A Balanced Approach Yoga Teacher Training Programs
with Allison Ulan E-RYT 500 YACEP B.F.A. and supporting faculty Joanna Abbatt M.A. Biomechanics B.F.A. Dance RYT 200, Robin Golt E-RYT 500 YACEP, Teresa Rassenti Physiotherapist B.Sc. P.T. RYT 200, Joan Gottman MA Psychology RYT 200and Paul Cramer Massage Therapist BA Linguistics
Since 2003, Allison Ulan’s program has certified over 300 teachers through this intensive program accredited though The Yoga Alliance of North America. Our graduates have become experts in vinyasa krama yoga, restorative yoga, body alignment specialists and mindful movement instructors. Allison Ulan created A Balanced Approach Yoga Teachers Training programs to provide a comprehensive training that presents the traditional approaches of Hatha Yoga infused with the best practices of mindfulness, somatic movement therapy, neurology and physiology.
Next Yoga Teacher Training Course:
200 hour Summer Intensive – Monthlong Course (In person)
July 8th to August 2nd, 2024
Edmonton, Alberta
Join these in-depth professional trainings to study, practice and integrate the ancient techniques of Yoga in the Krishnamacharya traditions infused with contemporary techniques of physiology and neurology. These programs focus Ashtanga Hatha Yoga through the principles of Ayurveda and science. The programs cover the principles of alignment and asana, the dynamics of healthy breathing, kriya-pranayama techniques, the 5 Element Approach, Ayurvedic Principles in Yoga, Vinyasa Krama (skilful class sequencing), Teaching Methodology, Anatomy and Physiology, the foundations of Mindfulness Meditation, Yoga History and Philosophy.
The program’s goals are to:
1. provide yoga practitioners and yoga teachers the principles of yoga asana and pranayama which support optimal health and well-being,
2. provide a thorough training in the ethics, respect based therapy and philosophy of Yoga so the teachings are based in compassion, experience and application,
3. provide comprehensive curriculum in anatomy and physiology for optimal body alignment. Special attention is provided on how to work with different body types, functional anatomy conditions and somatic development.
4. outline the basics of neurology and how it applies to practicing yoga and meditation,
5. detail the contemplative science of yoga through philosophy and meditation,
6. teach the seven progressive stages of mindfulness to embody karuna (compassion), metta (loving-kindness), mudita (joy), upekkha (serenity), concentration (jnana) and sati (mindfulness),
7. outline, teach and guide participants in the best practises and approaches to work with diverse populations. This component of the program address respect based approaches and touches on trauma informed teaching protocols. This program give graduates the tools to design and work with students’ needs.
Yearlong Training Program – 300 Hours
10 Weekend Modules Online and 8 private interviews, 60 hours of reference video recordings
Weekend Module Schedule:
Fridays from 5:30 – 8 pm MST / 7:30 – 10 pm EST, Saturdays and Sundays from 8 am – 3 pm MST / 10 am – 5 pm EST
Module 1 online : January 28, 29 and 30, 2022 – The Roots of Yoga – Foundations of Yoga Practice with Allison Ulan – History of Yoga with Robin Golt – Principles of alignment and asana: Anatomy of the Lumbar Spine and Pelvis with Allison Ulan – Introduction to Sanskrit terminology – Ayurvedic Winter Protocols with Allison Ulan
Module 2 online : February 25, 26 and 27, 2022 – Standing Steady – The Dynamics of Standing Postures through Pelvic Awareness with Allison Ulan – Anatomy of the Pelvis and Lower Body with Paul Cramer – Yoga class with Joan Gottman – Ayurveda ShatKarma Basics with Allison Ulan
Module 3 online : March 25, 26 and 27, 2022 – Forward Bends to Release – Sitting postures and foundational core sequences for postural integrity and axial extension – Ayurvedic Spring Protocols and Breathing 202 with Allison Ulan – Soothing the Nervous System with Teresa Rassenti – Yoga class with Joan Gottman
Module 4 online : April 29, 30 and May 1, 2022 – Twists for Freedom – Yoga Therapeutics of Twisting Postures with Allison Ulan – Shamatha – Beginner Mindfulness Meditation Practices – Anatomy of the Spine with Joanna Abbatt
Module 5 online : May 27, 28 and 29, 2022 – Back bending for Health – Articulating the Spine through Forward bends, Twists and Beginner Backbends with Allison Ulan – Anatomy of the Shoulder and Upper body with Joanna Abbatt – Philosophy on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and Tantric Schools of Yoga with Robin Golt
Module 6 online : June 24, 25 and 26, 2022 – Inversions with Ease – Axial Extension and Progressive Inversions for health with Allison Ulan – Anatomy of the head, pelvis and foot Connection with Joanna Abbatt – Yoga Inversions with Joan Gottman – Kriyas/Ayurvedic Summer Protocols and Breathing 303 with Allison Ulan
Module 7 online : July 15th to July 17th, 2022 – Teaching Essentials: Methodology and Yoga Assists to offer masterful Yoga classes
- The Ethics of Teaching, Skills in Observation, Postural Assessment and Effective Adjustments.
- Class sequencing and course plans,
- Verbal Instruction Skills,
- demonstration protocols and presenting a Yoga class
- Learning anatomically safe ways of assisting students for deeper learning and postural health
Module 8 online : September 23, 24 and 25, 2022 – Teaching Yoga with Integrity: Yoga asana sequencing and teaching methodology which present the rich teachings of the Yoga Traditions
Ayurvedic, Anatomy and Best Practises in the Yoga class with Allison Ulan – Breathing 404: Progressive stages of Pranayama with Allison Ulan, The anatomy of Breathing and full body trains with Joanna Abbatt – Concentration Practises of Mindfulness Meditation with Allison Ulan
Module 9 online : October 21, 22 and 23, 2022 – The Business of Yoga: This 12 hour Online Yoga Teachers Training with Allison Ulan addresses how to teach yoga classes that allow people to learn, evolve and recognize their vitality and wisdom. You already know the skills and benefits of yoga. This weekend course unpacks the who, what, when, where and how of offering successful yoga classes.
In this weekend workshop, you will learn:
~ How to focus your talent to target your classes to those who need them,
~ Best Networking practices,
~ Website design best practices,
~ Website marketing and ecommerce,
~ Studio, corporate and private teaching – how to optimize these approaches of teaching
~ Insurance and your legal obligations as a yoga and fitness instructor
~ Effective Waiver forms, Student Health & Safety
~ Registered classes versus drop in classes – pros and cons of both
~ Owning a Yoga studio versus working for a studio – pros and cons of both
~ Accounting practices to thrive and more.
This weekend workshop is open to all.
Tuition: If paid in full by January 1st, 2022 the tuition is $2500 plus GST $125 and PST $249.38 = $2874.38
If paid after January 1st, 2021, the tuition is $2900 plus GST $145 and PST $289.28 = $3,334.28.
Or pay per module fee is $300 plus gst $15.00 and pst $29.93 = $344.93. The Ten Day retreat is $1000 plus taxes.
The course is limited to sixteen participants so all trainees receive one on one attention and mentorship from the director and core faculty. If you want to secure yourself a place in this training, please fill out the application form and send it to balanceapproachyogatrainings@gmail.com. We will confirm your acceptance within the training in 2 to 3 business days. On acceptance into the program, you are required to place a $300 deposit to reserve and hold your place. This deposit is non refundable.
200 Hour Basic Certification – Intensive 2023
Part 1 – Abhyasa and Vairagya – Deepening One’s Personal Practice
July 8th to July 20th, 2024
In this two week section you will deepen your own personal understanding of yoga through yoga asana, pranayama and meditation. Plus you will study the history and philosophy of Yoga and how it applies to contemporary practices. In-depth anatomy and physiology labs will support understanding of alignment for both physical safety, health and physiological progress. You will learn the foundation principles of Ayurveda which classical yoga is based on. (100 Hour Training)
The daily schedule in Part One will be Mondays to Fridays from 7 am to 4 pm, Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm
Part 2 – Mudita, Karuna and Upekkha – Cultivating the Heart and Wisdom of a Yoga Teacher
July 22nd to August 2nd, 2024
August 2nd to October 30th, 2024 – Take Home Exam
In the second two week section, the techniques of teaching will be studied, practised and refined. Over 2 weeks, you will learn teaching methodology which encompasses the art of posture sequencing, the techniques of assisting, class planning for student success and short term/long term lesson planning. There will be in-depth study of philosophy through the ancient texts of The Bhagavad Gita and The Yoga Sutras. More in-depth study in Ayurveda to understand how to work with 7 dosha constitutions at different ages and seasonal changes. (100 Hour Training)
The daily schedule in part two will be Mondays to Fridays from 7 am to 4 pm, Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm
The monthlong intensive training is accredited as a 200 hour base certification through The Yoga Alliance of North America. This training fullfills and exceeds the standards of the Yoga Alliance Yoga Teacher Certification.
Tuition rates for the Summer Intensive:
Pay early and enjoy a discounted rate. If paid in full by May 1st, 2024, take advantage of the reduced fee of $2600 plus gst $130 = $2730.00
If paid after May 1st, 2024, the full tuition is $2900 plus GST $145 = $3,045.00
If you are interested in participating in the August Intensive, please fill it out the application form and send it to allisonulan@gmail.com. We will be happy to review your application with you and welcome you into this rewarding training.
Important information: This training is limited to 16 participants. This assures all participants receive individual attention and mentorship from the faculty to make their training a rewarding experience. If you are interested in participating, contact us by e-mail at allisonulan@gmail.com, or by phone at 780-435-4006. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you begin your application process. Plus, payment plans are available. Simply speak to us to create a payment schedule which works with your financial needs.
Be Well and Be Yoga,
Allison Ulan – Director and Lead Instructor of A Balanced Approach Teacher Training Programs and Mindful Alberta
Who are these trainings designed for?
- These trainings are for the experienced yoga student who wants to deepen their personal yoga practice and understand yoga from it’s ancient origins.
- These trainings provide a strong base for the person who wants to teach yoga as a career or as an augment to their current vocation.
- These courses are beneficial for current teachers of other forms of Yoga to understand the principles of Yoga from the Ayurvedic perspective and how to present to these techniques skillfully to customize yoga routines for whole being healing of a student.
- It is highly recommended that to participate in this course, an interested student should have a minimum of 3 – 5 years of dedicated yoga study/practice already “under their yogic belt”.
- All trainings with Allison Ulan are recognized and certified through The Yoga Alliance of North America.
200 Hour Course Curriculum
- The 5 element theory
- The koshas
- The 3 doshas principle
- Theory and practice of Yoga (includes Asanas, Pranayamas, Kriyas, Bhandas and Chanting) pertaining to the 3 doshas and seasonal changes.
- Anatomy and Physiology from the Western and Eastern Perspectives (Principles covered will be “grounded” femurs, extension/traction of spine, balanced body alignment for the individual, the dynamics of breathing, the dynamics of energy and progressive sequencing programs to intelligently support mind/body integration.)
- Anatomical understanding of The 5 Vayu Theory.
- Ayurveda 101 – Diet and Lifestyle
- Physical Education and Yoga – How Yoga’s ancient system supports developing various components of fitness.
- Stress and Emotions – Yoga as a practical methodology in management of stress and increasing equanimity with emotional states.
- Vipassana Meditation – its various forms and benefits as tools for mental clarity and emotional resilience.
- Yoga Philosophy – Texts to be studied will be The Bhagavad Gita, Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, plus excerpts from various classical texts on Yoga.
- Study of the Four paths of Yoga and the eight limb approach.
- Yoga practices as prevention and cure for stress and stress related problems such as anxiety, depression, hypertension, migraines, fatigue, asthma and chronic pain.
- Teaching Methodology – how to teach classes to relax, educate, elucidate and inspire.
- Assists and Adjustment Methodology for respect and safety of both student and teacher.
Evolving Together –
Monthly Master Classes and Professional Development Sessions for Yoga Teachers
These sessions have been paused due to Covid measures. When the Covid health measures are lifted, this program will resume.
Evolving Together – Master Class Sessions and Professional Development for Yoga Teachers and senior students of Yoga
These monthly in-depth sessions will nurture your practice, support you in learning best practices for teaching yoga and connect you with other teachers/peers who share your passion.
The monthly session dates for 2019/2020:
Saturday, November 30th – Mobilizing the Spine
Saturday, December 14th – 8:30 am to 2:30 pm – Discovering Our Ground of Being – Daylong Retreat
Saturday, December 21st – Discovering Our Inner Trampoline – Yoga Therapeutics for the lower back and pelvic floor health
Saturday, January 25th – Rock Solid Foundations – Progressive stages of symmetrical and asymmetrical standing postures and backbends for postural integrity
Saturday, February 29th – The Art of Communication
Saturday, March 28th – Inter-Being – Understanding the Intelligence of the Kosha System
Saturday, April 25th – Resting in Interdependence – Understanding the progressive stages of Subtle Anatomy and how it is the foundations of Yoga Therapy.
Saturday, May 30th – Accessing Wholeness – The progressive stages of breath work and pranayama
Saturday, June 20th – The Yoga Toolbox – Learn how to link somatic movement material and Yoga asana in creative sequencing to respect your students’ capacities and needs.
Fee: $60 (includes applicable taxes) for one session or take advantage of a reduced fee rate of $450 (taxes included) if you pay for all nine sessions together.
Make payments via e-transfer, cheque or cash to Allison Ulan at allisonulan@gmail.com.
A summary of what to expect and receive from these sessions.:
Teaching Yoga is much more than a set of techniques. It is the ability to create safe space in our classrooms for students to stabilize, move inwards and grow in their capacity to sense what their needs are. These skills take a life time to nurture and embody. We, as yoga teachers, experience immediately that Yoga’s methods are diverse and who we will serve through these teachings is also diverse. Because of this, it can be confusing and at times contradictory, what to teach, when to teach it and to whom. These circles are to dispel this confusion. Over nine sessions over ten months, the group practice and support will give you the knowledge of how to apply the new tools, refine techniques you already possess and embody being a yoga teacher who holds sacred space for others to embody compassion and skill.
As a Yoga teacher, you also need to be nurtured and supported so your journey. Last year, everyone in the group shared how important these monthly meetings were to practice together with friends, unpack teaching, learn new levels of practice and hear each others insights. So important to understand becoming a teacher of depth takes community and time. These monthly circles give everyone the time and space to understand the complex, rewarding, and at times, difficult journey of being a teacher.
These Teachers’ Circles are about giving you the resources to:
~ take care of yourself,
~ meet and learn with your peers,
~ learn to create classes which support the internal Yoga journey,
~ promote compassionate action,
~ understand skilful functional anatomy techniques,
~ embody the best of mindfulness and Yoga philosophy
~ refine your skills of teaching.
Faculty
Allison Ulan – ERYT-500, YACEP, B.F.A. Dance
Allison (ERYT-500, YACEP, B.F.A. Dance – The Juilliard School of Arts) has been exploring yoga and meditation as a path of learning and healing since 1987. She is the director of A Balanced Approach Yoga Training Programs since 2002. Plus she is the founder of Mindful Montreal since 2016. Her central mission is to present classes and trainings that allow students to embody ease, freedom, equanimity and joy through the techniques of mindfulness and Yoga. Through traditional and contemporary yoga practices, Allison has certified over 200 teachers who have become yoga instructors in Yoga for Health, Yoga for Alignment, Yoga for Athletics and Mindfulness based Yoga programs. Her programs present a systematic approach to yoga as both a physical health practice and a mindfulness meditation system.
Her training has spanned over 30 years. She immersed herself in studies partaking in short and long meditation retreats in North America and India with master meditation teachers such as the Dalai Lama in (2004 and 2007), Pema Chodron (2009 – 2013) and Joseph Goldstein in 2011. Her main yoga teachers have been Mary Dunn, Richard Freeman, Richard Rosen and Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. She holds advanced certificates and trainings from The Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India, The Kripalu Centre in Lenox, Massachusetts, The Yoga Workshop in Colorado, The Shree Ma Ayurvedic Centre in Ottawa, and Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacres, California. From her 20 year contemporary dance career and movement training, she incorporates the somatic methods Body Mind Centring and experiential anatomy in her courses. Time spent studying with Allison is a journey of knowing the intelligence of the body and resting in the radiance of awareness. For seventeen years, she was the director of Ashtanga Yoga Montreal. Now she is a freelance teacher who provides Yoga and Mindfulness at McGill University and addiction treatment programs.
Robin Golt – ERYT-500, YACEP
Teresa Rassenti – Physiotherapist with osteopathic approach, B.Sc. P.T., RYT 200
Teresa has worked as a physiotherapist in private practice for over 35 years, and has been integrating her osteopathic and yoga training into the mix since 2003. With a bachelor in science and extensive post graduate formations, she is well positioned to deliver the integrated ‘systems’ module of the training. During A Balanced Approach Yearlong Training, Teresa will be teach the mechanics of the diaphragms, the organ systems, the cranio-sacral mechanisms and endocrine systems.
Joanna Abbat – M.A. Biomechanics, B.F.A. Dance, RYT 200
Joanna Abbatt, Masters in Biomechanics, McGill University, B.F.A. in Dance from
York University, is a licensed massage therapist (masso-kinesitherapie, member
of FQM), Pilates certified, NYC, Gyrotonic certified, LA, and was a professional
dancer in Montreal for 15 years. She has taught functional anatomy throughout
Montreal for many years, with focus for dancers, yogis and movement
specialists. She was one of the first to bring Pilates to Montreal in 1990, before
any Pilates studios existed and has established herself as a movement therapist,
working with dancers, circus performers, yogis, and many regular folks. Her
focus has always been to keep people moving and to help troubleshoot
mechanical problems with her clients. In this functional anatomy training for
yogis, her passion for movement and biomechanics is sure to come through.