Why Choose Thailand for Your Yoga Teacher Training?
July 13, 2021
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There’s no denying that wellbeing, mindfulness and healthy living have lately gained importance in many people’s lives. For some, this meant adopting habits like yoga or meditation; for others, this even came with an introspection that ultimately led to a career change.
If you, too, feel like you want to take the big leap and do a complete 180-degree turn, becoming a yoga instructor is an excellent way to completely transform your life. And few places on Earth are as awe-inspiring for a yoga teacher training course as Thailand.
What makes Thailand special for a yoga teacher training course?
Image credit: Yoga Vidya Mandiram
From its great climate to its delicious food, affordable options, high spiritual energy, and incredible natural landscapes, The Land of Smiles truly seems to have it all!
The colorful combination of majestic Buddhist temples, quaint villages, beautiful nature, pristine beaches, laidback atmosphere, and vibrant culture attracts yogis from all over the world. That’s probably why so many top-notch instructors have settled in this incredible country and now share their knowledge with those who are looking to take their practice to a whole new level.
The unique spiritual vibes come from Theravada Buddhism, which is the foundation of Thais’ ideology and an important part of their everyday lives. Life feels simpler here, and so is performing any asana on the mat.
Moreover, Thailand offers plenty of low-cost yoga training programs. In fact, you can join a 200-hour course for as little as $34 per day.
READ MORE: Your guide to yoga retreats in Thailand
Where to go? Jungle or beach?
If you’re already set on becoming a yoga teacher in Thailand, now you need to think about where exactly to go. Here are some important aspects to consider when planning your trip.
Thailand is divided into 6 main regions: Northern, Northeastern, Central, Eastern, Western and Southern. But learning about the geography of a new country can be overwhelming, especially when you’re not familiar with the language.
So, to make the choice easier for you, just think about whether you like mountains, jungles or if you prefer sunny beaches.
The north region would be great for you if you like a quiet and chilled-out atmosphere. The largest city here is Chiang Mai, considered the cultural capital of Thailand and a place with good vibes, traditional ambiance and beautiful architecture.
On the other hand, the south offers heavenly islands and some of the best beaches in the world. Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are two of the most popular islands for yoga teacher training, both full of sun, sand, sea and yogis.
And if you want to explore both regions, you can always make it a long vacation as it’s relatively easy (and cheap) to travel around. So, you could take a few more days after or before your training to explore other towns and cities.
READ MORE: North vs south: where should you go for a yoga retreat in Thailand?
Best time to do your training
The climate in Thailand is mostly humid, which is ideal for yoga as it allows your muscles to stretch deeply. Due to the high temperatures, you’ll also be sweating a lot, which is good for your body to get rid of toxins.
However, there are dry and wet seasons in Thailand and they’re different in the North and the South. For instance, in the northern part, the dry season occurs between November and May, while the wettest months are between May and October.
On the southwest coast, the wet season occurs from April through October; and the southeast coast sees the most rain between September and December. So, in general, the best weather in Thailand is usually between November and April.
READ MORE: Affordable yoga retreats all over Thailand
Recommended yoga teacher training courses in Thailand
If you’ve read this far, you're probably convinced to do your yoga teacher training in Thailand. Therefore, here are 3 of the most popular courses in the top destinations:
Multi-Style Yoga Teacher Training in Koh Phangan
- Location: Ko Phangan
- Duration: 28 Days
- Program: 200 hours
- Certification to register with Yoga Alliance upon completion
This is an intensive 4-week program created to give you a solid foundation in yoga teachings, especially Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa Flow. You’ll also be introduced to other styles, like Ashtanga and Yin/Restorative Yoga.
The course will be led by a team of experienced teachers with over 60 years of combined experience in yoga and meditation. In addition to the daily yoga classes and lectures, you’ll take part in a meditation program.
The training will take place at an oceanfront venue surrounded by tropical nature. The program includes vegetarian breakfast and lunch. For dinner, there are many healthy options available within minutes from the yoga center. Prices range from 4 to 10 USD per meal.
Hatha & Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Chiangmai
- Location: Chiang Mai
- Duration: 22 Days
- Program: 200 hours
- Certification to register with Yoga Alliance upon completion
This yoga teacher training is a multi-style program designed for beginners and intermediate students. It’s held by experienced meditation guides and a team of accomplished yoga teachers at Maewin Guesthouse & Resort.
As part of the curriculum, you’ll learn mantra recitation, yoga postures, the science of breath, yoga energy locks, yoga gestures, meditation, yogic sleep, history and philosophy of yoga, yogic anatomy and physiology of the human body, basic principles of Ayurveda, yoga teaching practice, and teaching methodology.
The program includes excursions to temples and Thai ancient sites, a trip to the Old City and a visit to the Thai fresh market. It also includes a healthy daily vegetarian/vegan breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus a traditional Northern Thai dinner accompanied by a Thai cultural performance.
Beach Front Yoga Teacher Training in Koh Phangan
- Location: Koh Phangan
- Duration: 17 Days
- Program: 200 hours
- Certification to register with Yoga Alliance upon completion
If you currently have a busy schedule and can’t commit to a long program, then this 17-day teacher training course may be good for you. It takes place on Koh Phangan, in a deluxe resort. Here, you’ll be staying within walking distance of three perfect beaches and restaurants.
The program is mainly focused on learning to teach Hatha and Vinyasa yoga and you’ll also join workshops with aerial, acro, and SUP yoga. During the program, you’ll enjoy kirtan, ecstatic dance, and sound healing. You’ll also get the chance to practice teaching, and learn about anatomy, philosophy, and more.
Note: We strongly encourage those who choose to travel to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures. Read more details here.
*Cover image credit: EarthSea Yoga
Not ready to do a teacher training yet? You can still sign up for a regular yoga retreat in Thailand and enjoy all the wonders this land has to offer.