Emilia | Costa Rica 200hr YTT Testimonial

My 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Montezuma, Costa Rica was a deeply transformative experience that far exceeded my expectations. When I first felt called to enroll in the program, I did not fully understand why. I had been practicing yoga for many years and initially wanted to gain the ability to practice independently, without relying on studio classes. I expected the training to focus primarily on postures, alignment, and cueing. Instead, I was invited into a much richer exploration of yoga as a philosophy, a way of life, and a lifelong practice—both on and off the mat.

From the beginning, Anita and Katie shaped the tone of the experience in a meaningful way. Their depth of knowledge was immediately apparent, but what stood out most was how they embodied the teachings of yoga in their everyday actions. They were patient, grounded, and compassionate, creating a learning environment that felt safe, supportive, and intentional. Watching them teach became a lesson in itself, as they demonstrated what it truly means to live yoga rather than simply instruct it. Their ability to hold space, meet each student where they were, and guide with authenticity allowed me to grow not only my yoga practice, but also as an individual.

The training was thoughtfully divided into four cycles, each centered around a specific theme. This structure allowed the experience to feel organized, balanced, and approachable, while still offering depth and challenge. Each cycle built upon the last, providing time to absorb the material, reflect on personal experiences, and integrate the teachings. This pacing supported deep learning without feeling rushed or overwhelming. One of the most impactful aspects of this training was the opportunity to disconnect from the outside world for three weeks. Being physically removed from home, responsibilities, and daily distractions allowed me to be fully present in the experience. Had I chosen a program closer to home, I believe it would have been more challenging to surrender as completely to the process. The physical distance created space for clarity, self-reflection, and genuine transformation.

Practicing yoga in Costa Rica added a powerful layer to this immersion. The natural beauty of the environment encouraged mindfulness and presence, making it easier to slow down and turn inward. Each day, we practiced in a yoga shala with an incredible view, surrounded by lush greenery and open skies. The view itself felt grounding and meditative, setting the tone for each practice and reinforcing the connection between nature, breath, and movement. Aves Resort & Hotel supported the training in meaningful and practical ways. The staff were kind, accommodating, and attentive, ensuring that our needs were met so we could remain focused on the experience. During breaks in the schedule, we had time to rest and recharge; whether that meant relaxing by the pool, studying course material, reading, or spending time getting to know one another. These moments of rest and connection were an essential part of the training, allowing space for integration and balance alongside the intensity of daily practice.

On our days off, we had the opportunity to explore Costa Rica and experience the culture and natural beauty of the area. Some days were spent at the beach, while others were dedicated to adventure and exploration. Visiting the Indigena Chocolate Café in Cabuya was especially meaningful, offering insight into local traditions, sustainability, and community. Exploring the Montezuma waterfalls was another highlight, providing a sense of awe and grounding that mirrored the internal journey many of us were experiencing.

The academic and practical components of the training were comprehensive and deeply enriching. We studied asana in depth, learning not just how to perform postures, but how to understand their purpose, alignment principles, and variations. Pranayama and meditation practices offered powerful tools for working with breath and awareness, which I now use regularly in my daily life. Our exploration of yoga philosophy, including the Yoga Sutras and the lineage of yoga, provided historical and ethical context that deepened my respect for the tradition. We also learned about Ayurveda and the business of yoga, grounding the teachings in both holistic well-being and real-world application.

One of my greatest takeaways from this experience was the realization that yoga is not simply something we practice, but a way of being. I learned that yoga is about mastering the mind by creating a deeper connection between the mind and the heart. It is a practice rooted in awareness, intention, and presence that extends far beyond physical movement. I gained pranayama techniques that I now use in my day-to-day life to regulate my nervous system and reconnect during moments of stress or overwhelm. Most importantly, I came to understand that yoga is not just a workout, but a deeply spiritual practice; one that helped me recognize why I have always felt so drawn to yoga. The sense of community within our group was another highlight of the experience. The group I trained with were supportive, open-hearted, and encouraging. Sharing such an immersive and introspective journey fostered deep connections rooted in vulnerability and trust. I truly feel that I have made lifelong connections and am deeply grateful for the collective energy that carried us through both challenges and moments of joy.

Ultimately, this training provided me with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. What began as curiosity has evolved into a genuine passion for yoga and a desire to continue deepening my practice. The tools I gained have helped me return home to myself, even amidst the chaos of everyday life. I am deeply grateful for SYI, for Anita and Katie who guided me, the community that supported me, and the opportunity to share this gift of yoga with the people I love. I am excited to see where this path leads and to continue embodying the teachings of yoga in my life moving forward.