Yoga for Seniors Teacher Training FAQs

1. How often do you offer your teacher training workshops?
   At present Part I and Part II are offered once a year. This might change in the future depending on demand. Contact me by email if you would like to be informed about upcoming courses.
2. Who can attend?
   To register for Part I, you must be a certified Yoga Instructor. For Part II, Part I is a prerequisite.
3. How soon after taking Part I can I register for Part II
   Take at least 6 months to integrate the material and practice teaching Seniors between Part I and Part II.
4. “Seniors” is a blanket term for a wide age and ability range. How do you organize your classes to accommodate this?
   Seniors are the group with the widest range of abilities: some are super fit and able to run marathons; others are severely movement-impaired and rely on walkers or on wheelchairs. In Part I of my training, I offer instructions on an all levels class and a chair class that are appropriate for older adults at a seniors’ activity centre or retirement facility. Part II has an even greater therapeutic focus that is suitable for those with less mobility who are in a hospital or long-term care setting. It is very important that seniors are in a class that somewhat challenges them and yet takes into consideration their specific health issues.
5. What benefits do you see Yoga offering to seniors?
   The greatest benefit I see in teaching Yoga to seniors is the doorway it opens for them to Eastern philosophy. This includes the practice of mindfulness, acceptance, and impermanence. People at this stage of their lives often have more time to dedicate to the study of wisdom teachings as well as life experiences from which to draw. I have had many deeply spiritual discussions with my students before and after classes. Of course, the physical and emotional benefits can also be quite phenomenal, especially in dealing with diseases of aging such as arthritis, high blood pressure, and depression. Simply learning to breathe more deeply can have profound effects on a senior’s well being—positively affecting sleep and energy levels.
6. What do I need to bring to the Teacher Training?
   The courses are held over a weekend. Please bring a lunch and snacks. Your Yoga mat – all other props will be provided. Warm layers of clothing as we will not be moving much.
7. Can you share a few of your treasured teaching experiences with us that might help to inspire other teachers to expand their teaching horizons?
   Typically seniors are retired and therefore have more time to devote to their practice of yoga. They find it greatly helps them deal with the effects of aging. I love it when students tell me how they are taking their practice off the mat, proudly telling me how they have used deep breathing to relax in the dentist’s chair or to calm them down when waiting for a stressful medical procedure. Many report experiencing less discomfort in their stiff arthritic joints after class. As yoga teachers we can help our older students get back in touch with their bodies, with their breath, and with the joy to be found in inhabiting a more fluid, responsive body.