Restructure YTT’s: Starting January 2026      

Phase 1: Core 500–800 Hour Advanced YTT Program

This becomes our all-in-one foundational + advanced YTT program, consolidating what is now spread across multiple smaller trainings.

Curriculum Components (500–800 Hours):

  • 200 Hour Foundational YTT
  • 50 Hour Yin YTT
  • 50 Hour Restorative YTT
  • 300 Hour Advanced YTT (includes hands-on assists)
  • Intuitive Energy & Breathwork Training (50–100 hrs)
  • Mentorship & Teaching Practicum (50–100 hrs)

📍 Hybrid Model Delivery

  • Pre-recorded theory: anatomy, philosophy, history, methodology, etc.
  • Self-directed study: book readings, reflection assignments, journaling.
  • Scheduled mentorship: personalized instructor-student check-ins.
  • Practical requirements: video submissions of teaching, adjustments, sequencing.
  • Annual in-person retreat (Sept–Nov) included in cost of phase 1: required practicum, community building, teaching circles, and in-person evaluations.

Certification Outcome:

  • 500–800 Hour YTT Graduate (meets or exceeds RYT500 designation through CYA/GOYA).

Phase 2: Somatic Yoga Therapist Path (200–500 Additional Hours)

For graduates of the Advanced YTT who want to specialize in therapeutic, trauma-informed, and somatic practices.

Curriculum Components (200–500 Hours):

  • Advanced Breathwork & Meditation Practices (50–100 hrs)
  • CLEAR Coaching Certification (50 hrs)
  • Thai Yoga Massage Training (100 hrs)
  • Advanced Intuitive Energy & Somatic Therapy Practices (100–150 hrs)
  • Mentorship & Case Studies (50–100 hrs)

📍 Hybrid Model Delivery

  • Pre-recorded modules for theory, demonstration, and reflective practice.
  • Practical mentorship: guided practice sessions with case studies and supervised feedback.
  • Final integration project: capstone research or practicum demonstrating therapeutic application.
  • Annual in-person retreat (Sept–Nov) included in cost of phase 2: required practicum, community building, teaching circles, and in-person evaluations, therapeutic labs, supervised practice, case study presentations.

Certification Outcome:

  • 1000 Hour Certified Somatic Yoga Therapist (through Somatic Studies Society School). (meets or exceeds RYT1000 designation through CYA/GOYA).

🔹 Program Delivery & Structure

  1. Hybrid Training: Blends online flexibility with structured accountability.
  2. Self-Directed Learning: Students move through readings, assignments, and videos at their own pace.
  3. Personalized Mentorship: 1:1 and group check-ins ensure student growth and accountability.
  4. Annual In-Person Retreat (Sept–Nov): Required to complete hands-on hours; retreat calendar announced each January.
  5. Certification Requirement: Students must complete all hours, assignments, and demonstrated competencies before certification.

🌿 Annual In-Person Yoga Retreat

As an essential part of your Somatic Studies Society journey, each training program culminates in our Annual In-Person Yoga Retreat, held between September–November of each calendar year. This retreat is where theory transforms into practice, and the embodied wisdom you’ve cultivated throughout your training comes fully to life.

What’s Included:

  • In-Person Instruction & Mentorship – Guided by your lead instructors, this immersive experience provides hands-on learning, teaching circles, mentorship, and final integration of your training modules.
  • Graduation & Certification Ceremony – A sacred celebration of your dedication, growth, and successful completion of your program.
  • All-Inclusive Stay – Nourishing meals and comfortable lodging for the duration of the retreat.
  • 1–2 Guided Excursions – Opportunities to explore the local culture, nature, or wellness experiences as part of your holistic learning journey.

Important Notes:

  • The cost of this retreat is already included in the tuition of your full program structure.
  • Students are responsible for arranging and covering:
    ✈️ Flights
    💵 Spending money
    🧳 Travel and medical insurance
    🛒 Any personal costs not outlined above

Participation in the retreat is required for the full completion of each program level (500hr-800hr Advance YTT and 500hr-1000hr Somatic Yoga Therapist). This ensures every graduate meets hands-on competency requirements and experiences the richness of community learning.

⚠️ Liability Disclaimer: Somatic Studies Society is not responsible for travel to and from retreat locations. Liability during transit, travel, and throughout the retreat experience remains the sole responsibility of each student.

This annual retreat is more than a requirement—it’s a transformational gathering that marks both an ending and a new beginning. It is the space where you embody your training, celebrate your achievements, and step into your role as a teacher and guide.