YOGA MENTORING & TEACHER SUPPORT Term 2

“Mentoring” is a modern word that describes an integral part of the tradition ofyoga throughout history. It includes the guidance given between teacher and trainee or student, as well as the ongoing professional and personal guidance necessary for all yoga teachers, at all levels of seniorityand experience, as part of the continuing journey of yoga. (source Yoga Australia website)

Our sessions will combine

a) group practice of the more subtle aspects of yoga

b) themed discussions for each term

c) consideration of other personal or professional development work

d) a forum to raise questions or seek advice from the group

e) a way to enjoy the support of a committed yoga community

Teaching yoga is a journey of spiritual self-discovery where yourintegrity, professionalism and unselfish ideals may be challenged by the daily pressures of life and the commercial realities of teaching for a living… sound familiar?

These weekly mentoring sessions will offer an invaluable resource for teachers of all yoga styles or committed yogis to:

• Support your own personal progress and practice in yoga
• Get feedback and the support of a group of fellow teachers to enhance the quality and depth of your professional teaching
• Learn new techniques and methods to advance your teaching skills
• Take care of yourself (body, mind and bank balance) as a teacher
• Earn CPD points for Yoga Australia members (This is an annual requirement for YA membership)

Term 2: Refining your Yoga Practice

Explore subtle energies, Bandhas,  focus on Pranayama and Pratyahara and other practical techniques to enhance your own practice and then share in class.

As a yoga teacher for nearly 18 years (full time for 12 years) I found my own practice was restricted or frustrated by my professional environment. I often felt alone with my questions, and just “stuck” for where to turn to grow, learn and get the support of people who understood what a yoga life entails day in and day out.

I have been blessed to undertake several years  of weekly mentoring with a unique yoga master and a small group of other teachers. I cannot describe the learning, knowledge and support I have received as a result. It has also bolstered my self-esteem as a teacher when I realize not only how common many of my “personal” issues are, but also how many I now know how to resolve or transcend.

Mentoring is now an essential part of my continued development as a person and a teacher. Simple as that!....

I want to offer the same support to local teachers of all persuasions to be the best we can be. Some areas we will address

• How to incorporate pranayama and spirituality into your practice and classes
• Teacher support and advice for teaching or managing practical problems
• Personal practice techniques
• Developing a personal and authentic practice to nurture your soul

Mentor support groups will run in 8 week blocks on

Wednesday afternoons at Qi Manly, 2.00 - 3.30pm

Cost: $205 per term of 8 x 1.5 hour sessions.

It may be possible to attend casually at $35/session

Dates:

Term 1 (8 weeks): February 13 - April 3

Term 2 (8 weeks): May 8 - June 26

Mark is well-known locally as the founder of Qi Natural Therapies & Yoga where he still teaches daily open classes and leads a nationally-recognized Teacher Training Diploma, now in its 10th year. He is a leader in yoga education and tries to juggle a family and therunning of a multi-faceted business whilst observing the yogic principles of the yamas and niyamas.

He is passionate about raising training standards and skill levels for yoga teachers generally. This leads to an emphasis on safety,appropriate practice for each individual, and builds the credibility and experience for all yoga teachers to flourish in the community and be the best person/yogi they can be.

Mark has been teaching since 1996. He has since become one of Sydney’s in-demand teachers. He holds Senior Membership status and has served on the National Executive of Yoga Australia (formerly the Yoga Teachers’ Association of Australia) and regularly leads retreats and workshops locally and overseas.

Mark had a strong meditation practice before graduating from the “Heart of Yoga” teacher-training in 1998 with Karen Schaeffer and Mark Breadner and has since trained with many respected yoga teachers including TKV Desikachar and his son Kausthub Desikachar. Mark continues to study many aspects of Pranayama, Tantra and Hatha yoga. His main teacher over the past 11 years is the inspiring Donna Farhi.

Please complete an application form for consideration to join the group.

These sessions will inspire both current and prospective teachers, as well as suit committed yogis of all styles.

Requirements to join:

You must have completed a yoga teacher training course OR haveundertaken 3 months study of the yoga sutras with a minimum of 3 years regular practice to join this group.

For more information call Mark on 9976 6880 or mark@qiyoga.net

Cost: $205 per term of 8 x 1.5 hour sessions.

It may be possible to attend casually at $35/session