18-Day Therapeutic Yoga Teacher Training in the Redwoods of California

This isn't your standard cookie-cutter teacher training. The entire program is taught through a therapeutic lens, meaning every pose, sequence, and philosophy is presented with the goal of making yoga accessible and safe for everyone — regardless of age, flexibility, or experience. You'll learn biomechanically sound alignment principles rooted in modern science, but also explore the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, the Upanishads, and Patanjali. The approach is non-dogmatic, encouraging you to find your own authentic voice as a teacher rather than memorizing a rigid script.

Most days follow a similar rhythm but with constant variety. Morning meditation and pranayama lead into a dynamic asana practice, which could be a level 1/2 alignment-based vinyasa flow one day and a gentler, restorative sequence the next. Afternoons are spent in workshops on anatomy, philosophy, teaching methodology, and practice teaching. You'll learn how to sequence classes, give effective verbal and hands-on adjustments, and work with students who have injuries or limitations. The goal is to leave feeling prepared to teach all levels of vinyasa, alignment-based, foundations, senior, gentle, and restorative classes.

One of the things that makes this training special is the faculty. Peggy and Liz are both certified C-IAYT Yoga Therapists and E-RYT 500s, each with decades of experience. Peggy's background is in Anusara yoga and life coaching, while Liz trained with masters like Pattabhi Jois and has a special focus on trauma-informed yoga and yoga nidra. You'll be learning from people who have dedicated their lives to the therapeutic application of yoga, and they genuinely care about each student's growth.

The setting supports the deep work. The training is held at Blue Lake Yoga Sanctuary, a private studio with heated floors, surrounded by the tranquility of the Redwoods. The local town of Arcata is a quirky, eco-friendly college town with organic grocery stores, a farmers market on Saturdays, and a community feel that makes it easy to connect with locals. The combination of focused study, nature, and a supportive group creates an environment where real transformation happens—not just in terms of teaching skills, but in terms of personal growth, self-confidence, and community connection.

What's included

- 17 nights accommodation - Lunch is included (healthy lunch every day) - 200-page Yoga Teacher Training Manual - 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Tuition - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Certificate upon successful completion - Eligible to Register with Yoga Alliance as an RYT 200 Upon Successful Completion - Yoga mats, blocks, straps, and bolsters - Evening activities/kirtan/movie night - Free professional quality headshot and yoga pose picture for advertising your Yoga classes upon graduating - Concierge flights & travel assistance - Curated podcast list - Post-Retreat Integration Support

What's not included

- Flights costs - Breakfast and dinner (self-catered, optional dinner club) - Travel insurance - Personal expenses - Optional extra nights