Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Continuing Education

For Yoga and Movement Teachers

Step into an immersive 50-hour journey of discovery with our Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine Teacher Training. Here, we dive deep into the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), unlocking its secrets to harmonizing the vital life force, known as Qi, and maintaining balance within the body.

Combining the art of Yin Yoga with the principles of TCM, this training illuminates pathways to integrate this wisdom into both personal practice and teaching, offering transformative insights applicable to a variety of movement modalities.

Our approach is to demystify the foundational theories of TCM, making them accessible and empowering for both you and your students. By breaking down the complexities of TCM theory into easily understandable concepts, this course equips you with the tools to cultivate balance and vitality in your life and the lives of those you teach.

Yin Yoga and TCM share a profound synergy, as Yin Yoga naturally aligns with a fundamental aspect of TCM: the Meridian system. Through this training, you will explore the significant connections between meridians, emotions, and organs, learning how to harmonize your inner landscape and nurture emotional balance and mental clarity through targeted energetic practices.

This training is perfect for those fascinated by the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine or looking to deepen their understanding of the energetic effects of Yin Yoga. Whether you’re a yoga instructor, movement professional, or simply intrigued by the connection between TCM and physical disciplines, this transformative journey awaits you. Embark on this enriching experience and discover the profound harmony between ancient wisdom and modern practice.

Curriculum

Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory

  • Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Yin and Yang Theory
  • Qi Theory, what is Qi, and How to Harmonize it

The Five Elements

  • The 5 Elements Theory
  • The Organs
  • The Elemental Archetypes

Meridians and Acupressure

  • Meridian Theory, how the system works
  • Meridian Locations, Pathways, and Using Meridians in Yoga Practices
  • Acupressure points, how to use them
  • Specific Acupressure points

Yin Yoga

  • The principles of Yin Yoga
  • 14 skeletal segments, 10 muscle groups, 6 archetypes in relation to TCM

Teaching Methodology

  • How to apply TCM in your (Yin) yoga classes
  • How to sequence TCM-themed yoga classes
  • How to modify and adjust practices to suit the different elements

Practice

  • Practice yin yoga and meditation on training days
  • How to create a personal practice at home and integrate TCM in your life

Certificate

There will not be a written or practical exam, but full, active participation on all weekends is required. You will receive your certificate if you have joined all training days. 

Required Reading

The manual is provided by us and is included in the price of the course. In addition to the manual, the following books are required:

  • The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga: The Philosophy and Practice of Yin Yoga | Bernie Clark
  • Wood Becomes Water: Chinese Medicine in Everyday Life | Gail Reichstein

Daily Schedule

09:00-10:15 | Practice (meditation, pranayama, asana)

10:30-12:30 | Theory: Traditional Chinese Medicine

12:30-13:30 | Lunch break

13:30-16:15 | Practical: TCM and Yin yoga

16:15-17:00 | Closing practice 

Dates (3 weekends)

  • 28 – 29 September
  • 19 – 20 October
  • 23 – 24 November

Requirements

You should have a consistent, dedicated yoga practice and a strong desire to learn and explore the teachings of Chinese Medicine. A basic understanding of Yin Yoga is required. 

Qualification

This training program qualifies as Continuing Education hours for Yoga Alliance registered teachers.

Teaching faculty

This Teacher Training is led by Shari Iskandar. She is honored and excited to guide you through this process of transformation and learning.

Shari Iskandar

In her early twenties, Shari began her Yoga journey with exploring the more dynamic styles of Yoga. At that time she was the type that always expected a lot of herself, she studied Econometrics
and worked for different startup companies. The ensuing stress, compounded by familial challenges, eventually led to burnout. However, the discovery of Yin Yoga was a transformative
turning point. This gentle yet profound practice became an anchor in Shari’s healing journey, reconnecting her with her body and guiding her back to a peaceful state of mind.

Yin yoga became not only a practice, but a cornerstone of her lifestyle, initiating the spark to dive deeper into the teachings. Inspired to share this gift of healing, she embarked on the path to
become a Yin Yoga teacher. She’s continuously expanding her knowledge through immersive studies in Meditation, Ayurveda, Hatha Yoga, Reiki, Coaching, and her other passion: Traditional
Chinese Medicine. With just one year left in her Acupuncture studies, she is looking forward to the day she will open her own practice.

In the busyness of daily life, the Yang part of life, Shari is grateful for the Yin-balancing practices she has cultivated. Yoga and meditation serve as powerful and healing tools, gifts she cherishes
and loves to share with others. In her classes, she focuses on embracing the softness and surrender to the Yin qualities of life. Through easy and accessible guidance, she invites you to be
present with anything that comes up, to release what is no longer serving you, all while being gentle towards your body and mind.