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Writer's pictureBreyn Hibbs
Aug 296 min read

A Hub for Yoga Teacher Training in Central Oregon


For nearly 17 years, since 2007 when we opened our doors, Namaspa has been a sanctuary for yoga practitioners of all styles and levels (Psst, did you see our Anniversary Class coming up on 9/15?). And for 15 years, since 2009, we have been a beacon of knowledge for aspiring and seasoned yoga teachers alike by providing high-quality and in-depth teacher trainings.


And we are proud to be stepping even more fully into our role as a hub for yoga teacher training in Central Oregon – and beyond!

As our community has grown, so has the demand for high-quality yoga classes of varying styles and levels. And similarly, so has the demand for the highest quality instruction and training for those who wish to teach, inspire, and carry forward the ancient traditions of yoga in new and transformative ways. Namaspa is honored to be at the forefront of this movement here in Central Oregon (and beyond via virtual trainings), offering an ever-growing variety of yoga teacher training programs that cater to all levels of experience and interest. Over the coming months, we will be hosting six distinct yoga teacher training programs – each led by highly-trained and qualified instructors – offering a rich tapestry of ancient yogic and modern science-based knowledge that reflects the breadth and depth of the yoga tradition itself.

Yoga: A Tradition of Ongoing Learning & Cultivation

The essence of yoga is not just in the physical postures, but in the pursuit of knowledge, self-discovery, self-awareness, and personal growth. This philosophy of ongoing and lifelong learning is at the heart of what we do and offer at NYC. We believe that being a yoga practitioner and/or a yoga teacher is not about reaching a final destination, but about embracing the journey of continuous learning, development, and inspiration. This mindset is deeply rooted in the ancient teachings of yoga, which emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge, asking questions, letting go of rigid worldviews and beliefs, and remaining open to new experiences.

Within the foundational 8 limbs of yoga, there is a concept called svadhyaya, which means self-study or self-reflection. It’s one of the niyamas, or ethical observances, in the 8 limbs. Svadhyaya encourages us to look inward, to study ourselves and our actions, and to strive for self-development, and ultimately, awakening, enlightenment, and total liberation. At NYC, we our teacher training programs are aligned with the philosophy and practice of svadhaya: by offering a diverse range of trainings, we are providing multiple opportunities to engage in svadhyaya on both personal and professional levels.

Additionally, our role as a training hub is not just to impart knowledge, but to inspire a love of learning that will stay with practitioners and teacher training participants throughout their lives. Whether it’s through deepening one’s understanding of yoga philosophy, exploring new teaching techniques, or gaining insights into subtle bodies, our trainings are designed to cultivate a sense of curiosity and a passion for growth. This is what makes NYC more than just a yoga studio; it’s a place where practitioners and teachers can evolve, both as individuals, and within community.


A Diverse Range of Training Programs

Our teams at NYC understand that the journey to becoming a yoga teacher is deeply personal, and each practitioner’s path is unique. That is why we offer trainings that vary in length, depth, and focus, ensuring that there is something for everyone who feels called – whether someone is just beginning their teaching journey, or is looking to specialize in a particular area or type of yoga teaching, or feels passionate about working with a particular population or community of individuals.

For those new to teaching, our 200-hour foundational training, “CONNECTION: Mind, Body, Spirit” is the perfect starting point (sold out for the 2024-25 session, but email us at namaspayoga@gmail.com to learn about how you can start some training modules now (e.g., in anatomy, yin, healing flow, and others) in preparation for joining the 2025-26 cohort). This 200-hour program covers all the essentials, from the history and philosophy of yoga to the practicalities of teaching and leading a class. It’s an immersive experience that not only prepares participants to teach, but also deepens participants’ personal practice, providing a strong foundation upon which to build a teaching career.

For those who want to work with specific populations, such as kids and families, those recovering and healing from addiction, or those who have experienced trauma, NYC offers specialized trainings that equip teachers with the tools needed to make yoga accessible and safe for everyone. Our Trauma Sensitive Yoga & Community Leader Foundations Training, for example, is particularly important in today’s world, where the need for healing and compassionate teaching is so great (offered Fall 2024 and Spring 2025). This training provides teachers with the knowledge and skills to create a supportive and inclusive environment, helping students to feel safe and empowered in their practice. 


For experienced teachers, our advanced training programs  – like the Art of Opposition: Advanced Anatomy, Physiology, Kinesiology, & Philosophy training and our other 300-hour program – offer a chance to refine and expand knowledge and skills. These trainings delve deeper into specific aspects of yoga, allowing teachers to bring new insights to their students. Continuing education is not just a requirement for maintaining certification through a certifying body like Yoga Alliance; it’s a vital part of the ongoing journey of being a yoga teacher. At NYC, we encourage our teachers to always be curious, to continue learning, and to develop their knowledge and skills throughout their whole teaching career and beyond.


The Importance & Value of a Training Hub

Central Oregon’s vibrant yoga community is lucky to have many incredible studios and teachers contributing to the collective wellness of Central Oregonians, and within this environment, having a local hub for yoga teacher training is invaluable. It contributes to building a strong network of teachers who are connected not just by geography, but by a shared commitment to excellence and a desire to serve our community. Additionally, by offering a variety of training programs, NYC is helping to raise the standard of yoga teaching in Central Oregon, ensuring that teachers are well-prepared, well-informed, and equipped to meet the increasingly diverse needs of students. 

Ultimately, here at NYC we believe in – and witness every day – the power of yoga to transform lives, and we are committed to providing the highest quality education to those who wish to share this practice with others. NYC is so excited for aspiring teachers who are ready to begin their teacher training journey to find and join us, as well as for experienced teachers to find and join us who are on a mission to deepen the art and craft of teaching, cultivate and expand their skills, and explore new dimensions of teaching.


Inspired to learn more? Check out our upcoming trainings for yoga teachers looking to continue their training below, or attend our upcoming free 300-hour Open House event (Sunday, 10/13, 2:00-3:30pm) where you’ll learn more about ALL of these trainings, meet some of the instructors and facilitators, and have the opportunity to ask questions.


Each of these trainings count toward our Advanced 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training, -- a training where these modules and training hours are broken down into smaller trainings that can be completed according to your timeline and budget:

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