The purpose of the YogaLink® programs is to introduce, assist and provide on-going support to professionals in the fields of fitness and healthcare who wish to include the practice of yoga in their services. The Yoga Basics Course series is geared to those new to teaching. The Yoga Drills & Skills™ series provides materials, practicum, and an on-going coaching component for those who wish to progress to the intermediate and advanced levels and for those experienced teachers who wish to refine and expand their repertoire. Certificates for all programs require the completion of written and oral exams, video submissions, an essay report on an elective and community service.

Yoga Basics I -- Introductory Course
This covers the history and philosophy of yoga which forms the basis for all aspects of the YogaLink® program. Participants are given a foundation upon which to build a personal practice as well as the skills to apply the material to their field of expertise -- either as an adjunct as a fitness or healthcare professional or in pursuit of a career as a yoga instructor. Training includes a repertoire of basics poses and breathing techniques and an introduction to meditation.

Yoga Basics II Course
This YogaLink® course builds on the introductory course and includes leveling up on all materials in Level I. Practicum will cover adaptive yoga for specialized populations including teaching yoga to children, seniors, and the physically challenged. Chair yoga, the use of props, class planning, and introduction to physiology and anatomy.

Yoga Drills & Skills™ Series
Designed for experienced practitioners and teachers this YogaLink® series provides material to improve personal practice, inspire creativity, and promote career opportunities. The Drills component supports advancement in the realm of strength, flexibility, and endurance. The Skills element addresses both body and mind: enhancing the hands-on component of teaching and the student-teacher relationship as well as the business aspect of building a private clientele, studio ownership and media promotion.

Mara Carrico is the director of YogaLink® and has designed and developed all of its programs. Ms. Carrico initiated the teacher training programs for SAMATA International and has been teaching yoga since 1971. She is the author of Yoga Journal's Yoga Basics and wrote Fitness Yoga for the American Council on Exercise.

For information on scheduling, fees & registration or the mentoring program please email cmara@yogalady.com or call 800-742-1114.