Arkaya Embodied Expansion Certification
More than just a yoga teacher training!
2-year. 500-hour. Live online.
Become a holistic coach, healer, trainer & leader.
Teach authentic, full-spectrum, decolonized Yoga & Tantra.
This program is held once every 2 years!
The next training will be in 2027; exact dates TBD.
Enrollments NOW open!
This training is designed to easily fit into your busy life. That is why it is spread over 2 years! The course work is front loaded so that Year 1 covers 80% of the training modules and Year 2 focuses on practicum work.
Sessions happen every Saturday from 9:00 to 11:30 AM PST + Additional days some of the time.
See the full Program Structure below for all module dates and times.
We are working to provide flexible payment options and scholarships for those in need and welcome full payment from those with financial means to support our ongoing work!
Key Program Outcomes
Graduates of this program emerge with these core external proficiencies:
Take your yoga practice and teaching to the next level
Teach full-spectrum, decolonized Arkaya Tantra Yoga classes in any setting
Work with private clients as a holistic Arkaya coach and healer
Integrate the Arkaya work into your counselling, psychology, healing or coaching practice
As a yoga teacher you’ll be ready to integrate deeper dimensions, cultural alignment, and a strong foundation for transformation for your students
Become a heart-centred leader in any work or role you play in life
Integrate the Arkaya work into any management or leadership position
Teach true Pranayama which is much more than just “breathwork”
Teach in a way that guides your students into real meditative states rather than forcing them to sit still with an agitated mind
Facilitate workshops
Facilitate trainings and programs for schools and organizations
Tailor classes to diverse groups, like: seniors, children, and people with disabilities
Put yourself out there to gain clients and lead programs in a way that is aligned with your values
The Arkaya Embodied Expansion program prepares you to do all of this by guiding you through processes to work through your own shadows. You will learn a step-by-step teaching methodology through this embodied approach.
Yoga and Tantra are more than their mainstream (mis)representations. We teach you how to teach them in their most authentic forms. This is more than just a yoga teacher training (YTT)!
Our 500-hour program is led by Yogacharini Maitreyi, a master teacher and ancestral wisdom keeper from South India. She has been teaching traditional Yoga & Tantra internationally since 1997. She has also trained over 80 corporations. She is invited as a keynote speaker at conferences and to teach at many universities.
Our exceptional train-the-trainer program prepares future teachers to use yoga as it was originally intended: to foster mind-body harmony, drive personal evolution, enable deep connection, align us with our highest purpose, and achieve success in all endeavours.
The training includes more than 6 guest teachers in the allied Indian arts & sciences like: Ayurveda, Naada Yoga, Bhakti Yoga / Kirtan, Bharatnatyam, Indian Rhythms / the Science of Sound, Shilpa Shastra and Vedic Astrology.
Key Program Outcomes
Graduates of this program emerge with these core internal proficiencies:
Healing Into Wholeness
Authentic Cultural Wisdom
Deep Personal Insight
Learn the depth of Yoga psychology & apply it to your own life
Build deep resonance with a higher vibration (your original vibration)
Tap into your own inner wisdom to gain true insight
Break through the inner blocks and obstacles to success
See the connection between mental, emotional and physical health
Understand healthy boundaries to create more harmony within and in relationships
Feel empowered to make choices aligned with Source
Understand yourself through the lens of the yogic bodies / multidimensional self
Heal your trauma & re-parent your inner child
Build emotional resilience
Regulate & stabilize your nervous system
Celebrate your gifts for benefit of yourself & the world
Learn to befriend your shadow and smell out spiritual platitudes
Tap into the power of speaking your truth which is aligned with Truth rather than the thoughts and emotions you have become identified with
What You Get
Ongoing mentorship from senior Arkaya teachers and Yogacharini Maitreyi
Direct transmission from the lineage through Yogacharini Maitreyi
Access to experts in various allied fields through classes with our guest teachers
The entire online program is facilitated through Teachable, our online learning platform with all downloadable material, including but not limited to:
Video recordings of all live sessions
Course manual
Arkaya foundational sequencing document
Recordings of mantras with English translations
Cultural alignment and Sanskrit appreciation guidelines
Tools and principles for emotional resilience
Special Bonus: Get access to all of Arkaya’s on-demand online courses for the duration of this 2-year training!
Tuition Breakdown
The live online 500-hour Arkaya training is packed with in-depth learning directly from a master teacher who can guide you through the nuances with cultural alignment and lineage transmission. See the testimonials below to learn just how valuable this training is for your own evolution and for sharing your wisdom with others.
In the average 200-hour teacher training you pay $3,000 to $4,000. In the Arkaya Embodied Expansion Certification, you get so much more!
Payment plan options available upon request.
We are working to provide flexible payment options and scholarships for those in need and welcome full payment from those with financial means to support our ongoing work!
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$640 CAD
For students in India the deposit is 40,000 INR.
This non-refundible deposit covers the Foundations for Life Progam (60-hour on-demand portion of Module 1 of the program), which provides you with hands-on experience to inform whether you decide to pursue full certification. This is an expression of our decolonial values, as we know life presents unexpected shifts and we support participants' mindful choices. Although most have found the full 500-hour program to be invaluable and continued along the learning journey until graduation!
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$5,940 + 5% GST CAD – The $640 deposit for Module 1 is deducted from this total.
For students in India, the investment is 390,000 INR.
Full payment due by start date of program.
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We offer sliding scale payment options to support those with limited financial resources. To inquire about this option, reach out to infoarkaya@gmail.com.
“Investment in the Self is an investment in the collective.” –Yogacharini Maitreyi
Join Module 1 now and begin the Foundations for Life program. This self-paced 60-hour program is the only pre-recorded module in the live training. Joining Module 1 is your deposit for the full 500-hour program.
Program Structure
The Arkaya 500-hour Certificate is our core offering and proudest creation. Certifying responsible teachers not only benefits them and those they guide, but also redefines Yoga & Tantra and restores them to their ancestral roots. Explore the course modules below to see how easily you can integrate the program into your life over the 2-year duration. By the end of the program, you will be amazed at the effortless transformation!
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This module builds a strong yogic foundation for manifesting the highest potential in you.
There are 3 portions to Module 1:
1.Weekly Community Satsangh
Every Saturday from 9-11:30am
Online yoga classes with opening meditation + community dialogue + 30 min. YTT discussion group.
These sessions continue every Saturday throughout the training. The course requirement is that you complete 90+ hours in attendance at community classes over the 2-year program.
2 x 1-month breaks per year - Winter Break = mid-December to mid-January; Summer Break = all of August.
2.Foundations for Life Program
60 hours, on-demand, self-paced online coursework.
This is the only pre-recorded portion of the training.
3.Live Evolutionary Circle
Last Thursday of every month from 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Live portion of the Foundations for Life Program.
In-depth meditative practices and yogic discussions with your cohort, led by Yogacharini Maitreyi.
The expectation for Module 1 is that students take self-responsibility with the on-demand Foundations for Life Program in order to begin the journey of self-discovery and self-mastery.
This Module can be also be completed as a 1-year stand-alone training if you don’t feel ready for the full 500-hour YTTC.
More info on Foundations for Life Program: www.arkaya.net/foundationsforlife
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You will absorb the practices and the theory through repetition, experiential learning, study & discussion. You will continue to move through the internal work helping you to become a more effective teacher, healer and leader. You will see how this work also makes you more effective in all of your endeavours in the world.
Content Includes:
Program orientation and overview
Naada Yoga (Yoga of sound vibration) with Neeraja Aptikar
Kirtan & Bhakti Yoga with Anand David Embry
Yoga Sutras & the 8 Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga
Learning the Arkaya Foundational Sequence
The Pancha Kosha - the 5 dimensions of our existence
Pranava AUM
The 4 Paths of Yoga
And much more!
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5 Sundays from 9 AM to 2 PM PST
Exact Dates TBA
Classes continue with deeper levels of engagement and a greater focus on preparing participants to teach. Practicum guidelines are covered, feedback is provided, support is offered, and questions are answered. This module guides participants through profound shadow work and somatic release.
Content includes:
Intro to Ayurveda with Dr. Anuja Chindarkar
Cultural Appropriation, Apprectiation & Alignment
Sanskrit Appreciation & Pronunciation
Indigenous Vs. Colonial Paradigms of Yoga
Intro to Indian Rhythms - Tala and Laya with Curtis Andrews
Emotional Management & Resilience Training
Intro to Bharatnatyam / Classical Indian Dance & the Nav Rasa (9 Emotions) with Rupa Gopinath
And much more!
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Home-Based Retreat #1
5 days from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM PST
Exact Dates TBA
This module is formatted as an online home-based retreat.
Set yourself up to be immersed while also having time to take care of your other responsibilities in the afternoons if needed.
The retreat takes you deeper into the practices and yourself. In-depth discussions allow you to explore the nuances of applied yoga psychology and tantric practice. Yogic / Tantric healing practices are explored, along with proper diet and lifestyle practices aligned with Ayurveda.
Many graduates consider this module a highlight of the training!
Content includes:
You will delve deep into re-balancing the chakras along with partner work (non-sexual) designed to support each other’s evolution.
We’ll instruct you on how to work with a partner and will ask you to find a friend or family member who is willing to work with you just for this segment. This person will benefit greatly and will not have to pay any participation fee.
Students begin teaching segments and getting feedback.
Deeper applied learning on Ayurveda with Dr. Anuja Chindarkar.
Deepening Naada Yoga practice with Neeraja Aptikar.
Deepening Bhakti Yoga / Kirtan practice with Anand David Embry.
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Practicum Teaching, Healing & Seva
Exact Dates TBA
108 hours of self-directed teaching, coaching, healing, and seva/volunteer work in your community and online.
Teach at the weekly Saturday Satsangh and receive feedback to refine your classes in the 30 minute teacher training discussion group after the public session.
Your teachers will be there for guidance & support. We will work with you to set up classes in your community.
Participants conduct yogic teaching and healing work in their communities and at the weekly Arkaya Community Satsangh. Ongoing guidance and support are provided by Yogacharini Maitreyi, Ross McKeachie and other senior Arkaya teachers.
Module 5 makes up the longest portion of the program, with ongoing practicum teaching, participation in Saturday Satsanghs and mentorship.
By teaching Arkaya community classes online and in studios, while being mentored by senior Arkaya teachers, you will continue your evolution as a teacher and beyond.
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Live Online Classes
5 Sundays from 9 AM to 2 PM PST
Exact Dates TBA
The processes facilitated enable unique transformations in the students. As a result, the level of engagement and the group discussions deepen. Having engaged in foundational learning and hands-on practice, the light and insight of the students, colours the classes in more vibrant hues.
We will deepen into the process of becoming a teacher. Practicums will be reviewed, feedback given, and questions answered. We will discuss the challenges that have arisen thus far in your practicum. Lectures on the allied Yogic sciences from guest teachers will continue.
Content Includes:
Introduction to Shilpa Shastra (sacred geometry & Yantra) with Ekabhumi Ellik
Continued deepening in Naada Yoga with Neeraja Aptikar
Continued deepening in Bhakti Yoga / Kirtan with Anand David Embry
Deepening awareness of prana and embodied connection to chakra
Energy mantras for each chakra
Exploration of the last 3 limbs of Ashtanga Yoga - which includes meditation
And much more!
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Home-Based Retreat #2 - Final Module
Friday - Tuesday from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM PST
Exact Dates TBA
This module is formatted as an online home-based retreat.
Set yourself up to be immersed while also having time to take care of your other responsibilities in the afternoons if needed.
This is the final module where you receive your certification at the end if you have completed all requirements.
Teaching practice to hone & integrate your skills even more.
This retreat follows a similar structure to Module 4. It is uniquely tailored for integration of all the learnings and transformations into your body, emotions, and mind. You can seek clarity, review concepts, and draw inspiration from your classmates. This reflective retreat prepares you to become more confident to bring your wisdom, light, and yogic leadership into the world.
Content includes:
Review of all study materials in the course manual with time for Q&A
Review of principles of karuna sakshi bhava (actionable and compassionate observation).
Review of all somatic yogic tools covered in the program, including: jathi, kriya, asana, Ayurvedic lifestyle, and more.
Review of all energetic tools covered in the program, including: mudra, pranayama, yogic/tantric healing, chakra healing, partner healing, and more.
Review of all mental tools covered in the program, including: mantra, sankalpa, affirmation, nyasa, gnana yoga kriyas, vichara (contemplation and self-enquiry), and more.
Review of principles for self-coaching and coaching others.
And much more!
Graduate Testimonials
Hear from past students on their Arkaya experience
Derek’s experience
Victoria’s experience
Ross’s experience
“Never have I felt clarity, knowledge and wisdom transmitted with such humility and joy. I have rediscovered yoga.”
– YTTC Graduate
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I first began taking part in the weekly Arkaya Community Class and Satsangh in October 2021 and since then, the weekly classes have become a grounding force in my week and in my life. I am so grateful to be part of such a wonderful, supportive and authentic community guided and led by Maitreyi. I have been practicing and teaching yoga for many years now and as soon as I met Maitreyi, I knew that I wanted to study further with her. Her gentle presence, deep wisdom, and compassion, combined with her playful nature and humour make her classes and teachings so accessible and relevant to our modern, busy world.
I first began the Foundations for Life Program and then in the fall of 2022, I started the On-line 500 Hour Arkaya Awareness Teacher Training. Through Maitreyi's teachings and the Arkaya Community, I have grown and deepened in so many ways including:
I feel a deeper sense of contentment in my life than I ever have before. This contentment (Santosha) is like an underlying thread that runs through my days, that supports me even in my more challenging moments. The hard days somehow just don't seem quite as hard anymore. It is like the practice and deepening of contentment is a net to catch and cradle me during the challenging times.
I feel more connected to myself and am better able to tune into and honour my inner needs. This is helping me to set more healthy boundaries in my life.
I am more aware of my reactive patterns and am more able to catch them before they slip out. During the times that I don't catch them, I have more compassion for myself and tools to reflect upon what happened and growing edges.
Maitreyi offers so many tools through the Arkaya practice that are easy to integrate into daily life to support self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-nurturing and presence. I really appreciate all of the contemplative practices as well as these help me to truly integrate the deeper dimensions of authentic yoga and understand them through my lived experience. I feel new depth and richness to my own practice and the classes that I teach.
The on-line format for the 500 Hour Teacher Training has made it possible for me to participate. I appreciate being in the comfort of my own home and not having to worry about traveling or finding accomodation. Even though we are online, I feel very connected to Maitreyi and Ross and the other participants. I also really value having the recordings of the classes available as reference. This allows me to be more present in the live online classes as I know that I will have the recording to refer back to when needed. I also watch/do the classes again and know that I will continue to view the recordings even once the training is over. Each time I view them, I find new information and gems of wisdom that stand out.
I look forward to the continued unfolding of my Self through my connection to Arkaya and Maitreyi and highly recommend this Teacher Training, both for those who want to teach yoga and for those who are wanting to deepen into their own practice.
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It has been one year since starting the 500 hr training offered through Arkaya…
My experience has been multilayered. I was initially skeptical of being able to connect deeply through an online platform, as many of us are. However, I took a chance because I felt a deep resonance with Maitreyi’s approach.
Over the year, it has been a slow and gentle process of what feels like osmosis. An absorption of teachings and practices made possible by the way the course is offered.
One very unique aspect of this particular teacher training is that Maitreyi brings in many guest teachers and speakers from India, which gives you a more comprehensive understanding of the culture from where these yogic practices originated. The result of this is learning that the essence of practice is woven into all different aspects of life.
Smaller sections of practice and study over the course of two years, allows for a lot of repetition which makes its way into your body, mind and heart in the most natural way. The Arkaya system is one that is gentle and yet profound. As a yoga teacher, it has helped me immensely, in being able to share this beautiful inner science in a much more inclusive way. I find myself sharing all the years of practice and study, but with much more awareness and sensitivity for other.
The beauty of the Arkaya practice is that it can be infused into everything you have already learned. With a new perspective rooted in cultivating awareness, more light inevitably flows in.
About the Teacher
The program is led by Arkaya Founder, Yogacharini Maitreyi
Yogacharini Maitreyi is a traditional yogic and tantric knowledge keeper from South India. Her rich cultural expertise is the essential piece that sets Arkaya’s Yoga Teacher Training Certificate apart from other programs. Maitreyi specifically created the YTTC to provide the most robust yogic teachings, the most meaningful transformations, and the most significant impact. The abundant care she dedicates to the YTTC and its participants is unparalleled.
Since 1997, Maitreyi has held the titles Yoga Chemmal meaning expert, and Yoga Acharini meaning guide. Participation in the YTTC is a rare opportunity to receive true yogic mentorship from a profoundly revered expert in traditional Yoga & Tantra.
The YTTC also features an esteemed group of Guest Teachers who specialize in sacred yoga- & tantra-related practices. Click here to explore their offerings.
Experience the Arkaya Essence
We invite you to attend a Satsangh (online yoga class) for free!
Weekly Satsanghs are online yoga classes that represent Arkaya’s energy, modality, and values. Moving and breathing in this healing space will help inspire what your journey could look like in the Yoga Teacher Training Certificate program.
