yoga classes?

2. What type of yoga are you teaching?

3. Do you teach Meditation ?

4. What food are you serving?

5. I don’t speak english that well. Can I still attend the course?

6. What type of yoga are you teaching?

7. Do you teach Meditation ?

8. What food are you serving?

9. Do you offer a diploma recognized by Yoga Alliance ?

10. How experienced in my yoga practice do I have to be to attend this course?

11. What type of accomodation do you offer?

12. Do you have a washing machine?

13. Do you have AC rooms?

14. Is your school far from the beaches and restaurants and stores ?

15. Is it ATM machine on the cliff and can we change money ?

16. What is the closest airport to your school ?

17. How Is The 300 Hour Different From The 200 Hour