2014 prospectus

Vinyasa sa Flow Yoga, Vinyasa Flow Life ife 200hr Yoga T Teacher Training & Self Develo lopment elopment Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

“By learning you will ill tteach, by teaching you will understand” ati Latin at proverb understand” ~ Lat

2014 Course Prospectus www.mercedesyoga.com

Table of Contents

Venue

2

Becoming a Yoga Teacher

2-3

About the Course

3-4

Mercedes Ngoh: Course Director

4-5

The Curriculum, Structure and Breakdown

5-8

Daily Schedule

8

Eligibility and Accreditation

9

Dates & Fees

10

Yeotown: The Residence

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Graduates: Where Are They Now?

1212-13

VINYASA FLOW FLOW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

Becoming a Vinyasa Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher a note from course Director Mercedes Ngoh…

“After over a decade of teaching and four years of conducting multiple teacher trainings, I’ve come to realise the difference between a good teacher and a great teacher. The greatest yoga teachers aren’t the ones who know the most, but rather the ones who know themselves the best. They are the ones who offer what they know about this amazing discipline without apology or agenda and share their knowledge with authenticity, passion, levity and connection. The difference between being a mechanical instructor (teaching from the head) and a magical guide (teaching from the heart) comes down to how much a teacher feels in tune with their own being, purpose and how comfortable they are in their own skin. It is for this reason that, in 2014, my 200hr teacher training programme has evolved to include a strong focus on self development and self inquiry. Too often I have noticed students arriving for a training so focused on learning more about yoga poses without any thought of the necessity of learning more about their own selves. I’ve come to learn that the study of the self is necessary in order to become a happy, balanced being and ultimately a great teacher.

Therefore, alongside offering an in-depth dissection of asanas, alignment, adjustment and physical anatomy, there will be an additional in-depth focus on the dissection of the self. This is where we will learn spiritual alignment, perspective adjustments and energetic anatomy. In time the habit of worthy self-inquiry leads to greater happiness, confidence, clarity and eventually great teaching.”

KEY QUESTIONS Before embarking on a Yoga Teacher Training course here are a few questions you may want to ask yourself. 1) What is my intention for wanting to teach yoga? 2) Am I genuine in my motives for becoming a teacher? 3) Does my current yoga practice inspire me to want to inspire others?

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VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

These are just a few examples however the key point is this‌. your desire to teach yoga should be examined critically and honestly and you should be in a place where you are mentally, emotionally and physically prepared for the undertaking aking of an intensive yoga teacher training programme.

Yoga can be an inspiring science, beautiful philosophy and powerful art form if we allow it to be. As long as you feel passionate about yoga and know that you are ready and capable of sharing the teac teachings you have integrated, then it’s time to embrace the journey of a Yoga Teacher Training course.

About the Course

This Yoga Teacher Training course is not a retreat. It is a high high-density, density, total-immersion total intensive in-depth depth study of Vinyasa Flow Yog Yogaa and how to teach it. You may find yourself in a place both physically and spiritually that you may not have experienced before. This is part of immersing yourself in Yoga. To be able to take what you have learned from your experience 2

VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

and share it with others hers is an integral part of the Teacher Training process. That being said this training could be one of the best gifts you have ever given yourself. Taking the time to learn about, celebrate and explore your deeper self through the discipline of yoga. It's one thing to understand yoga on an intellectual or mechanical level but to really understand it on the deeper layers one needs to experience it for themselves by making the sacrifice of putting aside daily distractions to dive to their depths both physically ally and spiritually.

In order to be a competent, professional Yoga Teacher thorough training is a necessity.

This course is eclectic and non nondogmatic, fresh and contemporary, based on Mercedes’ multiple years of teaching experience as well as personal study with many recognized great teachers. This course is not about training disciples whoo question nothing but rather we hope to inspire you to become disciples of life who question everything! Learn for all of your life. Teach for all of your life. Whatever that may be that you decide de to share.

Course Director Mercedes Ngoh ERYT Born in Ottawa, Canada, Mercedes Ngoh Sieff is one of the UK’ss happiest and most creative crea Vinyasa Flow Yoga teachers. She spent most of o her life studying creative movement and its use as a form of self-expression expression and spiritual exploration. It was during her time living in California and working in the entertainment industry that she began to study yoga. As her studies and passion for yoga yog grew steadily more intense, Mercedes gradually moved into teaching. Having studied various forms of yoga the primary style she now teaches is Vinyasa Flow.

Most of her studies over the past decade have been in California where she has completed different 3

VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

certifications under many recognised teachers including the lovely Shiva Rea. In 2010 she Co-Founded Founded the award winning health retreat Yeotown located in North Devon.

She is a proud ambassador for Lululemon Athletica and Manduka and runs weekly vinyasa flow yoga classes in London,, Yoga Teacher Training modules and retr retreats eats both locally at Yeotown and abroad throughout the year. Mercedes has been featured on ITV1, BBC Radio and in publications such as Yoga Journal, Tatler, The Sunday Times , OM Magazine, Harpers Bazaar and Yoga Magazine. She also contributes articles to MindBodyGreen, Green, Om Magazine, Magazine Elephant Journal and Yoga Magazine.

“A great great yoga teacher isn’t someone who just leads a challenging class. A great teacher creates a safe space that inspires their students to have the courage to explore somewhere inside of themselves that has never been touched upon before” – Mercedes Ngoh in OM Magazine

Course Curriculum This 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training programme is offered in modular format. format The contact hours may be completed as either two 10 day intensives or a three week summer intensive. Please note as this is a residential cou course rse spaces are limited.

The Modules MODULE 11:: Vinyasa inyasa Flow Yoga "Whatever place, whatever time, the ancestors have framed the Yoga practices to suit them all. Only the attitudes and circumstances of human beings change. Time and space does not change. The same sun shines as always!" always!"- Sri T. Krishnamacharya Topics Covered 1. Asana Sessions: Physical & Energetic Alignment Alignment, Props and Enhancements of Standing & Seated Postures Postures, Twists, Backbends & Inversions 4

VINYASA FLOW FLOW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

2. Anatomy and Physiology Sessions: exploration of the body’s key muscles, organs, bones, joints and how they operate, practical anatomy exercises 3. History of Yoga & Philosophy: Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali, Sri T. Krishnamacharya’s legacy, key players of both traditional and modern day yoga 4. Self Development: 21 days to happiness, five habits of happy people 5. Pranayama: Breathing exercises and the science of the breath 6. The Eight Eight Limbs of Yoga 7. The Four Paths of Yoga: Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga and Jnana Yoga 8. Power of OM: Science behind the sound 9. Basic Sanskrit: Language of Yoga 10. Classical Sun Salutations: Salutations A & B Surya Namaskar 11. Therapeutic Yoga: how yoga can be used to heal injuries, restorative yoga exercises and protecting the spine 12. Physics of Yoga: Bandhas (energy locks)

MODULE 2: VINYASA FLOW LIFE “You cannot teach a man anything, you can only find it within yourself ““–– Galileo Galilei Topics Covered 1. Asana Sessions: Kramas (variations/modifications), Peaks & Valleys sequencing method, choosing/grouping anchor poses, creative Sun Salutations and how to create your own 2. Practical Sessions: Creating a safe and inspiring space for your students to explore and soar, breaking down challenging poses and how to teach them safely 3. Spiritual Alignment: Alignment: How to align with one’s purpose, self inquiry exercises 4. Physical Anatomy Session: Physiology of the breath 5. Mantras: Mantras: Common chants explored, leading a group in sound and song 6. Inspired teaching & chanting: Becoming comfortable using your voice, both speaking and singing, finding your own unique teaching voice and style 7. Mechanical versus magical: teaching yoga from the heart vs the head 8. Know your audience: how to create sequences for all levels 9. Your inner teacher: importance of a personal practice in relationship to the practice you teach and finding your own unique teaching voice 10. Sequencing: equencing: Creative mini-sequences within the flow and choosing anchor poses within the same energetic family 11. Music: Music: Power of music, discovering your inner yogic DJ, creating inspiring playlists 5

VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

12. Meditation techniques: The purpose and importance ortance of meditation as the foundation and goal of an effective yoga practice 13. Energetic Anatomy: Anatomy: Chakras and Mudras (gestures of the hands) 14. Yoga Today: How to market yourself yourself, the business of becoming a successful Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher, innovative nnovative ways to begin teaching yoga

A Very HandsHands-On Practical Training

Most importantly both modules odules involve numerous practical teaching exercises from the simple to the more challenging that will allow you to gracefull gracefullyy ease into teaching. While at first this may seem daunting, this method will allow you to feel safe to play around and explore your own unique teaching style and voice within a supportive group setting of likelike minded individuals dividuals offering constructive feedback back and guidance for you to build upon. In short this makes for a very fun,, personal and hands-on experience.

Sample Daily Schedule 8am – 8:30am 8:30-10:30am 11am – 1pm 1 – 3:30pm 3:30 – 7:30pm 8pm onwards

Morning Mindfullness 2hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Practice Theory/Discussion/Class Review Lunch/Free Time/Reading Sessions Practical Teaching Sessions/Theory/Philosophy/Anatomy etc Dinner and relaxation

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VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

Evening activities will vary from rest and relaxation (sauna/massage) to Kirtan sessions session to fire pit ceremonies, moonlight meditations, DVD viewings etc. The course flows with the needs and energy of the group. With the beauty of the great North Devon outdoors at our doorstep, past courses have included inspiring activities such as Conscious Hiking, Beach Yoga Sessions and Seaside Meditation.

Eligibility and Accreditation Eligibility 1) You have been practicing yoga for a minimum of two years 2) You are familiar with many of the basic key poses 3) You are interested in yoga and have a sincere ddesire to expand nd your knowledge and practice 4) You regularly egularly attend classes or self practice on a regular basis 5) You are interested in teaching the methodology of Vinyasa Flow Yoga 6) You are in good general health* *Please note this is a Vinyasa Flow Yoga training ing course and the daily practice during the course will be dynamic, fluid and challenging in nature.

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VINYASA FLOW FLOW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

Accreditation Upon successful completion of the full 200hr course participants will receive a certificate of completion. This is awarded based on a demonstrable comprehension of the principles and practice of Vinyasa Flow Yoga, with an ability to clearly communicate this to others. It also includes post course work that will consist of a reading project, practice teaching assignment and video assessment which must be submitted within one year of completion of contact hours.

This 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Leadership programme is registered and approved by the Yoga Alliance USA. It is an internationally recognised course both in the UK and abroad.

Once you receive your certificate you may simply send in a copy to Yoga Alliance US (www.yogaalliance.org) along with their required YA fees and register to become an RYS200 Yoga Teacher. The registration process will change slightly in 2014. More details to be announced by Yoga Alliance soon.

*Please note that this diploma course is an Educational & Recreational Training in nature and not an Employment Service Provider or Vocational Training. This course does not guarantee nor purport to promise employment as a yoga teacher or any other kind of employment in related fields complimentary to yoga. Please inquire before applying should you have any further questions about this matter. Additionally due to the nature of this programme this course is unable to accommodate dogs, including Medic Alert dogs for manageable conditions at this time. Please get in touch for further details.

Dates & Fees This course is modular and there is no time limit to complete the two modules. You will have one year to complete the remaining non-contact hour assignments upon completion of both modules. This includes 3 book reports, 25 practice teaching sessions, a workshop and video assignment. Please see the 2014 YTT schedule below for dates.

Costs: ÂŁ3900 Three week Summer intensive ÂŁ2040 Ten day intensive Cost includes yoga tuition & classes, shared accommodation (single rooms subject to availability and a single supplement fee), special guest lecturer workshops, transport to/from 8

VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

train station, all meals and course manuals manuals. It does not include post course books. These can be bought on Amazon.co.uk. Mats, props will be provided for use during your stay. stay Deposit: a £650 nonnon-refundable deposit is required to reserve your space on the three week intensive. £400 nonnon-refundable deposit is required too reserve your space on the ten day intensive.

Cancellation Cancellation Terms & Refund Policy The total course fee is payable 28 days before the course commencement commencement, and no refunds will be possible after that time. You may however transfer any payments made to a third party if you find someone to take your place. In certain circumstances should you need to cancel within the 28 days of course commencement cement you may be permitted to transfer your payment onto a course at a later date however this will be at the discretion of Mercedes Ngoh Ngoh. You may wish to consider purchasing insurance. There are no refunds refunds if you leave the training early. Please note your deposit in non-refundable refundable under any circumstances but may be transferred to a third party should you find someone to take your place. *Payment plans are available upon request.

2014 YTT MODULES MODULES CALENDAR Jan 31st – Feb 9th

MODULE 2 Vinyasa Flow Life

July 12th – 21st July 23rd – August 1st

MODULE 1 Vinyasa Flow Yoga MODULE 2 Vinyasa Vinyasa Flow Life

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VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

Yeotown: The Residence

The Venue: Yeotown (www.yeotown.com eotown.com) is an award winning luxury retreat located in the beautiful, unspoilt countryside of North Devon. We offer residential detox & health programmes to create optimal physical and spiritual health in a soothing environment away from the mental and physical stresses of everyday life. Yeotown is an idyllic haven of health situated among the rolling hills of North Devon and just a few miles from the country’s most exquisite coastline, attracting adventure seekers, surfers and yogis alike. Yeotown’s mission mi is to inspire a healthy lifestyle and to educate the world on how to achieve, nurture and maintain complete wellbeing. Offering the most in in-depth depth and cohesive yoga inspired health programmes in Britain to date, where physical, mental and spiritual he health alth is examined, nurtured and totally cared for.

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VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

It is our aim to meet the he needs of the group by honouring a desire for personal space, should it be required. There are many beautiful places within the grounds to find time for selfself reflection. These hese include the meditation platform by the river, our beloved Sanctuary, dry sauna, various sitting rooms with fireplaces and reading materials or the numerous special seated areas nestled within the sprawling natural landscape.

Yeotown is an idyllic rurall getaway set deep within the lush green rolling hills of North Devon and only a short trip from the seaside, where you may enjoy a day of surf on your day off. It is an aesthetically stylish and casually comfortable country estate.

Where Are They Now? Many past graduates of the Yeotown 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training Diploma course have gone on to be successful teachers in their own right conducting studio group classes, workshops and retreats around the world. A few examples of past attendees and their thoughts on the training….

“Just wanted to drop you a line to say I did my first cover this week at Triyoga. I was pretty nervous beforehand. But your having been so focussed on ourr finding our own authentic voice and style helped so much. I really heard your voice in my head and I just thought, as long as I'm myself and I mean it, it'll be fine, and it was! Thank you so much Mercedes!”

Emily, Emily, Vinyasa Flow Yoga instructor London, United Kingdom www.emilyvalente.com

“This This was not my first teacher training but this teacher training was an incredible experience set in the most beautiful of surroundings. Mercedes really teaches from the heart how to build beautiful, creative Vinyasas that you can share joyfully with others.” others Margot Herringer, Vinyasa Flow Yoga Instructor Cape Town, South Africa www.lumalayoga.com

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VINYASA FL FLOW OW YOGA, YOGA, VINYASA FLOW LIFE A 200hr Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training & Self Development Programme with Mercedes Ngoh

“Amazing, amazing, amazing! There’s rreally nothing more I can say. Mercedes really takes you on a journey which allows you to dive deep into the teachings and methodology of Vinyasa Flow Yoga.”

Rali Gineva, Gineva, Vinyasa Flow Yoga Instructor London, United Kingdom www.yogawithrali.com

“IfIf I hadn’t embarked on my yoga journey journ with Mercedes at Yeotown, Yeotown this wonderful opportunity (hosting my first yoga retreat in Italy and opening my own studio) studio may not be happening. I want to share my genuine gratitude to you, for helping me feel capable and confident to share and take the amazing yoga teachings forward, with awareness and love” Gillian McDonald, Vinyasa Flow Yoga teacher and Yoga Studio Owner, Owner, Bangor, Ireland www.vflowyoga.com www.vflowyoga.com

welcome@yeotown.com www.mercedesyoga.com +44(0) 1271 1271 343 803

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