Pratyahara

By Julie PasqualYoga PhilosophyNo Comments

About every eight weeks I drive from the New York City area to just outside Washington, DC. Inevitably, along the way I have to stop at one of the big rest stops along the highway. Maybe you know the kind I mean – they have a gas station, little shops, and several fast food restaurants in a giant food court.

Almost every trip, this is what I see:

A person enters the facility and clearly, they are coming in to use the restrooms. As a five year old might say, they are doing the “pee-pee walk”. They walk as fast as they can, headed for the alcove marked toilets, when all of a sudden they are greeted by a plethora of aromas. It’s usually the smell of cinnamon from the bakery items that are as large as my head, or the buttery goodness of a soft pretzel. Their heads lift, their eyes open a bit wider, and their noses twitch and then, almost like a zombie in a horror movie, they move… seemingly not of their own will towards the pretzel or the pastry and the urgent need that got them out of the car is gone. Something greater took over – a desire to consume one of those food items, and it was driven by a powerful thing. Only one of the five things that, if left uncontrolled, can pull us around like a Great Dane with a weak leash – the sense of smell.

Pratyahara – withdrawal of the senses

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krsna says this (2.67) “As a strong wind sweeps away a boat on the water, even one of the roaming senses on which the mind focuses can carry away a man’s intelligence.”

While eating that pretzel or cinnamon bun may not be the most horrible thing in the world, (and maybe the sugar will keep you more alert on the road for a while at least) we can probably easily think of times when letting our senses get the better of us, might lead to disaster. It is said that one must master the senses, or else they will master you. And they make very bad masters! We can think of people struggling with addictions. Even as they know what they are doing is injurious to their health, family, and relationships, they are drawn to something, like the proverbial moth to a flame. This tendency is what the practice of Pratyahara addresses.

In the Yoga Sutras (2.54) the sage Patanjali writes, “Pratyahara, withdrawal from sense objects, occurs when the senses do not come in contact with their respective sense objects. It corresponds, as it were, to the nature of the mind – when it is withdrawn from the sense objects.”

That’s a lot of words! But we can also understand the concept of Pratyahara from The Bhagavad Gita, which I find more digestible. In verse (2.58) it reads, “One who is able to withdraw his senses from sense objects, as the tortoise draws its limbs within the shell, is firmly fixed in perfect consciousness.”

In other words, it is not that we are to plug up our noses, so that we cannot smell, or wear blindfolds so we can’t see – it is that we need to use our superpower to pull those senses in, like our friend the turtle.

Luckily, we all possess this powerful aspect of the mind called The Buddhi. It is the part of our mind that can discern and say, “Wait a minute! The senses are NOT the boss of me! I do NOT need to eat/hear/buy/touch something, simply because my senses tell me to!” But, this, as we know, is quite hard. There is a VERY famous analogy about our five senses being like five out of control horses pulling a chariot. The chariot is our body, the passenger inside is our soul being thrown around here and there, as the horses do whatever they want. But luckily there is a driver, and that driver is our intelligence, aka The Buddhi! And when it contains the pull of those horses, to safely guide the chariot, that is known as Pratyahara.

The Bhagavad Gita on The Senses

As you have already read, Lord Krsna has quite a bit to say about the senses in the Gita. In the 15th chapter, Krsna notes that the living entities are struggling with the senses.

Here’s what else he says (2.60-2.63):

“The senses are so strong and impetuous, O Arjuna, that they forcibly carry away the mind even of a man of discrimination who is endeavoring to control them.”
“One who restrains his senses, keeping them under full control, and fixes his consciousness upon Me, is known as a man of steady intelligence.”
“While contemplating the objects of the senses, a person develops attachment for them, and from such attachment lust develops, and from lust anger arises.”
“From anger, complete delusion arises, and from delusion bewilderment of memory. When memory is bewildered, intelligence is lost, and when intelligence is lost one falls down again into the material pool.”

That’s quite a fall down! There’s an interesting yogic story from the Bhakti Yoga tradition that illustrates these excerpts quite well.

The tale of Ajamila

In the 6th Canto (book) of the great work Srimad Bhagavatam (sometimes referred to as the Bhagavad Purana), we find the story of Ajamila. He is a pious, moral young man. Dutiful to his parents, married and loving to his wife. One day, by accident, he sees a prostitute with a man in the woods. It is only a glimpse, but from that moment on, Ajamila became obsessed with this woman. In time, he leaves his wife and parents and marries this other woman. He takes to thieving, gambling and cheating people out of their money to support himself and the ten children he has. It is written that for eighty eight years he lives a life of (I love that the texts use this word) debauchery! The story of Ajamila goes on… and (spoiler alert) in the end, he is granted a second chance at life, and turns his life around. However, as the story illustrates, we can see how one sense (in this case sight), lead him down a dark path.

Now, you might say, “it’s not his fault! He did not go looking to see that man and woman in the woods! And, once he saw it, he cannot unsee it! Why blame poor Ajamila?!” Let’s look back at Bhagavad Gita verse 2.62 above. Krsna says, “While contemplating the object of the senses.” That even contemplating the object of the senses is where we can go wrong. That’s the mistake Ajamila (and most of us) make. There are sense objects out there – things to see, smell, taste, touch, hear – and living in a modern day world, most of us cannot pull ourselves away from everything we do not want to see, smell, taste, touch, and hear. But, we do not need to let them take space in our thinking. This is Pratyahara at work! When we are able to pull our senses back in – back to the space of soul, instead of allowing them to continue to run after the that which is external to us, that is Pratyahara.

What Pratyahara can look like in today’s world

To bring Pratyahara into our everyday lives takes practice. Much like anything in the yoga world. And, like breaking any habit, it begins with awareness. What senses are we allowing to pull us around like those horses of the chariot? Hearing? Smell? Taste?

Every time we sense one of our senses triggering us to spend more time chasing it, we can choose to tune inward, and use our intelligence to say, “Wait… Do I need to let this particular sense have it’s way right now? Is what this sense is telling me to do beneficial for me in this moment?” It’s not to say that we should starve ourselves, or not appreciate the beauty we may be seeing with our eyesight, but rather realize moments when we have become like Ajamila – more of a slave to our senses, as opposed to the master of them.

In the Bhakti Yoga tradition, one is urged to use the senses to make an offering to Divinity. The ancient texts say to go ahead and buy those beautiful roses, but also understand who created it, give thanks and then in some way offer it back to The Source (like offering it up on an altar or using it as a gift to someone in need). That way, the senses do not become a thing you continually chase, pulling you away from your truest self, but a way to plug back in and stay aware.

Pratyahara may be hard to practice, but when we see the benefits of not allowing our senses to jerk us around like marionettes on a puppet stage, we can understand it is well worth the time and effort.

Why do we study yoga philosophy?

Pratyahara is one nugget of wisdom from yogic philosophy written about in the ancient texts, often illustrated by captivating stories. If you’re interested in diving deeper into more branches of yoga philosophy, I am the lead teacher in YogaRenew’s Online Yoga Philosophy Teacher Training where we explore subjects such as these! Inside the course, you can find me retelling these stories along with giving deeper explanations on philosophical concepts transmuted by the ancient sages.

December 15, 2025

Love0

Weekly Class Theme: Yin Yoga for Abundance

By Alia CarangeloYin YogaNo Comments

In a world that often tells us to chase, accumulate, and strive, Yin Yoga invites us to pause, soften, and receive. This week’s theme centers on abundance — not as something to grasp, but as a natural state of being that becomes clear when we quiet the noise and listen inwardly.

Abundance isn’t only about material wealth; it’s the inner richness that arises when we feel spacious, supported, and connected. It’s the fullness that comes when we allow life to flow without forcing. In Yin Yoga, we practice abundance by slowing down, creating physical space, and trusting that what we need will meet us in the stillness.

Below, you’ll find the poses featured in this week’s class sequence along with a dharma talk you can offer during the practice.

Dharma Talk: “Opening to the Flow of Abundance”

“As we settle into today’s practice, take a moment to notice the breath moving effortlessly in and out. The breath is one of our greatest teachers of abundance — always arriving, always renewing, without us having to earn it or fight for it.

Abundance isn’t something we chase. It’s something we uncover. It’s already here, beneath the layers of tension, fear, scarcity, and overexerting. When we soften, we make space. When we make space, we receive.

In Yin, we’re asked to release striving. The stillness becomes a form of trust — trust that the body knows how to open in its own time; trust that we don’t have to push to be worthy of growth; trust that life is generous when we stop gripping.

As you move through each pose today, feel where you might be holding on — physically or energetically — and gently ask, ‘What could I soften? What could I open to?’

Abundance shows up when we align ourselves with flow, not force. Today, let the breath, the ground, and your own intuitive awareness guide you back into the spaciousness that is already within you. When we create room inside, life fills it with exactly what we need.”

Yin Yoga Sequence for Abundance

1. Seated Side Stretch (3–4 minutes each side)

Theme tie-in: Abundance begins with expansion — in body, breath, and perspective.

Invite students to stretch laterally through the ribs and intercostals, creating more room for the breath. Encourage them to imagine widening into possibility, allowing the body to feel spacious and receptive.

Cue: “Breathe into the length of your side body. Picture yourself expanding beyond old limitations.”

2. Child’s Pose (3–5 minutes)

Theme tie-in: A posture of surrender that teaches us abundance flows when we release the weight we carry.

Child’s Pose provides a sense of grounding, safety, and return to self. It softens the nervous system and offers a moment to reconnect with inner knowing.

Cue: “Let the earth support you. Let go of the need to hold everything together.”

3. Puppy Pose (3–4 minutes)

Theme tie-in: Opening the heart to receive.

This gentle, heart-opening shape invites vulnerability and trust. Students can imagine creating space for more compassion, generosity, and emotional abundance.

Cue: “Let the chest melt down. Soften into trust — in yourself and in life.”

4. Caterpillar Pose (4–6 minutes)

Theme tie-in: Abundance sometimes comes through slowing down, folding inward, and listening deeply.

Caterpillar lightly compresses the front body and offers a meditative inward journey. Remind students that introspection is fertile ground for clarity and renewal.

Cue: “As you fold, imagine dropping old scarcity stories and making room for new beliefs.”

5. Reclined Knee-to-Chest (2–3 minutes each side)

Theme tie-in: The abundance of simple nurturing.

This pose massages the organs, eases the low back, and supports emotional digestion. It’s a moment for gentle self-holding and self-compassion.

Cue: “Draw the knee toward the heart as if welcoming yourself home.”

6. Legs Up the Wall (5–8 minutes)

Theme tie-in: Receiving without effort.

This posture reverses stagnation and symbolizes the natural ease of abundance flowing toward you. Students can rest in the feeling of allowing.

Cue: “Let the body absorb this ease. Abundance arrives when we give ourselves permission to rest.”

Closing Reflection

As your students come out of the final pose, invite a moment of gratitude for all the ways abundance already exists in their lives — breath, body, community, nature, creativity, kindness, and connection.

“Remember: You don’t create abundance. You recognize it.”

December 9, 2025

Love3

Citta

By Julie PasqualYoga PhilosophyNo Comments

One of my favorite teachers tells this story:

There is a shy, young man who finds a woman he knows extremely attractive. For months he has endeavored to work up the courage to ask her out, and finally… he does! To his great amazement, she says YES! The days leading up to the date, his thoughts are only on her. What her smile will look like, the touch of her hand in his. He walks about in a happy cloud of thoughts for days. The big day arrives. She looks as beautiful as he had imagined. They go to the movies, the conversation is flowing, and in his mind, he is envisioning their life together. Just before the movie starts, he realizes he had not gotten them popcorn. Excusing himself, he walks to the lobby. By the time he gets back, the lights are out, and the trailers have begun. His heart is so full of happiness, but he is still feeling quite shy and feels a little foolish for forgetting the popcorn. He does not look at her as he sits down, placing the popcorn between them. The movie starts – it’s a RomCom – perfect for a first date, he thinks. His mind is more on her than the film. He sees the hero of the movie hold the heroine’s hand and he does the same for his date, still too shy to look at her. As the movie goes on, he follows the cues of the actor on the screen, and he eventually puts his arm around his date! His heart is beating so fast, every cell in his body is in pure bliss. At long last, he feels brave enough to look at her, and kiss her, as the two characters are doing on the screen. But suddenly, he turns – WHAAAAAAAT???? He realized that he sat down in the wrong seat!!! This is not the woman he came with – in fact, it is a person that he finds totally revolting. All the joy he had been feeling is gone, and he scurries away.

Poor guy! Wonder what his real date had been thinking? Let’s look at this. One moment, he was in ecstasy, the next, sick to his stomach. What had changed? It was still a hand that he been touching, a shoulder he had caressed. But now everything he had been experiencing had changed. Why? Because it wasn’t the physical sensation that brought him joy – it was his thoughts, his perceptions – and the place where we house all our thoughts, and actually experience our lives is the Mind. In Sanskrit the word for it is Citta.

What does Citta mean?

While sometimes the word Citta can be used to refer to thoughts, it is mostly used to speak on the producer of the thoughts, the very mind itself. As we see in the story above, it is really the mind where we experience things. Two people can have the exact same external realities, but they can see them completely differently depending on how it is playing out in their minds.

The mind, says the Bhagavad Gita, can be our worst enemy, because of it’s constant creating of thoughts that block what we really are – a soul, from seeing itself. Think of the mind like dirt on eyeglasses, the poor soul is trying to peek at itself in the mirror, but the lens of the mind is blocking it. In a way, you can’t blame the mind – it’s not personal, it’s just doing it’s job, which is to think. Every time a soul takes birth in a body, it gets this computer-like device called a Citta. From this we can conclude that the goal of any path of yoga, is, in some way, to deal with the mind.

Sometimes in English we interchange the words mind and brain, but in yoga, and for this discussion, we will really separate those two things. The brain belongs to the physical – what in yogic language is called the gross (not like ew, disgusting but tangible) body. It is the organ that is located in your head, and, to me anyway, looks like cauliflower. The mind belongs to what is called the subtle body – like the Chakras (energy centers) or the Nadis (energy pathways). It is not something that you can see on an MRI, but like the soul, it is no less real, and is said to be located in the region of the brain.

The nature of the Citta

When looking at the Citta the first thing to realize is that it is not, as the expression says, “set in stone.” It’s more like a lump of clay. Just as every time a piece of pottery is in the hands of a potter, it takes a different shape, so too does the mind constantly change shape due to the things that are taken in by the senses. Instead of an artists fingers sculpting a bowl, it is seeing, smelling, touching, and tasting that mold the shape of the Citta; the instrument that literally guides our day to day experience. And the impressions that shape the mind are called Samskaras.

Just as the brain has three main parts, so does the Citta. They are:

The Manos – the lower, primitive, instinctual mind. In yogic texts, it is often referred to as “the mind”.
The Ahankara – the seat of identity. This is usually the most utilized part of the Citta. The feeling of “I am American” or “I am a woman” or “I am a doctor.” The labels we wear in life live here. This is often called “the false ego”.
The Buddhi – This is the seat of intelligence, or discernment. The place where the ability to see that one is a soul within a body, as opposed to being the body, resides. This is the part of the Citta that all the yogic practices try to get us to aspire to. For it is only from viewing the world around us from the viewpoint of the Buddhi mind, can the soul ever free itself from the illusion that it has fallen into when it takes on a body. This is most often labeled “the intelligence”.

Taming and training the Citta

Just as we are the ones that turn on and off our computers, decide what we want to download into it, how we want to set up the programs we use on it – the same can be said for our Citta. The fact that we have the ability to transform the Citta, and hence transform our lives is what yoga is actually all about. It is the thing that most of us either forget, or do not know we have the ability to do in the first place.

This awareness is the first step of something within the yogic text, The Caintanya Caritamrt called Ceto Darshan: Cleaning the mirror of the heart and mind. Is it any wonder that the concept known as Saucha (cleanliness of the body and mind) is the first principle listed in the Yoga Sutras as the way a Yogi wants to walk in the world (Niyamas)? It is the very key to wiping away the dirt which is blocking the view of the soul, which is our true identity. When we sweep away the false concepts of who we are, when we rise up from just the lowest level of thinking, when we take the time to get still and quiet, then the Citta, which has been racing around and blocking the soul from seeing itself, falls away. To quote the very famous Yoga Sutra, “Tada drastuh svarupe avasthanam” – The seer (who we really are) sees itself!

Deepen your understanding of yoga philosophy

If you want to study the ancient texts further and understand concepts like Samadhi, Samskaras, Pratyahara and more, consider enrolling in our Online Yoga Philosophy Course.

December 8, 2025

Love1

Samskaras

By Julie PasqualYoga PhilosophyNo Comments

A friend of mine told me this story long ago – “I was a shy kid. Not really fitting in, no friends. Then one day a group of the “cool kids” asked me to come along with them to the store. When we got there, they said we should all run in as fast as we could, grab as much candy as we could, and then run out without paying. I had never stolen anything before, but I was desperate to be part of this group. My heart was beating so fast, I thought, young as I was, I was having a heart attack. My mouth was dry. I kept seeing my parent’s face in my head – the disapproval, the anger. I felt a little sick to my stomach, but in I ran with the others.

I was the slowest one, because my guilt stopped me from going at top speed, but I made it out of the store and several blocks away without being caught. For a week I was shaking – but then, the feeling of shame went away. And, when that group asked me to come with them again, I did. My heart didn’t beat as fast, I felt less shame, I got more candy. After that, stealing in this way, wasn’t a problem for me, in fact it became a habit, that took a very long time to break.”

I remember looking at my friend, who I now could not even imagine doing anything that wasn’t righteous and wonderful, and understanding that the process of going from being afraid of being caught breaking the law, to being nonchalant about it, was demonstrating what happens when something becomes habitual behavior. We all have habits, patterns, things that we do without really even thinking about them – it just seems like they are part of us. Where do these things come from? In Yoga, we would call these patterns Samskaras, and they reside in the mind.

The malleability of the Mind and Samskaras

It’s important to note that in Yoga, when we say the Mind (Citta), we aren’t talking about the brain. The brain is the thing that looks like cauliflower between your ears, while the mind is part of the subtle body. It’s not any less real than the physical brain, but not tangible in the way, say, your frontal cortex would be. The Mind is not hard like a stone or a piece of wood – it’s more like a ball of clay – completely malleable, totally changeable. Everything we see, smell, touch, hear, feel and experience makes an impression on the Mind. Those imprints are called Samskaras. Knowing this fact lets us know that we really can change our minds. Not just “I changed my mind, and I am going to wear my blue shirt, instead of my grey one.” But, like a sculptor creates a vase out of a lump of clay, we have the ability to change the very shape of our Mind, and therefore change the very outcome of our lives – for where does everything in our lives actually stem – our Mind!

The thoughts that our mind produces are the engine to our actions. When we understand that, it spurs us to be more mindful about what we allow into our Minds. Think of all the times that you read a label before you buy a food item, or check the ingredients before you put something on your skin – can we say we are that mindful about what we allow to roll around in our Minds? Each time we think a thought, a grove is created in our Minds, and the more we think it, the deeper the Samskara gets – going from a light stroke to a deep impression.

We can think of this only in the negative connotation, but it could be thought of positively, too. What modern day science calls affirmations, is simply the acknowledgement of Samskaras. When we read that we should speak optimistically to ourselves – this is the process of creating and then deepening Samskaras that will shape our Mind to be more the way we want it to be. This is why it is said, “What you say to yourself, WILL come true!” – because if you have spent a life time making Samskaras of it being okay to steal – then guess what – that’s exactly what you are going to do.

What the Yoga Sutras say about Samskaras

In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the goal of Yoga is stated definitively as “Yoga citta vritti nirodha” – meaning that Yoga is the stopping of the turnings (or chatter) of the mind. We can think of the Samskaras as the thing that helps turn the mind (the seeds if you will) from where thought starts.

In the Yoga Sutras, we find this:

1.50 – The Samskaras born out of truth – bearing wisdom obstruct other Samskaras from emerging. Meaning, if we can create positive Samskaras, those can help us overcome the Samskaras that are not so good for us. We all have probably experience that it is easier to break a bad habit, by replacing it with a good one, as opposed to just trying to shut it down.
3.9 – The state of restraint, nirodha (the stopping of the turning of the mind) is when there is disappearance of outgoing (worldly) Samskaras and the appearance of restraining Samskaras. These emerge in the mind at the moment of restraint. Here we see how important Samskaras is to the goal of yoga! The first commentator on the Yoga Sutras – the great sage and writer, Vyasa says that the mind is made of Samskaras, and what is actually happening when we meditate is that we are not wiping away Samskaras, but rather creating Samskaras that are helpful, in that they are quieting the Mind – stopping the turnings of the Mind, so that – as the Yoga Sutra says – “Tada Drastuh Svarupe Vasthanam” – the Soul, that has been caught in the whorl of the Mind, can finally perceive itself. This is backed up by:
3.10 – The mind’s undisturbed flow occurs due to Samskaras – it is through these helpful Samskaras – that one can conquer the Mind. It is important to note that Samskaras do not evaporate – both the beneficial and the detrimental ones, remain either active, or inactive – but they are there. Another reminder that we must be careful what we put into our minds.

Creating Samskaras that are beneficial to us

I heard a speaker once say, “The subconscious mind cannot take a joke!” When we truly understand that the thoughts that we invite in, and then spend time unpacking – even if it does not turn into an outward action, is doing something to us in a very impactful way. It is digging a trench in your Mind – a Samskara. So, in our every day life, as we carefully keep harmful things out of our digestive system, and train ourselves to reach for an apple instead of a candy bar, we must do that with our Minds. This is the very heart of much of yoga philosophy.

The Yoga Sutras 2.33 says,

“Upon being harassed by negative thoughts, one should cultivate counteracting thoughts. Create a positive Samskara, and keep reminding yourself that you have the power to shape and control, the most powerful thing in your body – your Mind.”

Learn more about yoga philosophy with Julie!

Enhance your spiritual journey with incredible insight on the Yamas/Niyamas in Julie Pasqual’s immersive and transformative online course. Get started for free, and gain access to YogaRenew’s app with all of our workshops, classes, series and live events.

Explore all of YogaRenew’s app from your desktop, phone or tablet.

Explore Yamas/Niyamas Course

Online Yoga Teacher Training Courses:

200 Hour Online Yoga Teacher Training

Enroll Today

300 Hour Online Yoga Teacher Training

Enroll Today

500 Hour Online Yoga Teacher Training

Enroll Today

December 3, 2025

Love0

Virabhadrasana 3 (Warrior 3) – 60 Minutes

By Alia CarangeloYoga

Virabhadrasana 3 (Warrior 3) – 60 Minutes

Peak Pose: Warrior 3
Level: Mixed Level
Style: Hatha
Teaching Focus: Straight Legs, Extension
Props: 2 blocks, strap

Warm-up:

Reclined Hand to Foot A + B (Supta Padangusthasana) with Strap
Downward Facing Dog > Hop or step to Uttanasana > Ardha Uttanasana > Urdhva Hastasana >
Tadasana
Tadasana with fingers interlaced overhead. Switch the interlace to equally stretch the shoulders.
Urdhva Hastasana with strap on arms, strap below elbow on the upper arm.

Sun Salutations:

3 Round of sun breaths: Tadasana > Urdhva Hastasana > Uttanasana > Ardha Uttanasana > Uttanasana > Urdhva
Hastasana > Tadasana

Standing Poses:

Round 1: Triangle Pose
Round 2: Triangle Pose > Extended Side Angle
Round 3: Warrior 1

Balance/ Twist:

Tree Pose
Standing Hand to Foot at Wall

Peak Pose:

From Warrior 1 > Warrior 3 > Warrior 1

Cool Down:

Virasana with Gomukasana Arms
Locust
Supine twist
Savasana

200 HR YogaRenew Yoga Teacher Training Resource ©

December 1, 2025

Love1

Looking for “Yoga Teacher Training Near Me”? Try YogaRenew’s Hoboken Studio & Online YTT Options

By Alia CarangeloOnline Yoga, Yoga Studios

If you’ve been searching for “yoga teacher training near me” and want a supportive, affordable, and Yoga Alliance–approved program, YogaRenew has everything you need—whether you prefer training in-person at our Hoboken, NJ studio or completing your certification online from anywhere in the world.

You’ve Searched “Yoga Teacher Training Near Me” Now Start Your Journey The Right Way

Choosing the right yoga teacher training is an important decision. Many aspiring teachers search for “yoga teacher training near me” because they want:

Personal guidance and support from experienced instructors
A sense of community as they deepen their practice
A trusted, accredited program that fits their schedule
An environment where they can grow with like-minded yogis

At YogaRenew, you can choose how you want to learn—in person at our Hoboken headquarters or through our flexible, self-paced online yoga teacher training courses. Both offer the same high-quality curriculum, experienced teachers, and Yoga Alliance accreditation. Whether you’re looking for an in-person yoga teacher training or an online program, we have the resources necessary to not only learn but take your teaching and practice to the next level, delivering unforgettable yoga classes every single time.

In-Person Yoga Teacher Training in Hoboken, NJ

: YogaRenew Front Desk

: Lounge Area

: Lockers

: Moon Room Studio

: Sun Room Studio

: Lounge & Restrooms

Our Hoboken studio serves as the heart of YogaRenew’s community. If you’re looking for a community training experience with hands-on support and real-life interaction & feedback, this is the option for you.

What You’ll Love About Training at Our Hoboken Studio

Hands-on assistance and real-time feedback from experienced instructors
A vibrant local yoga community where lifelong friendships are made
A peaceful, spacious studio designed to enhance learning and practice
Weekend and flexible scheduling for busy students
Yoga Alliance–approved curriculum that prepares you to teach confidently

Whether you’re local to Hoboken, living nearby in NYC or the surrounding areas, or traveling to train with us, you’ll find the environment supportive, welcoming, and transformative.

Explore Our Hoboken Yoga Teacher Training

The Best Online Yoga Teacher Training in The World

: Patrick of YogaRenew Teaching an Online YTT

: Kate of YogaRenew Teaching an Online YTT

: Jordan Matthews (YogaRenew In-Person Studio Teacher) Practicing with YogaRenew Online

: Alyssa Bruno of YogaRenew Hoboken Checking Out the YogaRenew App

: Kate & Patrick Editing Course Content for the Online Yoga Teacher Trainings

: YogaRenew’s Hybrid Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training

We started as an online yoga teacher training school. During the height of COVID-19, we knew how important it was to keep yoga teacher training resources available even if studio time was compromised or unavailable. We also recognized the demand for the flexibility of online programs.

YogaRenew started with an in-depth 200 hour online yoga teacher training and expanded into many other avenues of the practice as well as other wellness/healing modalities.

If you can’t attend training in person—or simply prefer a more flexible schedule, we’d like to offer you our highly respected online yoga teacher training courses that you can complete any time, from anywhere in the world!

View the full list of online courses here:
Online Yoga Teacher Training Courses

Benefits of Online Yoga Teacher Training at YogaRenew

Start anytime and move through the curriculum at your own pace
Lifetime access to videos, manuals, and resources
Affordable tuition with no sacrifices to curriculum quality
Yoga Alliance–approved online certifications
Interactive community and live Zoom opportunities

Whether you’re traveling, working full-time, or managing family responsibilities, our online YTT makes becoming a certified teacher accessible and enjoyable.

Which Yoga Teacher Training Is Right for You?

Choosing between our Hoboken in-person training and online courses depends on your lifestyle, learning style, and goals.

In-Person (Hoboken Studio)	Online YTT
Hands-on adjustments & live interaction	Self-paced & flexible scheduling
Immersive studio experience	Learn from anywhere in the world
Instant community connection	Lifetime access to all course material
Ideal for local or commuting students	Ideal for remote learners or busy schedules

Both paths lead to the same successful outcome: becoming a confident, knowledgeable, Yoga Alliance–certified yoga teacher through YogaRenew.

FAQs – “Yoga Teacher Training Near Me”

1. What should I look for when searching for “yoga teacher training near me”?

Look for a Yoga Alliance–approved program, experienced instructors, a clear curriculum, and a supportive learning environment. YogaRenew’s Hoboken studio offers all of these and more.

2. Do I need prior yoga experience to join the training?

No. While some experience is helpful, our programs welcome enthusiastic beginners who are ready to learn and grow.

3. Is YogaRenew’s online yoga teacher training legitimate?

Yes. YogaRenew is Yoga Alliance–approved, and our online certifications are fully recognized worldwide.

4. How long does the training take?

In-person training follows a structured schedule, while online programs are self-paced and allow you to complete the training as quickly or gradually as you prefer.

5. Can I teach yoga after completing YogaRenew’s programs?

Absolutely. Both our in-person and online courses qualify you to register as an RYT with Yoga Alliance and begin teaching right away.