Yoga's growth has been astounding over the years. What started as a traditional healthcare regimen five millennia ago has now transitioned to a science, art, and a way of life. Along with transition, there is usually evolution. Evolution is only possible with some necessary tweaks here and there. In Yoga's case, the tweaks were provided by a diverse lineage of practitioners, visionaries, and proponents. We are currently in the age where Yoga is a molten liquid that takes the shape of the mould it is poured in. Over several generations, this timeless tradition has been sculpted in various forms. You can become certified in most of these forms, thanks to the thoughtfulness of organizations like Yoga Alliance and World Yoga Alliance. You can avail and subsequently share the abundance of benefits that Yoga bestows upon you.
But, what's the best Yoga Certification to go for? Which is the most advantageous style for me? - You might ask. Just breathe and read on. You will approach the answer on your own once you are through with this article. We have compiled and compared some of the hottest Yoga styles which provide certification.
HATHA YOGA
Hatha is just a term for any physical practice that's routinely undertaken. It is not actually a “style”. Although not as physically demanding as the more popular modern styles, you will still gain strength and also find stability.
Features
All forms of yoga are technically Hatha yoga, according to the definition of the term. The only distinction is that it is a more passive method of practice. Hatha-specific classes focus on staying in a pose for several minutes. Generally, the pace is slower than power-packed yoga styles. Traditionally pranayama and meditation are mixed for a well-rounded yoga practice.
How to get certified?
Almost all registered Yoga Schools teach Hatha Yoga, unless otherwise specified. A minimum training of 200H is recommended. Head straight to India for the most authentic Hatha yoga YTTC experience.
Is it for me?
If you are new to Yoga, and want to dabble in it at ease, this is for you. If you are a seasoned Yogi, just go for the certification already!
ASHTANGA YOGA
K Pattabhi Jois introduced this variation in the 70s. To this day, it's one of the most physically demanding styles of yoga. Strictly speaking, every class feels the same. Reason: Ashtanga is all about routine, rules, and discipline. Ashtanga in Sanskrit means "eight limbs". This denotes how the style gives importance to the eight limbs of Yoga - Yama (abstinence), Niyama (observance), Asana (posture), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption).
Features
Practicing Ashtanga is like doing construction work. The postures are divided into six series. One adds on to the next. The primary series focuses on detoxification and cleansing the energy channels. Only after you perfect those can you lay the next building block. The advanced series require strength, flexibility, and sheer determination. Classes are usually and fast-paced, full of vinyasas, and constant repetitions.
How to get certified?
The current authority for Ashtanga Certification is the family of the style's founder at Mysore, India. His daughter R. Saraswati Jois teaches at KPJAY Shala. His Grandson, Sharath Jois teaches at the Sharath Yoga Centre. The main prerequisite is several years of practice before applying to be a teacher. There are certification programs throughout the world, but none of them are the real deal. If you end up getting certified elsewhere, be sure of getting cold stares from the staunch Ashtanga community.
Is it for me?
If you like order, discipline, and heavy-duty Yoga, this is THE style for you. Unwavering determination is key if you want to be a successful Ashtanga teacher. Don't even think about it if you find routine boring.
VINYASA YOGA
Vinyasa in Sanskrit means “variations within fixed parameters”, and in a Vinyasa session, you'll do just that. This is a dynamic style which incorporates continuous and fluid movements which are timed with breath. It has been nicknamed Flow Yoga because of the smooth transitions between poses which almost makes it look like a dance. T. Krishnamacharya is known to be the first proponent of Vinyasa yoga.
Features
The liquidity in movements of Vinyasa style allow intensity to build up steadily. Unlike the hardcore styles, Vinyasa has ample room for creative expression. The teacher may even allow you to experiment with your own rhythm and flow. In intensity, it is on par with an Ashtanga session. Freedom for the teacher to make up sequences with Asanas that go well with each other, sets it apart.
How to get certified?
Since Vinyasa style does not have any prerequisites, anyone can apply for a Teacher Training Course. A lot of Yoga Schools offer Vinyasa trainings across the globe. Usually, Vinyasa Teacher Trainings will also include Yoga Philosophy and Anatomy sessions.
Is it for me?
Vinyasa is for you if you’re looking to develop a stronger mind-body connection. If you are the creative type, you will thoroughly enjoy this approach to grow in strength and flexibility.
IYENGAR YOGA
B.K.S. Iyengar, a disciple of T. Krishnamacharya, is the force behind this style. Iyengar yoga is all about perfection. As one of the more technical formats, its absolute goal is to instruct and achieve proper alignment in each pose. This style of yoga is fairly passive. The real test is when you are required to hold poses for longer periods of time.
Features
Iyengar style is all about proper alignment. You will be working with a lot of yoga props (bolsters, blocks, blankets, chairs, straps, et al) to ensure accuracy. It might seem too slow, but the subtleties will help you achieve the perfect pose. The primary objective is to understand the purely anatomical purpose of various asanas. Practicing Iyengar yoga will endow you strength, flexibility, and also the therapeutic aspects of Yoga.
How to get certified?
B.K.S Iyengar's institute is located in Pune, India. Currently under the wing of his son, Prashant Iyengar, it's the most authentic place to study Iyengar style. There are also many of his direct disciples who teach all over the world. Once you complete a registered Iyengar course, you can be a CIYT certified Teacher.
Is it for me?
If you are someone who is looking for a gentler and more restorative technique, this is for you. This style is best suited for perfectionists and detail-oriented practitioners.
JIVAMUKTI YOGA
Jivamukti means “liberation while alive” in Sanskrit. This variation of Yoga was created by Americans David Life and Sharon Gannon in the late 80s. It is a hybrid, rigorous style of yoga that combines multiple styles. Along with Asanas, prominence is given to Yoga philosophy and Sanskrit scriptures.
Features
Jivamukti follows a practice format that is physical, ethical, and spiritual. The physical aspect combines styles like Hatha, Ashtanga, and Vinyasa. Intense is an understatement. You will also be adhering to five central tenets: shastra (scripture), bhakti (devotion), ahimsa (compassion), nāda (music), and dhyana (meditation). These aspects make it a multi-style approach towards self-growth.
How to get certified?
Jivamukti Yoga Certifications are offered throughout most of the USA and in several countries like Costa Rica, India, etc. Starting with the 300H Teacher Training, you can go on to complete the advanced 800H Course to become a full-fledged Jivamukti Teacher.
Is it for me?
If you are inclined towards spirituality, music, and reaching that inner state of calmness, this is definitely for you. This course is a good fit for fitness enthusiasts, vegans, social activists and environment lovers.
YIN YOGA
Another modern hybrid style, Yin yoga was introduced by Paulie Zink in the 70s. It is based on the principles of Chinese Taoist yoga. Unlike the yang styles which flow between poses, Yin yoga's principle is to spend more time on a single pose. It is more of a passive style of Yoga. A Yin sequence encourages you to find your edge—to bring your body to the appropriate depth without overworking it.
Features
Overall, Yin Yoga comprises of about 30 poses. Not a lot, you might think. Mastering these poses is the challenge. A sequence will have you sweating on the same pose between two to 20 minutes. You will work on the deeper components of the physical body like the connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, fascia, etc. Also, since you will be maintaining stillness in the poses, Yin Yoga doubles as a meditative practice.
How to get certified?
There are several institutes around the world that offer Yin Yoga TTCs. Usually they are structured for 200H, 300H, and 500H durations, like any other TTC. However, Paulie Zink's Yin Yoga Institute mentions that theirs is the only official Yin Yoga Teacher Training Certification.
Is it for me?
If you wish to slow down in life, take a moment, and relax, this is your style. This is best suited for the patient ones who are somehow always in a Zen state. Additionally, if you like something that's not cliché, Yin Yoga is a rare art form that might appeal to you.
Seriously, which one, though?
Picking an apt yoga certification for you will depend on the style and area of specialty that you visualize yourself in. A particular style will shape your journey to attain the certification in a particular way. Most of you are already shuffling through schools that teach your preferred style. And for some of you who still don't have a clue; here's a pro-tip - Attend a demo session in each style. Compare and contrast them personally. Pick the one that calls out to you the most.