200-hr Program | Moksha Yoga Center

200hr Foundation Teacher Training Certification

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Courses

Ancient Teachings for Modern Teachers is a transformative Yoga Teacher Training experience, certified by Yoga Alliance at the 200-hour and 500-hour levels, that bridges the timeless wisdom of classical yoga with the practical tools needed to guide modern practitioners. Rooted in the rich lineage of yogic tradition, this program offers an in-depth study of asana, pranayama, and meditation while delving into the deeper, often hidden aspects of yoga: bandhas (energy locks), mudras (sacred gestures), kriyas (purification practices), and the subtle body’s intricate system of chakras, nadis (energy channels), and marma points (vital energy centers).

Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, Daren Friesen, ERYT500, YACEP, you will explore these ancient practices in a way that is relevant and accessible to today’s practitioners. You’ll gain a profound understanding of yogic philosophy, energetic anatomy, and the sacred art of teaching. This training is not only a path toward becoming a skillful and confident yoga teacher but also a powerful opportunity for personal transformation and growth. Whether you are looking to become a yoga teacher or simply deepen your own practice, this training will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to embark on a fulfilling yoga journey. It will empower you to carry the ancient wisdom of yoga into the modern world with authenticity and grace—inviting healing, connection, and awakening for yourself and those you inspire along the way.

Asana
The Foundation of Physical Practice

Asana is the study and practice of yoga postures as the gateway to physical and energetic transformation. You will learn proper alignment, modifications, and the benefits of key asanas across a variety of styles, such as Hatha, Vinyasa, and restorative yoga. In addition to refining physical practice, this module introduces the subtle yet powerful practices of bandhas (energy locks), mudras (energetic gestures), and drishti (focused gaze). These techniques help direct prana (vital energy), cultivate inner awareness, and deepen your connection to each pose. Emphasis will also be placed on sequencing, using props, and integrating these energetic tools into your teaching to create sacred and transformative experiences.

Yoga Vocabulary
Language of the Practice and Foundations of Yogic Theory

Develop a deep understanding of key Sanskrit terminology and the language of yoga philosophy. This includes the names of asanas (postures), pranayama techniques, mudras, and essential philosophical concepts that form the foundation of yogic practice. Beyond the physical vocabulary, you will explore the theory of tamas (inertia and darkness), rajas (activity and passion), and sattva (balance and purity)—the three gunas, or fundamental qualities of nature. Understanding these forces will help you recognize how they influence the mind, body, and emotions, offering tools to cultivate greater harmony in your life and teaching.

The Energy Body
Marma Points, Nadi Rivers, and Chakra Wheels

Explore the subtle body’s energetic anatomy, exploring the chakras (energy centers), nadis (energetic pathways), and marma points (vital energy centers). You will learn how these systems influence physical, mental, and emotional well-being and how to integrate this knowledge into your practice and teaching. Techniques to balance and awaken these energies will be shared, offering tools for transformation and healing.

Pranayama
The Art of Breath Control

The breath is the bridge between body and mind. In this section, you will explore pranayama (breathing techniques) to cultivate energy, focus, and inner calm. You’ll practice traditional breathwork such as Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), Kapalabhati (cleansing breath), and Ujjayi (victorious breath), gaining the skills to incorporate these techniques into your classes effectively.

Meditation
The Path to Inner Stillness

This module introduces the practice of meditation as a tool for self-awareness, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. You will learn a variety of meditation techniques, including breath-focused meditation, guided visualization, and mantra-based practices. Guidance will be given on how to create and lead meditative experiences for yourself and your students, helping cultivate clarity and calm amidst life’s challenges.

Mantra
The Power of Sacred Sound

Discover the ancient practice of mantra, the repetition of sacred sounds to calm the mind and awaken spiritual energy. This section will cover the significance of key mantras like the Omkara and Om Namah Shivaya. You’ll learn how to use sound and vibration to deepen your practice and create transformative group experiences.

Mudra
Gestures of Energy and Intention

Mudras are powerful hand gestures that influence energy flow and consciousness. In this section, you will explore a variety of mudras used for meditation, healing, and enhancing pranayama practices. Learn how to incorporate mudras into asana and meditation sequences to help balance and strengthen the body-mind connection.

Ayurveda
The Science of Life

Ayurveda, yoga’s sister science, offers profound insights into living in harmony with nature. This section introduces Ayurvedic principles, including the doshas (body-mind constitutions), seasonal practices, and dietary guidelines. You’ll gain tools to support personal well-being and help your students find balance and vitality through lifestyle adjustments that complement their yoga practice.

Anatomy
Understanding the Human Body

A solid foundation in anatomy is essential for effective teaching. This module covers the musculoskeletal system, key muscle groups, and how the body moves in asana. You’ll learn how to recognize and prevent common injuries, work with different body types, and understand the role of fascia, joints, and connective tissue in supporting movement and stability.

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
Philosophy and the Path of Liberation

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali provide a roadmap for spiritual growth and self-realization. In this section, you will study the key sutras, focusing on concepts like the eight limbs of yoga, the nature of the mind, and the path to samadhi (liberation). Practical discussions will center on how to apply these teachings in daily life and incorporate them into your classes to inspire and uplift your students.

Teaching & Sequencing
Conveying the Essence of Yoga

The art of teaching yoga is a practice of sensitivity, compassion, and skillful guidance, rooted in the deeper principles of yoga. A teacher’s role is to inspire while balancing the needs of both individuals and the group. This module refines teaching proficiency through improved communication, thematic class design, and the thoughtful use of music. It covers everything from crafting class rhythms and sequences to exploring specific areas like hip openers, shoulder mobility, vinyasas, and namaskars. Insights into yoga therapeutics and intelligent movement help create a well-rounded, purposeful teaching approach.

Schedule

Spring Schedule - March 2025

SCHEDULE 200/300hr | Moksha | begins Spring 2025
meets on Sundays weekly | Starts March 16, 2025

SCHEDULE 500hr | Moksha | Spring 2025
meets on Tuesdays weekly | March 18, 2025

Fall Schedule - Sept 2025

South India Schedule - January 2026

SCHEDULE 200/300hr | South India | Jan 3-26 2026

SYLLABUS 200/300HR | Teacher Training | Jan 3-26, 2026

SCHEDULE | So India | Ashram Tour | Jan 28-Feb 6, 2026

Information Sessions

Sunday, February 16th, 12:30-1:15pm - RSVP
Sunday, February 23rd, *3:30-4:15pm - RSVP
Sunday, March 2nd, 12:30-1:15pm - RSVP
Sunday, March 9th, 12:30-1:15pm - RSVP

Info sessions will be held at...
Moksha Yoga Center, 2528 W Armitage, Suite 202
Please RSVP to [email protected]

Application

Tuition

Tuition & Fees

1) Paid in Full

Early Bird $3,000 before Feb 16th
Regular $3,200 after Feb 16th

2) Payment Plan

Payment Plan $3,400
Deposit $1,000 | Balance in monthly installments

3) Printed Manual

$108 Printing Charge - due by March 16th
Or print your own with the PDF

Tuition includes…

Teacher training course
Teacher training manual PDF (printed copy extra fee)
All practice classes with Daren
50% discounted membership for other classes at Moksha at $59/month
20% off events and workshops
10% off retail boutique items

Tuition does not include…

Practice classes at Moksha (except for Daren's classes)
Teacher training manual printed copy (required for class) - $108 printing fee
Required elective events and workshops
Required props - mat, strap, block, neti pot, notebook and journal
Required textbooks
- Yoga for Wellness, Gary Kraftsow
- The Sacred Tradition of Yoga, Dr. Shankaranarayana
- Anatomy Coloring Book, Wynn & Kapit - 4th Ed.

Tuition Refund Policy... All refunds minus a $100 processing/admin fee. No refunds for any reason once the first class of the program begins. $100 transfer fee to the following program.

Prerequisites

A desire to grow
A willingness to change
Receptivity to appropriate and honest feedback
Consistent effort
Patience (time)

Sattvic Guidelines

Cultivate inner stillness
Maintain presence and awareness
Practice conscious speech and compassionate listening
Align with higher intentions
Trust the process

Rajasic Guidelines

Arrive to class 10 minutes prior to set-up and be ready to go
Study the assigned lesson before class | Complete the quiz after class
Calendar all the key dates
Inform the instructor of any prior engagements
Respect the collective energy

Tamasic Guidelines

No chewing gum
No yawning in class
No mobile phones or computers in class
No fast-food in the studio
No lying down during lectures

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the duration of the Yoga Teacher Training program?

The program is offered in both 200-hour and 500-hour certifications. The 200-hour program is typically completed over 9 months. The 500-hour program can take a year or more to complete, depending on the pace and schedule chosen by the student.

2. Is this program certified by Yoga Alliance?

Yes, our training program is fully accredited by Yoga Alliance since 2002. Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to register as a 200-hour or 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with Yoga Alliance.

3. Do I need prior yoga experience to join the training?

No, you don’t need to be an advanced student or practice advanced poses to join the training. A common misconception is that prior experience is required, but the program is designed to meet you where you are in your yoga journey, whether you're a beginner or have some experience.

4. What can I expect to learn during the training?

The program covers a comprehensive range of topics, including:

Key principles of asana including action and alignment and why
Astanga, vinyasa, restorative approaches to practice and teaching
Marma points, Nadi rivers and Chakra spinning wheels
Bandha energy locks, Mudra gestures & Kriya cleansing techniques
Prana-nigrahas & classical Pranayama practices
Classical meditation (nivritti) and Tantrika (pravritti) approaches
Anatomy as it applies to yoga
Mantras (mind-tools) and mudras (advanced asana)
Yoga Philosophy, including Patanjali's Yoga Sutras
Sanskrit vocabulary and understanding key terms
Teaching methodology, class sequencing, and adjustments
Ayurveda, lifestyle practices for balance and harmony

5. Will I receive hands-on teaching practice during the training?

Absolutely! Teaching is a key component of the program, and you will have multiple opportunities to teach both in small groups and in front of the class. By the end of the training, you will feel confident and ready to lead yoga classes of your own.

6. What type of support will I receive during the training?

Our experienced teacher will be there to guide you every step of the way. You will receive individual feedback on your teaching practice, as well as support during group discussions. We also encourage community building, where you can connect with fellow trainees for support, sharing experiences, and learning together.

7. What is the structure of the daily schedule?

Each day begins with a morning practice. Afternoons are spent breaking down the poses, teaching practice and working with group exercises. Expect a mix of theory, practice, and feedback sessions throughout the day.

8. Are there any required reading materials or textbooks?

Yes, we provide a list of required texts, along with suggested books on yoga, Ayurveda, and teaching methodology.

9. Will I be able to teach after completing the 200-hour program?

Yes! Upon completion of the 200-hour training, you will be eligible to teach beginner and intermediate-level yoga classes. You will also have the option to deepen your studies with the 500-hour program for more advanced teaching skills.

10. Is there a final exam or assessment for this training?

Yes, there is a final assessment that includes a practical teaching component where you will lead a class. Additionally, there is a written exam that covers the theory and philosophy learned throughout the program. We focus on both practical application and theoretical understanding to ensure you are well-prepared for teaching yoga.

11. Can I take the training online?

No, the training is only available in-person. This allows for a deeper, more immersive experience and direct interaction with the instructor and fellow students. You can't learn yoga nor how to teach yoga online.

12. What is the cost of the program?

The cost is reasonably prices with payment plans and scholarships may be available. Please inquire for specific pricing details.

13. Can I complete the training at my own pace?

For the 200-hour program, we offer both intensive in South India and extended schedules in Chicago to accommodate different learning paces. The 500-hour program is designed for longer-term study, allowing for flexibility in how quickly you progress through the modules.

14. What happens after I finish the training?

Upon completion, you will receive a certificate of completion that qualifies you to register with Yoga Alliance as a 200-hour or 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). We also offer post-training mentorship and continued support to help you transition into teaching.

15. Can I apply the training to other areas of my life beyond teaching yoga?

Absolutely. The insights gained from yoga training—such as mindfulness, emotional balance, and alignment of body and mind—can enrich your personal life, deepen your relationships, and even help in your professional work. Many of our students report a profound shift in how they approach life after the training.