Soma Yoga Institute

Arcata, 101 H St suite g, Arcata, CA 95521 | ★ 5 (62 Review)

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About the Club

Soma Yoga Institute offers in-depth, transformational study of Yoga through 200 & 300 hour Therapeutic Yoga Teacher Trainings in worldwide locations as well as ONLINE. We are a top ranked Yoga Alliance Teacher Training school (9.5/10 NPS rating). Instructed by master teachers and C-IAYT Yoga Therapists. Our programs are for those who wish to deepen their own practice as well as those who seek not just to teach but to inspire and heal. Our expertly crafted curriculum bridges ancient yogic wisdom with modern scientific understanding, emphasizing adaptive teaching approaches, safety, injury prevention, and the cultivation of self-honoring wisdom. Our courses are offered online or in retreat destinations such as Costa Rica, Greece, or Peru.

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 Soma Yoga Institute
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Reviews

mehdi k

★ 5

The online yoga teacher training with Liz Heffernan and Soma Yoga Institute was truly life-changing. I joined during a very difficult time as I was displaced from the Eaton wildfire, and through the wisdom and guidance of Liz, Peggy, Samantha, and Molly, I found healing, hope, and empowerment.

The program offered a rich variety of videos and learning materials, all beautifully taught by inspiring instructors. I loved the small class size, which allowed us to form close connections and practice in small student groups. The support, care, and scholarship I received made a profound difference, and I’m so grateful for this transformative experience.

I now feel inspired to share the magic and healing of yoga with others on my teaching journey.

Source: Google

Annelie Wolfrum

★ 5

This Yoga Teacher Training is a truly transformative and therapeutic journey, bringing you back to your true self. After leaving a toxic workplace, I found new purpose through this program. This training gave me the confidence not just to accept, but to fully embrace my authentic self. Liz, Peggy, Sam and Molly are phenomenal teachers and I highly recommend learning from them. Even if you do not wish to become a Yoga teacher, the therapeutic approach of Soma Yoga Institute is a healing journey anyone will benefit from.

Source: Google

Fiona Mehrabany

★ 5

An amazing experience! Brilliantly structured teacher training, inclusive for all people, focus on body alignment and preventing injury. Liz and Christine are extraordinary teachers full of wisdom and compassion.

Source: Google

Gabrielle Poulle

★ 5

Just completed a 200 YTT with soma yoga institute and I cannot recommend them more. I learned so much about yoga, anatomy, community and myself during this process. The teachers created a safe space to explore yoga and ourselves deeply during our 18 day training. I feel confident to take what I've learned with me and to help others gain confidence in their own yoga practice. Thank you Liz and Christine !

Source: Google

Joanne Stock

★ 5

“Every day I felt transformed into a new person.”

This training enriched every part of my life. The curriculum blended yoga philosophy, practical asana, meditation, and breathwork in such a meaningful way. I felt nurtured and cared for the entire time. Liz and Peggy are a peaceful, perfect teaching pair. I especially loved the chair yoga workshop and the time spent on safe alignment—it changed how I practice. Dinner Club was a highlight, and I wouldn’t hesitate to stay at Peggy’s house again. The only challenge I faced was within my own body—dealing with limitations—but that only deepened the learning. I will 100% be back and highly recommend this to anyone seeking a truly transformative experience.

Source: Google

Lyndsay Burtonshaw

★ 5

I just came back from the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Costa Rica - it was incredible! It gave me the skills and discipline to find calm and kindness in my life as a social justice activist. I really enjoyed the inclusive, deeply kind, expansive, life-affirming 'eyes of love' teaching. And the nature at Playa Coyote is beyond description gorgeous - surfing in the Pacific, Scarlet Maccaws, beutiful black sand...

It was such an honour to learn from Liz and Peggy, two open-hearted, incredibly skilled people. Their breadth of knowledge and facilitation is magnificent, balancing movement and theoretical classroom time. They connect ancient systems of knowledge to our modern context with grace and practicality, and I was surprised to enjoy the philosophy, the beautiful niyamas and yamas, kosha sutra exploration.

The asana classes were stunning, anatomy and allignment focused, with life-affirming themes. Their focus on teaching yoga for ALL bodies was affirming and practical for me. In my workalongside others for liberation, it means working with my own, and other people's, traumas and triggers. This training gave me a practice I can use personally and at work. I'm also truly grateful for the opportunity to curate a self-practice morning ritual that suits my nature and body—it was such a gift.

Source: Google

Sarah Silber

★ 5

This 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Costa Rica has exceeded my expectations on every level. From the onset, I knew I was beginning something special, but I truly had no idea how transformative it would be. The instruction was delivered with such authenticity and a huge breadth of knowledge, making it modern, relevant, and digestible. The adaptability of teaching, meeting the class where they are and allowing time for growth, was truly exceptional.
My life was restored here in a way I never imagined possible. I feel a light and confidence to move forward in the present like I never have before. At 51, I feel like me. It's a big wow. My understanding of yoga has greatly increased, and I am excited to continue learning. My confidence as a yoga teacher has also greatly increased. I truly enjoyed being reintroduced to Ayurveda and loved the Sutra study, which gave me the springboard I needed to delve deeper.

I would absolutely do another Teacher Training with Soma Yoga Institute and recommend it to others. This experience has brought me a restored clarity of mind and spirit, making it one of the most incredible experiences of my life and I am forever grateful.

Huge, huge thanks to Liz, Peggy and the incredible staff at Salvatierra, Costa Rica. Everything about it was perfection!! Upgraded my health plan BIG TIME here!!

Source: Google

Jamie Green

★ 5

I loved how sincere, passionate, detailed, supportive and understanding all the teachers were, especially Christine's contagious energy. With each class/workshop I learned an abundant amount of information and I now feel confident to provide classes for beginner, Level 1/2 and seniors. Alignment was my favorite topic because it is a crucial component to safety and teaching others. I highly recommend this 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training. _ Jamie

Source: Google

Emma Thompson

★ 5

The most amazing experience of my life! I could not recommend Soma Yoga Institute more. Peggy and Liz are the two best to study under! They are both deeply caring individuals who are truly invested in their students and willing to go way above and beyond. The space they hold for the students is beautiful.

Source: Google

Lisa Tynan

★ 5

Amazing, expert-led training program. Extremely high standard teacher training.

Source: Google

Jennifer Kapin

★ 5

I attended the 18 day YTT in beautiful Costa Rica this summer, and it far surpassed my expectations! I would recommend Soma Yoga Institute to anyone who wants to teach or simply wants to deepen their own practice. I cannot emphasize how profoundly meaningful my experience was, and I’m so thankful to have made the connections that I did with my fellow yogis in training. It was challenging, fun, and I learned so much…Thank you Liz and Molly!

Source: Google

Kimberley

★ 5

I had a great time at Soma's 200 hour YTT in Costa Rica. Molly and Liz are very knowledgeable about alignment and I learned a great deal about proper body alignment and verbal cues.

Source: Google

Julie Colletti

★ 5

The way this 200 hour yoga teacher training courses laid out was smartly done. I liked the structure of the days, I loved how in-depth we went into sequencing and all of the group work. The concept of jumping into imperfect action spoke to me and everything deepened as a result. There was a lot I did not know about Yoga before. I refocused my own practice and now I am fully ready to get out there and be a yoga teacher. I LOVED the chakras class, I feel like the creativity of it cracked me wide open. I have such deep gratitude for my teachers, Liz and Molly, and the insane kindness they extended towards me is unforgettable. Thank you for holding the space for me and all the hard work you put into this. The dedication and care you both possess simply radiated out of this program and you brought together an inspired and beautiful group of people. Thank you for permanently altering the trajectory of my life.

Source: Google

rajinigvd Yadav

★ 5

Source: Google

Simone Maduro

★ 5

I loved all of it, this 300 hour, yoga, teacher, teacher training, especially the teachers. It was a whirlwind of self-love, learning so much and grounding. The location and food is at Okreblue in Greece is great. I loved the rhythm of the course. -Simone

Source: Google

Smoke Jensen

★ 5

Source: Google

lucas monteiro

★ 5

Truly an unforgettable experience! The knowledge and wisdom they shared with us took my practice to another level and the friendships I made along the way I will cherish for the rest of my life. Love you guys!!! Namaste ❤

Source: Google

Jennifer Lindquist

★ 5

Soma Yoga Institute was such a wonderful experience! I learned so much and feel confident as a new yoga teacher. The teachers, Liz and Peggy, were incredibly knowledgeable and kind. I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to take their practice deeper and learn about proper alignment, postures, and mediation techniques. Thank you Soma!

Source: Google

Nan Turanski

★ 5

I enjoyed the overall format of this Yoga teacher training course. Its effectiveness was felt in the first five days of the program while I was learning about the asanas, improving my practice, and being introduced to the important concepts of pranayama, and the eight limbs and other Yoga philosophies. I always felt able to sit with the moment and see how a concept resonated with me. My experience of the poses changed from “are we done yet” to “this is balance and ease”. The Chakras, the doshas of Ayurveda, the anatomy, along with the philosophy, took me to a better understanding of yoga. The asanas are only a small part of this ancient practice. The power of the breath means so much more to me now, especially as the path to inner peace and true nature. My confidence as someone who could teach yoga at my desired level is confirmed. - Nan

Source: Google

Kate Kotan

★ 5

I really appreciated the opportunity to immerse myself in this 200 hour yoga teacher training. It provided an opportunity to disconnect from work and dive into the content. The yoga instruction and approach of this training was exactly what I hoped for and much more. The alignment was my favorite. I loved my classmates, we were all so different yet it felt like a very inclusive group. Thank you so much for everything and the knowledge shared this immersion will be with me forever.

Source: Google

Lindsay G

★ 5

I love this beautiful location of Salvatierra. It was peaceful, and the perfect place to focus on a yoga teacher training course. I was blessed to have a wonderful group of students to share this experience with, no drama or clicks. I learned so much from Peggy and Liz and I feel confident to begin teaching. I also learned how to better center myself with meditation and coming into the space of Yoga. I feel I am able to be present and in the moment better than before I arrived. I’m working on seeing others with eyes of love including myself which helped me tone down the inner critic. I loved learning about Ayurveda and Chakras to understand myself at a deeper level and how to find balance. I enjoyed the reflections of the Yoga Sutra to understand the deeper essence of yoga - Lindsay

Source: Google

kristin pitsenbarger

★ 5

This 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training was a fantastic experience even online with teachings and connections that reach far beyond class time. Thank you a thousand times over. - Kristin

Source: Google

Kathryn Rinaldi

★ 5

The knowledge I received in this 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training exceeded my expectations. I feel more comfortable teaching Yoga, as well as facilitating teacher trainings having this added knowledge as part of my skillset. I loved the focus on anatomy. Before this course, it had never been a strong suit of mine, and I feel confident in teaching anatomy now. It has been eye opening to explore new ways of cueing that make sense based on the biomechanics of the body. I also appreciated the therapeutic focus of the course. This training helped me get clear on my vision and have a strong desire to focus on manifesting my vision into reality. It also helped me gain more compassion for others through understanding that we're all having very different experiences in life. - Kathryn

Source: Google

Chase Adams

★ 5

I took my 200 hour trauma informed yoga teacher training with Soma. I cannot say enough good about the experience. Liz and Alison were incredibly knowledgeable, passionate and enthusiastic about everything they taught. I attended the ~3 week intensive in Costa Rica, and the way it was structured fostered an immediate sense of camaraderie among what was an otherwise diverse group of people. I left the experience feeling qualified and capable of teaching, and excited to begin to do just that. I plan to return to the Soma Yoga Institute for my 300 hour teacher training when I'm able. If you're considering yoga teacher training, you'll be hard pressed to find a better program than Soma, and I encourage you to sign up.

Source: Google

Sandra Clark

★ 5

I loved that the program delivered on all of its promises: a practical education based in alignment and teaching. I loved that we jumped right into teaching. Soma teacher training began with the end in mind. From the beginning, the focus was always on information to guide me in my own practice and how to teach it. I also adored getting outside, being present and meditating in the California redwoods, the beach, and at the river. Most of all, I loved how kind and inclusive the group and program were. I loved how easy it was to be seen, heard, and answered. I feel confident about the logistics of teaching and excited to contribute to something that has meant so much to me and given me so much.

Source: Google

Gaia Bernhard

★ 5

I loved everything about this program, especially the therapeutic approach, variety of topics studied, and the teachers! I am much more aware of my body and how to focus on proper alignment and organize sequences. This whole program is one big life changing experience. I am so much grateful for all the knowledge and goodness I received. I would definitely train with Soma Yoga Institute again – when Peggy and Jess are going to be the instructors again, I’m there!

Source: Google

Margot Maurier

★ 5

Amazing 200H YTT with Soma yoga, highly recommend! The teachers are amazing. I did my training in Costa Rica and everything (programme, classes, logistics, food and housing) was perfect.

Source: Google

Melissa Thompson-Pettitt

★ 5

So happy with my decision to study with Soma. I completed my 200 hour in Paros, Greece in June 2022. Huge thanks to Liz, Peggy and Christine for an amazing and unforgettable experience.

Source: Google

Andrea Tremols

★ 5

The opportunities for self-reflection and openness to creativity in this program was awesome! I felt as though the work around self-growth was especially transformational. My understanding of yoga is much deeper and more complex, and this knowledge has anchored me in my personal practice. I loved this experience so much I took the 300-hour Advanced program with Soma Yoga in Greece in 2022 as well and was not dissapointed. It was as incredible as my 200 hour training. I am just so grateful for finding such an amazing program and such kind, loving teachers with so much incredible experience.

Source: Google

Lisa Selby

★ 5

Soma Yoga Institute is an incredible yoga school! I took my 200 hr and 500 hr through them. All the instructors are so passionate, knowledgeable, and compassionate! My trainings changed my life! I highly recommend them!

Source: Google

Natalie Falero

★ 5

Source: Google

anf_performance

★ 5

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this great and unforgettable experience in Costa Rica. This yoga teacher training deepened my ability to be more mindful to myself, others and everything. It opened up a dimension of spirituality and inspiration to take care of myself and to honor myself more. Alison’s yoga classes gave me a deep understanding of self-love, appreciation and love for this planet and they were also very calming and grounding. I truly valued Peggy’s huge knowledge of alignment and assists in asana. I also appreciated the healthy and yummy meals and fruit drinks we received every day! My body feels so much better now compared to when I arrived. I enjoyed absolutely everything about this yoga teacher training program, especially the perfect mix of our instructors Peggy and Allison! - Annette

Source: Google

Brit J

★ 5

If you are searching for a therapeutic teacher training program that is inclusive, well put together and nothing short of life changing... look no further.

Soma Yoga Institute is amazing! The instructors are passionate, skilled and supportive. The content is thorough, diverse and well thought out. Whether you are just starting your journey or have years of experience - their programs will fit your needs.

As a disabled individual it hasn't always been easy finding accessible programs. I was pleasantly surprised to feel so well understood, that every single one of the faculty are proficient in adaptations and that they were patient with my "quirks" like intermittent vocabulary loss and debilitating fatigue.

They've also always got great content on social media, offer complimentary info sessions on an ever changing variety of subjects and are quick to respond to inquiries!

I can't possibly thank Liz and the instructors at Soma enough. This program has changed me in so many ways and I can't wait to share my new skills with others!

Thanks again, Soma! 🙏🕉

Source: Google

Hanna Harstad

★ 5

Simply put, this experience has been life changing. I came to this yoga teacher training with the assumption that I was going to learn how to teach an asana practice, but what I am leaving with cannot possibly be put into words. What I can say is it was pure bliss. I now have a much deeper spiritual interest and understanding of yoga, a deeper love for myself, and an endless gratitude for my own practice. Our instructors, Peggy and Allison, were nothing short of spectacular; they are inspiring, knowledgeable, humble, kind, loving, and their grace knows no bounds. The 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training was such a blessing and I cannot thank Soma Yoga Institute enough for the experience. It was pure light. I am, and forever will be, grateful and honored to have been a part of it.

Source: Google

Marianna Voulgaris

★ 5

This was one of the most profound experiences of my life. This course was not only a beautiful journey into yoga but an inward journey of healing with amazing teachers and support.

Source: Google

Aoise Emma

★ 5

I absolutely loved my course with Soma Yoga Institute. The teaching is to an impeccably high standard, the information well researched and the mentoring program excellent. I would highly recommend to anyone considering yoga teacher training.

Source: Google

Behnaz T

★ 5

I enjoyed Memory Maintenance Yoga Teacher Training because I appreciated learning about the brain functionality, and what are the things that impact our brain and memory and what we can do in order to maintain a healthy, active and sharp brain all throughout life. I also enjoyed learning about different body and pranayama exercises and the brain games that I can definitely utilize in my teaching either for Memory Maintenance Yoga, chair or other type of yoga that I might teach. I also really appreciated learning how bilateral movement can be a great exercise for the brain as well as body. Using cross lateral movements, adding cardio and utilizing breath, practically whatever we could do for the health of the heart, could be great for the brain as well. I would absolutely recommend this course to other yoga teachers! -- Behnaz T

Source: Google

Sandra Aurelia

★ 5

I loved the unity and connection of this program. It was such a safe space that was beautifully held for us all, which stemmed from Sam and Peggy’s leadership. The immersion and being able to practice what we preach around the clock surrounded by other yogis was amazing. I am so excited to recommend this training to others and hopefully train more with Soma Yoga in the future. Peggy and Sam are bright shining beings that so graciously guide people into the space of yoga. They created a warm, supportive environment that emanated through the entire group and training. Their vast catalog of knowledge comes through in everything they teach.

Source: Google

Rachel Drummond

★ 5

As an educator and teacher trainer, I have very high standards for educational programs and my 200 hour yoga teacher training with Soma Yoga Institute far exceeded my expectations. The instructors were masters at sequencing the content including alignment, cueing, yoga philosophy, anatomy, chanting, and more. Each participant had two practicum teaching experiences which was very useful for getting teaching feedback and experience. I recommend this training to anyone who wants a high-quality science and heart-blended program in a gorgeous remote location in Costa Rica in the company of wonderful humans.

Source: Google

Amanda

★ 5

I enjoyed the diversity, focus on safety and the appreciation for every body type which this program fostered. We always approached the practice first by seeing the beauty of a student’s pose before we seek to modify it. I have a deeper understanding of how I practice yoga and how it feels in my body. While I mostly came to this program for personal reasons, I feel it has given me the courage to start a new path integrating yoga into my work as a holistic nutritional consultant. I look forward to joining Soma Yoga Institute again in the future to continue my education and would not hesitate to recommend Soma Yoga to anyone who asks! I feel blessed to have had Liz and Alison leading and guiding me on my way and preparing me for a deeper journey into yoga. --Amanda

Source: Google

Mariah Tsioros

★ 5

I enjoyed the information in the curriculum and the balance of teaching styles between Alison and Liz, as well as their caring presence. I loved the secluded location of Zen Spirit, right on the beach with amazing accommodations and food. I cannot wait to bring all of the concepts I learned into my life and appreciated the one-on-one insights I received during my conversations with my teachers, I will carry their advice and share it, like a ripple in a lake, for a lifetime. I feel confident and proud to step into the teacher’s seat. I will definitely recommend Soma Yoga Institute and will return in the future for my training needs. Liz and Alison, I love you both—thank you for everything, I cannot imagine not coming here and I am so glad I can share what I learned with others. You both rock! Soma Yoga Institute is the real deal. This is exactly what a teacher training should be. Liz and Alison created a supportive, loving environment fir us to learn and grow into thoughtful informative, safe, and authentic teachers. After completing this training, I feel confident and excited to go out and offer my community the transformative space of yoga. I will continue to integrate these teachings and wisdom into my life forever. I will also forever hold this experience with Soma Yoga dear to my heart. Thank you for your care and empowerment! --Mariah Kontopoulos

Source: Google

Malie Larish

★ 5

Took the online Yoga SAFE program. I appreciated how the course was broken down into logical units and I appreciated the combination of Anatomy Lectures, Fascia Study, and Practice and Therapeutics. I loved how I could pause and replay videos over and over so that I could take notes and practice more than once. Since I was teaching 3 yoga classes per week at U.H. Hilo during this course, I loved incorporating what I was learning from Yoga SAFE into my classes. Some of the simplest concepts were eye-opening for me. As the content of Yoga SAFE continually deepened my understanding of my body in my own practice, this translated into my ability to guide my students more effectively and with greater clarity. It was just so nice to feel the beautiful energy of Liz and Sam, which was even palpable through the videos. I greatly appreciate the depth and breadth of Liz and Sam’s knowledge of these subjects. I appreciate Liz’s calm, peaceful being and Sam’s excitement, clarity, and humor. In that sense, I wish I could have been there in the room with them

Source: Google

Casey Silvia

★ 5

I did the 200 hour yoga teacher training in Costa Rica in August of 2019, and thought the overall structure of the program was great. The food at Zen Spirit was delicious and I loved that the natural well water there was clean and drinkable. At the time I was there, they had just opened a new studio, which was very bright and airy, with overhead fans (which is really important in the climate in Costa Rica). I loved all the classes including the non-asana classes, and I loved the fact that we got so much actual teaching experience from day one. I actually felt prepared to teach after this program. And physically, I felt the best I had in a long time. After this training, I really felt like I could go home and offer classes in my community, for my neighbors, friends, and co-workers which was not something I necessarily thought I would be comfortable or confident doing before training as a teacher with Soma. I also loved the way Liz and Peggy helped us to each develop our own personal practices and sequences for classes. I certainly recommend this program to anyone looking for a 200 hour YTT and would love to study with Soma Yoga Institute again in the future.

Source: Google

Dawn Stern

★ 5

I went feeling apprehensive about a million things and left feeling enriched, excited, and enthralled at the entire experience! Exceptional balance of mind body practice with firmly compassionate invitations for deeper exploration. The program ignited my knowledge to learn more about the way of yoga. Teachers are inspirational and masters at holding the room. Brought an eclectic group of 20 yogis at different levels together and facilitated us taking care of ourselves and each other. Went with my husband and we both signed up for more on-line training with Liz and Peggy. They created a space so conducive to learning and growing and practicing and loving that we’d recommend them for anyone looking to explore or deepen their practice.

Source: Google

Michaela S.

★ 5

I really enjoyed the whole program, including how it was set up and especially that it was on my own time to finish it. It was very thoughtfully made down to every video and it was clear that Sam and Liz bring a lot of passion to this program. My practice is now more set to explore my own body and what it needs to feel good more intentionally, instead of just going through the motions. Teaching yoga to my students gets more exiting by integrating the knowledge from this course and being more curious what’s going on in their body. With this program I find myself looking deeper into the student’s whole body, which is very helpful to help my students to find their “feel-good pose” with props or without. Everything the course offered was amazing but the most compelling takeaway for me was the very first statement “Look at the whole being with loving eyes” -- this is a valuable perspective for the whole world, but particularly the yoga world. I have heard in a lot of studios the words: “go big or go home”, and a lot aiming for perfection but missing what’s actually already perfect. With this program I am even more able and convinced to help students in a safe way to do their best as available. I will definitely be recommending this program to others! All in all, this training I highly recommend to any yoga teacher who wants to know and learn more about anatomy, fascia and modifications of poses for their students or their own practice. Sam and Liz are so lovely to watch in their videos that you just know that they put their whole heart into this training to share their knowledge with everyone. Sam and Liz, please keep your passion going. It was very refreshing to see you both with this excitement about your students’ bodies to help them in any way or form. --Michaela Sharp

Source: Google

Oona M

★ 5

Thank you so much for another enlightening course, Yoga SAFE! I found it so helpful to have reminders of alignment cues and to train my eye further to notice things that might help my students. I feel my eye is beginning to develop higher awareness for areas of adjustment. I found it helpful to have reminders of both verbal cues and possible prop variations to enhance the practice of these postures. I have enjoyed the discussions and have found them reassuring in the development of my practice and my teaching practice. --Oona Matheson

Source: Google

Janet Rosoff

★ 5

I really enjoyed the expertise of Liz and Sam, I just love how you both interact and your individual knowledge and style of teaching. I teach a very diverse group of yogis ranging from age 50-95, and in this course I have learned to look at each one of these students with an eye of awareness to assist them to come into their anatomical neutral for their body type. I learned to become curious and where my eye was drawn to identify what may be keeping a student out of their anatomical neutral and to bring awareness to the student where they might come into balance between the front and back body. I have been practicing for 20 years and teaching for 10 years and I learned and understood more about the anatomy of our bodies in this Yoga SAFE course than any other course and certification I have taken over the last 20 years. I will reveal that in many of the videos I was so envious of the students who were being adjusted by either Liz or Sam. You are on my bucket list to take a training from you in person, and I would definitely recommend this experience to others. --Janet Rosoff

Source: Google

gosi m

★ 5

I did the yoga teacher training with the Soma Yoga Institute. I enjoyed the fact that it was a hands-on training allowing us to practice from the very beginning, thereby empowering us. I loved the alignment principles and the process of making sure we learn how to identify and correct misalignments. I have learned heaps about myself during this process and this realization will deeply impact my wellbeing and health in the future. I adored the anatomy lessons, therapeutic elements, and learning to teach seniors. I also loved the list of practical lessons in the manual. I would highly recommend this training to others and would love to return to Soma Yoga Institute for my future education. Thank you, Sam and Peggy, for this great experience and having an open heart to every single student. I have grown so much during these three weeks, personally, physically, and on every other level possible!

Source: Google

Brittany Librie

★ 5

Loved the quality, compassion, space, and love that Soma Yoga Institute provides during our yoga teacher training in Costa Rica. I was able to learn so much from Liz and Peggy. I highly recommend this yoga teaching training as you get to learn so much, deepen your own practice, learn alignments and antamony, and yoga everyday!

Source: Google

Molly Weidmaier

★ 5

This yoga teacher training was great! I really enjoyed the positive atmosphere and support that was given to all the students. Our time was well structured which helped us work well through the whole retreat. I really enjoyed the anatomy presentations because they helped me understand yoga in other bodies other than my own. I am more aware of myself now and my relationships with others. I have a better understanding of a Yoga and I am more confident teaching than I was before I came.

Source: Google

Jen Mattingly

★ 5

The 200 hour YTT course with Soma Yoga Institute in Greece was amazing!!! The instructors and students were definitely what made the trip unforgettable, but I also enjoyed the well thought-out schedule. I appreciated the consistency from day to day with the occasional surprise from time to time. I enjoyed that the first week of the course was busier, then we had a little more time to explore the area throughout the last week. I feel more confident after completing this training and I definitely have a much better understanding of all aspects of yoga. I really enjoyed being exposed to so many types of yoga and that the emphasis was placed on alignment and doing what is right for your individual body. I would definitely love to train again with Soma Yoga Institute, and I want to recommend the program to others as well. Molly and Liz make a great team! I really enjoyed both of their styles of teaching even though they were different. It was great to see that the approach can be diverse but still wonderful!

--Jennifer Mattingly

Source: Google

Eunice Wong

★ 5

What amazing energy, teachers, location, and students this training had! Liz really set up a very conducive, loving, encouraging, environment which I truly value and Molly’s classes were challenging and fun. This training really opened my eyes, heart, and mind. I would love to train again with Soma Yoga and would highly recommend this program to others! This training exceeded my expectations and it is truly one of the most inspiring events

Source: Google

Laurel Isbister

★ 5

The three things I most loved about the Memory Maintenance Yoga Teacher Training Online CE Program were how the curriculum was so grounded in empirical data and research, the optimism in the protocol and teaching methodologies, (we can really make a difference as yoga instructors!) and lastly, the incredibly supportive and friendly group of teachers and students I had the pleasure of studying with! I felt like having the Facebook group to share my thoughts and expand upon those of my fellow students was a really effective way to supplement all the course materials and learn from each other. I also appreicated the 7-element structure to the course. I’ve added some of the games and psycho-education for memory health to my teaching and I am so interested and inspired to see how this continues to develop in my practice and teaching. Liz was a great teacher and was incredibly organized, making the course material so approachable, and David is also so knowledgeable and has such a kind attitude and sense of humor. I would definitely recommend this course to other yogis--I was in heaven as a yoga geek and felt like the course offered extremely effective summaries of what is complex and nuanced learning material. --Laurel Isbister

Source: Google

Janet R

★ 5

I was thrilled with the expertise and knowledge we were exposed to by Liz and David during each component of the Memory Maintenance Yoga Teacher Training Online Program, in each week’s lectures, videos and practice library! I really appreciated the 7 Elements as the foundation in sequencing a class, as well as the practice library, which provided an incredible amount of knowledge and guidance that I am now able to share with my students. My teaching focus and techniques changed after just one week of the training. Prior to this training, I had completed my 200-hour in 2009 and then 5 additional trainings and certifications with an emphasis on the senior population. Although my classes incorporated the majority of the 7 Elements, my class focus was on the heart and the body. The 7 Elements, 4 Pillars of Prevention, and the Sound Bites made it so clear that my teaching would be inclusive of the heart, body, and the brain as one entity keeping our bodies alive. The live-calls were great because I loved that this online training had one day each week to connect as a community. I would absolutely train again with Soma Yoga Institute! Additionally, I have already forwarded the Soma Website and MMY training information to a number of my colleagues. This training has impacted the way I am now teaching my classes, which of course provides invaluable benefits to my students. – Janet Rosoff

Source: Google

Marcie Storch

★ 5

"Just completed the online Memory Maintenance Yoga Teacher training and I loved the course materials offered by both Liz and David as teachers. Each one was great-- really! I not only learned new material through the training, but also found that there were many elements to include and integrate in my current teaching and classes. For example, if a stretch or asana involves cross-lateral movements, I mentioned the benefits for brain health. The videos were all really great! I mean full of content and even fun! Please link anything you develop in the future to our group page, as I would certainly love to join another training in the future and would recommend this experience to others.! I also so enjoyed the live-call conversations on Tuesdays. This course has supplied me with many resources, such as the cueing handout sheet, which was extremely helpful, and I will continue to reference it after completing the course. Thanks so much!" --Marcie Storch

Source: Google

Linda Jaeger

★ 5

This review is for the Memory Maintenance Yoga Teacher Training (online): Liz and David have created a program that includes online videos (you can watch on your own time schedule), a Facebook group (just for us), appropriate homework assignments (to do according to your schedule), a weekly face-to-face Zoom meeting (recorded so we can view it any time), pdf files for hard copy, and they got back to everyone immediately when there was a question or problem. Due dates are “open-ended,” we can always access the materials, and we have 20 hours of CECs for Yoga Alliance when everything is complete. Additionally, I truly appreciate your acceptance & non-judgmental attitude toward other schools of training. I absolutely loved the online learning format and all the videos on vimeo – what a labor of love for you all to put these together! It was so nice to be able to fit everything around my schedule. I have incorporated numerous things from this training into my classes – not just the ones for seniors, but also my younger folks. Every time I learn something, my students are thrilled for me to share it with them. We have had even more fun and laughter in class since I took the Memory Maintenance YTT! I loved the brain games, and the somatics (which has always been a favorite of mine). This program was amazing, and filled with the laughter and the calm of re-training the brain to recover sensory memory. Yes, I would absolutely recommend the Memory maintenance Yoga Teacher Training to others! This was excellent! There was such a nice melding of techniques from different programs, offered in a non-threatening manner (thank you, Liz!) to those who have different training. Course information was current from professionals who are “cutting edge” in this field. --Linda Jaeger

Source: Google

roxanne logan

★ 5

I feel so empowered! I came to Costa Rica looking for a teacher training and instead I got every tool I need to train and help myself throughout my life. The curriculum was carefully crafted and was so perfectly well rounded. It provided everything I was looking for. The instruction and educational style was hands-on, so I never struggled with my learning disability. The location, weather, and group size were all perfect and I felt so loved and cared for. The wealth of knowledge the teachers have is amazing, especially with how the yoga industry is evolving. The manual and continuing education is so fantastic and I would love to do the advanced teacher training and learn more about alignment and catering to my class. I have already recommended this program to others and the 200-hour training has me excited to come back for the 300-hour training. This training gave me the tools for self-care and the strength to employ them so I am well-equipped now. I now know not only how important the space of yoga is to allow people safety and growth, but also the magnitude of the work that goes into creating and holding this space. Yoga is a life long journey and I feel more connected than ever. This experience has deepened my love for yoga and my need to share it —Roxanne

Source: Google

Barbara Kochniss

★ 5

The loving spirit and the therapeutic approach to this program was really enjoyable. Both instructors gave everyone so much confidence in ourselves and prepared us so well for all of what is to come. I learned a lot about myself—especially that I can achieve anything if I just believe in myself. I became more aware of myself, letting go of my over-critical tendencies and opening up and being proud of myself as I learned so much about alignment and transitions in sequencing, which I will definitely take into my home practice and into my teaching. I am very thankful for the challenge which learning to teach presented and being out of my comfort zone actually helped in making me become more comfortable with both. I would definitely recommend this experience and would do another SYI training, maybe the 300-hour program someday and somewhere just as beautiful I’m sure!

Source: Google

Rita LaFaive

★ 5

"I loved the personal support and openness first and foremost. Both instructors inspire me to be a kinder and supportive teacher. This program taught me to see the positives and look for opportunities to increase the student’s wellbeing. I love the videos and organization of the material. I found it to be easy to follow the flow and frankly I had a hard time not staying up late at night going from video to video. Immediately I felt like I had more body awareness. I now hear things the well-trained teachers are saying during class that I missed prior. I have just started teaching and I asked the students for approval to do hands on adjustments which had a positive impact. I have so much to learn and look forward to leveraging the ongoing information exchange. I would absolutely recommend this program to others and already have. Keep doing what you do for yoga. I am so glad to have found this course. I will be watching for other opportunities to learn from you moving forward. Thank you for the way you approach improving the teachers of yoga around the world." --Rita LaFaive

Source: Google

Laura Reneau

★ 5

"I took this course because I needed to deepen my understanding on many levels and feel that with the benefit of this course that is happening. I like videos because I can pause and/or rewind. I can watch and listen again if I need to clarify something. I can use all of this course as a resource over time. There is great value in that. I am going deeper into body mechanics. I have a deeper appreciation for the structure of the body. Somehow this translates to a more profound respect for the bodies of my students. Understanding there is no cookie cutter way for yoga to occur, which I knew for myself, and it is good to hear. Enjoying the way you speak of accepting that bodies show up differently and we don’t all have to look the same in our asanas has been very helpful. Looking with Eyes of Love! Somehow, throughout all these many years of practice, the emphasis has been on looking a certain way. Perhaps it’s the media, perhaps it’s been some of the teachers I’ve had in the past, perhaps it’s just been my own perception. I’m glad to let that go. I understand the importance of proper alignment in the body, but it takes time, and for many, unwinding years of misaligned facia and muscles. Accepting what is true in the body right now and working with that is a gift. Practice and all will come….” – Laura Reneau

Source: Google

Sierra Martin

★ 5

I loved EVERYTHING about this 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training program! I looked far and wide and searched hard and long for the perfect training, and this was without a doubt The One. The daily schedule and flow of content was nothing short of flawless. It was so well thought-out and there was a perfect balance and weaving of concepts between theory, philosophy and practice throughout the entire program. The space was also STUNNING and so welcoming with modern accommodation, 2 gorgeous pools, delicious food (not to mention super generous portions), and we pretty much had the whole stretch of beach to ourselves. The best thing about this YTT however, was the people and my instructors. We all found a little piece of home in each other, and I could not be more grateful for having Liz and Peggy lead us through this transformational journey. They are such inspirational beings with so much knowledge, wisdom and experience to share on all topics. They had an amazing synergy and complementarity as a teaching team that I could have never dreamed of - teaching us how to see ourselves and the rest of the world with compassion and eyes of love before anything else. This training allowed for such broad and deep learning that went way beyond how to teach yoga. It empowered me, and has provided me with foundational tools that I can use for the rest of my life—not only as a yogi, but also as a productive human on Earth. Perspective is everything and learning to first see myself with loving kindness has allowed me to develop a more balanced and peaceful inner world where I can listen to my deepest intuition and let it guide me. Whether or not you come here to teach yoga, you will find empowerment and the ability within yourself to do anything and everything you hope to do. —Sierra, January 2019 Costa Rica YTT @ Zen Spirit Resort

Source: Google

Ashwini Ashu

★ 4

Source: Google