200 HOUR YOGA TEACHER TRAINING
therapeutic & trauma-informed approachGain clarity, confidence and practical tools to deepen your practice and teach others.
22 DAYS
IMMERSIVE IN-PERSON TRAINING
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS INCLUDED
SOUTH FRANCE
★★★★★
Exceptional Yoga Alliance School Rating 4.93 of 5
Outstanding Google Review Rating 5 of 5
Take your first certified yoga teacher training with Europe’s leading therapeutic educators, integrating somatic psychology, applied anatomy, and evidence-informed practice to support safe, embodied, and intelligent teaching that goes far beyond standard 200-hour programs.
PROGRAM AT-A-GLANCE
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Learn from certified yoga therapists who work directly with clients. Study asana, pranayama, meditation, philosophy, and anatomy & physiology, integrating traditional practice with modern, real-world application.
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This training supports those responding to stress, anxiety, burnout, trauma, and health concerns. We welcome all ages and backgrounds and emphasise observation, functional anatomy, and kinesiology, shifting focus from form to function.
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As trauma awareness grows, teachers must prioritise safety and empowerment. This program presents yoga as both practice and profession and is the only 200-hour training in Europe with a therapeutic focus.
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Tuition includes 21 nights’ accommodation, all meals, and full access to facilities. Group size is limited to 14 students, ensuring personalised mentorship and support.
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Graduates deepen their practice, build careers, start businesses, or continue Yoga Therapy studies. You’ll leave with a respected qualification, practical skills, and the confidence to teach professionally and meaningfully.
Watch two lessons from our training!
Join us in the classroom and see what it’s like to learn with us! Receive access to recordings of our lessons on the musculoskeletal system and the history of yoga.
“You are not at home, but it’s like coming home. I learnt so much, more than I could have imagined. It’s a different YTT than the ones that I’ve looked at, and I think they give so much extra here.”
Shobha, Belgium
ABOUT THE TRAINING
Our 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training is grounded in a therapeutic mindset, trauma-informed education, and evidence-based knowledge. These four pillars form the foundation of our teaching methodology and curriculum.
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Where ancient wisdom meets modern, evidence-based learning.
Our curriculum is continuously updated with the latest research and real-world insights.
You’ll explore yoga through a modern therapeutic lens, developing a grounded understanding of both tradition and contemporary science.This training includes:
Evidence-based anatomy and physiology
The nervous system + stress responses
Biomechanics and functional movement
Subtle body awareness and philosophical foundations
Modern applications of yoga beyond the mat
This integrated approach ensures your teaching is both rooted and relevant, serving diverse students with clarity and confidence.
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Teaching grounded in safety, adaptability, and respect for every nervous system.
We teach yoga as a practice of awareness, not performance.
You’ll learn how to create safe, inclusive, and choice-filled spaces where students of all backgrounds and abilities feel supported.This includes:
Functional movement and adaptive sequencing
Trauma-informed communication and language
Respect for bodily autonomy and informed choice
Understanding triggers, nervous system states, and co-regulation
Practicing hands-on assists safely and only where appropriate
This training will give you the tools to teach with sensitivity, and to hold space responsibly.
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Learn from experienced professionals dedicated to safe, embodied teaching.
Throughout the training, you’ll be supported by certified yoga therapists with years of clinical, educational, and embodied teaching experience.
Their guidance helps you build confidence, refine your personal practice, and understand how yoga can be applied with care and insight.
What this looks like in practice:
Embodied learning woven into every lecture
Real-time feedback during practice teaching
Somatic psychology integrated into movement and breathwork
Theory explained through practical, human-centered examples
Supportive mentorship that meets you where you are
Your teachers bring deep expertise, and teach from compassion, safety, and lived experience.
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Movement guided by awareness, purpose, and compassion.
Somatics builds internal awareness and supports emotional resilience.
When combined with the foundations of Hatha and the creativity of Flow, it offers a teaching approach that is both mindful and adaptable.You will learn:
Somatic techniques that cultivate presence and embodiment
How to sequence Hatha classes with clarity and intention
How to integrate mindful Flow that supports all levels
Ways to balance structure with freedom
How to guide students to move authentically and safely
This integration helps you teach classes that are inclusive, nurturing, and deeply connected to the student’s own experience
OUR CURRICULUM
This is the only in-person 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in the world taught by certified yoga therapists, providing a comprehensive curriculum to deepen your practice and prepare you to teach yoga in a modern world. The training takes place in France and includes 22 days of immersive education, including accommodation and meals for the duration of the course. The training is taught entirely in English, however our international faculty speaks multiple languages.
DAILY SCHEDULE
Our classes, lectures and workshops run from Monday to Saturday. You can expect two days off over the course of the training.
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Our morning classes are led by our senior faculty and offer a dynamic start to the day, incorporating asana, pranayama and meditation. You can expect steady Hatha yoga practices, as well as awakening flow and breath-centred movement practices.
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Enjoy a healthy breakfast, including local-baked breads, warm oatmeal with toppings, eggs, local fruits, yogurt, homemade granola, homemade jam and various spreads. Meals are vegetarian, and all dietary requirements can be catered for. Food is often organic & local.
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Discover the human body in an interactive and educational manner. We will explore key body systems - such as the musculoskeletal system, the nervous system and respiratory system - appreciating the integral approach that we move and breathe as a unified being, and not as a machine.
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Dive deep into alignment principles, benefits, contraindications and variations of the key poses of yoga. What makes our training stand out is the time taken to explore the intention of the pose, beyond the aesthetics, making this truly a yoga teacher training for ALL.
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Enjoy a nourishing lunch, prepared fresh snd served warm. You can expect delicious curries, hearty vegetarian bowls, grains, and a wide range of cuisines inspired by cultures from around the world. And there’s always a sweet treat waiting for you!
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Discover the contraindications, benefits and different approaches to practicing and teaching key breathing and meditation practices.
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Become immersed in the rich history of yoga, and understand how this very ancient practice that has its origins in the far east has evolved and found its way to the West. You will learn how to interweave philosophical concepts into yoga classes, and develop an appreciation for the intuitive wisdom that has been passed done for thousands of years.
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We teach you HOW to teach. Here we bring the ancient practice of yoga into the modern world, by appreciating that everyone moves and breathes in their own unique way. We remove dogma, and focus on creating an inviting, explorative and open dialogue between teacher and student. It’s not about memorising a script of instructions, but rather being able to teach yoga based on who your students are in that moment.
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Our family-style meals invite an opportunity for reflection, connection and nourishment. You can expect hearty soups, warming stews and wholesome accompaniments. No meal is the same throughout the training, and many students request recipes and leave our training motivated to spend more time in the kitchen!
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Some evenings will involve a fireside chat, which is an opportunity to reflect on the topics covered that day, or to have an open discussion around yoga. We will also have movie nights, yoga nidra sessions, and even a games night. Other evenings will have no planned activities, allowing for some free time or self-study.
OUR RETREAT CENTRE
Nestled in the heart of the Southern French countryside, our retreat centre, Logis du Paradis, offers a serene setting designed for both comfort and focus. Surrounded by natural beauty, it provides the perfect balance of privacy and community, with inviting shared spaces, quiet study lounges, and a beautiful natural park just beyond the doors, ideal for peaceful walks through nearby vineyards.
All private and twin rooms feature ensuite bathrooms, ensuring comfort and ease throughout your stay. At the centre of the experience is our light-filled 75m² yoga studio, fully equipped with mats and props, where bright stone walls and abundant natural light create an inspiring space for practice, learning, and connection.
GETTING HERE
We are located in Criteuil-la-Magdeleine, which is just one hour from Bordeaux, and we provide direct transfers between Bordeaux-Merignac airport and Logis du Paradis on the arrival day and departure day.
Please see our FAQs below for more information about transfers and how to get to the retreat centre.
MEET YOUR FACULTY
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Manouk (C-IAYT, E-RYT500) is the Lead Trainer for this programme. She is a certified Yoga Therapist and Teacher Trainer with extensive expertise in therapeutic and remedial yoga. Her practice began in 2006 and has informed her work in both clinical and educational environments. She has led teacher trainings and retreats internationally, including in Australia, New Zealand, Panama, Spain, and France. In addition to teaching, she lectures on the Body–Mind connection for postgraduate medical and psychology students at leading hospitals, and works one-to-one with individuals experiencing anxiety, chronic fatigue, and stress-related conditions. Manouk is the Anatomy & Physiology lecturer of The Yoga Therapy Institute’s 875-hour Yoga Therapy Diploma. As Lead Trainer, she provides structured, evidence-informed education supporting students to confidently and competently apply yoga principles in a wide range of settings.
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Biddy (E-RYT200) is a yoga teacher and certified Yoga Therapist, teaching since 2017 across group classes, retreats, and private sessions. She has supported senior teachers such as Adriene Mishler (Yoga with Adriene) on her European Roadshow and Lizzie Lasater on Restorative Yoga Teacher Trainings in the Netherlands. Her teaching integrates functional anatomy, movement education, and trauma-informed methodology, with an emphasis on accessibility and clarity of instruction. Biddy specialises in guiding students to develop self-awareness, agency, and confidence in movement through practical, structured learning. Her approach is grounded in professional knowledge, clear communication, and adaptive teaching methods suitable for varied student needs.
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Connie (E-RYT200) is a movement educator and yoga teacher with formal academic training in Psychology (BSc, University of Nottingham) and Gender, Sexuality & Culture Studies (MA, University of Manchester). She is a 200-hour Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher, Somatic Coach (SOMA Method), Advanced Yin Practitioner (Authentic Flow/Rise Academy), and Pranayama & Meditation Facilitator. Connie’s teaching methodology emphasises functional movement, interoceptive awareness, and structured progression, supporting students in developing autonomy and informed movement choices. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based understanding of the nervous system and behaviour, making her work effective in both group and one-to-one settings.
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Jo is an experienced yoga teacher and rehabilitation-focused movement educator, with professional involvement in yoga since completing her first teacher training in 1979. Over several decades, she has trained extensively across schools of yoga and meditation worldwide, developing a comprehensive understanding of physical alignment, functional movement, and psychosomatic well-being. Jo’s work focuses on supporting individuals in postural re-education, pain management, and long-term physical-health improvement. Her teaching is clear, structured, and grounded in practical experience, making her particularly skilled at helping students refine movement patterns and apply yoga techniques in a sustainable and therapeutic way.
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Natascha (RYT500) has pursued extensive professional development in Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Aerial Yoga, and applied anatomy. Her work focuses on yoga for back pain, movement re-education, and the integration of nervous system support into yoga practice. Beginning yoga at age 15 and later returning to address injury and chronic discomfort, she combines practical bio-mechanical understanding with a trauma-informed perspective. Natascha teaches structured classes, workshops, and private sessions aimed at developing long-term, sustainable practice for physical and emotional well-being.
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Lynette is a co-trainer for this course. She is an experienced yoga and meditation teacher and space holder of 12.5 years, known for her intelligent and consciousness in motion yoga classes and action on and off the mat. Lynette is committed to achieving true wellness by finding balance and creating inclusive spaces for everyone. Lynette believes that wellness spaces should be accessible, diverse, inclusive and equitable. Lynette believes everyone has the right to belong and incorporate our intersectionalities and individual collective trauma.
Why study with us?
Our in-person 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training provides deeper connection, guidance, and hands-on learning.
At The Yoga Therapy Institute, you’ll receive personalised feedback, build confidence, and develop the skills to teach yoga safely, compassionately, and effectively.
This immersive approach ensures you leave ready to share the transformative power of yoga, equipped with knowledge and tools that last a lifetime.
OUR NEXT TRAININGS:
April 4th - 25th, 2027
October 3rd - 24th, 2027
Fill in our application form and we will get back to you as soon as possible to confirm availability. Applying is free and non-binding. A deposit is requested only if your application is accepted.
WHATS INCLUDED?
Training
200+ hours of Yoga Alliance approved training with certified Yoga Therapists, science-based education and interactive workshops and classes. Detailed student manual and workbook. Consistent support from our dedicated and experienced faculty.
Accommodation
A shared or private bedroom for 21 nights. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms.
Amenities
Access to all retreat facilities, including 75m2 yoga studio, outdoor swimming pool, vineyards, local market, study lounges, and wifi.
Meals
Three nutritious vegetarian meals per day, with unlimited herbal tea, coffee, water, fruit and snacks always available through the duration of the course. Dietary requirements can be accommodated at no extra cost.
Extras
Excursions to local towns and nearby attractions on days off, support & mentorship from The Yoga Therapy Institute faculty, including post-training guidance, recognition as a graduate from The Yoga Therapy Institute’s Education program and lots of surprises along the way!
✺Twin Room ✺
This rate is for a shared bedroom with two large single beds, with ensuite bathroom. Ideal for students seeking comfort and connection.
€3,395
✺ Private Room ✺
This rate is for a bedroom with a kingsize bed, with ensuite bathroom. Ideal for students seeking privacy and space.
€3,995
✺ Non-residential Spot ✺
This rate is for the training programme and meals only. Ideal for students who prefer to arrange their own accommodation.
€2,795
Payment
A €950 deposit is required to secure your spot. The deposit is only paid after your application has been accepted.
What our graduates say
Frequently Asked Questions
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Starting the journey to become a yoga teacher is exciting, and sometimes a little bit scary! If you have a love for yoga, and a desire to know more about it, then a Yoga Teacher Training can be a great way to learn. In this Yoga Teacher Training, we place extra emphasis on supporting your personal practice, and also teaching you how to lead a class in a confident and authentic manner. You’ll learn about yoga poses (asana), but also breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation. You will gain a deeper understanding of yoga philosophy, through exploring key historical texts through a contemporary lens. And what is unique about our Yoga Teacher Training is that all of our classes incorporate a therapeutic and trauma-informed approach.
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Yes, we are a Yoga Alliance certified training (RYS200).
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We require applicants to have a dedicated yoga practice of at least one year (or 52 classes) prior to starting their 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training. It is not necessary to be able to do ‘advanced’ asanas (poses), but a familiarity with a variety of asanas, and some experience as a student in a yoga class is ideal. The purpose of the training is to refine your practice and also show you how to teach or share yoga with others in a safe and confident manner. During the training we will certainly explore a few challenging poses, but the goal will be to understand the pose, and not perform the pose!
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Our 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training is delivered through a trauma-informed lens. This means we prioritise safety, choice, respect, and compassion in the way we teach and interact. However, it is important to emphasise that this training is not a trauma resolution retreat and is not designed to heal or process personal trauma.
Trainees are asked not to use class time to share or process traumatic experiences. The role of the trainers is to teach you how to practice and teach yoga safely and effectively, not to provide therapy or counselling.
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No, it is not possible to complete this training online. As this is often the first Yoga Teacher Training that a person embarks on, the in-person element is fundamental to being able to teach yoga in a safe, confident, trauma-informed and intelligent manner.
During the training, we look in-depth at the individuality of every person’s body, we learn to read facial expressions and breathing patterns. And we realize how important it is to give correct hands-on assists and adjustments.
The Yoga Therapy Institute firmly believes that an in-person experience for a first Yoga Teacher Training is invaluable, and will also make you stand out as a highly capable Yoga Teacher.
(It is also important to note that many yoga studios do not hire yoga teachers who have completed a fully online Yoga Teacher Training).
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Nowadays, there are so many different Yoga Teacher Training programmes to choose from it can be hard to know what is the best choice for you.
A couple of unique strengths that The Yoga Therapy Institute’s 200 hour YTT offers are:
Small-scale groups. We only take a maximum of 14 trainees per in-person training. This means you will receive plenty of individual attention, and have much more opportunity to practice your teaching skills compared to other yoga teacher trainings. You will also have the chance to ask more questions, discuss more topics that pique your interest, and develop a close relationship with your trainers and fellow trainees.
World-class faculty. Our faculty only consists of certified Yoga Therapists, meaning they have completed over 800 hours of additional study to the average yoga teacher trainer. You will start your yoga teacher journey learning from trainers who implement a therapeutic and trauma-informed approach into all of the work they do.
Our trainers not only teach yoga, but also present at hospitals and universities about the importance of yoga. They work one-on-one with individuals dealing with a wide range of illnesses and challenges, and they offer specialised workshops in their areas of expertise.
A trauma-informed approach. This is one of the only YTTs in the world that infuses a trauma-informed perspective into all aspects of the training. And the learnings from this style of teaching are highly applicable in our modern-day life, where trauma and chronic stress are experienced by almost everybody. Your future students will not only appreciate your in-depth understanding of yoga, but also HOW you share this knowledge with them.
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A €950 deposit is required to secure your spot. The deposit is only paid after your application has been accepted.
A second payment of €950 is due 10 weeks prior to the start of the training.
A final payment is due [amount dependent on accommodation option] 6 weeks prior to the start of the training.
All payments are non-refundable.
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The deposit for this training is non-refundable.
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Yes! This training focuses on teaching you how to confidently lead yoga classes. You will practise teaching fellow students and receive feedback from trainers. A specific methodology will be provided to guide you in instructing yoga classes effectively.
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You will learn how to teach Hatha Yoga classes and gentle Flow Yoga classes, all through a Trauma-Informed perspective. These are some of the most upcoming and popular styles in today's modern world. You will also be introduced to the key concepts of Restorative Yoga, adapting yoga for pregnancy, leading yoga classes for the older population, and Yoga Therapy.
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Our training blends spiritual and scientific approaches, combining ancient wisdom with modern understanding of the mind and body. It emphasises a trauma-informed approach, essential in a world where it is estimated that 90% of the population may experience trauma. Your lead trainer is a certified Yoga Therapist, with e tensive experience in yoga practice and study. You will gain an incredible toolkit for yoga practice and teaching, with the potential for a fulfilling career as a Yoga Teacher.
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A typical day consists of a 7:30am yoga class led by the trainers, followed by lectures and workshops. There are breaks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Topics covered include teaching methodology, yoga history and philosophy, anatomy and physiology, and business skills. Classes are interactive, allowing for questions and practical application. Each day concludes with gentle yoga class and a 'fireside chat' or self-study time for summarising the day's learnings and further exploration. Sundays are rest days with organised excursions to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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The price mentioned on the website includes 22 days of training, and accommodation and meals for the duration of the training. You'll enjoy three daily vegetarian meals, unlimited drinks and snacks, and access to the pool and sauna. Excursions and additional activities are also covered. You'll receive a printed Student Manual and an RYT Certificate from Yoga Alliance upon completion.
Flights and airport transfers are not included.
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Yes, there is a strong Wifi connection throughout the entire property.
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Airport Transfer:
Arrival day transfer from Bordeaux Airport at 15:00 (ensure your flight arrives by 14:30).
Departure day transfer from Logis du Paradis at 09:30 (ensure your flight leaves after 12:00).
Train Station Transfer:
Arrival day transfer from Angouleme station at 16:30 (ensure your train arrives by 16:15).
Departure day transfer from Logis du Paradis at 10:15 (ensure your train leaves after 11:00).
Taxi, Uber or BlaBlaCar:
Provide the following address:
396 Rue des Marronniers,
16300 Criteuil-la-Magdeleine,
France

