Lineage & Inspiration — Paul Grilley & Sarah Powers

This training honours the roots of Yin Yoga through the lineage of Paul Grilley and Sarah Powers, two of the original teachers who shaped the modern Yin tradition.

  • Paul Grilley introduced the functional approach to anatomy and the integration of Taoist meridian theory.

  • Sarah Powers expanded the practice by blending mindfulness meditation, Buddhist psychology, and subtle energy work.

Through this lineage, you’ll experience Yin Yoga as both a physical and meditative path — one that unites the body, mind, and spirit in stillness and presence.

Teaching modules

  • Before entering the Yin Yoga immersion, students complete 100 hours of self-study and guided online learning to establish a strong foundation in yoga.
    This portion prepares new teachers with the essential skills, philosophy, and understanding needed to safely teach and embody yoga.

    Module A — Yoga Foundations & History

    • Origins and evolution of yoga

    • Overview of yoga styles and traditions

    • The role of the teacher and the ethics of teaching

    • The Eight Limbs of Yoga and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

    Module B — Anatomy & Physiology for Yoga

    • The musculoskeletal system: bones, joints, and muscles

    • The nervous system and relaxation response

    • Breath anatomy and the diaphragm

    • Understanding safety, alignment, and common injuries

    Module C — Yoga Philosophy & Self-Practice

    • Yogic lifestyle and mindfulness

    • Developing a personal practice and self-reflection

    • Understanding karma, dharma, and the purpose of practice

    • Journaling and meditation exercises for integration

    Module D — Teaching Methodology

    • Fundamentals of sequencing and class structure

    • Cueing, adjustments, and observation skills

    • Finding your authentic teaching voice

    • Building confidence and presence as a new teacher

    Module E — Integration & Assessment

    • Reflection on your learning and growth

    • Anatomy and philosophy review

  • Module 1 — Introduction to Yin Yoga

    • The history and evolution of Yin Yoga

    • Yin and yang theory in yoga and daily life

    • Understanding the healing power of stillness

    • Daily journaling and reflection

    Module 2 — Anatomy & the Functional Approach

    • Tension vs. compression — understanding skeletal variations

    • Target areas and functional anatomy in Yin

    • The role of fascia and connective tissue

    • Injury awareness and safe modifications

    Module 3 — The Chakra System & Subtle Energy

    • The seven chakras and their qualities

    • Emotional and energetic imbalances

    • Yin practices for balancing and activating each chakra

    • Meditation and journaling for energetic awareness

    Module 4 — Yoga Philosophy & Lifestyle

    • The spirit of Yin: patience, surrender, and awareness

    • Yin as meditation and mindfulness in stillness

    • Integrating Yin principles into everyday life

    • Reflective practice and inquiry

  • Explore the principles, philosophy, and key asanas of Yin Yoga.

    Understand Yin as a form of meditation, cultivating stillness, presence, and deep release.

    Discover how Yin supports transformation through surrender and awareness.

  • Study the meridian system and the five elements.

    Understand how Qi (energy) moves through the body and how Yin postures support its natural flow.

    Learn how to design classes inspired by organ and elemental balance.

  • Explore the chakra model as a map of energy and consciousness.

    Learn how to weave subtle Chakra themes into Yin sequences for balance and awakening.

  • Learn to design intentional Yin Yoga classes with TCM and energetic focus.

    Develop your authentic teaching voice, refine your cueing, and practice leading with confidence and compassion.

    Understand trauma sensitivity and the art of holding safe, sacred space.

  • Explore how sound, music, and environment shape the Yin experience.

    Learn to create an atmosphere that supports deep rest and meditative awareness.

    Reflect, integrate, and celebrate your transformation as a teacher or practitioner.

    Final teacher presentation.