The Kaivalya Yoga Method® Online Yoga Instructor Certification

Online Teacher Training Programs

Become a certified yoga instructor…on your OM time.

Comprehensive, interactive, online course with Alanna Kaivalya, Ph.D.

HAVE YOU FELT THE CALLING?

We want to make you a yoga teacher. An adept, exceptional, qualified yoga teacher, trained in the foundations of the practice, yoga philosophy, postures, sequencing, anatomy and therapeutics. All from the comfort of… anywhere.

We’ve launched the first ever The Kaivalya Yoga Method Online Yoga Teacher Training Program taught by one of the most powerful and prominent figures on the yoga scene today: Alanna Kaivalya.

Upon completion, you’ll join an elite group of graduates who are some of the most influential, committed, successful, and qualified teachers in their community.

If you’ve ever felt a calling or curiosity to teach yoga, THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO DO IT.

"Which Online Yoga Teaching Certification Is Right For Me?"

Free Info Session reveals the key differences between 200, 300 and 500-hour programs

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR

THE SOUL SEEKER

  • You love yoga, and enjoy its many benefits, but you are ready to learn more. Weekly classes aren’t enough, and you can’t get enough of workshops
  • Your practice of asana has evolved into an exploration of meditation, pranayama and/or philosophy. Let’s face it, you can’t fit any more yoga books on the shelf!
  • You are interested in learning the depths of yoga’s great history and the heights of how it serves you and others

THE HEALTH PRO

  • You already teach yoga, but the 200 Hour training you took left you wanting…more
  • Your teaching practice needs more richness; a way to set yourself apart – it’s time to find your niche and specialize in your favorite elements of the practice by becoming an expert at all of them
  • Health and wellness is your life. You live it, breathe it, and seek it. Now, it’s time to teach it to others with the most comprehensive tools you can find

THE LIFE CHANGER

  • Taking a teacher training has been on your list…for a while, but it just hasn’t been the right timing. Luckily, this course is done on your own time
  • You are looking for a lifestyle shift, but are still committed to your….life! Thankfully, this course fits into your busy schedule
  • Becoming yoga teacher has always been a goal, but it’s been financially unattainable…until now. This online teacher training program fits into your life, and your wallet

Meet the Mentors 

Alanna asks the Mentors to answer students’ most frequently asked questions.

“When I decided to pursue my yoga teaching certification, I researched countless teacher trainings in search of one that was affordable, convenient, and most importantly, offered a comprehensive and engaging curriculum. What set the Kaivalya Yoga Method® online training apart from the rest was its innovative use of multimedia channels to provide knowledge and support remotely without compromising the integrity of the mentor/student relationship that forms during in-person trainings. This training has not only given me valuable insight into how to safely and effectively teach yoga, but also into improving my quality of life by applying yogic philosophies in everything I do.”

Kayla M.

Become a LEADER in the Field of Yoga

All of this learning is done online, at your own pace through high-quality video, audio lessons, reading assignments and engagement with our educators as well as engaging content that prepares you for tests that measure your successful learning of every topic.

This comprehensive 500+ hour program gives you expertise in:

ANATOMY AND
ALIGNMENT

Learn key anatomical structures along and alignment principles that foster understanding and the safe application of asana for a wide range of considerations and abilities.

THE ART OF
ADJUSTMENTS

Whether it be to deepen a posture, modify it for a beginner or address a specific issue, learn to profoundly connect with students on a variety of levels.

VINYASA AND MASTERY OF THE SUBTLE BODY

With your dynamic insight into the energetic structures of the body (including the chakras), you learn how to teach masterfully sequenced classes that foster the highest aim of yoga and inspire students.

HISTORY & PHILOSOPHY OF YOGA

Learn the complete varied and rich history of yoga, while studying its essential texts in such a way that you thoroughly understand the material and are able to apply it – and teach about it – in a modern context.

TEACHING TECHNIQUES & BUILDING A BUSINESS

By developing a well-rounded class, utilizing the power of the web, and increasing your business acumen, this module provides everything needed for a successful teaching career.

MYTHS, MANTRAS & MEDITATION

Develop your own meditation practice, learn the significance of Sanskrit, mantra and chanting, while diving into their corresponding myth and meaning.

HOW YOU’LL LEARN

DYNAMIC VIDEO LECTURES
All the topics throughout the program are covered in-depth through Alanna’s lectures. Her vibrant energy, breadth of scholarship, and lighthearted humor keep you actively engaged with more than 100+ hours of video learning.

COMPREHENSIVE WRITTEN CONTENT
Every element of this course is written down for you. Consider your extensive notes…already written! All the content is easily understood, and all the details are covered. With more than 300 pages of content featured in the course, you are sure this hefty online resource keeps you informed.

INTERACTION WITH LEAD MENTORS
Your day-to-day experience includes constant interaction with our team of lead mentors. All trained and certified at the highest level with plenty of continuing education, they have much to offer! You’ll get helpful, constructive and encouraging feedback on every test you submit, allowing you to grow into the best teacher you can be.

REAL-TIME ENGAGEMENT
Our course is as interactive as it comes. Participate with us daily in our private Facebook group, on regularly scheduled webinars, and via email. Alanna and her team are here for you 100%. Ask any question, and get all your answers whenever you need them.

ACCOUNTABILITY & ASSESSMENTS
Throughout the course, you upload videos of along the way. In this way, you are held accountable for every element of your learning, and you are never left behind. We ensure the optimization of your growth and development as an instructor as we watch you progress.

PERSONAL PROGRESS
Throughout the course, you engage in classes  which features a wide array of skilled teachers that enhance and diversify your experience. You read key texts and write reports to demonstrate your understanding. You also put your creativity to work by creating sequences that integrate your skills.

CERTIFICATION
Upon completion of the teacher training program, you have met our rigorous standards and become a Certified teacher with The Kaivalya Yoga Method®. You are eligible for a listing on our exclusive website that features our esteemed teachers.

"Which Online Yoga Teaching Certification Is Right For Me?"

Free Info Session reveals the key differences between 200, 300 and 500-hour programs

Our goal is to make YOU the best teacher you can possibly be

Prepare to have a dynamic, personalized, unprecedented and unparalleled experience as a yoga teacher trainee. Throughout your process, you interact with and receive feedback from our esteemed mentors, all of whom have been trained at the highest level.

As you move through the course, you are asked to submit both written and video assignments that demonstrate your skill and knowledge of how to teach elements of a yoga class, eventually teaching a full class that is bolstered by all the knowledge you gain throughout the program.

The mentors come to you with the depth and breadth of knowledge necessary to offer you the most supportive, constructive and uplifting feedback to transform yourself into the kind of yoga teacher you always wanted to be.

“The Kaivalya Yoga Method® teacher training has been an incredible experience. It gives me the luxury of training and learning at home and during work breaks on my own time and at my own pace. I also love all of the in-depth instruction, pacing, and style of the courses. I highly suggest this program to anyone looking for flexibility and outstanding instruction from a yoga teacher training!”

Alyssa L.

A SNEAK PEEK INSIDE…

ENROLL NOW IN THE KAIVALYA YOGA METHOD® TEACHER TRAINING CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

THE SEVEN MODULES of the 500-Hour Program

MODULE 1

Anatomy & Alignment: presented through an exclusively yogic lens. You learn key muscle, bone, joint and connective structures along with terms of movement and alignment principles that foster both understanding and the safe application of asana for a wide range of considerations and abilities.

MODULE 2

Vinyasa, Sequencing & Subtle Body: containing the essentials of how to safely sequence a vinyasa class, and takes this knowledge further by giving you the insights necessary to sequence in accord with the more esoteric and energetic principles that fuel yoga’s transformational power. Through learning the subtle anatomy (including in-depth work with the chakras and koshas) you gain an experiential understanding of the deeper layers of the body that fundamentally shift how you harness the power of asana practice.

MODULE 3

Teaching Techniques, Building a Business & Being a Professional: learn the tips, tools, technique and strategies you need to develop and hone your skills as an exceptional yoga instructor. Through refining your cues, to developing a well-rounded class to utilizing the power of the web and increasing your business acumen, this module provides everything you need to embark on a successful teaching career, not to mention leading stellar classes that students never forget.

MODULE 4

The Art of Adjustments: learn the essential skills of connecting with students through hands-on adjustments. Whether it be to deepen a posture, modify it for a beginner or address a specific issue, injury or concern, you learn what is required to deliver adjustments that allow you to profoundly connect with students on a variety of levels.

MODULE 5

Philosophy, History & Theming: offers the skills and lexicon needed in order to convey complicated yoga philosophy with ease and finesse to a modern-day audience. Understand how the history of yoga has developed from inception by the Desi population, and how we move it forward by honoring the timeless tradition today. Through your study of essential yoga texts, you learn what it takes to embody the core philosophy of yoga and become a yogi living in the modern world, as well as how to give compelling dharma talks. This module also gives you the skills necessary to build your classes around a theme in order to educate the body, mind, and spirit of the students who come to your classes. Through our online discussion groups, we’ll frequently discuss how to honor the practice, and what it means to appreciate and appropriate culture and ideas.

MODULE 6

Meditation, Myths & Mantras: unlock the power of sacred sound and the profound practice of meditation. This module not only teaches you how to develop your own meditation practice, but also how to teach a variety of meditations to others. You learn the significance of Sanskrit, mantra and chanting while going through their corresponding myth and meaning. Included in this module are both of Alanna’s books: Sacred Sound: Discovering the Myth and Meaning Behind Mantra and Kirtan, and Myths of the Asanas: Stories at the Heart of the Yoga Tradition.

MODULE 7

Final Teaching Culmination: gain access to this module upon successful completion of all other modules in The Kaivalya Yoga Method Teacher® Training. This final module gives you the opportunity to test your comprehensive knowledge of all the topics covered in the program, and also asks you to upload a video of you teaching a full 60 minute class in The Kaivalya Yoga Method®. Upon successful completion of this course, you are officially a certified Kaivalya Yoga Method® Instructor.

“I am extremely grateful for The Kaivalya Yoga Method® Teacher Training!  I am learning so much and love the flexibility of doing it at my own time and pace! The feedback I get with the assignments and submitting videos is excellent, it even makes me forget it’s all done online. There is a lot of interaction, motivation and the mentors are fast at responding to any of my questions. I highly recommend this course!! I have even heard friends who completed their training elsewhere say they did not cover as much detail as we are.  What started off, for me, as just a way to expand my knowledge in Yoga for my personal growth turned into a passion for helping others and was the foundation to furthering my holistic training and start my own sacred business!!”

Melissa De Los Santos

YOUR GUIDES

ALANNA KAIVALYA

Alanna Kaivalya believes Yoga is for everyone and with the right guidance, every student can develop the independence and self empowerment needed to embark on a personal journey to meaningful transformation.

It is dedication to these principles that inspired Alanna to begin The Kaivalya Yoga Method®, a fresh take on yoga that emphasizes the individual path of the modern person while honoring the time-tested tradition. Teaching students since 2001 and teachers since 2003, Alanna has written, developed, and lead teacher trainings around the world since.

Her ability to make the complex accessible and to enliven material with myth and story has lead top studios nationwide to commission programs for their own use. With TKYM, she teaches her own unique training programs at both the 200 and 300-hour levels.

She holds a Ph.D. in Mythological Studies with an Emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute and has authored numerous articles and papers as well as thtree books: Myths of the Asanas: Stories from the Heart of the Yoga Tradition (Mandala Publishing, 2010) is a wildly popular go-to guide for practitioners who are interested in the stories of the origins of beloved poses. Sacred Sound: Discovering the Myth and Meaning Behind Mantra and Kirtan (New World Library, 2014) is the quintessential yoga “hymnal” for today’s most popular chants and mantras, illustrating their powerful role within our modern practice. Her third book, Yoga Beyond the Mat, is a guidebook showing practitioners how to make yoga their spiritual practice.

Alanna has taught for Yoga Journal Conferences, The Omega Institute, Kripalu, and Esalen retreat centers. She has been featured in Yoga Journal, Origin, Mantra Magazine, Yoga International, Sweat Equity, Mindful Magazine and many others throughout her years of practice. In 2007, she had the esteemed honor of being elected to Yoga Journal’s top 21 teachers under 40 list. Alanna has appeared on Fox’s Varney & Co., Walk the Talk Show on Elephant Journal, HuffPo Live! as well as many other media outlets. She regularly contributes to publications such as Huffington Post, Elephant Journal, and Well + Good.

Her website, alannak.com, features an exhaustive body of content diligently compiled over many years to provide access to high-quality resources and education for yoga practitioners in any location. In 2005, her first podcast, and the first by any yoga instructor garnered over 2 million listeners. She is currently working on a third book. She lives in New York City with Roxy the Wonderdog.

Find out more at alannak.com.

YOUR MENTORS

JORDYN BARTENSTEIN

Jordyn is a chameleon of many interests including unique approaches to yoga. Growing up in the mountains, she learned to take the road less traveled quite seriously. On a less serious note — she’s an adventure enthusiast, outdoors is her middle name and a truly compassionate soul who loves what she does. After obtaining her 500hr training in the yoga world, Jordyn is now a Yoga Therapist completing her IAYT accreditation through The Soul of Yoga Institute. She has spent ample time studying with Nischala Joy Devi of Abundant Well Being, Mas Vidal founder of The Dancing Shiva as well as Dr. Richard Miller of the iRest Institute. Using a variety of related lenses, she aims to give others the tools they need to remove obstacles in the way of their own healing power. There is a nurturing, softness within how she delivers a flow, combining an emphasis on intricate muscle engagement and intentional breathwork. She approaches all aspects of yoga with the knowledge that the mind, body, and spirit are intimately connected. While continuing to pursue all the benefits of the yoga community, both as a student and teacher, she believes in inspiring people to be the best that they can be. With a hungry mind and her “small yet mighty” personality, she looks forward to connecting on the journey of yoga and the oneness we all share!

Jordyn’s pronouns are she/her/hers.

“I love the online training so far – I feel more and more confident in my ability to teach as I progress through each module and love that I can take it at my own pace to allow a healthier integration of the information + listen to each lecture as often as I’d like to build clarification and understanding. Honestly, I can’t imagine a better introduction to a 200-hour.”

Catrina A

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are there any prerequisites for signing up?

There are no prerequisites for this course, and you need not be a yoga expert before registering. What we do ask is that you have at least some level of practice under your belt so you are familiar with basic postures and the flow of a vinyasa class, but you are also right at home if you are more advanced at yoga or have already taken a training. Much of what you find here fills in the gaps as it is comprehensive and designed to provide you with what you need to know to become an extraordinary teacher. It is also essential that you have a webcam, camcorder or video capability on your smartphone as well as a decent internet connection to access the course materials. Proficiency with English is recommended, as all instruction is given in English.

How long will this program take? What sort of time commitment will I have to make?

We recommend completing the course in 5-6 months, but you have 12 months to complete your course material online. Within that time, you can review the lectures, materials, interact with mentors, connect with other students and continue your knowledge as you progress through the course. After the course, you will have access to the course materials in a special section of our training site where you can review materials, connect with other graduates and further your education.

What about Certification?

Upon successful completion of The Kaivalya Yoga MethodTeacher Training at the 200, 300 or 500 hour levels, you are certified in The Kaivalya Yoga Method. We have a dedicated and searchable website for our certified teachers which feature your bio, teaching schedule, and contact information so the world can see that you’ve met our rigorous testing standards and demonstrated your ability to lead stellar classes for a wide variety of students.

This online program far exceeds the common standards of a 500 hour teacher training. Here’s how:

  • Personalized guidance, review, and feedback of coursework and assignments
  • Rigorous testing standards including video uploads of various teaching techniques (sequencing, adjusting, anatomy, cueing, dharma talks, meditation, chanting, etc.)  
  • ALL educators are 500++ hours trained in The Kaivalya Yoga Method and complementary techniques
  • Classes, training and educators available around the clock, and for consult and review as many times as necessary
  • Extensive body of knowledge covering all aspects of yoga & teaching technique that is viewable again and again at your convenience including:
    • 100+ hours of training in anatomy for yoga:  essential  knowledge for all teachers
    • Safe and effective hands-on adjustments techniques
    • Principles of bhakti (devotional) yoga, chanting and mantra
    • Thorough sequencing skills based on body mechanics and subtle body principles
    • Feedback and review of your teaching practice throughout the course
    • Business skills and insights into how to land jobs, market, start teaching and tailor instruction to various student demographics such as beginners and prenatal clientele
    • Training in how to translate  ancient practices including sacred texts, yogic mythology and philosophy to a modern audience

These are unique features that we are able to bring you given the online format of this program–a format that allows us to make teacher training available to those who would otherwise not be able to attend one–and does so without sacrificing the depth, breadth, and experience that immersing yourself in yoga offers. This course is Alanna’s previously-offered 200 and 300 hour live trainings….now offered online with expanded teachings, enhanced personal connection and feedback.  It includes far more content than is ever possible in a live training format.

*Even though this online training exceeds common 500 hour standards, it is not registered with Yoga Alliance. More details are below in the Yoga Alliance frequently answered question.

Are the courses interactive, or done on my own?

Courses in this program are done both on your own and interactively. You review the video and text content on your own schedule and at your own pace, and are required to complete video and written assignments, plus online testing as you move through the coursework. Our mentors review and grade each assignment and provide thorough feedback. You can also freely interact with the mentors, Alanna, and other students currently in the program throughout your coursework through the private Facebook group, regularly scheduled webinars, and email.

What is TKYM doing to address cultural appropriation and the lack of diversity in yoga?

TKYM believes that the practice of yoga compels us to come together. Yoga literally means to yolk, or bring together. We ground our practice and learning in sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali. In the training we discuss how we honor these texts and practices to prepare you to be the best spiritual leader you can be. Our online discussions and dive deeply into cultural appropriation and we are planning to do more. We also know that there is a huge lack of diversity in yoga. One way that we are standing in solidarity with diversifying yoga is through our Phoenix Rising Scholarship program. We are providing 5 scholarships each month for our 200 hour YTT to individuals from underrepresented populations including (in no specific order): BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Veterans, Survivors of abuse, and people who have disabilities. We are also taking steps to make sure that our website reflects the diversity of our community, and planning more community outreach and conversations to ensure that all of the members of our community feel seen, safe, and valued.

What system/other requirements are needed to participate?

You will need to make sure you have the following:

  1. A webcam, camcorder, or video capture capability on your smartphone or other device as you will need to submit videos to us as part of your coursework.
  2. A decent internet connection to be able to access the course materials.
  3. You will need to purchase two books in addition to the price of the program: Sacred Sound and Myths of the Asanas. More info regarding this will be provided after registration.
  4. Proficiency with English is recommended, as all instruction is given in English.
Can I complete the program on my iPad or other mobile device?

Yes, you can use your iPad or other mobile devices to complete this program.

Is there a course outline syllabus I can view?
Can I preview the program to see what it's all about?

Yes, click here to participate in a preview of the program.

What payment options do you accept?

You can pay with a credit card during our secured checkout process. All pricing is listed in US dollars and payments will be automatically be converted to US dollars if you are paying with another currency.

Do you have a payment plan?

Yes! We have payment plans for the 200, 300, or 500-hour programs. Simply choose ShopPay at checkout.

Will I be a Yoga Alliance Certified Instructor Upon Completion of this Program?

In light of the current pandemic, Yoga Alliance now allows online learning as part of their registration process. 

This means that you can register with Yoga Alliance upon graduating from The Kaivalya Yoga Method Academy online certification program.

This provision by Yoga Alliance is currently approved through December 31, 2021. It is our hope that this decision to allow online learning becomes permanent.

The Kaivalya Yoga Method Academy has always provided (and will continue to provide):

  • Comprehensive content above and beyond Yoga Alliance Standards
  • Certification upon completion of our 200-, 300-, and 500-hour programs
  • Registration on our own site for certifiedteachers.yoga free of charge

If the Yoga Alliance registration element is important to you, then we strongly urge you to register and complete your training with us at this time. 

To read the updates from Yoga Alliance, ​visit this page​.

The Kaivalya Yoga Method Academy was the first online 500-hour teacher training program of its kind, and has been serving students since 2015. Alanna Kaivalya has been at the forefront of the movement to provide high-quality education for yoga professionals online. 

When the online provision expires, and trainings are allowed to move back to studios, people who want to register with Yoga Alliance at that time will need to enroll in an in-studio program. 

We will continue to follow this evolving topic and will continue to inform our students of updates and changes.

"Which Online Yoga Teaching Certification Is Right For Me?"

Free Info Session reveals the key differences between 200, 300 and 500 hour programs

“As a Movement Specialist with a successful private business and long list of pre-existing credentials (including yin yoga) I wanted to add a yoga certification.

I am a serial education geek, but I carefully choose my teachers: I’m looking to learn from someone who I truly believe can enhance my own mind and body approach, in order to make me a better human and a better practitioner.

I thusly found myself, as I often do, researching options. I wanted to study from a best-in-class teacher, but I also didn’t want to close my business for a month.

Alanna’s reputation, plus the “practical” benefits of online learning won me over.

It is so much more than any video or pamphlet implies. We have honest access to the mentors and to Alanna (when they say that, they mean that), and the course structure demands legitimate accountability for learning the material in a way that doesn’t even exist in most “real life” courses. The course structure means that you can’t just check the boxes and graduate – you have to do the work and you get actual feedback along the way.

It’s an honest and first-in-class course. Credential? Check. But you are going to grow and learn and be challenged along the way. Just what I signed up for!”

Janis Isaman