We welcome you with great respect and love

The Shiva Rishi 300 Hours Advance Yoga Teacher Training Course is for those highly devoted to the path of yoga. It is designed for students and teachers who have already successfully completed their 200 Hour yoga teacher training- “Approved by yoga alliance”- and want to take their education to the next level.

 

To avoid a rushed, stressed, less developed training experience we offer our 200h training at 28 days and our 300h training at 30 days. In more compressed programs, students often leave with unanswered questions and are unprepared to teach.

 

Providing us a longer duration for the course allows more time for studentteacher interaction; student-student learning; and overall building a strong, experienced, and knowledgeable yoga community. At Shiva Rishi, you are a part of our family, not just a student.

 
 
 
yoga teacher training schools in varkala,Trivandrum

Prices and Availability

 
Month Price Availability
From To Private Room Shared
2025
7 October 4 November 1,400 € 1,300 € Register
7 November 5 December 1,400 € 1,300 € Register
2026
7 February 7 March 1,400 € 1,300 € Register
10 March 7 April 1,400 € 1,300 € Register
10 April 8 May 1,400 € 1,300 € Register
An extra charge of €100 applies for an air-conditioned room.
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.
 

Early Bird Discount

If you book 3 months in advance of your selected course date, we offer an early bird discount of 120 €

If you book a shared room with a friend or your partner we offer an early bird discount of 120 € per person

 
 

What you will get in this course

  • 34 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
  • Free Pickup From Trivandrum Airport
  • Full Vegetarian Sattvic Yogi Diet (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) 6 Days a Week
  • Daily Yoga Asana Classes
  • Puja Ceremonies and Bhajans
  • 300h Guidebook and additional study material
  • Sightseeing around Varkala (i.e. boat tour to Golden Island/beach meditation/temple visit)
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • CCTV Security
 
 
 

Deepen Your Practice

By attending the Shiva Rishi 300h YTTC program, you

 
  • Build more confidence through more teaching practice
  • Daily practice as well as practical sessions which focus on standing poses, forward bends, twists, backbends, inversions and balances.
  • Learn how to cue and adjust students while they are practicing asanas.
  • Learn about and practice meditation and Pranayama
  • In-depth exploration of hatha/vinyasa, sequencing, and alignment
  • Understand physical and energetic anatomy of the human body
  • vegetarian and vegan diet as a practice of ahimsa and a means to enlightenment
  • Practice and teach healing, purifying, and detoxifying hatha yoga kriyas
  • Practice of Bakti Yoga, Bhajans, mantras, and mudras
  • Basic knowledge of Ayurveda gives you a holistic view of disease prevention and proper lifestyle choices
  • Esoteric anatomy, including chakras, nadis, prana, granthi, and bandha
 
 
 
Retreat

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
    yoga teacher training schools in varkala,Trivandrum

    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
     
     
     
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    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
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    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
    Top yoga schools in kerala

    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
    Online Courses Available Near Me

    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.

     
     
     
    online yoga classes available

    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?

    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!

    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.