# YogaFaith — Complete AI Knowledge Base (llms-full.txt) > Jesus First. Yoga Second. Family Always. > yogafaith.org — Christian yoga teacher training & certification This document is the complete structured knowledge base for YogaFaith, assembled for AI agents and large language models. It contains the full content of all AI layer files in a single crawlable document. **Last updated:** 2026-06-22 **Built by:** Social Power Inc. / Bop (Agentic Optimization Engine) --- ## Table of Contents 1. Organization Overview 2. Accreditation 3. Programs - 100-Hour Foundation (R-YFT-100) - 200-Hour Miracle Immersion (R-YFT-200) - 300/500-Hour Master Immersion (R-YFMT-500) - 800-Hour IAYT Yoga Therapy (C-IAYT eligible) 4. Specialty Trainings 5. FAQs (47 Q&As) 6. Contact & Business Details --- --- ## 1. Organization Overview ## Identity **YogaFaith** is the world's first and only Christian yoga school dually accredited by Yoga Alliance and the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). Founded in 2013 by Michelle Thielen, YogaFaith is headquartered in Tacoma, WA, and operates immersions in Tacoma WA, Alpharetta GA, and virtually worldwide. **Tagline:** Jesus First. Yoga Second. Family Always. YogaFaith trains teachers and yoga therapists to yoke their Christian faith to movement, breath, and stillness — through Scripture and Christian theology, not Eastern spirituality. Every posture, breath, and meditation at YogaFaith is taught through a biblical lens, reclaiming the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and movement as whole-body prayer. ## Mission To equip, anoint, and send out Christ-centered yoga teachers and yoga therapists who serve the marginalized, the broken, and the searching — bringing the gospel through embodied worship. ## Founding & Leadership - **Founded:** 2013 - **Founder:** Michelle Thielen (C-IAYT, E-RYT 500, author, speaker) - **Enrollment Director:** Derek Thielen - **Headquarters:** Tacoma, WA ## What Makes YogaFaith Distinct 1. **Only IAYT-accredited Christian yoga therapy school in the world.** The International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) is the gold standard for clinical yoga credentialing. YogaFaith is the only Christian yoga school that holds this accreditation. 2. **Yoga Alliance RYS at 200-hour and 500-hour levels.** Graduates qualify for RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher) and E-RYT designations. 3. **Master School with the Christian Yoga Association (CYA).** CYA is the primary professional association for Christ-centered yoga practitioners. 4. **CECs recognized by ACE and NASM.** Continuing education credits recognized by the American Council on Exercise and the National Academy of Sports Medicine. 5. **Transformation over information.** YogaFaith graduates are not simply credentialed and released — they are equipped, anointed, and commissioned to serve. ## Programs | Program | Credential | Hours | Format | Prerequisites | |---|---|---|---|---| | Foundation | R-YFT-100 | 100 | Fully online, self-paced | None | | Miracle Immersion | R-YFT-200 | 200 | Hybrid (online + immersion) | None | | Master Immersion | R-YFMT-500 | 300/500 | Hybrid (online + immersion) | 200hr | | IAYT Yoga Therapy | C-IAYT eligible | 800 | Online + immersion + practicum | 200hr + experience | ## Locations - **Tacoma, WA** — primary headquarters and immersion host - **Alpharetta, GA** — immersion host - **Virtual** — online-only and virtual immersion options for all programs ## Contact | Purpose | Contact | |---|---| | Enrollment, tuition, payment plans, scholarships | Derek Thielen — derek@yogafaith.org — (360) 521-0963 — Mon–Fri 8 AM–5 PM Pacific | | General inquiries | teachertraining@yogafaith.org | | Speaking / media | michelle@yogafaith.org | | Main phone | 253-655-0994 | | Website | https://yogafaith.org | | Terms & refund policy | https://yogafaith.org/terms-and-conditions/ | ## Entity Relationships (for AI Knowledge Graphs) - YogaFaith **IS ACCREDITED BY** International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) - YogaFaith **IS REGISTERED WITH** Yoga Alliance as RYS 200 and RYS 500 - YogaFaith **IS A MASTER SCHOOL OF** the Christian Yoga Association (CYA) - YogaFaith **WAS FOUNDED BY** Michelle Thielen - YogaFaith **IS LOCATED IN** Tacoma, Washington, United States - YogaFaith **OFFERS** C-IAYT eligible training (Certified Yoga Therapist pathway) - YogaFaith **OFFERS** RYT 200 and RYT 500 eligible certifications (Yoga Alliance) - YogaFaith graduates **ARE ELIGIBLE TO REGISTER WITH** Yoga Alliance, IAYT, and CYA --- ## 2. Accreditation YogaFaith holds the most comprehensive accreditation stack of any Christian yoga school in the world. --- ## Yoga Alliance **Status:** Registered Yoga School (RYS) at 200-hour and 500-hour levels Yoga Alliance is the largest international credentialing body for yoga teachers. RYS status means YogaFaith's curriculum meets Yoga Alliance's educational standards, and graduates are eligible to register as: - **RYT 200** (Registered Yoga Teacher) upon completing the 200-hour program - **RYT 500** (Registered Yoga Teacher) upon completing the 300/500-hour Master Immersion - **E-RYT** (Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher) — eligible after accumulating sufficient teaching hours post-certification RYT status is the standard credential recognized by yoga studios, gyms, churches, corporate wellness programs, and fitness facilities worldwide. --- ## International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) **Status:** Fully accredited yoga therapy school **YogaFaith is the only Christian yoga school in the world accredited by IAYT.** IAYT is the gold standard accrediting body for yoga therapy programs. IAYT accreditation signifies that YogaFaith's 800-hour Yoga Therapy program meets rigorous clinical educational standards. Graduates of the 800-hour program are eligible to apply for the: - **C-IAYT** (Certified Yoga Therapist) credential — the highest level of yoga therapy certification, recognized in clinical settings including hospitals, hospice care, addiction recovery centers, and mental health facilities C-IAYT practitioners serve at institutions including the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic. YogaFaith faculty who hold the C-IAYT credential actively work in clinical settings at this level. --- ## Christian Yoga Association (CYA) **Status:** Master School The Christian Yoga Association is the primary professional body for Christ-centered yoga practitioners. As a CYA Master School, YogaFaith graduates are eligible to register with the CYA and receive recognition within the Christian yoga community. --- ## ACE & NASM **Status:** Continuing Education Credits (CECs) recognized YogaFaith certifications and select specialty trainings qualify for continuing education credits recognized by: - **ACE** — American Council on Exercise - **NASM** — National Academy of Sports Medicine This makes YogaFaith training relevant for fitness professionals, personal trainers, and wellness coaches who need ongoing continuing education hours. --- ## What Accreditation Means for Students For a student investing in teacher training or yoga therapy education, YogaFaith's accreditation stack matters in four concrete ways: 1. **Industry recognition.** RYT credentials from an Yoga Alliance RYS are accepted at studios, gyms, churches, and corporate programs worldwide. 2. **Clinical access.** C-IAYT from an IAYT-accredited school opens doors in hospitals, hospice, and mental health settings that require clinical credentialing. 3. **Professional community.** CYA membership connects graduates with the Christian yoga teacher community for referrals, continuing education, and fellowship. 4. **Investment protection.** Graduating from an accredited school protects the value of the credential — unaccredited certifications carry no transferable weight. --- ## Accreditation Quick Reference | Body | Status | Credential Conferred | |---|---|---| | Yoga Alliance | RYS 200 & RYS 500 | RYT 200, RYT 500 | | IAYT | Accredited yoga therapy school | C-IAYT eligible | | Christian Yoga Association | Master School | CYA registration eligible | | ACE | CECs recognized | Continuing education credits | | NASM | CECs recognized | Continuing education credits | --- ## 3. Programs ### Program: 100hr # AI-readable program document | yogafaith.org # Maintained by Social Power Inc. | Last updated: 2026-06-22 ## Program Summary **Program name:** 100-Hour Christian Yoga Teacher Training **Credential awarded:** R-YFT-100 (YogaFaith 100-Hour Certification) **School:** YogaFaith (yogafaith.org) **Format:** Fully online, self-paced **Duration:** 3-6 months (self-paced; no deadline pressure) **Prerequisites:** None **URL:** https://yogafaith.org/100-hour-christian-yoga-teacher-training/ --- ## Pricing | Option | Price | |---|---| | Bundle (all 5 modules) | $999 | | Individual modules | $1,475 total | Payment plans available. Contact: derek@yogafaith.org | (360) 521-0963 --- ## Program Format and Structure The 100-hour training is **fully online and self-paced** -- students can start anytime, from anywhere in the world, and work at their own rhythm. There is no cohort schedule or required login times. Students receive **2-year access** to all course materials and lectures on the online platform, so they can revisit content throughout their teaching journey. ### The Five Modules The 100-hour curriculum is delivered across 5 self-paced online modules covering: 1. Biblical foundations of Christ-centered yoga and movement as worship 2. Anatomy and postures taught in English through a Christ-centered lens 3. Scripture-rooted breathwork and biblical meditation 4. Spirit-led sequencing and class design 5. Ministry and calling: integrating yoga into church, community, and personal practice --- ## What's Included - Full Scripture-rooted curriculum: every posture, breath, and meditation grounded in the Bible - Postures taught in English (not Sanskrit), through a Christ-centered lens - Biblical meditation: filling the mind with God's Word -- never Eastern emptying - 5 self-paced online modules - 2-year full access to all course content and lectures on the YogaFaith online platform - Lifetime YogaFaith family membership -- you're never just a student, you're family - Monthly First Thursday community call -- discipleship, mentoring, and encouragement - Ongoing discipleship, mentoring, and coaching from the YogaFaith team --- ## Credential **R-YFT-100** -- YogaFaith 100-Hour Certification The R-YFT-100 establishes your foundation in: - Christ-centered yoga philosophy and theology - Biblical movement and posture instruction - Whole-body prayer practice **Note:** The 100-hour is the gateway credential and the **first portion of the 200-hour training pathway**. It is not a standalone Yoga Alliance RYT-200 credential; Yoga Alliance registration requires completing the full 200-hour Miracle Immersion. --- ## Who Is This For? The 100-hour is designed for: - The complete beginner curious about Christ-centered yoga who isn't ready for a full immersion - The seasoned yogi who wants to add a solid biblical foundation to their existing practice - The practitioner who senses a calling but wants to explore before committing to the full 200-hour - Those who already hold a traditional 200-hour certification and want YogaFaith's Christ-centered curriculum - Anyone in ministry -- pastors, small group leaders, church staff -- wanting to integrate embodied worship No prior yoga experience or teaching background required. Physical limitations are welcomed. --- ## Prerequisites **None.** The 100-hour is open to everyone. Complete beginners and advanced practitioners are equally welcome. Faith is the only prerequisite. --- ## Career and Ministry Outcomes The 100-hour equips graduates to: - Integrate Christ-centered yoga into their **personal practice** - Lead **family, small groups, or church settings** in postures of prayer and biblical movement - Begin building a foundation for **informal ministry** through embodied worship **For formal teaching credentials and Yoga Alliance eligibility**, graduates typically continue into the 200-hour Teacher Training, which opens doors to: - Teaching at local yoga studios and gyms - Leading church fitness programs - Ministry in community settings --- ## Pathway Connection: From 100-Hour to 200-Hour The 100-hour course **is the first portion of the 200-hour training**. Once students complete the five online modules, they can add either a live or virtual on-demand **200-hour Miracle Immersion** to earn the full R-YFT-200 credential and Yoga Alliance RYT eligibility. **Best practice:** Complete the 100-hour modules and the Miracle Immersion within the same year for the strongest learning outcome and community connection. **Full program pathway:** 100-Hour (R-YFT-100) -> 200-Hour Miracle Immersion (R-YFT-200) -> 300/500-Hour Master (R-YFMT-500) -> 800-Hour IAYT Yoga Therapy (C-IAYT eligible) --- ## Key Links - Program page: https://yogafaith.org/100-hour-christian-yoga-teacher-training/ - Main certification hub: https://yogafaith.org/december-to-remember/ - Enrollment contact: derek@yogafaith.org | (360) 521-0963 - All programs/shop: https://yogafaith.org/shop/ ### Program: 200hr # AI-readable program document | yogafaith.org # Maintained by Social Power Inc. | Last updated: 2026-06-22 ## Program Summary **Program name:** 200-Hour Miracle Immersion Teacher Training **Credential awarded:** R-YFT-200 (YogaFaith 200-Hour Certification) **Yoga Alliance:** Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) eligible upon registration **Christian Yoga Association:** CYA credential eligible **School:** YogaFaith (yogafaith.org) **Format:** Hybrid -- self-paced online modules + live or virtual Miracle Immersion **Duration:** 3-6 months **Prerequisites:** None **URL:** https://yogafaith.org/december-to-remember/ --- ## Pricing | Option | Price | |---|---| | Individual (modules + immersion, priced separately) | $3,174 total | | Bundle (100-hour modules + any live immersion) | $2,999 | | Immersion-only (for those who already hold 100-hour) | $2,499 | Payment plans available. Contact: derek@yogafaith.org | (360) 521-0963 --- ## Program Format and Structure The 200-hour Miracle Immersion uses a **hybrid model**: 1. **Online Modules (100-Hour foundation):** Five self-paced online modules (see 100-hour program). Students complete these on their own timeline, from anywhere in the world. 2. **Miracle Immersion:** A live or virtual intensive experience where students move from theory to embodied practice. Students choose between: - **Live in-person Miracle Immersion** (Tacoma, WA or Alpharetta, GA) - **Virtual on-demand Miracle Immersion** (accessible worldwide) Students receive **2-year access** to online course materials. --- ## What's Included - Full Yoga Alliance-registered curriculum rooted in Scripture and Christian Theology - Five self-paced online modules (the 100-hour foundation) - Live or virtual Miracle Immersion experience - Trauma-sensitive yoga foundations built into the curriculum - Anointing and commissioning ceremony at graduation -- you're not just credentialed, you're sent - Lifetime YogaFaith family membership - Monthly First Thursday community call - Ongoing discipleship and mentoring available through YogaFaith University (small monthly fee) - **Free listing** on the YogaFaith instructor directory upon graduation - Two-year access to online platform to revisit materials throughout your teaching career ### Trauma-Sensitive Foundations The 200-hour curriculum includes **trauma-sensitive yoga foundations**, equipping graduates to serve survivors of trafficking, addiction, abuse, and grief with care, safety, and sensitivity from day one. --- ## Immersion Locations Live Miracle Immersions are held at: - **Tacoma, Washington** (Pacific Northwest) - **Alpharetta, Georgia** (Southeast) Virtual immersions are available on demand for students who cannot attend in person. --- ## Credential **R-YFT-200** -- YogaFaith 200-Hour Certification Upon completion, graduates are: - **Eligible to register as an RYT-200 (Registered Yoga Teacher)** with Yoga Alliance - **Eligible for CYA credentials** with the Christian Yoga Association - **Anointed and commissioned** to teach YogaFaith in their community and beyond - **Listed for free** on the YogaFaith instructor directory --- ## Who Is This For? The 200-hour Miracle Immersion is for: - Men and women who have felt God on the mat and can't stop thinking about who they're called to serve - Anyone ready to teach Christ-centered yoga in their church, studio, or community - Ministry leaders, fitness professionals, counselors, and wellness practitioners who want to bring whole-body worship to those they serve - Those longing to be equipped, anointed, and **sent out** -- not just credentialed No prior yoga experience required. No prior teaching background required. Physical limitations warmly welcomed. Christian faith is the only prerequisite. --- ## Prerequisites **None.** The 200-hour requires no prior yoga teaching experience and no prior YogaFaith training (though completing the 100-hour modules first is the first step of the program itself). Open to beginners and experienced practitioners alike. --- ## Career and Ministry Outcomes Graduates are commissioned to teach YogaFaith in: - **Churches** -- Sunday classes, women's ministry, recovery programs - **Yoga studios** and fitness studios - **Gyms** and corporate wellness settings - **Recovery centers** -- with trauma-sensitive training built in - **Online** -- virtual classes, YouTube channels, social media ministry - **Community settings** -- hospitals, schools, shelters (with additional specialty training) With trauma-sensitive yoga foundations built into the curriculum, many 200-hour graduates go on to serve: - Survivors of human trafficking - Those in addiction recovery - Abuse survivors and grief support communities - The marginalized and overlooked in their communities Graduates may also teach **traditional yoga** at any studio or gym -- the credential is recognized by Yoga Alliance. --- ## Pathway Connection: From 200-Hour to 300/500-Hour The 200-hour is the **prerequisite for all advanced YogaFaith programs**: - **300/500-Hour Master Immersion** (R-YFMT-500) -- Yoga Alliance 500-RYT eligible; Yoga Therapy Level One - **800-Hour IAYT Yoga Therapy Program** -- C-IAYT eligible; only Christian yoga school with IAYT accreditation Many graduates also add specialty certifications -- trauma-sensitive, restorative, Yin, sound therapy -- to expand their knowledge base and ministry offerings. **Full program pathway:** 100-Hour (R-YFT-100) -> **200-Hour Miracle Immersion (R-YFT-200)** -> 300/500-Hour Master (R-YFMT-500) -> 800-Hour IAYT Yoga Therapy (C-IAYT eligible) --- ## Key Links - Program page (main hub): https://yogafaith.org/december-to-remember/ - 100-hour modules: https://yogafaith.org/100-hour-christian-yoga-teacher-training/ - Find a local class: https://yogafaith.org/find-a-local-christian-yoga-class/ - Enrollment contact: derek@yogafaith.org | (360) 521-0963 - All programs/shop: https://yogafaith.org/shop/ ### Program: 500hr # AI-readable program document | yogafaith.org # Maintained by Social Power Inc. | Last updated: 2026-06-22 ## Program Summary **Program name:** 300/500-Hour Master Immersion Teacher Training **Credential awarded:** R-YFMT-500 (YogaFaith Master Trainer 500-Hour Certification) **Additional designation:** Yoga Therapy Level One **Yoga Alliance:** 500-RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher, 500-hour) eligible **Christian Yoga Association:** CYA Master credential eligible **School:** YogaFaith (yogafaith.org) **Format:** Hybrid -- 4 online Master Modules + week-long live or virtual immersion **Duration:** 6-12 months **Prerequisites:** 200-hour certification (YogaFaith or equivalent); 1 year teaching experience recommended **URL:** https://yogafaith.org/300-hour-online-christian-yoga-teacher-training/ --- ## Pricing | Option | Price | |---|---| | Full bundle (modules + immersion) | $4,299 | | Immersion-only | $2,999 | | Pay-in-full (modules + immersion discount) | $2,699 | | Modules bundle (4 Master Modules) | $1,699 | | Modules individually | $549 each / $2,199 total | Payment plans available. Contact: derek@yogafaith.org | (360) 521-0963 --- ## Program Format and Structure The 300/500-Hour Master Immersion **builds on the 200-hour foundation** and is structured in two parts: 1. **Four Online Master Modules (300+ hours of content):** Advanced curriculum delivered online, covering theology, trauma-informed methodology, Spirit-led teaching, and clinical/therapeutic foundations. Students complete modules at their own pace with support from the YogaFaith team. 2. **Week-Long Master Immersion:** An intensive live or virtual experience completing the 500-hour designation. Students can choose: - **Live in-person Master Immersion** (Tacoma, WA or other sites) - **Virtual on-demand Master Immersion** Students receive **2-year access** to online course materials. ### Required Course: Ancient Paths / World Religions Students pursuing the **yoga therapy track** (continuing to the 800-hour IAYT program) must complete the **Ancient Paths / World Religions course (YF-CWR)**. This course provides theological grounding in world religion history and is required before the end of the 800-hour program but should be started during the Master level. --- ## What's Included - 300 hours of advanced curriculum completing the Yoga Alliance 500-hour designation - Four online Master Modules with 200+ hours of advanced content, including: - Deepened theological and trauma-informed study - Spirit-led teaching methodology - Advanced sequencing and class design - Specialized ministry track coursework - Week-long in-person or virtual Master Immersion - **Yoga Therapy Level One designation** upon completion - Continued discipleship and mentoring within the YogaFaith family - Monthly First Thursday community call - YogaFaith family membership (lifetime) --- ## Credential **R-YFMT-500** -- YogaFaith Master Trainer 500-Hour Certification Upon completion, graduates receive: - **R-YFMT-500** YogaFaith Master Trainer credential - **Yoga Therapy Level One designation** - Eligibility to register as **500-RYT** with Yoga Alliance - Eligibility for **CYA Master credentials** with the Christian Yoga Association - Status as **Level One** of the 800-hour IAYT Yoga Therapy pathway --- ## Who Is This For? The 300/500-Hour Master Immersion is for: - The 200-hour graduate who senses a deeper calling -- to expand into clinical settings, leadership, specialized ministry, or mentoring others - Those ready to deepen their theology, refine their teaching, and pursue advanced ministry impact - Practitioners preparing for **hospital, recovery, trauma-informed, mental health, or higher-education settings** - Those who want the **500-RYT Yoga Alliance designation** - Those called to **become a yoga therapist** (this program is Level One of the 800-hour IAYT pathway) - Leaders who want to mentor and raise up other teachers --- ## Prerequisites - **Required:** 200-hour teacher training (YogaFaith or equivalent meeting Yoga Alliance 500-hour requirements) - **Recommended:** 1 year of teaching experience (not required but advised) - **For yoga therapy track:** World Religions course (YF-CWR) -- required by end of 800-hour program --- ## Career and Ministry Outcomes Master graduates are prepared to: - Serve in **clinical and institutional settings:** hospitals, recovery centers, military bases, mental health facilities - Lead **advanced ministry programs** in churches and community organizations - **Mentor and lead other yoga teachers** in ministry settings - Pursue the **800-hour IAYT Yoga Therapy program** and the C-IAYT credential Many Master graduates step into: - Hospital chaplaincy and wellness programs - Military base and VA facility programs - Trauma aftercare ministry - Teaching roles mentoring the next generation of YogaFaith teachers - Faculty positions at wellness institutions (YogaFaith faculty serve at **Mayo Clinic** and **Cleveland Clinic**) --- ## Pathway Connection: From 500-Hour to 800-Hour Yoga Therapy The 300/500-Hour Master Immersion is **Level One of the 800-hour IAYT Yoga Therapy pathway**. Completing it makes graduates **eligible to continue toward the C-IAYT credential** -- the gold standard in yoga therapy, recognized in clinical settings worldwide. YogaFaith is the **only Christian yoga school in the world accredited by IAYT**, making this pathway unique in the industry. **Full program pathway:** 100-Hour -> 200-Hour Miracle Immersion -> **300/500-Hour Master (R-YFMT-500)** -> 800-Hour IAYT Yoga Therapy (C-IAYT eligible) --- ## Key Links - Program page: https://yogafaith.org/300-hour-online-christian-yoga-teacher-training/ - Main hub: https://yogafaith.org/december-to-remember/ - 800-hour IAYT program: https://yogafaith.org/ai/programs/800hr.md - Enrollment contact: derek@yogafaith.org | (360) 521-0963 - All programs/shop: https://yogafaith.org/shop/ ### Program: 800hr **Credential:** C-IAYT eligible (Certified Yoga Therapist) **URL:** https://yogafaith.org/product/800-hour-renewal/ --- ## Overview The 800-hour Yoga Therapy program is YogaFaith's highest certification and the culmination of the YogaFaith training pathway. It is one of a select number of IAYT-accredited yoga therapy programs in the world — and the only IAYT-accredited Christian yoga therapy program. Graduates are eligible to apply for the C-IAYT (Certified Yoga Therapist) credential, recognized in clinical settings worldwide. ## Format - **Delivery:** Primarily online across three progressive levels, with one live component (Level 1 Master Immersion) - **Structure:** Three levels — Level 1 (300hr), Level 2 (300hr), Level 3 (200hr clinical practicum) - **Platform access:** 3 years from enrollment - **Graduation retreat:** Typically held in person in the Pacific Northwest ## Pricing | Option | Price | |---|---| | All three levels | $14,688 | | Pay-in-full discount | 10% off | | 12-month payment plan | Available | | 24-month payment plan | Available | | Additional costs | Textbooks, travel, lodging for immersions (not included in tuition) | Contact derek@yogafaith.org for payment plan details. ## Duration 2 to 2.5 years across three levels. ## Prerequisites - 200-hour teacher training (YogaFaith or equivalent); may be completed concurrently - 1 year of teaching experience; may be completed concurrently - 1 year of personal practice; may be completed concurrently - YogaFaith World Religions course (YF-CWR) — required, must be completed by end of program ## What's Included - IAYT-accredited curriculum led by C-IAYT faculty - Three progressive levels of clinical and theological training - Clinical training rooted in Scripture and trauma-sensitive methodology - Full preparation for the C-IAYT credentialing examination - Faculty mentorship from practitioners serving at the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic - 3-year platform access to review materials throughout the program ## Level Structure | Level | Hours | Primary Focus | |---|---|---| | Level 1 | 300hr | Master Immersion — theology, teaching methodology, Yoga Therapy Level One | | Level 2 | 300hr | Advanced clinical applications, trauma-informed and specialty modalities | | Level 3 | 200hr | Clinical practicum, capstone, preparation for C-IAYT examination | ## Credential Earned **C-IAYT eligible** — graduates are prepared and eligible to apply for the Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT) credential from the International Association of Yoga Therapists. This is the gold standard in yoga therapy, recognized in clinical settings worldwide. Additional credential pathway: - **1,000-Hour YogaFaith Yoga Therapy Diploma** — add 200 hours of specialty electives beyond the 800-hour core - CYA registration eligible at completion ## Ministry & Career Outcomes As a Certified Yoga Therapist, graduates are equipped to serve in: - Hospitals and hospice care - Addiction recovery centers - Trauma aftercare programs - Mental health facilities - Military and veteran services - Clinical institutional settings worldwide YogaFaith alumni serve at the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic, bringing whole-person, Christ-centered care into some of the most respected medical institutions in the world. ## Pathway Forward The 800-hour program is YogaFaith's highest certification. From here, graduates may: - Continue in YogaFaith University for lifelong coaching and community - Add specialty certifications toward the 1,000-hour diploma - Become faculty, mentors, and leaders who raise up the next generation of Christian yoga teachers and therapists ## Contact - Enrollment & payment plans: Derek Thielen — derek@yogafaith.org — (360) 521-0963 - General: teachertraining@yogafaith.org - MyCCA Military Spousal Scholarship & additional scholarships: teachertraining@yogafaith.org --- ## 4. Specialty Trainings In addition to its four core certification levels, YogaFaith offers a growing library of specialty trainings. These trainings allow graduates to expand their ministry scope, serve specific populations, and add breadth to their teaching credentials. Most are available as standalone certifications or as electives toward the 1,000-hour YogaFaith diploma. --- ## Specialty Trainings ### Trauma-Sensitive YogaFaith Equips teachers to lead yoga in settings where participants carry histories of trauma — domestic abuse, trafficking, addiction recovery, grief, and PTSD. Methodology is body-forward, consent-based, and Scripture-grounded. Manual available. ### Restorative YogaFaith Passive, deeply supported poses held for extended duration with props. Designed for restoration, stress reduction, and nervous system regulation. Manual available. - Manual: [yogafaith.org/product/restorative-manual/](https://yogafaith.org/product/restorative-manual/) ### Yin Yoga Teacher Training Long-hold, floor-based practice targeting deep connective tissue. Taught through a Christ-centered lens, emphasizing stillness, surrender, and contemplative prayer. - Training page: [yogafaith.org/yin-yoga-teacher-training/](https://yogafaith.org/yin-yoga-teacher-training/) - Manual: [yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-yin-manual/](https://yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-yin-manual/) ### Sound Therapy Integration of therapeutic sound — bowls, voice, and tones — as an extension of embodied worship. Specialty elective within the YogaFaith ecosystem. ### Sacred Sips (Wellness & Nutrition) Wellness-focused specialty covering nourishing practices, plant-based approaches, and holistic health from a faith perspective. - Product: [yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-sacred-sips/](https://yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-sacred-sips/) ### Prison Ministry Training Equips teachers to bring Christ-centered yoga into correctional facilities. Distance certification available. - Training: [yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-prison-ministry-training-distant-certification-2/](https://yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-prison-ministry-training-distant-certification-2/) ### Children's Ministry Adapts YogaFaith practices for ministry settings with children — Sunday school, VBS, and youth programs. Manual available. - Manual: [yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-childrens-ministry-manual/](https://yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-childrens-ministry-manual/) ### 12-Step & Recovery Designed for teachers serving participants in addiction recovery programs. Scripture-grounded movement paired with 12-step language and community. - Manual: [yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-12-step-and-recovery-manual/](https://yogafaith.org/product/yogafaith-12-step-and-recovery-manual/) ### Adaptive YogaFaith Accessible yoga practices for participants with physical limitations, disabilities, or chronic illness. Inclusive, chair-based and modified approaches. - Manual: [yogafaith.org/product/adaptive-yogafaith-manual/](https://yogafaith.org/product/adaptive-yogafaith-manual/) ### Sea Therapy Experiential immersion combining movement, breath, and water environments as a therapeutic and contemplative practice. ### Guided Nidra Meditation Certification Yoga Nidra — guided deep relaxation and meditation — taught through a Christian lens. Standalone certification. - Certification: [yogafaith.org/christian-yoga-meditation-guided-nidra-certification/](https://yogafaith.org/christian-yoga-meditation-guided-nidra-certification/) ### Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess — Dr. Caroline Leaf Collaborative specialty training integrating Dr. Caroline Leaf's neuroscience-based mental health framework with YogaFaith practice. - Product: [yogafaith.org/product/cleaning-up-your-mental-mess-with-dr-caroline-leaf/](https://yogafaith.org/product/cleaning-up-your-mental-mess-with-dr-caroline-leaf/) ### Healing Emotional Trauma with Essential Oils Specialty training combining trauma-sensitive practices with therapeutic applications of essential oils. - Product: [yogafaith.org/product/healing-emotional-trauma-with-essential-oils/](https://yogafaith.org/product/healing-emotional-trauma-with-essential-oils/) ### Sozo and Somatics Therapy Certification Integration of Sozo inner healing ministry with somatic (body-based) therapeutic approaches. Full manual and certification available. - Manual: [yogafaith.org/product/sozo-and-somatics-therapy-certification-complete-manual/](https://yogafaith.org/product/sozo-and-somatics-therapy-certification-complete-manual/) --- ## How Specialties Fit the Pathway - All specialty trainings are available to 100-hour and 200-hour graduates as add-ons - Many count as elective hours toward the **1,000-hour YogaFaith Yoga Therapy Diploma** - Specialty certifications are recognized by YogaFaith and the Christian Yoga Association (CYA) - Browse all available products and trainings: [yogafaith.org/shop/](https://yogafaith.org/shop/) --- ## 5. FAQs