250-HOUR YOGA ALLIANCE CERTIFIED TRAINING
Teach with Impact. Live with Intention. Be Your Best Self
Transform Your Passion Into Purpose-Driven Teaching
This isn't just teacher training—it's a complete transformation of how you practice, teach, and live.
This is where 90% of graduates go on to teach, and 100% say these 6 months transformed their lives.
Now Accepting Applications for the class of 2027.
Your 6-Month Journey.
January 1- June 30, 2027
Yoga Alliance Approved
Limited to 16 Students
Hybrid: one weeknight (Wednesdays, 6:45–8:00 pm), one weekend a month ( schedule below), lectures on your own schedule
Village of Hamburg, NY — minutes south of Buffalo
Payment plans available
What You'll Learn: Four Pillars to Transformation
KNOWLEDGE - The Foundation
Yoga philosophy that applies to modern life
Functional anatomy and biomechanics for safe teaching
The nervous system and trauma-informed approaches
Energetic anatomy and subtle body systems
Yoga history and cultural context
Ethical frameworks for teaching
The science behind why yoga works
PRACTICE - The Integration
48 key postures with detailed alignment
Intelligent sequencing and class architecture
Voice & language development
Authentic cueing
Teaching diverse bodies and abilities
Practice teaching with constructive feedback
Developing your unique teaching style
ATTENTION - The Depth
Reading bodies and energy in the room
Observation without judgment
Cultivating mindfulness as a teacher
Creating space through presence
Understanding different learning styles
Somatic awareness and embodiment
The art of holding space
HEART - The Transformation
Finding your authentic voice
Building inclusive community
Teaching from service, not ego
Emotional intelligence for teachers
Creating transformative experiences
Professional boundaries with compassion
Making yoga accessible to all
Here’s what our graduates say about their experience
Now Imagine Yourself Next June...
Imagine if you understood not just the "what" but the "why" behind every cue you give—speaking with the authority that comes from deep knowledge and personal practice.
Imagine if you had a sustainable teaching path ahead of you, with the business skills, studio connections, and ongoing support to make yoga more than a passion—but a purposeful career.
Imagine if you belonged to a close community of fellow teachers who become your sounding board, your inspiration, and your lifelong friends.
This isn't just a dream. It's what our graduates experience.
How our Hybrid Format Works
Online Components (Watch on Your Schedule):
70 Hours of Lectures - Philosophy, anatomy, teaching methodology
Posture Clinic Videos - 2-3 postures weekly with lifetime access
Required Class Recordings - Learn from master teachers
Watch when you learn best—morning, evening, or weekend
Pause, review, and revisit anytime for life
The videos are yours to keep forever! Alumni have access to updated videos. Graduates report that this is a priceless resource when planning a class or workshop, or just brushing up on their skills.
In-Person Components (Build Real Connection with supported application):
Every Wednesday 6:45-8:00 pm - Practice teaching and application
6 Weekend Intensives - Deep immersion and transformation
May Practice Teaching - Your full practice teach with feedback
66 Studio Classes - Take any Shine classes throughout training (video library available and yours forever). A 6-month unlimited yoga class membership is included in your tuition.
Worth the Trip: For in-person sessions & classes, we meet at our studio, Shine Yoga in Hamburg, NY. It is 5 minutes from the skyway and less than 5 minutes from the Hamburg Thruway exit.
Our students come from all over Western New York — Buffalo, Williamsville, Orchard Park, East Aurora, Lockport. One graduate drove from Salamanca, and another from Houghton, NY.
Home Practice (Develop Your Foundation):
3 weekly guided practices (15-20 minutes each)
Personal practice development
Reading and integration exercises
Book club preparation
Reading from the comprehensive manual
Buffalo winters. We always err on the side of caution during storms. Emergency Zoom attendance is available for extreme weather and the unexpected. A class library is available to keep up with weekly classes, and if the weather is bad on a weekend, we will reschedule.
"I wasn't ready. I wasn't a handstanding-arm-balancing-wise-woman-yoga-queen. Not even close. But I knew deep down that I had the vision and work ethic to create something different. I knew I had the skills to teach and support people who needed what I had to give."— Sara, founder Deep Yoga Method & Shine Yoga studio
Meet Sara - Founder of Shine Yoga Studio & Deep Yoga Method Lead Teacher
The Professional Foundation
For 20 years before opening Shine, Sara worked as a professional writer, university instructor, and program developer for large behavioral health and primary care organizations. This unique background means your training isn't led by someone who just knows yoga – it's designed by someone who understands how adults learn, how to craft transformative curriculum, and how to build innovative, research-based programs that create lasting change.
The Personal Journey
Sara discovered yoga in 1996, and it became the anchor through life's storms. In 2015, at age 41, after completing cancer treatment for Stage 3 breast cancer and while raising a now three-year-old, she made a bold decision. Sara couldn’t raise her arm above shoulder height, let alone do a downward-facing dog. But the only thing that broke up scar tissue, helped her manage lymphedema, and kept fear at bay was yoga. Sara opened Shine Yoga that year.
The Teaching Legacy
Twelve years later, Sara has:
Welcomed thousands of students through Shine's doors
Trained over 100 yoga teachers who are transforming lives in Western NY and beyond
Created a professional 392-page curriculum that meets university educational standards, revised annually based on student outcomes and feedback.
Created WNY's first YTT program with a structured two-week post-graduation teaching practicum built into the curriculum
Built a teaching methodology that 90% of graduates actively use (industry average: 30%)
The Deep Yoga Method
Sara's teaching style reflects her journey – exploratory, compassionate, and real. Her classes don't chase perfection; they pursue understanding. This approach, combined with her professional expertise in curriculum development, creates a training that transforms not just your practice, but your life.
"I made Shine for all of the people who hear that same whisper and need someone to believe in them. I'm here to support you every step of the way."— Sara, founder Deep Yoga Method & Shine Yoga studio-
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Emily, class of 2024, owner Bliss Yoga
Getting my certification through Shine has been one of the best experiences of my life.
It’s been beautiful to see how fellow students and myself have learned and developed the past five months under Sara‘s guidance and mentorship. Sara is very knowledgeable and passionate about teaching to her students.
Her hybrid teaching course was very in-depth and helped with flexibility in our day-to-day schedule.
I feel very inspired to continue education while very confident in my abilities after graduating!
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![People taking a yoga class on mats in a bright, cozy room with large windows.]()
Christina P, class of 2020, teaching at local studio
Sara provided me with a wealth of knowledge and confidence to create and teach my own classes with grace and heart. I am forever grateful for her and the experience she gave me. I look forward to continuing my education with whatever new and exciting programs Sara and Shine has to offer.
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![Close-up of a mature woman with gray hair, eyes closed, enjoying a moment of peace.]()
Barb W, class of 2019, teaching Grief Yoga, restorative, and senior yoga since graduating.
“I was in the habit of allowing my age to define me but Sara encouraged me, not only putting to rest my fear of being “too old” but allaying my worry that I didn’t have the flexibility or mobility that I perceived I needed.
I made wonderful friends and beyond that a strong sense of a supportive community during my Shine experience.
And my self confidence and physical abilities have expanded way beyond what I thought was possible. Yoga is a permanent part of my life now, so necessary for my personal growth, both spiritually and physically."
-Barb W
What Makes Us Different
We believe the teacher is responsible for the student's success.
Not as a burden — as a promise. When a student can't find her way into a posture, there is always another way in, and finding it is our work, not hers.
That's why we teach technique rather than shape, and why you'll leave here knowing how to teach in a dynamic way that serves your student and brightens your eyes.
And…
1. 250 hours of training instead of 200
200 hours is the requirement to become a certified yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance. It’s not enough. We give you 50 additional hours of deep learning—more practice teaching, deeper anatomy study, and genuine confidence.
That’s 25% more training for the same price as other programs. Plus, those extra 50 hours apply to your Advanced YTT if you want to continue learning with us.
2. True Flexibility Without Isolation
Our hybrid model means you never miss crucial content (watch lectures anytime and watch them again and again) while still building lifelong friendships and getting one-on-one support through weekly meetings and weekend intensives.
3. Post-Certification Support
We don't abandon you after graduation. June 15-30 includes:
One-on-One Mentorship meeting with Sara
Teaching your final class again, without the nerves and with additional feedback from Sara
A teacher’s panel discussion with teachers who have taken different paths.
After June 30th, you have the opportunity to join our Teacher’s Circle and to continue to train with us, take classes at a discounted rate, and teach a donation-based class in studio.
You are a part of our community of teachers, and that’s like family for us. We stay connected. And work to ensure your continued confidence and growth as a teacher.
4. Curriculum & Manual Developed by an Educator
As part of your training, you’ll receive a 212-page manual and 180-page workbook, printed and bound. Created by a professional writer and university instructor, revised annually since 2019 based on graduate feedback. Because transformation happens when you can write in the margins.
Weekend Schedule (2027)
All weekends, 12-5 pm Saturday & Sunday
Opening- Wednesday, January 6, 6:45-8:00 pm
Jan 9 & 10: Foundation Principles & Teaching Methodology
Feb 6 & 7: The Physical Body
March 13 &14: The Energetic Body
April 10 & 11: Authentic Theming
May 8 & 9: Sequencing
June 11, 12 &13: Final Teach & Graduation
We also meet every Wednesday from 6:45-8:00 pm and have an online book club once per month.
Everything You Need to be an Exceptional Teacher
What's Included
Unlimited Studio Access for Six Full Months
Practice as much as you want from January through June. Take three classes a week (the requirement) or three classes a day—your membership covers it all.
Your Personal Teaching Library—Forever
Every lecture, every posture clinic, every teaching demonstration remains yours for life. Five years from now when you're preparing to teach a workshop, you'll still have these resources. When you forget the cues for a posture, pull up the video. When you need philosophical inspiration, revisit the lectures. This isn't just training—it's your permanent teaching toolkit.
Individual Mentorship Throughout
Not group coaching calls where you're one of dozens. One-on-one sessions with Sara, tailored to your journey. From your first week to preparing for your practice teach to launching your teaching career, you have personal guidance every step of the way.
Post-Certification Support
Two weeks after graduation, you're still held, still guided, still supported. Teach at Shine with mentorship. Get your questions answered. Build confidence before you're on your own.
Yoga Alliance School Benefits
Your certification is recognized globally. Access continuing education at member rates. Professional insurance discounts. Teaching opportunities that require YA certification. The doors this opens continue long after graduation.
Small Cohort Guarantee
Maximum 16 students means you're seen, heard, and supported. Every question answered. Every practice teach witnessed. Every breakthrough celebrated.
392 pages of printed materials (not PDFs)
Your manual and workbook to make your own and keep forever
But Here's the Real Value...
All of that—the classes, the lifetime access, the mentorship—it's substantial. It's comprehensive. It's more than other programs offer.
But it's not why our graduates' lives change.
The real value is in the moment you realize you can hold space for someone's pain and guide them to peace.
It's in finding your voice—not just as a teacher, but as a human being who knows their purpose.
It's the 3 am moment six months from now when life feels overwhelming, and you have the tools to get through it.
It's watching your first student's face soften in savasana and knowing you helped create that release.
It's the confidence that comes not from a certificate on your wall, but from 250 hours of being seen, challenged, supported, and transformed.
We include everything practical so you can focus on what matters—your transformation.
Payment Options
10 payments
$380
3 payments of
$1266
1 payment of
$3500
$300 savings
All payment options include
250 hours of comprehensive training
6-month unlimited studio membership
Lifetime access to 179 instructional videos and 30 classes
Personal mentorship throughout
Post-certification support
Templates for posture categories, posture clinics, cuing, theming, and sequencing.
Tuition agreements are binding and non-refundable
Shine Student Discount
Been practicing at Shine ( Our Yoga Studio) for over a year?
Save $500 when tuition is paid in full!
The Power of Deep Yoga Method Training
"I researched dozens of teacher trainings before choosing Shine, and it was hands-down the best decision. The balance of technical precision and heart-centered approach prepared me to teach with both confidence and authenticity.
Sara's personalized mentorship throughout the program helped me find my unique teaching voice rather than becoming a carbon copy of another teacher.
The program has such a good reputation that I got a job teaching before I even graduated. "
-Jessica
Here’s How to Get Started
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Step TWO
After we receive your application, we will contact you to schedule a no-pressure consultation call to discuss your goals and determine if our training aligns with your vision. This conversation helps us ensure you'll thrive in our program.
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Step Three
Upon acceptance, secure your spot with payment and receive your welcome materials.
Your Month by Month Journey
Month 1: Foundation (January)
Establish your practice, learn teaching fundamentals, begin posture clinics, learn about yoga’s history and philosophy, meet your teaching family
Month 2: The Physical Body (February)
Learn to cue yoga to support muscle engagement and elongation. Learn how the body works in movement and stillness. Study the feet, hips, shoulders, spine, and center in detail from bone to fascia. Understand how each body system impacts alignment and global strength.
Month 3: The Energetic Body (March)
Learn how to manage and manipulate energy in yourself and your students. Study the nervous system extensively from the anatomy of the brain through polyvagal theory. Learn specific tools that allow the body to communicate safety to the central nervous system, including myofascial release and pranayama ( breath work). Practice meditation and silence. Learn how yoga’s ancient Energetic Maps can support us today.
Month 4: Teaching Authentically (April)
Yoga is always a means of better knowing yourself. As a teacher, what you teach and how you teach is a reflection of what you value. Spend some time deciding what you think is important and learn how to apply it to a class.
Month 5: Sequencing (May)
Learn how to sequence a class to support your students’ body, mind, and heart.
Month 6: Launch Your Teaching (June)
Teach your own class! Graduate June 13, then continue with 2 weeks of supported teaching at Shine, career guidance, and a smooth transition to independence
Weekly: Posture Clinic Every week you’ll learn the goals, key cues, effective language, modifications, and more for a posture. The posture clinic will be recorded so you can review them when you are a teacher. Each week we will review the posture clinic in person and you will teach. a partner.
Monthly: Book Club We will read and discuss a selection of books to fill out your understanding of Yoga Philosophy and explore ways to bring it into your life and teaching.
Daily: You will take three classes per week (can be from the recorded class library) and do three home practices.
Let’s begin
Ready to begin your journey to becoming the teacher and person you were meant to be?
It just takes three minutes.
Here’s what our graduates are doing.
90%
teaching
Industry data reports that less than 30% of certified teachers are teaching yoga after graduation. Our statistic is all the more groundbreaking given that number. Most of our trainees enter the program not even sure they want to teach. On average, 70% take the training for their own personal development, but by the end our graduates are drawn to teaching. They are confident and thrilled by the impact they can have.
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Yoga Business Owners
This training gives students the confidence ( and the support) to live their wildest dreams.
Businesses include:
Bliss Yoga with Emily
Gem Yoga
Leading with Heart
Grind and Align
Sacred Roots
50%
Are teaching in schools or medical settings.
Every year, our classes are made up of a good number of teachers and medical providers.
Our post-pandemic, 2022 class was remarkable because only a few students weren’t medical providers.
We are so proud that these students chose Alchemy as their guide and that they are making change from the inside every day.
Check out this interview with Wendy, one of our nurses.
08
having Babies!
Is it the daily yoga, the support of like-minded people, or something in the water?
Nearly every year we’ve had a pregnancy in our training.
This yoga teacher training is perfect for you if...
✓ You've been practicing yoga consistently for at least 3 months and feel ready to deepen your understanding
✓ You value an approach that honors yoga's traditional roots while making it accessible and relevant for today's students
✓ You are dedicated to learning and curious about all that yoga has to offer.
✓ You need flexibility but also crave in-person connection and community
✓ You're ready for genuine transformation, not just a certificate
✓ You value personalized mentorship over factory-style certification
✓ You want to teach after graduation (not just have a certificate)
✓ You believe yoga can change lives—starting with your own
Ready for Complete Details?
Download last year’s Program Documents
📄 2026 Overview (PDF)
📄 2026Full Program Schedule (PDF)
These comprehensive documents include:
Week-by-week breakdown of all requirements
Detailed curriculum outline
Book list and reading schedule
Graduation requirements
FAQ section
You’ll receive updated documents when you enroll.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Most people who come to us don't know yet. About seventy percent enroll for their own practice and their own understanding. By June, most of them want to teach — not because we talked them into it, but because they've discovered they can do it well. Come for whichever reason is true for you today.
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Three months of consistent practice. Not three years, not a handstand or other acrobatics. We want you to have a consistent yoga experience because we believe yoga is transformative, and we want to train students who have felt that. Our method is unique. We’ll teach you everything you need to know, but we want you to come in believing in yoga as a tool for transformation.
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So many things. The training is taught entirely by Sara, the founder of both Shine Yoga and The Deep Yoga Method. She’s been teaching it for longer than any independent school in the area and has unique credentials. The training is hybrid, which gives students the one-on-one feedback they need, the community that makes Yoga Teacher Trainings rare, and the ability to learn on your schedule in the way you learn best. You are taught how the body works and how to teach individuals not static shapes. You are taught that your voice is important and given a structure to share your heart through. You are part of a community of care, kindness, and curiosity for 6 months.
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Tuition is $3,500 paid in full, or ten monthly payments of $380. That includes six months of unlimited classes at Shine, 392 pages of printed curriculum, lifetime access to the video library, and one-on-one mentorship. If you've practiced at Shine for a year or more, you save $500 when you pay in full.
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One weekday evening (6:45–8:00pm), one weekend intensive per month, three classes a week — which can be recordings — and three short home practices. Plus lectures you watch on your own schedule. Most students plan for eight to ten hours a week, but I provide you with a complete breakdown of the video lengths so you can schedule it around your own time.
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Our students come from all over Western New York — Buffalo, Williamsville, Orchard Park, East Aurora, Lockport, Springville, Salamanca, and further. It’s absolutely doable, and we use technology to support weather events and unexpected issues. We're at 35 Pierce Ave in Hamburg, minutes south of Buffalo and right off the thruway.
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Yes. We're a Registered Yoga School. The training is 250 hours — fifty more than the minimum.
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We err on the side of caution during storms and always will. Emergency Zoom attendance is available for weather and the unexpected. If there’s a weather warning on a weekend, we will reschedule. There is a complete video library of more than 30 classes for you to take if you get stuck.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Have questions and want to talk to Sara right away?
Want a little more time and information? Sure, we’ll keep you updated.
