Overview
Due to high demand, and in keeping with our commitment to smaller groups for a more individualised approach, we are scheduling two dates for our annual Yoga Teacher Training in Sri Lanka - this being the 2nd. Since 2018, we have been offering YTT courses on this paradise island, and we look forward to welcoming you to our favourite destination!
We created this 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training program with you in mind. We know time is precious, and taking time away from family and work is a luxury for most, so we divided this 200-hour Yoga Alliance-certified program into an online part of the training and an in-person part in Sri Lanka. The online component of the training will prepare you for when we meet in person, but it also means you won't have a 10-hour-a-day schedule, and that you will have a half day off and plenty of time to explore, relax or catch some waves at the surf break in Hiriketya.
Online training covers a lot of theory and practice over recorded videos. You can watch long lectures like Yoga History & Tradition, Anatomy & Physiology, Ayurveda, etc., from the comfort of your own home. Once we meet, we already have a deeper understanding of those subjects.
The second part of the training is the in-person part when we meet in Sri Lanka and dive deep into the practical part of the Spanda Vinyasa method. You will get to apply your knowledge and practice under a teacher's watchful eye, create your sequences, and teach.
Core teachings of Spanda Vinyasa yoga school are rooted in Hatha yoga teachings, classical yoga philosophy, Tantric teachings, Ayurveda's understanding of nature and the five elements, and today's understanding of anatomy and physiology, movement biomechanics and psychology. The method follows the traditional teaching of Vinyasa Krama, a system of progressions chosen to serve the gentle unfolding and integration of our body/mind and expands from there. We focus on teaching Yoga as holistic well-being and health discipline, not performance art. You will learn how to be a knowledgeable, skilful, mindful Yoga Teacher and integrate asana, pranayama, meditation, mudra and mantra to create a balanced and healing practice for your students and a safe space for them to grow.
Frequent Q&A
Spanda Institute has been certifying Yoga Teachers since 2009 and is registered with Yoga Alliance.
You will get an International Yoga Alliance diploma upon completion with which you can teach globally.
The number of live-in students is limited to 10.
You will have access to your online module materials upon the full tuition payment.
We close the registration four weeks prior to the training or sooner if all the spots are full.
We start the in-person training on Saturday, January 3rd, at 6 pm. The check out is on Tuesday, 20th after breakfast.
You will have one half day off.
Example of the daily schedule:
07:00 - 08:30 Spanda Vinyasa practice
08:30 - 09:30 Breakfast
09:30 - 13:00 Lectures
13:00 - 15:00 Lunch and beach break
15:00 - 18:15 Lectures / practicum / practice
We believe in giving back to the community. Therefore, with every training, we donate to a local charity and plant trees in different locations around the world. Learn more in the link below.
What you’ll learn
We teach a comprehensive Vinyasa-style method - you will learn how to prepare a variety of classes - beginners, intermediate, advanced and restorative. You will learn how to weave in pranayama, meditation, mudra, and mantra skilfully into your class. After this training, as many of our students do, you will be ready to teach like a pro as soon as you get certified. You will learn about the beautiful discipline of yoga and its history and tradition in a non-dogmatic way.
We teach a Method called Spanda Vinyasa; as the name suggests, it’s a more dynamic, Vinyasa style of Yoga practice. However, we will also teach you how to adjust this practice for beginners and how to lead a relaxing, Restorative Yoga class. We do not teach a set flow. Some parts will be a set sequence, but for the most part, we will give you a structure and teach you how to sequence not only creative but, more importantly, a meaningful themed class, based either on the physical body or the Five Elements. We will also teach you WHEN to teach which type of class. You will learn about Ayurveda, for example, and why you should not lead a Fire Element class in the summer or what is a good balancing class for a windy fall day. You will learn how to weave Yogic tools beyond asana into your class, such as pranayama, mudra, meditation and mantra.
You will get an excellent understanding of Anatomy and Physiology related to Yogic practices and an appreciation for our amazing bodies. Generally, everything we teach is backed up with references and proof, even regarding Yogic tradition. We are passionate about seeking the truth (and not following dogmas and belief systems) is what spirituality is all about. Our teachers, no matter how senior and how much knowledge they might have, are not gurus but fellow humans on the path of Yoga and Wellbeing.
If you are doing this training for yourself and not necessarily to teach, you will be able to create healing, balancing, and empowering classes for yourself and your friends. If you are planning to teach, you will be able to do so literally the day after you get your diploma, as many of our students have.
If you would like to experience some of our classes to get the feel of the Method we teach, check out PRACTICE WITH US.
What to expect
Intensive teacher training is, well, - intensive on all levels. Your body will get tired as well as your mind; you will get emotional. There will also be many happy moments, moments of revelation and connection, AHA! moments. You will make friends forever. But, whatever the process, our goal is to hold the space for you and support you. You will always have space to speak your mind and heart. We will also schedule some free time so you can reset and process what you have learned.
Because of the intensity of training, we have created an online programme with the intention to prepare you for the training itself; there will be practice videos and alignment-based videos, lectures on anatomy and biomechanics, lectures, reading and essays on yoga history, philosophy and tradition, as well as Ayurveda, Yoga's sister science. Once we meet, you will feel much more confident in your body and already have some basic knowledge.
During the first week, we will go over the fundamentals of the Spanda Vinyasa Method and anatomy and biomechanics, asana alignment, basic adjustments and the Art of Sequencing. In the second part of the training, we will dive deeper into the subtle anatomy, learn about Ayurveda, the Five Elements and Elemental Vinyasa principles, or how to sequence according to the laws of mama Nature. You will not get a set sequence, but rather a set structure and many tools to create your sequences confidently, depending on your group and the environment.
Support after the training
We like to stay in touch and help you on your journey. We have a community page on our website you can use for your bio until you create your own; we will happily share your events and answer your questions. We often need assistants for our events and always choose from our Sangha (community). Once you study with us, you are always a part of Spanda Sangha.
Another support you will have is our detailed, comprehensive 400+ page book our students use as reference for years, especially as they start teaching.
Our students about this course
“I could not have chosen a better yoga teacher training to start this beautiful journey. The Spanda Vinyasa Method is so well structured, the perfect combination of wisdom and science. The amazing teachers provided all the tools to come out of the training and start to teach right away, using a sequencing method based on understanding the physical and subtle body. I highly recommend, anyone who chooses yoga as a path, to grow and learn from Spanda Institute.” Mariana (Portugal)
One of our students wrote a blog about her experience at the Sri Lanka training, you can read it HERE.
Programme
Online training (recorded materials)
Yoga History and Tradition
Anatomy & Physiology
Applied Anatomy of Yoga & Biomechanics
Introduction to Ayurveda
Subtle Anatomy
Practice videos
Reading assignments and homework
Recorded materials can be watched at your own time/pace.
Sri Lanka part 1: Fundamental teachings of Spanda Vinyasa Yoga
This module is dedicated to setting solid foundations and acquiring substantial knowledge on which we can build upon, like anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, or how to apply anatomy and biomechanics in yoga. We dive deep into learning about asana alignment and individual adaptation, how to avoid and work with common yoga injuries. We learn about safe adjustments and unravel the method of Integral Vinyasa - from the principles and foundations to the sequencing of themed classes and beginners classes and dive into teaching methodology and take our first teaching steps.
Applied anatomy and biomechanics
Asana alignment and adaptation
Five principles of Integral Vinyasa
Five foundations of Integral Vinyasa
Progressive sequencing
Building a class with a theme
Beginners classes
Safe adjustments
Teaching methodology
Practicum
Sri Lanka part 2: Spanda Tattva Vinyasa
This module moves from the physical to explore the deeper, more advanced level of yogic practice, teaching, and sequencing. Apart from learning different Namaskars and Elemental sequences, we will learn how and when to use them, considering the laws of Nature - from the time of the day to the moon phase, season, personal constitution, cycle etc. We will slowly start to move deeper into the subtle and explore yoga through the teachings of Ayurveda, yoga's sister science. In this way, we focus on promoting balance and healing on and off the mat. In this part, we cover more teaching methodology, teaching practice, ethics, and the business of teaching yoga.
Yoga and Ayurvedic principles - flowing with nature
Spanda Vinyasa - Bhumi (Earth) flow
Spanda Vinyasa - Agni (Fire) flow
Spanda Vinyasa - Vayu (Air) flow
Spanda Vinyasa - Jala (Water) flow
Teaching methodology continued
Teaching and assisting practicum
Ethics and business of teaching yoga
+ Closing & Diploma ceremony
YOUR TEACHERS - in person
Bruno Morais
E-RYT 200, RYT 500
Movement has always been central to Bruno's life; he studied dance in Amsterdam and performed in theatres across Europe. Yoga began as a warm-up for his dance practice but soon became a way to connect more deeply with himself, leading him to complete his first Yoga Teacher Training.
At a professional crossroads, Bruno traveled the world, teaching yoga and continuing his education, including a 300-hour training with Nina Vukas and Celest Pereira. He joined Spanda Institute as a mentor, later becoming an assistant teacher, and now leads our 200-hour YTT courses in Portugal and Sri Lanka. Known for his fun, humble, and patient teaching style, Bruno also teaches weekly classes in and around Lisbon.
Alberica (Biki) Rindi
E-RYT 200, RYT 500
Biki left Italy 14 years ago to explore different cultures and study and work around the world. She joined the 200h and 300h YTT with Spanda Institute in Ericeira in 2021 and 2023, at first not planning to become a yoga teacher, but rather understand how this ancient practice could benefit body and mind. Spanda's holistic trainings provided her with so much more: a resonant philosophy, a structured method to create fun and balancing practices for all and a desire to explore teaching and learning more.
She deepened her studies in India in Ayurveda, Aerial Yoga and Yoga Therapy for kids with special needs. She had the opportunity to teach in different countries to different people during her travels as well as at home in Portugal. Believing this practice should be available for all, she has been volunteering practicing yoga and dance with kids and adults with special needs as well as in a center for homeless and substance users. Biki also teaches annual retreats in Portugal and Italy.
YOUR TEACHERS - Online Modules
Nina Vukas
E-RYT 500, YACEP, RPYT, C-IAYT
Nina is a founder of Spanda Institute, a program director, and a lead trainer for Advanced Study Programs. She has been a Yoga practitioner since 1998, started teaching full time in 2005, and has been educating yogis on their journey towards becoming Yoga Teachers, as well as educating Yoga Teachers to advance their knowledge and teaching skills since 2009.
Nina is also a Psychologist, Yoga Therapist, Somatic Psychotherapist, Mindfulness and Meditation teacher, an author of Safe Space: Trauma-Sensitive Yoga and Embodied Calm: Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Nidra. Currently, she is studying Neuroscience of Mental Health.
Nina created this programme and Spanda Method, and will be teaching your Yoga History and Tradition module as well as a part of the Anatomy module. .
Teresa Wohlmannstetter
E-RYT 500, Physio
Teresa is a physiotherapist who worked in an orthopaedic practice for many years before she became a full-time Yoga Teacher. A yogini since her teens, she attended a Yoga Teacher Training to bring more tools into her passion for supporting and healing body/mind.
After completing her 200-hour training with us in Portugal and graduating with honours as one of the best in her class, Teresa joined us as an Anatomy Teacher first while continuing her Yoga education, sound healing education, as well as pursuing professional education in manual therapy. Teresa teaches annual surf & yoga retreats in Portugal.
She will be covering a part of the Anatomy, Biomechanics and Physiology online module.
Marina Moric
RYT 500, RPYT, PhD Neuroscience
Marina has been a valued member of the Spanda Institute community for many years. Her journey began as a student completing her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training at our first home base, Sangha Yoga Studio. Following her initial training, Marina began teaching classes at the studio, quickly establishing herself as a skilled and passionate teacher. Her commitment to learning led her to pursue additional certifications, including Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training and advanced 300-hour studies with Spanda Institute and other renowned yoga teachers. She also completed an Aerial Yoga Teacher Training.
At Spanda Institute, Marina serves as our resident neuroscientist and is an integral part of the teaching faculty for our 200-hour, 300-hour, and Yoga Therapy Teacher Training programs. With a master's degree in biology and a PhD in Neuroscience, Marina brings a unique and deeply informed perspective to her teaching.
Location
Sri Lanka is blessed with stunning natural beauty - a lush jungle surrounded by ocean. It’s a country rich in history, and immersed in the Buddhist tradition. Sri Lankan people are gentle and friendly, always smiling and happy to help. The country is generally very safe for travellers.
Our Teacher Training venue this year is located close to in Hiriketiya bay in the southwest coast, about a three hour taxi ride from the airport. Hiriketiya bay, where you will find most of the restaurants, cafes and shops is only a few minute tuk-tuk ride away.
You will stay, learn and practice in a large villa with an infinity pool and a beautiful, secluded beach right at the front. All rooms have a/c. The villa is fully staffed with a manager, helpful staff and a chef preparing the most delicious meals. If you wish to book a day tour on your day off, or anything else, our villa manager can arrange it for you.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch (except on the day off) and every other dinner is included in your package, so you can explore local restaurants every other day. There are many options to choose from around Hiriketiya. HERE is a blog written by our founder, Nina Vukas, with some dining and other tips.
Prices and Terms
Room type …. Package option (Early Bird / Late Bird)
Single en-suite room … 3900 / 4100
Twin en-suite room … 3400 / 3600
Double en-suite room … 3300 / 3500
The Earliest Bird Special Discount - 10 % on EB packages!
Packages include:
Tuition, materials, manual
Accommodation
Daily breakfast
Daily lunch (except on a 1/2 day off)
Dinner every other day (Hiriketiya offers many restaurants you may want to explore every other day)
Terms and conditions
500 euro to save your spot
Earliest Bird 10% discount - full amount due until May 1st, 2025
Early Bird prices are available until August 1st, 2025
Late Bird full payment is due November 1st, 2025
Students about our Sri Lanka training
“For a long time already, I have been wanting to do a YTT. When I saw the Spanda Institute offer, I was curious. I very much liked the hybrid form of the training as I could already start the training in Germany and do the intensive practical part of 2 weeks in Sri Lanka. I could sign up quickly and the manuals have been sent rapidly to me. Before going to Sri Lanka, I could do the online part and already learn about the history of yoga, about anatomy, Ayurveda and do some practical training and learn pranayama. I really liked the connection of yoga and ayurveda and the teaching of the element flows of earth, fire, water and air. The videos of the online part were very professional, I learnt a lot. The practical part at Sri Lanka was amazing as well. The venue was wonderful with a very good energy. The food and staff lovely. I liked the daily practice in the morning and the intensive way of teaching. I also like the Spanda method very much as I have been doing a lot of Hatha Yoga at the beginning of my Yoga experience and then came more and more to Vinyasa Yoga and today, I am fascinated by Rocket Vinyasa and more dynamic forms of Yoga. For me, Spanda combines it very well. The method is very nice, the flows are dynamic, and you can combine elements of Ayurveda and the great Elements in your teaching. You can choose more hatha flows or more dynamic ones. Also, Pranayama and chanting is a part of the training, as well as mudras and Kyrias. I really recommend the 200 YTT with Spanda Institute. The curriculum and the method is just great as are the teachers Bruno and Teresa and the support from Nina. Thank you very much for this incredible opportunity.” Kerstin (Germany)
“I am so so so happy to have had this experience with Spanda Institute and the training was AMAZING and life changing. I recommend anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of yoga, the body, their own practice to join a Spanda Teacher Traning. It was an experience I will carry with me forever, and I would do it all over again if I could.” Caroline (Denmark)
“I could not have chosen a better yoga teacher training to start this beautiful journey. The Spanda Vinyasa Method is so well structured, the perfect combination of wisdom and science. The amazing teachers provided all the tools to come out of the training and start to teach right away, using a sequencing method based on understanding the physical and subtle body. I highly recommend, anyone who chooses yoga as a path, to grow and learn from Spanda Institute.” Mariana (Portugal)
“I did the 200 hour hybrid training in Sri Lanka and it exceeded my expectations. I was looking for a profound and modern YTT and I feel so lucky to have found Spanda as their Method combines sience with the yoga traditions. To my own surprise - I felt ready to teach Yoga Classes right after graduating. Thanks to our teachers Bruno and Teresa. They tought us with passion, fun, and so much backround knowledge. Thank you for the wonderful time!” Claudia (Austria)
“I am very happy to have chosen Spanda. The lessons were very professional & so was the knowledge that was imparted to us. The two teachers complemented each other perfectly and were able to guide us through the training with a good balance of pressure and motivation. The accommodation and food did the rest. Thank you very much for this special experience!” - Marlene (Switzerland)
“Great experience, great teachers and a very complete and detailed program.” - Barbara (Portugal)