Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is a type of meditation based on the ancient yogic anatomy of the Koshas, the 5 subtle bodies. Sometimes described as a long savasana, it is actually a combination of deep body relaxation and mental awareness.
Yoga Nidra is a quiet journey inward to stillness that transforms and releases old habits, fatigue, worry, and stress. Yoga Nidra is a technique for physical rejuvenation, mental relaxation, spiritual growth, and overall wellness.
Course Overview
This training is for those who would like to offer students the opportunity to experience a systematic method of conscious relaxation. Yoga Nidra has been found to be effective in treating many of the physical symptoms of stress, including insomnia, anxiety, and depression. It is also helpful in the treatment of PTSD and addictions.
During our weekend together, we will:
Explore the science, philosophy and practice of Yoga Nidra.
Gain a solid understanding of how this practice can assist different populations.
Learn how to practically present Yoga Nidra sessions in both group and individualized settings.
This introductory course is suitable for all Yoga students, Yoga Teachers, wellness instructors, mental health counselors, doctors, nurses, social workers, psychologists, and other health care professionals.
Course Outline
During the course you will learn:
Introduction to Yoga Nidra
What is Yoga Nidra?
What is consciousness?
How is Yoga Nidra different from meditation
The benefits of the practice
The Science of Yoga Nidra
The science behind the practice
Modern neuroscience and neuroplasticity
Nervous system regulation and vagus nerve
The Philosophy of Yoga Nidra
The history of Yoga Nidra
The Koshas, 5 subtle bodies
The stages of Yoga Nidra
Types of Yoga Nidra Practices
Yoga Nidra as a meditative practice
Creating Sankalpa: Intention and Visualization
Script preparation for effective classes
Leading Yoga Nidra Practices
The tools to teach Yoga Nidra
Enhancing your personal practice and/or Yoga Classes with Yoga Nidra
The importance of voice and finding your voice
Creating a comfortable and safe environment; props, postures and music
Movement and breathwork practices to support the Yoga Nidra experience
Dates and Timings
Friday, September 11, 2026 to Sunday, September 13, 2026
Friday: 6:30 pm to 9 pm
Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
Breaks will be provided. A reading list will be provided in advance of the start date of the training and contains required reading for the training.
Costs and Registration
EARLY BIRD SAVINGS! $525.00 per person before July 31, 2026. $575.00 per person thereafter.
Fee includes the training, manual, certificate and access to additional resources including Yoga Nidra scripts and research information.
If you live away from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and would like printed training materials to be sent to you, please ensure you sign up at least 10 days before the course start date in order for us to ship the materials to you. Otherwise e-documents will be provided, where possible.
A recording of the training is available until 7 days after the training ends.
This 15 hour training prepares and certifies you to teach a 1-hour introductory Yoga Nidra workshop and lead individual or group Yoga Nidra classes.
This course is open to the general public. 6 months to 1 year of regular yoga and/or meditation practice is recommended for participation.
For 200 hour certified Yoga Teachers this course provides CEUs with Yoga Alliance.
This course is also part of our Yoga Alliance 300 Hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Training.
Our 3,000 square foot Education Centre offers a large open concept training area with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light and excellent ventilation. There is a kitchen with fridge, microwave, kettle and dishware. We have a dining area with tables and chairs, 2 gender neutral bathrooms, and our Administration Office.
Yoga therapy is “the professional application of the principles and practices of yoga to promote health and well-being within a therapeutic relationship that includes personalized assessment, goal setting, lifestyle management and yoga practices for individuals or small groups.” (IAYT).
A Yoga Therapist is trained in the skills and practices needed for the therapeutic application of yoga principles and practices, for example asana, pranayama, the five koshas model, meditation, and understanding of yoga philosophy for self-awareness.
This point in time represents an exciting opportunity for yoga therapy! Yoga therapy is a relatively new profession that is gaining awareness and recognition as an effective healing modality. Yoga therapy is integrative and complements other healing modalities, including Western practices.
A Yoga Therapist may be one part of a person’s health and healing team. Yoga Therapists are trained to meet their client where they are and support their individual healing and wellness needs regardless of age, gender, health history, physical, or mental ability. Yoga Therapy supports physical, energetic, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being.
This course is the first course in the 800 Hour PranaShanti Yoga Therapy Program and is designed to introduce students to the foundations of Yoga Therapy, the role of the Yoga Therapist, the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT), and to PranaShanti’s Yoga Therapy Program.
Learning Objectives:
Learn about Yoga Therapy as an integrative approach to wellness and as an accredited profession with a Code of Ethics, Scope of practice and key competencies set out by the IAYT;
Understand the vision, path, framework, tools & results of Yoga Therapy;
Explore the role and attributes of the Yoga Therapist in 1:1 or small group sessions;
Acquire an overview of the Modules and topics covered in PranaShanti’s Yoga Therapy Program.
Dates and Times:
Monday, September 14 and 21, 2026
6 pm ET to 9 pm ET both evenings
Short breaks.
The training content will be delivered through interactive lecture, reflection, experience, Q&A sessions and a Yoga Therapy intake session role play. Trainers will be modelling Yoga Therapist qualities throughout the course.
This introductory training is suitable for those who are interested in learning more about PranaShanti’s Yoga Therapy Program and/or participating in the program. Our program supports IAYT’s educational standards for yoga therapy. We received accreditation for our program on January 21, 2024, from IAYT.
Cost: $250.00 per person. SAVE $55.00 by registering on or before July 31, 2026 for $195.00 per person.
Fee includes the course, hand-outs, and suggested reading list.
If you live away from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and would like printed training materials to be sent to you, please ensure you sign up at least 10 days before the course start date in order for us to ship the materials to you. Otherwise e-documents will be provided, where possible.
Notes: This course is open to ALL yoga students and teachers of all disciplines. For 200 hour certified Yoga Teachers this course provides CEUs with Yoga Alliance.
This course is part of our 800 Hour Yoga Therapy Training Program.
Our 3,000 square foot Education Centre offers a large open concept training area with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light and excellent ventilation. There is a kitchen with fridge, microwave, kettle and dishware. We have a dining area with tables and chairs, 2 gender neutral bathrooms, and our Administration Office.
Inner Stillness: Monthly Meditation Group | In-Person
Wednesday, September 16th, 7:00pm - 8:15pm
In-Person Class
Join Devinder each month for a meditation gathering designed to nourish your inner life and support a consistent, grounded practice. Each month explores a different theme or aspect of meditation—such as breath awareness, mantra, mindfulness, visualization, or working with the mind.
The evening begins with a short session of mindful movement to prepare the body, followed by an insightful discussion topic, a meditation, and a period of deep relaxation to integrate the experience.
This welcoming space offers the opportunity to explore meditation in community, ask questions, and reconnect with your inner stillness.
Open to all levels. Bring a cushion, notebook, and your curiosity.
Cost: PranaShanti Drop-In, Class Package or Membership.
Location: PranaShanti Education Centre, 950 Gladstone Ave., 2nd Floor, Ottawa, ON.
Inner Stillness: Monthly Meditation Group | Online
Wednesday, September 16th, 7:00pm - 8:15pm
Online Class
Join Devinder each month for a meditation gathering designed to nourish your inner life and support a consistent, grounded practice. Each month explores a different theme or aspect of meditation—such as breath awareness, mantra, mindfulness, visualization, or working with the mind.
The evening begins with a short session of mindful movement to prepare the body, followed by an insightful topic, a meditation, and a period of deep relaxation to integrate the experience.
This welcoming space offers the opportunity to explore meditation in community, ask questions, and reconnect with your inner stillness.
Open to all levels. Bring a cushion, notebook, and your curiosity.
Cost: PranaShanti Drop-In, Class Package or Membership.
Unlock the ancient art of Tai Chi with our immersive workshop, focusing on an adaptation of the traditional Yang Style form.
Seeking calm, improved balance, and enhanced well-being? Join us to explore the foundational principles of Yang Style Tai Chi, a gentle yet powerful practice for all levels.
What You'll Learn:
Core Tai Chi Principles: Understand essential concepts of posture, breathing, and internal energy (Qi).
Fundamental Movements: Learn key postures and transitions from the Yang Style form.
Mind-Body Connection: Foster a profound sense of inner peace and focus.
Improved Balance & Relaxation: Enhance stability and reduce stress through gentle, flowing movements.
You’ll get take home handouts each lesson so you can practice at home.
Dates and Times:
Thursdays, September 17 to October 8, 2026
4-Weekly Sessions
7 pm to 8 pm
No prior experience or equipment required. Dress in comfortable clothing that you can move in easily.
Cost: $180.00 per person for the 4-weekly sessions.
EARLY BIRD: Sign up before July 31, 2026 and SAVE $20.00, for $160.00 per person.
At PranaShanti Yoga Centre we have offered over 40 200-Hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Trainings. This fall we will be offering a very special training experience that draws on the caliber and depth of specialization of our most experienced Teachers!
Our yoga programs are life-transforming and for everyone, whether you are interested in becoming a teacher or wanting to deepen your yoga practice and knowledge.
This Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Part-Time program is designed to help accommodate your busy schedule. It offers the possibility to really dive into the teachings: physically, mentally and spiritually while respecting your commitments to work, family, schooling and personal life.
This PranaShanti Teacher Training program is a total of 200+ hours including 180 contact hours and 35 personal hours so that you graduate a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). This format provides future teachers exposure to as much knowledge and hands-on practice teaching time as possible.
Our program provides you with a foundational background in yoga that draws on the Hatha and Vinyasa yoga traditions, as well as modern knowledge of bio-mechanics and movement, so that you can confidently teach holistic, all-levels classes in a clear, compassionate manner. You will deepen your understanding of asana (postures), develop a functional understanding of yogic and Western anatomy, yoga philosophy and theory, Ayurveda, meditation, personal development and communication skills.
Dates and Timings:
The format of the program is comprised of evening lectures, weekend lectures, self study and public yoga classes at PranaShanti Yoga Centre.
Practice Weekends:
Fridays, 6 pm to 9 pm and Saturdays and Sundays, 9 am to 6 pm each day. All evening sessions are available live Online or In-Person.
September 18-19-20, 2026
October 16-17-18, 2026
November 20-21-22, 2026
January 8-9-10, 2027
February 5-6-7, 2027
March 5-6-7, 2027
April 9-10-11, 2027
Practice Evenings: Weeknight Evenings 6 pm to 9 pm. All evening sessions are available by Live Stream or In-Person.
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Tuesday, December 1 and 15, 2026 (2 sessions in December)
Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
Tuesday, March 16, 2027
Self Study:
Complete homework (reading, writing, practice teaching) between group sessions.
Prepare a yoga research presentation and complete a yoga class journal for each of the 20 yoga classes attended.
20 Yoga Classes at PranaShanti Yoga Centre
Choose from over 80 classes per week to practice and observe various different teachers, teaching and yoga styles.
Program Outline:
Teaching Asana – Learn to teach safely, effectively and with compassion and confidence in person and online. Participate in Posture Clinics to breakdown the asanas, and learn about sequencing, props, cuing, music and holding space
Meditation – Practice a variety of meditation techniques to focus and quiet the mind and understand the benefits and science behind the practice
Pranayama – Explore powerful breath (pranayama) techniques such as ujayi, kapalabhati, nadi shodhana. Understand the bandhas or energy locks that direct prana
Anatomy – Study anatomy and the effects of yoga on the body, including physical and energetic postural alignment
Yogic Anatomy – Learn the energetic effects of yoga on the body and the chakra and meridian systems
Yogic History and Philosophy – Study Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and how these teachings provide a real model that can be applied to daily life. Explore Yoga’s rich history and language
Ayurveda – Experience yoga’s sister science for health and vitality, self care and nourishment
Conscious Community – Understand and recognise ourselves as transformation leaders through the teaching of yoga
Yoga for Everyone – Explore the topics of accessibility, adaptation, modification, trauma informed practice, and receive an introduction to various yoga styles
Business of Yoga – Take a peak behind the scenes to a day in the life of a yoga teacher and studio owner to understand the practicalities of this profession
Teaching Team:
At PranaShanti, the members of our Teaching Team range from all traditions of yoga and are committed to your study and learning. We offer a Teaching Assistant Program as part of our trainings so 200 hour level Teachers can continue to hone their skills in the training environment and be of service to the teachers-in-training.
We believe in the highest quality and caliber of training so that every student receives the time, focus and dedication of the trainers that is needed to create a solid foundation for practice and teaching. Although every effort is made to maintain consistency faculty may be subject to change.
Registration:
$3,295.00 + HST before August 15, 2026
$3,500.00 + HST starting August 16, 2026 onward and paid in full before our start date; or
Payment Plan: $3,800.00 + HST. A deposit of $500.00 + HST plus 7 monthly payments (September 2026 to March 2027). All payments to be complete before the course concludes.
What is Included:
Yoga manual, text book and handouts
An Unlimited Yoga Class Package that starts on the first day of the program and ends on the last day of the program to support you in completing the 20 Yoga Class requirement
Home study assignment/projects, presentation, journaling
Practice teaching
Personal mentorship
During training students receive 10% off purchases at PranaShanti for such items as books, manuals, clothing, yoga mats and bags.
Hold your space! A $500.00 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your space in the program.
Refunds for the balance of the course fees (minus a $500.00 Administration Fee) are available up to 5 days before the starting date.
No refunds or credits will be provided after the course has started.
50% discount for PranaShanti 200-Hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Training graduates that would like to repeat the program.
10% discount for full time students, seniors and military.
Tax Receipts: PranaShanti is an ESDC Certified Educational Institution and can provide tax receipts for qualifying trainings.
Our 3,000 square foot Education Centre offers a large open concept training area with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light and excellent ventilation. There is a kitchen with fridge, microwave, kettle and dishware. We have a dining area with tables and chairs, 2 gender neutral bathrooms, and our Administration Office.
Immerse yourself in a deeply soothing experience that combines gentle yoga and a live harmonic sound relaxation.
You’ll be supported in releasing stress and tension through gentle yoga postures. As your body settles, you’ll be enveloped in the healing vibrations of crystal and metal singing bowls, chimes, Gong, and other meditative instruments—designed to quiet the mind and restore your energy.
Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this class is a beautiful way to reset and recharge.
Cost: PranaShanti Drop-In Fee, Class Package, or Membership. You’re welcome to bring an eye pillow or anything that adds to your comfort. This class is held in our Education Centre on the 2nd floor. Please enter the building through the door under the red awning, and head up the stairs.
Location: PranaShanti Yoga Centre, 950 Gladstone Ave. 2nd Floor, Ottawa, ON. Studio: Education Centre.
Yoga therapy is “the professional application of the principles and practices of yoga to promote health and well-being within a therapeutic relationship that includes personalized assessment, goal setting, lifestyle management and yoga practices for individuals or small groups.” (IAYT).
A Yoga Therapist is trained in the skills and practices needed for the therapeutic application of yoga principles and practices, for example asana, pranayama, the five koshas model, meditation, and understanding of yoga philosophy for self-awareness.
This point in time represents an exciting opportunity for yoga therapy! Yoga therapy is a relatively new profession that is gaining awareness and recognition as an effective healing modality. Yoga therapy is integrative and complements other healing modalities, including Western practices.
A Yoga Therapist may be one part of a person’s health and healing team. Yoga Therapists are trained to meet their client where they are and support their individual healing and wellness needs regardless of age, gender, health history, physical, or mental ability. Yoga Therapy supports physical, energetic, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being.
This course is the first course in the 800 Hour PranaShanti Yoga Therapy Program and is designed to introduce students to the foundations of Yoga Therapy, the role of the Yoga Therapist, the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT), and to PranaShanti’s Yoga Therapy Program.
Learning Objectives:
Learn about Yoga Therapy as an integrative approach to wellness and as an accredited profession with a Code of Ethics, Scope of practice and key competencies set out by the IAYT;
Understand the vision, path, framework, tools & results of Yoga Therapy;
Explore the role and attributes of the Yoga Therapist in 1:1 or small group sessions;
Acquire an overview of the Modules and topics covered in PranaShanti’s Yoga Therapy Program.
Dates and Times:
Monday, September 14 and 21, 2026
6 pm ET to 9 pm ET both evenings
Short breaks.
The training content will be delivered through interactive lecture, reflection, experience, Q&A sessions and a Yoga Therapy intake session role play. Trainers will be modelling Yoga Therapist qualities throughout the course.
This introductory training is suitable for those who are interested in learning more about PranaShanti’s Yoga Therapy Program and/or participating in the program. Our program supports IAYT’s educational standards for yoga therapy. We received accreditation for our program on January 21, 2024, from IAYT.
Cost: $250.00 per person. SAVE $55.00 by registering on or before July 31, 2026 for $195.00 per person.
Fee includes the course, hand-outs, and suggested reading list.
If you live away from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and would like printed training materials to be sent to you, please ensure you sign up at least 10 days before the course start date in order for us to ship the materials to you. Otherwise e-documents will be provided, where possible.
Notes: This course is open to ALL yoga students and teachers of all disciplines. For 200 hour certified Yoga Teachers this course provides CEUs with Yoga Alliance.
This course is part of our 800 Hour Yoga Therapy Training Program.
Our 3,000 square foot Education Centre offers a large open concept training area with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light and excellent ventilation. There is a kitchen with fridge, microwave, kettle and dishware. We have a dining area with tables and chairs, 2 gender neutral bathrooms, and our Administration Office.
Unlock the ancient art of Tai Chi with our immersive workshop, focusing on an adaptation of the traditional Yang Style form.
Seeking calm, improved balance, and enhanced well-being? Join us to explore the foundational principles of Yang Style Tai Chi, a gentle yet powerful practice for all levels.
What You'll Learn:
Core Tai Chi Principles: Understand essential concepts of posture, breathing, and internal energy (Qi).
Fundamental Movements: Learn key postures and transitions from the Yang Style form.
Mind-Body Connection: Foster a profound sense of inner peace and focus.
Improved Balance & Relaxation: Enhance stability and reduce stress through gentle, flowing movements.
You’ll get take home handouts each lesson so you can practice at home.
Dates and Times:
Thursdays, September 17 to October 8, 2026
4-Weekly Sessions
7 pm to 8 pm
No prior experience or equipment required. Dress in comfortable clothing that you can move in easily.
Cost: $180.00 per person for the 4-weekly sessions.
EARLY BIRD: Sign up before July 31, 2026 and SAVE $20.00, for $160.00 per person.
This course introduces the basic guiding philosophies and methodologies of yoga including it roots, lineages and originating philosophy.
Discover the evolution of the teachings and philosophy of the yoga tradition; The Yoga Sutras on Healing, Lessons from Patanjali, and their relevance and application to yoga therapy, including teachings from Vedic and post-Vedic periods, Samkhya, Yoga, Tantra, and Ayurveda are introduced.
Learn how the Yoga tradition is woven into Yoga Therapy through group discussions, readings and individual exploration.
Learning Objectives:
Have a deep knowledge of the evolution of the yoga philosophy and history.
Understand and explain the yoga perspectives of the mind.
Understand and discuss the conditions of the minds in a disturbed/distracted state.
Understand the Yoga Sutras on healing as related to Yoga Therapy.
Competencies: 1.1, 1.2, 3.3, 3.4, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4
Learning Materials:
PranaShanti Course PowerPoint Slide Package and Handouts
A Yoga Sutra book of the student's choice. (To be purchased/provided by the student.)
There are no additional fees, books, supply costs or other additional expenses beyond the course fee for this course.
Small Group Exercises: Pairs and triads reporting back to full group.
Self-reflective Exercise/Journal Reflection.
Homework: Series of questions to be answered in writing.
Dates and Timings:
Friday, September 25, 2026 to Sunday, September 27, 2026
Friday: 6 PM ET to 9 PM ET
Saturday: 9 AM ET to 6 PM ET
Sunday: 9 AM ET to 6 PM ET
Cost: $550.00 per person SAVE $55.00 by registering before June 30, 2026 for $495.00.
Notes:
This course is open to ALL yoga students and teachers of all disciplines. For 200 hour certified Yoga Teachers this course provides CEUs with Yoga Alliance.
This course is part of our 800 Hour Yoga Therapy Training Program.
Our 3,000 square foot Education Centre offers a large open concept training area with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light and excellent ventilation. There is a kitchen with fridge, microwave, kettle and dishware. We have a dining area with tables and chairs, 2 gender neutral bathrooms, and our Administration Office.
Come treat your body to a head-to-toe fascial rehydration experience!
The MELT Method is a ground-breaking self-care technique focused on rehydrating connective tissue, scientifically known as fascia. The fascial system connects, protects and stabilizes our entire body, wrapping around muscles, housing our joints, and enveloping organs and nerve tissue alike. By working on our fascia, we can reduce pain, stiffness, inflammation, and optimize our joint health and overall body mechanics.
This workshop will guide you through MELT's most foundational techniques, giving your body an awesome once-over using specially-designed soft foam rollers and balls.
Cost: $40.00 per person in-advance, $45.00 per person day of.
Maximum of 12 participants.
Location: PranaShanti Yoga Centre, 950 Gladstone Ave., Ottawa, ON. Studio: Soul Room.
About Rachel:
Rachel Lipton is a Level 2 MELT Method® Instructor and Registered Acupuncturist.
“I found MELT during the pandemic while trying to find a cost-effective way to manage my posture-based pain and tension areas. After practicing for two years, and using it while training for a short tri-athalon, I decided I couldn’t keep it to myself any longer! As a registered acupuncturist, I found the overlap between fascial function and the ancient Chinese meridians thrilling. I’m delighted to be sharing this method with the Ottawa community.”
Familiarity with how our bodies are put together, how their different systems function, and the mechanics of how they move can deepen our understanding of how to practice yoga safely, effectively, and efficiently. Learning anatomy, biomechanics and physiology can help us prevent injury, maintain a healthy, mobile body over our lifetime, and become more effective yoga teachers.
Program Outline:
In this course, we’ll examine Western anatomy through the lens of yoga by studying and applying to practice the following:
The ten systems of the body and how yoga can positively affect them
The anatomy and biomechanics of the breath and their central importance in how we practice asana and breathwork
The anatomy of the spine and how to practice asana safely and effectively by utilizing the biomechanics of the spine
The anatomy of the major joints of the body, the five primary causes of joint pain, and how yoga can help maintain healthy joints
This course will be a combination of lecture and applied practice of what we study so that students complete this course with a sense that knowledge of Western anatomy isn’t only information on a page but living, breathing concepts that can be practically applied to our yoga practice and teaching.
There is no pre-reading required for this course. Handouts for each subject will be distributed prior to our weekly sessions.
Dates and Times:
September 29, 2026 - October 27, 2026.
Five (5) Tuesday evenings from 6 pm ET – 9 pm ET.
Cost:
SAVE $50.00 by registering on or before August 31, 2026 for $475.00 per person. $525.00 per person thereafter.
Fee includes the training, manual and certificate.
If you live away from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and would like printed training materials to be sent to you, please ensure you sign up at least 10 days before the course start date in order for us to ship the materials to you. Otherwise e-documents will be provided, where possible.
Note:
This course is open to general public. 6 months to 1 year of regular yoga and/or meditation practice is recommended for participation.
If you live away from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and would like printed training materials to be sent to you, please ensure you sign up at least 10 days before the course start date in order for us to ship the materials to you. Otherwise e-documents will be provided, where possible.
For 200-hour certified Yoga Teachers this course provides CEUs with Yoga Alliance.
This course is also part of our Yoga Alliance 300 Hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Training.
Our 3,000 square foot Education Centre offers a large open concept training area with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light and excellent ventilation. There is a kitchen with fridge, microwave, kettle and dishware. We have a dining area with tables and chairs, 2 gender neutral bathrooms, our Lending Library and Administration Offices.
