FAQs

FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Seek within, not without.

Do I need a minimum level of yoga experience before applying for the 200-hour Ashtanga Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training Course?

Yes and no. Both. There are many ways to look at this question. If yoga is purely a physical sport or exercise (which is as far from the truth as it can be) then yes you should to have some prior experience in Asana practice. If we look at yoga, purely from the physical point of view, then yoga has many exercises: stretches, twists, back bends, splits, arm balances, etc., which are also found in gymnastic, ballet, calisthenics, body weight training, aerobics, various forms of dance, and many other sports and fitness activities. Therefore, in our opinion if you have any experience in any of the above fields then you already have experience in Yoga, even if you have not done those stretches or twists on a yoga mat or in a yoga studio.

If we look at yoga from the spiritual point of view, then yoga is a lifestyle, that includes many elements; practicing cleanliness from the inside and on the outside, truthfulness, compassion, non-greediness, non-possessiveness, contentment, love, concentration, conscious breathing, awareness, mindfulness, etc. We are sure you must have tried to practice these qualities from time to time in your life, irrespective of the degree of success you achieved. Therefore, if yoga is a lifestyle as the yogic scriptures teach, then you have already been practicing yoga for some time, most probably since the time you were born.

Once you have reserved your spot on the course we do recommend that you start practicing physical yoga postures as much as you can,and read a few spiritual books recommended by us so that you can get maximum benefit of your time with us.

What is yoga?

According to the yogic texts, Yoga is a lifestyle that will help us realize our full spiritual potential.

Is yoga an exercise?

Yoga is a lifestyle, but there are a few physical postures and exercises which may be practiced in a static or dynamic way to keep the body and mind healthy. These physical postures are called Yoga Asanas.

I am a beginner in yoga, but I would still like to do a Yoga Teacher Training Course, can I?

Some beginners may have a considerable amount of yoga knowledge and follow a yogic lifestyle but may not be so advanced in asana practice. Other beginners may have great physical ability for the asana practice but may not have an understanding or knowledge of yoga as a whole. In either case, if you show great dedication and devotion to learning yoga, the training may be suitable. Please contact us if you consider yourself a beginner to evaluate if it would be appropriate for you to participate in the course. It is important that you practice regularly, have good physical stamina and are physically fit.

What is the application criteria for the 300 Hour Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training?

You must have successfully completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in any style, either at Sampoorna or any other Yoga Alliance registered yoga school to be eligible to apply for a 300 hour course.

What is the application criteria to apply for the 300 Hour Arogya Advance Yoga Teacher Training?

You must have successfully completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in any style, either at Sampoorna or any other Yoga Alliance registered yoga school to be eligible to apply.

What if I haven’t completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Course but still want to do a 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training Course?

You must have completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training first as this provides a solid foundation and the necessary preparation to be able to progress to the 300-hour level. The 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training is more advanced and is designed to deepen the knowledge you acquired on a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Course. However, if you have been a long term yoga practitioner with quality experience then you may take our 300-hour Vinyasa Flow Yoga Teacher Training but you will not be able to register with Yoga Alliance as an RYT 300 even if you complete the course as you don’t hold a 200 hour certificate. Please contact us to find out if your experience meets the necessary criteria

Can I take the 300-hour Yoga Teacher training in Vinyasa Flow or Arogya Yoga if I have completed my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training with another school?

Yes you can.

Do I need any teaching experience to apply for the 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training course in Vinyasa Flow or Arogya Yoga TTC?

No you don’t have to have teaching experience, however, it is recommended as you will benefit more from the course.

Can I take the short yoga teacher training courses, such as, Yin Yoga, Meditation Teacher Training or Pranayama Teacher Training etc… if I have not already completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training.

Yes, you can participate in these course, however, you will not be able to register with Yoga Alliance.

I am not very flexible and cannot do many postures, can I still join the course?

Yes, if this is the case then you will benefit from the course more than anyone else. Yoga is about so much more than just physical postures.

My English is not very good, will this be a barrier during the course?

You should be fine as long as you can understand English very well and speak a little bit. There are always non-native English students and our teachers take this into consideration as much as possible to ensure that the material being taught is understood by everyone. If you are worried about your level then please send us an email and we can talk about your concerns.

What is the maximum number of students allowed on a course?

We only ever have a maximum of around 30 students per teaching group.

What happens if I miss some classes?

You are not supposed to miss any classes. Unless you have a serious illness or medical emergency, you are expected to attend all the classes. If you miss classes you will be given assignments to make up the time, these will be determined by the teacher(s) and will ensure you meet the required hours of study to qualify.

What is the criteria for passing a Teacher Training Courses?

Full attendance and participation in all the classes is required to obtain your certificate. There will also be a practical text and a self evaluation test at the end of the course.

Are all of the courses taught in English?

Yes, all of our courses are taught in English and you will need to be able to speak and understand conversational English to participate.

What happens if I don’t pass the exam?

No student has ever failed the exams at Sampoorna. Our teachers keep a supportive eye on all the students and make sure that everyone stays on track throughout the course so that there is no risk of failure. The courses are designed to teach you and help you grow as a teacher, if you are open to learning you will be fine. We are not trying to catch you out with exam questions, we provide support throughout the process to ensure your success.

 

Am I entitled to receive a Yoga Teacher Training certificate because I have paid the course fee?

The teacher training certificates are awarded to students on the basis of their performance and attendance throughout the training, as well as completion of practical and final exams. If you do not meet these standards then you will be awarded a certificate of attendance instead of completion. But rest assured that our teaching team will never let any students fail.

Do you provide study materials/manual?

Yes, we provide a teacher training manual for each course.

Will there be enough teaching opportunities during the courses?

Yes, the courses are structured in a way that there are ample opportunities for student teaching practice throughout. Student teaching is a mandatory part of the course requirements.

After completing the course, will I be an internationally recognised Yoga Teacher?

Yes, Sampoorna Yoga is a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School and all of our courses are also registered with Yoga Alliance USA.

Are there any internship opportunities at Sampoorna for students?

Yes, we have two types of internships. A Teacher Trainer internship and a Karma Yoga programme. You must have completed at least one Teacher Training with us to be eligible for either.

Due to religious restrictions, I cannot chant in any of the classes, will this be a problem?

You don’t have to chant if you are not comfortable for any reason. You can sit in silence, observe and meditate.

What if I have to leave the course for personal reasons? Can I use the fee paid another time?

Yes, your tuition fee may be applied to any other future course at the school. However, you may lose the part of the course fee paid towards accommodation.

Is food and accommodation included in the fee?

All meals are included during your stay, except for Saturday dinner and all meals on Sunday.

What is the best way to reach Goa?

Goa is easily accessible by plane, train and bus. Dabolim International Airport (GOI) is the closest airport and it is approximately 90 minutes away by taxi. GOI Airport is well connected by daily flights from Chennai, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Cochin and Bangalore, and many international cities. You can also reach Goa by train from all major cities in India.

Can I book an airport pick up through you?

Yes, please send an email to [email protected]ampoornayoga.com with your arrival date, time and flight details (departure city, airline, flight number) and we will make the necessary arrangements for you.

How can I apply for a visa?

You can get a tourist visa from your nearest Indian consulate or embassy. It is possible to download the application form from Internet. If the consulate issues your visa, please note that it will start from the date issued, not from the date of your travel. It is recommended that you apply in advance.

E-visas can be applied for online and are valid for one month. These are validated at the airport on the day of departure.

No visa is extendable once you have entered India.

Do you recommend any vaccinations?

Goa is a very safe place and malaria-free, and in general we do not consider vaccinations necessary. Consult your doctor and your country’s Government Health Regulations when you are considering travel to India for up to date recommendations on vaccinations. It is at your discretion.

Will I need to bring any particular clothing?

For the opening and closing fire ceremonies it is recommended to wear white. For the rest of the course comfortable yoga clothing is recommended with warmer layers for evenings and mornings.

Do you provide yoga mats?

No. You should endeavor to bring your own mat or if you need to you can purchase one here locally or from the school.

What should I bring for the course?

Your yoga mat, comfortable yoga clothes, swimwear, flip flops, preferred toiletries, mosquito spray, electrical adaptor, and any medication you are taking or that you may need.

 

Can I participate in a Teacher Training Course if I have an injury or existing health condition / am pregnant?

Please always seek advice from your general health practitioner or a specialist first, and inform the school and your teachers of any conditions that may affect your practice before starting the course.

How long does it take to get to the beach?

You can leave your room, cross the small village road, and be on the beach in just two minutes!

Do you have hot water and electricity?

Yes, each room has hot water and electricity. However, it’s important to remember that power cuts are quite common in India, so expect the occasional power outage, these do not tend to last very long.

Is it safe to drink the water?

It is not recommended that you drink tap water anywhere in India. At Sampoorna we provide filtered water in the restaurant area at all times which it is pure and safe to drink but always at your own discretion. Bottled water can be purchased from us or locally.

Is the food suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

We believe plant-based diets benefit the environment, the animals and also our own health and we encourage our students to share this way of eating while you are staying with us. In line with the yogic principle of Ahimsa, we do not allow meat / fish / seafood / eggs to be cooked or consumed in the restaurant. Our kitchen serves exceptional vegetarian meals with some vegan friendly and gluten free options as well. Should you wish to eat differently there are many local restaurants nearby, however we do strongly recommend eating a plant-based diet in India to avoid any stomach issues during your course.

I have specific dietary requirements and/or food allergies. Will this be a problem?

Please let us know at the time of booking and/or upon arrival of your specific dietary requirements/allergies. We can cater for different dietary needs. As a standard, our buffet meals nearly always have dairy-free/gluten-free options available.

Is there free wifi?

Yes, but please be aware that the internet connection in Goa can be a bit slow and sometimes drops. This is a good opportunity to practice patience and acceptance!

Is it safe to leave valuables in the room?

There has never been a problem with security. All rooms are provided with closets and drawers that can be locked. Security guards are on duty 24/7 to watch over all the Sampoorna grounds. However, you are suggested to lock your cottages/rooms whenever you are out and have appropriate travel insurance for your belongings.

Do you provide a laundry service?

Sampoorna does provide a laundry service for a small fee.

Are there any shops nearby?