Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training

Learn the MamaSpace Prenatal Yoga Method

The MamaSpace Prenatal Yoga Method is designed to enhance mobility – especially in the structures that support and surround the uterus. Babies need room to grow and move during gestation. This is called optimal fetal positioning. When babies have optimal mobility they are less likely to develop conditions like torticollis (and the resultant positional plagiocephaly), hip dysplasia and scoliosis. They are less likely to lodge in the maternal pelvis in a less than ideal birth position such as occiput posterior, military or asynclitic. This means that they are more inclined to be born normally – without surgery, forceps or vacuum extractors. Their labors have a better chance of beginning on time and progressing efficiently.

The effects of seated occupations, driving, television and internet use conspire to adversely affect birth outcomes. More needs to be done to combat this – ideally every day. Since 2015, I have been developing a system of prenatal yoga with specific mobility goals that pregnant people can do either in classes or on their own. I’m eager to share it with other yoga teachers who can use these principles to further help their pregnant students.

Register For Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training

August 1-11, 2024
Cost: $2500 USD
Learn About Our Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Scholarships

85 contact hours – eleven days
The hours vary from day to day. Most days are 9:00 – 5:00 PDT.
All classes are taught in English.
All classes are taught in Portland Oregon and/or virtually.

Prerequisite

Students must have completed or be currently enrolled in at least a 200-hour yoga teaching program. Students may also register if they have instructor approval. Ask me.

Overview

In this 11-day prenatal yoga teacher training we review pregnancy anatomy and physiology. We explore pregnancy complications and yoga contraindications. We practice what we preach (yoga). We practice teaching prenatal yoga with each other and with pregnant people from the community. Students also observe MamaSpace group prenatal yoga classes. In order to maximize learning success, class enrollment is limited to 12 students.

By the end of this 11-day training you should be able to:

Create and confidently teach prenatal yoga class sequences using the MamaSpace method.
Teach group prenatal classes to pregnant students who have varying levels of fitness and yoga experience.
Effectively use props to help your pregnant students practice yoga safely in your classes.
Teach pregnant students appropriate pregnancy modifications to their existing yoga practice, if they have one.
Demonstrate applicable yoga postures for pregnant yoga students in any stage of pregnancy.
Observe pregnant students in yoga postures and correct their alignment as needed.
Advise pregnant students about which yoga props (if any) they need for home practice or a non-prenatal group yoga class.
Describe pertinent pregnancy anatomy and physiology for pregnant yoga students.
Create prenatal yoga class sequences that safely achieve the MamaSpace goals for fetal mobility.
Teach group prenatal yoga classes from a sound anatomical and physiological perspective.
Describe pregnancy complications and prenatal yoga contraindications.
Describe how the MamaSpace method relates to the birth process in anatomical, physiological and biomechanical terms.
Give and receive constructive feedback during class practice sessions.
Effectively and clearly cue your yoga students during class.
Provide a welcoming place for pregnant people to connect with each other.
Teach prenatal yoga classes that promote stress reduction.
Help people feel great during pregnancy.
Walk your talk – incorporate the yamas and niyamas into your teaching and your daily life.
Help pregnant yoga students prepare for birth with calm strength.
Skillfully lead pregnant yoga students in guided meditation appropriate for pain-coping practice during labor.
Skillfully lead pregnant yoga students in asana and pranayama practice appropriate for pain-coping during labor.
Know when to refer your students to appropriate health care providers.
Help pregnant students make more room for their babies.