Julie | Costa Rica 200hr YTT Testimonial

My experience with the Yoga Institute School and its yoga program has been truly transformative, far beyond what I had initially expected when I enrolled. At the beginning, my goal was simple: I wanted to learn yoga postures, improve my physical strength and flexibility, and perhaps gain the confidence to guide others as a yoga instructor. However, as soon as I began the program, I realized that it offered much more than physical training—it was a journey of self-discovery, healing, and deep internal growth.

Throughout the course, I gained a profound understanding of yoga that went beyond the mat. The program introduced me to yoga philosophy, which helped me understand the roots and purpose of this ancient practice. I learned that yoga is not just about movement but about the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Meditation and breathwork played an essential role in this journey. These practices helped me slow down, become present, and observe my thoughts without judgment. Over time, I noticed how these tools improved my awareness, reduced my stress, and helped me cultivate a sense of calm and balance in my everyday life.

The instructors were an important part of this transformative experience. They were not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about sharing the authentic essence of yoga. Their support and encouragement created a safe and welcoming environment where I felt comfortable expressing myself and exploring my inner world. A heartfelt thank you to Lex Albin and Kathryn Julyan, who brought an incredible balance to the course. Lex’s expertise in anatomy and Kathryn’s deep knowledge of philosophy perfectly complemented each other, creating a rich and well-rounded learning experience. Their dedication and unique strengths made a lasting impact on my understanding of yoga.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the program was the strong sense of community that developed among the students. I had the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique stories, challenges, and perspectives. Sharing these experiences created a deep bond among us. We supported each other, learned from one another, and grew together. I made four particularly close friends, and through them, I learned not only about different cultures but also about resilience, struggle, and healing. This experience reminded me that I am not alone in my journey and that connection is an essential part of personal growth.

One of the most impactful elements of the program was the structure of the four cycles: the Serpent, the Jaguar, the Hummingbird, and the Eagle. At first, I did not fully understand their purpose, but as I progressed, their meaning became clear, and I was able to deeply internalize the process.

The first cycle, the Serpent, focused on letting go of the past and grounding ourselves in the present moment. This was a powerful starting point for me. It allowed me to release old patterns, memories, and emotions that I had been holding onto for far too long. By learning to be present, I began to feel lighter and more at peace.

The second cycle, the Jaguar, was centered on facing fears and confronting the “shadow self”—the parts of us that we often avoid or suppress. This cycle was challenging but incredibly rewarding. One of the most memorable exercises involved writing down three fears and having someone else read them aloud. Hearing my fears spoken by someone else brought a new level of awareness. It helped me see them more clearly and realize that they did not have as much power over me as I had believed. This moment was deeply emotional and transformative, allowing me to move forward with courage.