Praise

This Yin Yoga training is very detailed, well organized, and super thorough.

I loved having the time to rewatch and relearn the teachings, which was huge for my adult brain.

I grew in leaps and bounds, learning all about Yin, with the podcasts providing a wealth of information that perfectly complemented the training.

My biggest takeaway was understanding that we are all shaped differently, learning the right way to word things, and recognizing the importance of staying in our lane and not diagnosing.

I feel 100% prepared to teach Yin Yoga. I highly recommend this training to other Yoga teachers.

Nicole Wesen

My only concerns were related to my availability/calendar for the spring training so I could attend the live sessions as much as possible. I was approved to take time off of work so I could attend live sessions on Friday afternoons – once that approval was in place it was green lights all the way!

I did have some prior Yin Yoga Training during my 200 hour YTT one of the lead instructors was Yin Yoga specialist, so she would do some “extra Yin” training when time allowed and connected me to Bernie and Paul’s books. I did a 20-hour online training with Kate Lombardo (Yoga Renew) which gave me a  good foundation and I was teaching a weekly Yin class at my local studio.

 My previous training was all pre-recorded and self-paced. Your course was much more in depth and included live/interactive sessions, and actual Yin classes which I believe really enhanced the experience.

I appreciated the opportunity to always ask questions, and learned a lot from the questions others were asking. This training also had assignments and a large focus on therapeutic approach and TCM. I also appreciated the functional anatomy requirement to give us a baseline of functional approach to Yin / Yoga. 

 My knowledge and understanding has grown in so many ways, and I would say my biggest growth has been understanding (and applying) how Yin ties into TCM, the elements/seasons and meridians/sinew channels. I was already teaching seasonally to an extent, and now plan to take a more seasonal approach in the future for my online Yin offerings. 

I Absolutely feel prepared to start teaching Yin Yoga after having done this training,I have been teaching and through this course now feel more prepared to teach when my students don’t have a bolster.

 I loved that every day of the course included an actual Yin class. We had “theory to practice” literally every single day we gathered. Hands-on learning at its finest. 

My biggest takeaway was talk less and teach 75 – 90 minute class whenever possible.

I liked the 3-day intensive weekends spaced out over a few months (and the ability to watch a recording if I missed)

I highly recommend this course 100% yes!

Erica Elbery IG @ericajeanyoga / Website: www.ericajeanyoga.com

I had binged your podcast and knew taking your training was a must for me. Before your course, I had a short intro during my 200 hour YTT.  I also took a 20 hour online course through Yoga Renew. The Yoga Renew training was prerecorded.  It was a decent intro to Yin and made me want more training and to teach this style. And I always prefer live training to be part of a community and learn from others’ questions and experiences.

Your training was so much more in depth and covered many additional topics like the elements and sinew channels.  I really appreciated the therapeutic focus that you brought to class along with your knowledge of TCM.  

There were fewer poses in my first training and no upper body poses at all.  I now have a better grasp of Yin Yang theory.  I notice that I am bringing it into the day to day.  Interoception and feeling the poses, understanding the intention of the poses, bringing in more ways to include mindfulness, 

I was teaching Yin before your course and knew I needed more training.  I feel so much more confident in my preparation and classes now. I have so many more options/alternatives to make classes more accessible for a wide range of students.  

I loved learning more about TCM, the Elements, Seasonal teaching. Going over the poses in depth multiple times to get a good understanding of each shape and alternative sand your beautiful practices.

• There are so many takeaways  I can’t pick one!
• Gateway to meditation – options for the busy mind
• Taking what I have learned and finding my own voice
• The Class Recipe
• Interoception -finding the right amount of instruction but allowing quiet for internal practice
• Constructive rest- this is a wonderful way to ground at the beginning of class!

I loved the class schedule and the length of classes.  It fit well into my schedule and was paced so that it wasn’t overwhelming.

I Absolutely recommend the course along with your podcast.

Thank you so much for your dedication, expertise and all that you do! 

Lora Stone

I didn’t have hesitations – more just consideration, did the weekends interfere with other pre planned things, finances etc. But once, I listened to some of your podcasts I knew I was going to figure out how to make it work,  if not this session then another 

I had done more than one Yin Yoga Training before yours: 

• 30 hour training at the same studio I did my 200 in – maybe 6 months later?
• Bernie Clark – went in person maybe 8 years ago
• Sabine Winkler MYO YIN training – via zoom during covid
• Ayurveda and Yin – also on line, from the same woman who did the training at the studio 
• Somatic Yin with Annie Au about 18 months ago
• Self Myoyin with Gabrielle Harris

Your training was different:

• The information on Chinese medicine,
• The writing of sequences as homework
• Paul Grilley’s anatomy presentation.
• The more in depth use of Chinese medicine
• Meridians and sinews,
• Using the seasons as planning for classes    
• Introduced to a few new poses – (graceful bow, baby dragon, half frog) 

I have already been teaching, but definitely feel so much more prepared now, and have been really considering sequences for classes 

What I  liked best about the course

• The manual was fantastic  
• loved having the practices with every class 
• was great meeting so many people from all over the world  
• really appreciated how much time for questions and how approachable you were with asking questions  
• Using seasons to plan classes 

I would 10000% recommend this program and already have some of my students listening to your podcast   

I think it was excellent.  So many extras with the classroom and notes etc.  I really liked the  format, having 2 or 3 weeks to absorb the information before moving on to the next was perfect.    

Beth Lewis

I had 0 hesitations about taking your training, I already had listened to all your podcasts and I already taken the “functional anatomy” course

previously I had taken the Sampoorna Yoga school, 50 h,Yin Training with Ely Aguilar. But yours was completely different even though both of them were on-line.

100h is just great  to go through theory, to practice  regularly with you. Yes, this practice part was so important!!!! 

Going through theory with you….made it very clear!!!!

My knowledge and understanding, has grown notably since taking the course.

• variations for postures,
• part of functional anatomy (even if I had learned a lot of anatomy in school, functional aspects…..are so important for any kind of practice). For my own practice, for me as a Yin Yoga teacher
• theory of Five elements! Not too much, not too little!
• understanding the links > postures > meridians/ SINEW CHANNELS/ FASCIA > organs. Thank you a lot for that!!!!!
• Information about the usefulness of one training about trauma (as a Yin Yoga teacher). I work as a psychiatrist for 25 years … and I find that information from you on this subject very useful.

I consider that this kind of training should be a ‘must’ for all yoga teachers. Also “functional anatomy”! I did not find information anywhere else about SINEW CHANNELS. Thank you a lot for this. I consider this kind of a core of Yin Yoga practice. The guidelines for when I create a sequence. Very very very useful!!!!

I was already teaching Yin Yoga, the difference is that now I have confidence because I really trust in your information, in your huge experience in the Yin Yoga world, as a practitioner, as a teacher, as a trainer I feel more calm, a better container for all kinds of dynamics that arise Yin Yoga classes.

Maybe, I will try to make a comparison: driving a car WITH or WITHOUT driving license.

What did I liked best about the course was YOU!!!!!!!

• The way you interact with everybody in a way of ‘we are a community’, letting ‘space’ for everyone, q&a part
• Having practice together every single time!!!!!
• You leading this training from your home ..was like we were kind of guests….. Kind of nice closeness.
• The information that I could not find anywhere else….eg. about sinew channels….
• A lot of details as good timing( theory part, breaks, practice)
• Great structure of theory
• All the practice with you!!!!!!!

I highly recommend this course I already have!

Diana Jivanescu

 

My only hesitation the 100 hour commitment but the way that it is broken up (4 hours per day) made a six weekend commitment much easier, My previous Yin training was 30 hours so I was very curious about the material that would be covered in 100 hours.

 In 2020 I did a 30 hour training with Kramas Yoga it was a basic yin training but I was a new teacher – it gave me some confidence to teach a yin class and to explore different ways to teach a yin class. My first training was very basic- I felt like it was yin yoga 101. 

Your training was a masterclass in that it:

•  built on the knowledge that I had but allowed me to explore other areas that had been lightly touched on in previous trainings: TCM, 5 elements, sequencing and fascia.
• introduced TCM info in a very approachable way that will allow me to continue with self study and learn more (but understand that my knowledge is just scratching the surface!)
• Exposed me to many poses that I had not seen in my previous training or with my self study. Bringing these shapes into my classes will make the poses more accessible to the variety of students that I see.

I learned to teach and sequence with intention using the sinew channels and Five Element knowledge that was shared in the training. Covering this material in different ways on multiple weekends was key to developing an understanding of these theories

I am excited to bring what I have learned in this training into my classes and I feel prepared to offer practices that will appeal to a broad range of students.

I absolutely loved building a strong, foundational understanding of the sinew channels and Five Elements. 

All of the questions and discussions that came up contributed significantly to the value of the course and it was amazing to spend 6 weekends with people who love taking and teaching yin classes as much as I do!

I have so much more I want to learn!

I would 1,000% recommend this training to any Yoga teacher that would like to develop a much deeper understanding of the power of a yin practice and how to share that understanding through the classes that they teach. This trianing far exceeded my expectations!

This format worked well for me. I liked that we met for 4 hours per day – with the time zone that I live in, I was able to teach my regular class (no need to arrange subs!) and be online in the afternoon. 

Carrie Skawinski

 

Originally, I was going to join the fall intake 2024 but just wanted to scope things out a bit more before committing. I was always going to do the training at some point though.

Had previously attended  a 50hr with Melanie Cooper and Jennie Wadsden of The Shala and Yoga Treat in November 2022 There was minimal TCM in original training, just diagrams of the meridians.

Your course had more time in practical classes which was brilliant. More time for questions in this one, I love that we didn’t feel rushed to get through the manual by a certain time. There were about 20 people in the first training which made me feel a bit like I was lost in the crowd.

Since taking this training, my teaching has grown more than I could ever have imagined. I was so nervous before to go over to people who were struggling but now i know I have a bank of alternatives for each pose so I don’t hesitate to go over to people to help.

 I feel like I’ve gone from a teacher just winging it and hoping for the best to someone who actually knows what she is doing.

what I loved about this course was, no question was too much trouble. There was always time for input and discussion. I love that you don’t just throw theory at us but you are genuinely immersed in the subject yourself and care greatly about sharing the wisdom.

my biggest takeaway: The intended area of the pose to enable me to think of alternatives. The fact that it’s ok to do the same shapes regularly and I don’t have to be entertaining or different each week. 

I would recommend this training to other Yoga teachers Absolutely. Everyone needs to know about the Yin!

Hanna Frost

Hanna Holistics Website

Instagram @hannahholistics 

 

Before your training I had done a few Yin Trainings: 60 hours Yin Yoga TT with Rise & Shine Yoga on Ibiza, 50 hours on-line Yin Yoga with Loka Yoga and 40 hours on-lineYin Yoga TT with Devi Daly Yoga

I liked that your training was delivered live on line it wasn’t on demand self paced learning there was A great balance between teaching and practice – loved the way you structure the course. Also that the course materials were available from the start.

Your program had a more meaningful and helpful approach to the assignments and final certification. Really helpful asana booklet and approach to teaching the content – initially to nail intended areas and then to understand which sinew channels each pose impacts, lots of opportunity to ask questions and extra resources – videos and links to relevant podcasts to listen to or revisit.

I now have I have a deeper understanding of fascia and the sinew / fascia channels and although  I knew about skeletal variation before but the pre-course work really brought this to life and deepened my understanding of what this means in real life.I have a much deeper  understanding of the poses, variations and props and how to guide people into their shapes and give options
A better understanding of how to sequence a class – love “the recipe”
A much deeper understanding of the five elements and sinew channels.  For the first time I can remember the sinew channels  for each element
Loved learning how to work with the elements  and teach seasonally – even without saying a word to students – brilliant! 

Yes, I feel prepared to start teaching Yin Yoga after having done this training. I’m teaching my Fire sequence tomorrow – theming it around the Summer Solstice. Update: It went brilliantly – my students said it helped them to cool down and take heat out of the body. Amazing!

What I liked best about the course was  all the things listed above. I also like that for the first time my interest in the TCM 5 elements and sinew channels has been peaked. Also the way the course was structured and all the course materials and resources. I looked forward to the sessions each weekend.

My  biggest takeaway was  how to sequence – “the recipe”, how to practically use the 5 elements seasonally and how much more confident i now feel in my teaching. Pretty priceless!

I Would you recommend this training to other Yoga teachers – I already have!

Thank you Nyk – I really enjoyed the course and appreciate your care, experience and knowledge. I’ve learned loads! Also thank you for your generosity in inviting us to attend your public classes on line – I really enjoy them

 

Dorothy Matthew

Web: Fabulous Forever 

Instagram: @dorothy_fabulous_forever

 

No, hesitations none. I was excited and ready.

Yes, I took your level 1 training with Ajna. I also took a 45 hour training with Lucy St John’s Yoga in October 2020 

This training presented Yin as much less rigidly defined and more open to creativity. Nyk is very good at impressing upon her student teachers the importance of questioning anything presented as fact. 

I had always had teachers state that Yin Yoga “is based on Chinese medicine” which made me doubt that I could be a really good yin teacher without a really good working knowledge of it. I now understand that  don’t need to go deeply into that aspect of Yin to deliver beautiful and effective sequences to my students (and myself)

I have been teaching yin for 5 years and questioned if I should be. After this training, I am no longer questioning, I’m looking forward to offering richer experiences to my students. 

I liked how visual it was and my biggest takeaway was to not overthink the TCM aspects of Yin, to allow them to inform my teaching, but not necessarily become part of what I teach

I Would  recommend this training to other Yoga teachers, I already have been recommending Nyk’s training whenever Yin comes up in conversation with other teachers.  

 

Christina McCarvill Seekers Path Yoga

 

My only hesitations were personal due to ensuring I could dedicate the time and balancing family, work and a college certificate program I’m taking. I had previously taken a Yin training with Yoga Medicine. 

 I liked the class formula to ensure we create a well planned class. I also appreciated having a better understanding of what areas each shape is targeting. I am now able to speak to that in class and I notice a difference in how the students prop themselves. 

I 100% feel prepared to start teaching Yin Yoga after having done this training.

I really liked the class formula and discussions of  the target areas of the shapes. The mini flows with butterfly or shoelace. 

YES, I Would recommend this training to other Yoga teachers! I was recommending it before I started and during!

After finding your podcast and binging them, I knew I wanted to learn directly from you. I hope others do as well.

I feel Like  I received what I was looking for during the training and more.

Jennifer Raymo @jenni_ray_yoga

 

Having listened to a lot of your podcast, I had a good sense that I would like the course. I didn’t have previous Yin training; I only read most of Bernie’s book.

I now understand much more about the fascia, which is fascinating. I hadn’t studied the five element theory at all, which was interesting, and I just feel much more competent in a group of students and addressing their different needs, as well as holding space for them.

I liked the practices we did each day of the training and enjoyed the interaction with and learning alongside the other students.

Lots of gems in there. The basic sequence recipe has been super helpful and bookending my classes. The study on fascia was very informative.

The format was perfect, very accessible and affordable and though online, still personable.

I would recommend this training to anyone who wants to start or is already teaching yin yoga. A comprehensive training with lots of practice, great information based on Nyk’s many years of study and experience, trailheads for deeper personal study, interaction with other yoga teachers and much more. I feel very inspired and much more confident in my teaching now. Thank you, Nyk!

Johanna Chepernich

 

I was looking to deepen my knowledge in Yin, and this training seemed like a good fit.

I did a 40 hr Yin training at MA in November 2022 at Previously, Carley De Goede was my teacher.

One main difference was the focus on the poses and their sinew channels was in-depth in your training, which I found very valuable for “sequencing” a class. The first training focused a lot on the elements and animals from the lunar calendar.

My knowledge and understanding of Yin Yoga have grown in that I have learned more queuing and how to set people up in shapes properly, with options for other shapes if my first offer doesn’t work for someone’s body. How to adapt based on the studio culture I am in. To feel more confident holding space for people when they practice.

I now feel prepared to start teaching Yin Yoga after having done this training.

What I liked best is your style, as it touches on all types of learning styles for a student to absorb the information.

I love doing this training and want to do more, I would recommend this training to other Yoga teachers

Krystal Bertrand

Nyk, thank you so very much for sharing your expertise with us! I felt 100% comfortable around you and loved your warm and humorous teaching style! I absolutely love how you answered all of our questions with so much passion for the subject and at the same time with so much understanding for us students who are learning something completely new. (At least for me, as someone with a Tantric Hatha Yoga background, it was new to learn about meridians and sinew channels.) I am glad that I made this choice and took the training with you. You are an expert in this area – this is totally unquestioned! – and my new go-to person for Yin Yoga trainings. THANK YOU for everything!

Natalie P.

I did not have any hesitations; I was very excited about learning from you.

I did Yoga with Kassandra’s online program in the past. This was live, which was what I was really looking for, so that I could ask questions and get the chance to practice and learn how to cue.  Second, this was far more in-depth, and I loved the addition of the 5 Elements.

I’ve learned more variations of poses that I had never considered.  I also feel that I have a much better understanding of the Fascia in the body and how it relates to Yin Yoga.

I have been teaching Yin for a couple of years and practicing for over 8 years by the time I took your training.  Now, my deeper knowledge has made my classes better, and I have been able to better explain things to my students, and they have even commented on it.

I really loved getting to practice with you and the fact that we went over all the poses several times to help all of us better understand.

You also listened and made us feel heard when we asked questions, and even took our suggestions to heart instead of just dismissing them because you have more training than us.

My biggest takeaway was the role of the sinew channels in Yin.  This makes much more sense to me than the meridians ever did, and now I know how to touch on them so my students understand more about what they are doing for their bodies.

I would recommend this course to other teachers, I have already several times.  😀

Thank you for taking your time to extend your knowledge to us.  I have followed you on social media for several years, and I love the podcast.  Each time I listen, I learn something new and, yes, sometimes say wait a minute in my head, LOL, but I keep an open mind.

Erin Greaves @FlexibleLivingYoga

My only hesitation was missing some of the classes due to the already scheduled commitments; however, knowing we only needed to attend 60% of the classes live and there were recordings of the classes to catch up, I was confident that I could complete the course.

In the past, I signed up for Yin Yoga and Meditation through Yoga Medicine; however, it is a pre-recorded online training, so there is no accountability, and I have not completed the course.

This course has taught me everything about Yin Yoga.  Besides the Yin and Yang theory, fascia, Chinese meridian/sinew channels and Taoism, the essence of Yoga is also being clearly explained in theory and incorporated in practice.

I feel 100% prepared to teach Yin Yoga after this training. I liked the various video links and podcasts you have recorded to help students explore in depth the different Yin Yoga-related topics.

I like how you teach all of us how to geek out on Yin Yoga.

I want to continue my Yin Yoga learning journey with Nyk.

I highly recommend this course to all teachers.

Ying Ying Lee

My only hesitation was the financial but I am happy I chose to join in this training.  A friend who also attended evoked the excitement to learn from you.  I appreciated exploring your vast knowledge of the dynamic and deep goings-on of Yin – genuine passion and fun.

My understanding of Yin-Yang has grown exponentially! The holistic approach to diving into the many facets that Yin Yoga, the body, mind, and spirit.

I feel I have a deeper understanding of Yin Yoga, and many continuing learning resources given throughout the training.

Being led in the Yin practices was divine, and learning about the interconnectedness of the anatomy was my favourite.

A new learning for me about the  Sinew Channels – love revisiting the information and images.

I would definitely recommend this training!

Erin Wolli @sumxiyoga 

My only concern I was going to be starting massage school the same week the training started. So, since I’m a Pitta masochist, I decided that yes, I will make time because Nyk is awesome!

Before starting this training, I had very limited knowledge of Yin Yoga. It was incredibly informative, and I was especially fascinated to learn about the sinew channels. I also really liked how the relationship between the elements was presented, especially the early Taoist representation. I had an idea from listening to Nyk’s podcast episodes that Yin Yoga was the ‘quiet yoga’, but actually delving into the nuts and bolts gave me a much greater appreciation regarding the nuances of how a Yin class is structured and just how adaptable of a practice it is when it comes to individual students, which is something that I think more flow based yoga sometimes lacks.

I liked creating the classes in the second and third assignments because it really helped me to see how the different poses interact with and complement one another.

Aside from the fact that Yin Yoga is hardcore? I think my biggest takeaway was just how much I enjoyed getting into practices that I was able to do (both during the training weekends and recordings) and just how calming and subdued a Yoga practice could be versus some of the flying circus classes I did when I started practicing 8 years ago. If you had told me 5 years ago when I graduated lmy 200 hour that I would have taken to Yin yoga the way I have I would have looked at you sideways, but I really love that it’s about getting in touch with your body, not performing sequences on each side or toning specific muscles in certain poses.

I would 110% recommend this training to other Yoga teachers.

Mathew Healy Aathma Yoga

I did a free class you had offered, and knew immediately you were “My Teacher” when the Student is ready, the teacher will appear.”

Before your training, I had taken 30 hours with Debby Sereda (Calgary). Yours was much more organized and sequential – it made sense, had much deeper learning, put more emphasis on variations and was very understandable because of Paul Grilley’s videos. The In-depth Chinese Medicine Meridians and Sinew Channels

I feel I understand the principles  of Yin Yoga much better now and see how everybody is different, but can still do a pose with some tweaks; I now feel confident in my ability to teach and set students up in a pose best suited for their body

I especially enjoyed your no-nonsense approach (no fluff or ego involved)

It was beautifully presented (written and spoken) and never made to feel like my questions were a burden or that I should have known the answer

I learned that everybody is different, but some modifications  and variations can be made to get everyone into a pose that will give them the benefits of Yin yoga

I would absolutely 100% recommend this training to other Yoga teachers.

 

Shannon Yeast

My hesitation about joining this training was the cost and the worry that it would be yet another yoga training that did little to enhance my learning or my teaching. – I was wrong, — it was totally worth it!

I had previously completed a shorter 20-hour Yin Yoga Training. But it was very basic and pose-specific. There was no TCM content and very little understanding of fascia; it also wasn’t live like Nyk’s training, so there wasn’t an ability to learn through discussion and demonstration.

My knowledge and understanding of Yin Yoga have grown from this training exponentially!  I have a solid grounding in all aspects of Yin in acquired knowledge and embodied in my own practice.

Completing this training gave me solid confidence as a Yin teacher that I was able to apply right away – a strong foundation in all things Yin, as well as takeaway knowledge of how and where to pursue more learning if desired. Nyk’s passion for Yin and for training good Yin teachers is clear from the very first class. It was contagious.

I enjoyed all aspects of the training, and the schedule worked well for my busy life and my ability to learn and retain the full curriculum. My biggest takeaway?  Unlike other teacher trainings, I felt empowered, expanded, and ready to teach.

I would highly recommend this training to other Yoga teachers. There was enough time to explore the different aspects of Yin from Chinese medicine,  shapes, and philosophy, ample time for discussion, and tons of resources.

Take this course – you will be transformed.

Jenny Wright MSW, RSW

Jennywright.ca

Thelandingservices.ca

I have trained with Paul Grilley as well as Bernie Clark.

Nyk’s training stands out as unique. Her approach to yin is truly a quiet practice, and her focus is on developing teachers to appreciate space, quiet, and yin.

Nyk studied TCM in-depth, and one of the stand-out features of her training is the information about the meridians, sinew channels, and the 5 elements. It is balanced with deeply practical applications of both expansive postures, inclusive of the upper body, plus props and modifications for all body structures.

She offers a detailed manual with everything in one place, plus support videos and book lists for continuing education that lasts well past the duration of the training.

As a teacher in this training, we had plenty of time for live questions and answers as well as access to Nyk’s experiences as a teacher building a yoga business practice (twice).

This training is an incredible blend of yin, practical teacher “stuff you need to know”, and a highly informed TCM approach.

Nyk’s refreshing humour and style add to this truly one-of-a-kind training.

I would definitely recommend this training (in fact, I already have) to teachers, whether you already have a Yin training or not. It’s an investment well made.

Janis Isaman – My Body Couture

I was hesitant about taking Yin training. The main reason was that I already am a trained Yin teacher and wasn’t sure if this was “appropriate” for experienced teachers.

I quickly learned that in order to grow, we must become the “eternal” students – so glad that I joined!

This training introduced me to more “in-depth” knowledge of the sinew channels, which were (in my previous training) only referred to as meridians.  I quickly learned the difference, and the introduction of the 5 elements and TCM – fascinating!

My knowledge has grown in the capacity to understand sinew channels vs meridians as well as TCM. Additionally, the body types and how each body is different.

I now have more poses to sprinkle into my classes!

What I liked best about the course was NYK and her style – you can’t help but fall in love with this woman, her spirit and her passion – she’s the real deal! Also, there is in-depth coverage of all of the poses.

My biggest takeaway was growing into a deeper version of myself and knowing that my style is YIN and not so much YANG when it comes to teaching yoga.

I would 200% recommend this training to other Yoga teachers. No matter how experienced, you will come away with new nuggets of information.

It’s been a true pleasure, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Nyk!

Dee Fey 

I had done a brief Yin training with you in my 200 hr training at MA, but this was so much more in-depth.

My knowledge and understanding have grown in so many ways! From knowing the asanas in more depth, to yin yoga and trauma, how parts of Chinese medicine relate to Yin Yoga, how to create and sequence classes for different purposes, etc.

I loved the practices and discussions that followed about how people experienced things differently in their bodies.

My biggest takeaway was starting to recognize how to sequence classes, and looking forward to working on future classes with people that I know, to try it out and discuss how the experience was for them. I won’t know, just experiencing it, just in my own body.

I would absolutely recommend this training. I had a fabulous experience and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in Yin Yoga.

Dana Haydon

I attended a Yin Yoga training in the past, and honestly, I did not like it. So, I never considered myself to be a Yin Yoga girl. Now, after this training, my view of Yin Yoga has changed completely.

After day 1, I knew that I was at the right place to learn about Yin Yoga. Your way of teaching is fabulous. So, for me, it was the mixture of expertise and teaching style that brought my understanding of Yin Yoga to a completely different level. It makes me want to know even more!

I loved the background information that you shared with us because I am a total geek and always want to know more.

I LOVED your way of teaching, which is just very down-to-earth and natural. It’s this mixture between humour, warm-heartedness, and expertise that really resonated well with me.

I know that I can be a traditional Hatha Yoga teacher and still teach Yin Yoga without losing authenticity, seeing both as individual systems that are equally needed and based on wisdom.

I absolutely do recommend this training to other teachers! You offer A LOT in this training, and the information shared is just very valuable. I haven’t done too many online trainings, but this has definitely been one of my favourites.

Honestly, I wish for more of everything. 100 Hrs or even more. 60 Hrs is a wonderful start, so yeah, I’d totally do 100 Hrs with you!

Birget Herneisen 

I loved Nyk’s passion and open mind she was pleasant to listen to and shared her experiences which will serve me well as an instructor I plan on teaching all of the tools I learned I’m excited to give all of the varied options that I’ve learned keep doing what you’re doing you are a total Yin rockstar.

Cory

I had some Yin Training in my 200 hr YTT, but this was much different. I now feel ready to teach Yin Yoga

Now have a very different perspective about the “efforting” required (or not!) in Yin; also am more knowledgeable about sequencing and constructive rest!

What I liked best about the course was clarification of what Yin really is vs. stereotypical views of Yoga in general (example: student not able to achieve a pose due to personal bone structure … not b/c they don’t practice enough!)

 Another key learning: The role of anatomy and interception in Yin yoga

Yes, I would recommend this course to teachers. I was sad to see training end (as in when you finish a good book!). One more weekend? 

Annamarie Keck

 

Nyk’s passion and knowledge of Yin yoga helped to keep me engaged. It has made me realize how important and influential it can be to include a Yin practice in your yoga repertoire. I’m so happy I took this training with Nyk. I did another training with a teacher who was teaching in, but it was actually more hatha than Yin. I feel more knowledgeable in Yin Yoga now and also great to know where it originated.

She was very professional and knowledgeable. I felt supported through the training.

Nyk was amazing and brought a huge depth of information to the topic and did a great job of keeping the conversations on track. This training was amazing, and it went by really fast.

I can’t wait to learn more

Gillian Green

I did have prior Yin training, but this was WAY more in-depth; the last training I had felt more like a 200-hr vs a Yin-specific training, and it broke my heart. This training was everything I wanted and then some. You left me craving more!

I feel I actually know what Yin is and the philosophies behind the practice. I feel more confident and relaxed every time I teach now

What I liked best about the course was you. I am drawn to you for your alternativeness, your authenticity, your love of yin, for your care of the world, and because, as I have gotten to know you, I feel we have a lot of the same philosophies, you’ve just got years of honing and way better articulation.

I loved hearing what you have to say, and I feel a lot of what you say validates something deep inside me that I didn’t know needed soothing.

I would 100% recommend this training to other teachers – and I have!

Honestly, it was perfect – I feel we had a good balance of practices and theory, lots of room for discussion and questions, a perfect schedule for not monopolizing all my weekends and supreme information content with good people – what more could one ask for?! (besides more of the same!)

Elle Wild

I’ve learned so much! I had already done Yin training. The format of the class was very helpful in integrating the work I love. Yin is my favourite thing to teach. I’ve always gravitated towards it as it has really helped me move through my anxiety. Noticing and staying with the sensation, observing the mind and the body, is so beautiful to me. Yin really represents letting go and all the right ways, I would love to, as a teacher, have had even more practice with Nyk because I’m greedy and I love the practice.

I love this training so much, it reaffirmed my passion for you, and this training made me want to dig deeper into the philosophy and integrate it into my teaching just a beautiful, knowledge-packed. I’m so sad it’s over.

Isabelle Chatelain

I didn’t have any hesitations, I couldn’t wait to join.

I had previously done Yin training with  Paul Grilley, Bernie Clark, Sarah Powers, Jo Phee, and Josh Summers

This training was different. I really enjoyed the Chinese Medicine aspect.  Part of the reason I wanted to study with you was your background in Chinese Medicine. You are super cool and unique, so very down to earth.

This training has reinforced that as long as no one is getting hurt, there really is no right or wrong way to practice yin yoga.

I Absolutely feel prepared to start teaching Yin Yoga after having done this training.

G.O.

Nyk is an excellent teacher, and Yin is clearly her zone of genius. I was really resistant to Yin before this training, having taken only two classes previously; I didn’t like them at all. I learn to open up to the idea of the Yin approach in a way that’s more accessible for me and for others. Learning how to set up and hold the poses, and also how to hold space for people when they do Yin has been invaluable.

Whitney Reynolds

My biggest hesitation about signing up was just time and being able to make the time around my daughter’s schedule.

The first day we were doing our practice, I realized that it had been over a year since I had done an actual full-length yoga class, and it felt so good to give myself that time, so no regrets in joining!

I learned so much. I didn’t have other Yin training, only restorative.

I hadn’t practiced yin in a long time either. The last teacher I practiced with was no Nyk Danu. I’m totally sold on the practice since practicing with you!

I learned so much in this training! The major takeaways were around how the skeletal system is different, so poses will look different in different bodies.

The way that you teach is very open to people choosing their own experience, while still being guided, and only going 50-60% into the poses. Nobody has ever guided me to just go 50-60% of the way into the poses, and I wonder if that’s why I haven’t loved Yin in the past.

I definitely feel ready to teach Yin Yoga, It was so helpful to do the practices on top of the teachings and to come away with a ton of sequences to use.

What I liked best about the program was the online format and that it was recorded. It was great for me with my schedule. I also liked the format of doing a lot of different types of practices and then discussing them and applying them to what we were learning.

I would 100% recommend this program to other teachers. You were great!”

 

Amanda Kingsmith

 

I love the way that Nyk really opened up the floor for discussion in this training. I felt like Nyk was very open for all of us to share our experiences and willing to hold space for us to provide feedback and insight.  It was nice for me to have the take-home homework. I felt like this is actually really a practical setup for me to create a class to write it out in this way and break down each pose. I especially appreciated the use of props and guided variations in the very permissive and inclusive structure that this training offered for example, offering the students to come into the easiest posture first offering lots of options with props offering more words in the beginners and less to the advanced students the structure of the actual shapes that we learned. I learned some great new shapes, and the space was wonderfully held. Thank you, Nyk, your experience, empathy and expertise were appreciated, all of the inclusive options you gave students to cater to their unique experience and meet them where they are. It was helpful for me to learn more about Yin.

Tammy

I really enjoyed how you kept the class simple, straightforward, and real. You’re a wonderful teacher, and I appreciate all of your insight and tips. I enjoyed the training, and I’ve developed a new appreciation for the shapes in the whole time

Opal 

Nyk is an amazing teacher, authentically herself. I really loved how she shares her own vulnerability. I admire her passion for Yin Yoga and inspiring new Yin Yoga teachers.

I have been drawn to yin yoga since first experiencing a yin class. The meditative quality of stillness has been very helpful for my life. I wish to offer the benefits of this practice to others.

I will definitely use the tools learned, plus learning and studying more. Nyk has provided resources for us. I’m focused on teaching yin, especially to my former colleagues at (nurses’ at Victoria Hospice, offering yin classes in person and online.

Much gratitude for the offering. I look forward to more training offered by Nyk.

 

Jill Satoriao

 

I feel like I have a better understanding of the difference between restorative and yoga, and I now know all of the benefits of practicing, and I also appreciate Nyks’ teachings on the origins of Yin. I had no experience with teaching Yin, but now that I understand the benefits of it and I’m so excited to start using it in my therapeutic practice. Nyk was a fantastic teacher

Brooke M

The small group size was fantastic. I benefited more from being in the small group. I also very much appreciated that Nyk let us vote on a couple of things throughout the weekend (breakout rooms or no; practice at the beginning or end of the day).

The 90-minute practices were absolutely luxurious and really gave depth and meaning to the more theoretical/background parts of the learning about Yin. Nyk is a brilliant guide and teacher, listening deeply, sharing personal anecdotes, and practical tidbits throughout the entire experience. Thank you!

Most of all, I remembered my own need and desire to have Yin yoga in my own life. In an indirect way, I think this will really help to fuel my work with clients, because I will have this now rekindled love of a yin practice.

I also deeply appreciated the reinforcement of embracing human variation.

For me, it was great to hear about Nyk’s background learning with Paul Grilley.  (For example, I loved the story about why the poses were renamed because of what it implies about the Yoga industrial complex and alignment-obsessed teachers).

 

Lauren F.

The content of the training was well put together organized and thought-provoking my experience on working with therapeutic tools for Yin yoga as it allowed the poses to be more accessible so I can get the benefit of the lengthening and creating space in my body in a safe and effective way I love the way Nyk created a warm and inviting space. Her vast knowledge of Yin is excellent, and she’s great with the Zoom platform. A  great teacher <3

Suzanne

Nyk is also a true master of Yin; her passion and knowledge on the topic are inspiring.

I appreciate the prep work required prior to coming together.  It helps give preliminary context to the topic(s) learned.

I didn’t have any prior experience working with therapeutic tools for yin yoga.  Prior to attending this course, I had attended maybe 5 yin classes in my whole life.

Personally, the stillness and quiet are what I need to soothe myself in day-to-day life right now.  Because I feel that, I believe others will appreciate this as well.  Also, the positive response the fascia has on the body through this practice is so nourishing.

One important piece that Nyk spoke of was 50-60% in each shape – the handful of classes I have attended, no instructor ever commented on the amount of effort or explained it in a way that I understood as a new participant.

Because I took each shape as far as I could go, I could never settle; my nervous system was ready to run out of the room, and I felt so sore the next day or two after class.

Working within my 50-60% sensation has better connected me to my parasympathetic nervous system.

The training was great! I appreciate that Nyk was available to answer questions even after it was over.

Thank you ☺

Tiffany Chapman

Nyk is very well spoken, very detailed and answers questions thoroughly. I love the information provided on Paul Grilley’s work around tension and compression. It’s really had an impact on the way I think about the poses. This has helped me tremendously in practice, and I can’t wait to start teaching it as well. I think the online format is great, I’m so pleased to be able to continue my learning at this time. Nyk is great, I loved it

Tina Pringle

Nyk is a great teacher. Her video that started off the weekend was so good and really helped me get into my body in a yin way. The space felt very safe and wonderful. She did a great job of keeping us on track. I came to this training not really even sure what Yin was. I was surprised at how much I connected to it. Especially the meditative witness aspect of observing the mind during the poses. I experienced  a fairly noticeable release of endorphins at the end of each long-held pose, so nice

Kim June Johnson

Nyk was very concise and organized, and her teaching utilized the manual, discussing and watching the videos going through the poses and having an interactive dialogue to learn the module content I learned how in as we know it came to be a game the better understanding of specific poses how long to hold them sequencing etc. I also learned some new poses. Nick was clear and provided useful feedback.

This training was successful because Nyk  was very solid in her mission and well-prepared, and delivered the course material with precision and clarity

Sandi Melody 

Nyk was a great facilitator she did a really great job of planning out the time for the entire training the planning of the course was thoughtful with enough time for questions and engagement for all the students enjoyed the pace of the training I got a lot out of it and I’m so glad I took it I love that it had a therapeutic focus thank you for being so body positive I love that you’re making in accessible was a major priority of the training

Amy

This training was successful due to Nyk’s extensive experience and passion for Yin and her ability to break things down very clearly.  There was space for the engagement and curiosity of the group.  I really appreciate when the course material includes resources to dive into more after the course, and Nyk provided these. Yin was already one of my favourite things to learn about, and a very powerful personal and professional tool for me, working holistically with body, mind, and energy. I’m so grateful for this wonderful training

Anna S

I learned so much from Nyk and especially loved her trauma-informed and accessible method of teaching. I hadn’t taken Yin training before. I’m excited to apply these concepts to my own practice. I’m excited to move away from the idea of the edge or pushing yourself in the practice. I really appreciate Nyk’s direct style of communication, and I felt like she kept us on track during the training.

I highly recommend training with Nyk; you will learn so much

Helena spears

The quality and the calibre of Nyk as an instructor did not disappoint. I like that she offers a variety of ways to learn and that she herself has been created with her message throughout teaching classes.  The amount of information and resources was fantastic. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I have much enjoyed this training and all the learning I’m geeking out and searching out yin yang theory it is inspired me to learn more and to apply it to my own life on a personal level, as well as my role as a teacher. Yin was new to me, but I’m hooked big-time. I love not only being a student and learning, but also as a teacher, and how I would put it into practice with my students. I’m already creatively thinking about how to incorporate and create new offerings.

I appreciate Nyk’s style, which is approachable and full of information. I wouldn’t change a thing. I also enjoyed that Nyk is not only a very informed and articulate teacher, but she also adds humour to her presentation and instruction

Julie Chapman

Nyk is extremely passionate and knowledgeable on the subject; she’s very inspiring. I like the way that she had us explore modifications for our own individual bodies and encouraged us to find answers to our questions with our own direct experience.

A great training, Nyk, I loved all the practice time we did with the poses and that we were able to ask questions as we worked our way through each one. I will absolutely use the tools I’ve learned in this workshop in the future. I will implement them in ways that help people understand their own bodies more effectively

Maija 

Nyk created a great structure for the training and gave us a good sense of what to expect, as well as etiquette for a productive training. She allowed significant student input but still managed to flow with the timing very well.

Overall, she’s clear she’s passionate about Yin yoga and has a deep understanding of the subject matter. I now have a better understanding of why we are practicing Yin yoga, when and who it can help.

I’ve already been incorporating these tools into my classes in private sessions to offer my students a wider variety of yoga styles to meet their needs on a given day. The response has been great, and I’m already getting requests for it.

Megan Scott

I found this training to be very informative, which made it successful for me. I’ve had some exposure to the principles of yin in comparison to Yang in the past teacher training, however, this module went deeper into the knowledge I already had.

I can see clearly now how the blurred lines are gone, specifically the difference between Yin and restorative.  I haven’t had a lot of experience and even less from an informed point of view.  In the past, I was ignorant of the concept that props for many might greatly change the shape for accessibility for the individual.

Yes, I admit I was one of those teachers who thought props were for restorative practice or for those who couldn’t reach the floor. Since taking this module, I’ve already begun building up my own stash of props. I will definitely use this knowledge in my classes, specifically the use of props. Thank you for your approach and your knowledge

Steph Barton 

This training was clear and concise, with lots of space to ask questions. I dig it!  I came in with some knowledge, but I left with much more. I appreciated the variations in the shapes. So many more than I had known before. I have an increased understanding of functional versus aesthetic practice, Nyk, you’re fab, obviously knowledgeable and passionate, thanks for keeping it edutaining.

Zoe

Nyk was refreshing to have as a teacher, very grounded in her work and willing to share students’ censored and created great visuals for each day.

This training was very helpful for self-exploration and for seeing others’ bodies. The impact is that I’m excited to explore more for myself and empowered to do so. I had been apprehensive before this training.  Nyk is a fantastic, open and vulnerable and sharing from her truths, a great facilitator to hold the attention and intention of the group. I’m excited to study more.

Leslie

I loved having a full and very detailed conversation about the difference between Yin and therapeutic Yin. It definitely cleared up a lot of questions I had. I was very unsure if Yin could be therapeutic. After this training, I can see all the possibilities and how this could be applied in a therapeutic setting.

I look forward to teaching again in class and spreading it to the world. I love how you make these classes accessible and therapeutic. The class material was well thought out and engaging blew my mind.

Tanya

Nyk is awesome, funny, knowledgeable and efficient. I feel much more informed about human variations and how to support my students. I teach again weekly, so I will definitely be using this in my classes so informative.

Jennifer

10/10 Everything in the training was new for me, and I totally soaked it all in. My biggest takeaway is that everyone should be doing yin yoga at least a few times a month! Personally, I am also going to continue learning more about fascia, sinew channels, and the 5 elements.

I have a great appreciation for the qualities and benefits of Yin yoga for one’s wellness.  I also liked how the foundations of yin-yang theory, TCM and 5 elements weave into our training. All of this together made the learning comprehensive for me. Thank you.

What I loved about the course was that it created a high-quality user experience!

The way it was structured – extremely organized, very easy to access information regarding reading, homework, etc.

Resources for learning – yoga poses guide, sinew channel at a glance document, YouTube playlists, podcasts, the therapeutic lens for teaching yoga, connections to TCM …

I appreciate how you kept the theory and concepts as simple and basic as possible to ensure we don’t get overwhelmed and lose the learning. I can see how challenging keeping things simple could be, especially when there are so many deep layers to almost all things in Yin yoga.

A huge thank you for being your authentic self with us. I have learned a lot in this training not just about yin yoga but also about what it means to be a yoga teacher, on a deeper level.

 IG and FB –  Sneha Nemichand @connectandgrowyoga 

I had taken  previous Yin training  by Arhanta Yoga here in the Netherlands:

We didn’t learn about Chinese Medicine and the elements. It was a real pleasure to get the proper background.

My knowledge has increased a lot, I also feel more confident and relaxed.

I had already taught before the training, but it has only improved my teaching.

I enjoyed the energy and down-to-earth approach from Nyk, but also a very nice, warm group. The practice was a big joy to me, and also the discussions/talks around the material.

I would absolutely recommend this training.

Thank you for a very nice training that gave me so much. I am looking forward to your podcasts. Keep it up!

Tine Jensen @nocloudstoday

In the last Yin training I took, we learned the shapes with a list of body regions that may be affected by taking the shape.  You did this as well, but more effectively, I felt.  The fact that you gave us a primary intended area helped me to be very clear about my intention for choosing each shape in a sequence.

I love the way you weave your knowledge of and experience with TCM into this training, specifically, sharing with us the 5-element theory and sinew channels.  Putting together the pieces of the element classes has been such an interesting application of theory to practice.  I look forward to sharing these special classes seasonally.

In terms of teaching Yin Yoga, my biggest takeaway was clarity around creating a sequence.  Knowing that in a general class, I have a framework to follow that will support most people’s needs on any given day helps me to choose my sequence with confidence, while still leaving room for creativity to flow into the class plan.

In terms of the more philosophical underpinnings of Yin/Yang Theory, the teaching around harmony (and the distinction that you made between harmony and balance), is a concept that I have been sitting with in my everyday life.  My understanding of Yin and Yang is expanding.  Indeed, I did have the notion of Yin and Yang in terms of two opposing sets of characteristics, rather than the dynamic dance between the two as you described it.

So, the teachings around the interplay of yin and yang made so much sense to me.  Definitely an ah-ha moment. I’m thankful for this inspiration at this time in my life.

I would absolutely recommend this training!

Your course was so well done.  It’s clear that you have such depth of knowledge about all of the content. I absolutely loved the amount of review that you did throughout, and I will go back again and again to the supplemental material that you provided.

Also, I learn by doing and applying, so the homework that you assigned was really helpful, and icing on the cake that these sequences can be used in classes I will teach!

Thank you.  I’ve been wanting to expand my yin training for several years now and have been waiting for the right time and the right teacher.  I’ll be learning and integrating this material for months and years to come, and I feel like the materials in this class are rich resources that I will continue to go back to.

Kelly Green