| Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India |
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November 1 - 27, 2009
Registration is Closed!
"If you want to learn something,
read about it.
If you want to understand something,
write about it.
If you want to master something,
teach it."
~Yogi Bhajan
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Explore Your Potential & Rewrite Your Destiny
A Rare, Life-Transforming Experience
 Imagine! Returning to the home of the Ancient Yogis, the banks of the Ganges! Immerse your whole being into Teacher’s Training without distraction. Experience the 40,000 year-old Sacred Science of Kundalini Yoga & Meditation through the Golden Chain of teachers! Challenge yourself to confront self-imposed mental & physical limits.
Touch your soul.
This experience cannot be matched.
Gain the knowledge and confidence to build a more loving and creative life, a more peaceful world.
This KRI Level I International Teacher Training Program in Kundalini Yoga, as taught by Yogi Bhajan, is designed for:
* Students of Kundalini Yoga
* Students of other schools of yoga
* Teachers of all forms of yoga
* Anyone seeking to deepen their yogic experience
Course Description
Based on the science of Kundalini Yoga, as taught by Yogi Bhajan, the Aquarian Teacher program is a journey of your soul. Develop yourself as a human as you become a Kundalini Yoga Teacher. The Aquarian Teacher Certification is open both to yoga students ready to become teachers and those who wish to immerse themselves in the science of Kundalini Yoga.
Experience transformation in the present where peaceful vitality is alive in the ancient land itself!
Course Curriculum
The Aquarian Teacher program is the KRI Level 1 Certification program in Kundalini Yoga. You will become a teacher and gain a deep understanding and experience of the core of the science of Kundalini Yoga. Develop the skills to instruct students in Kundalini Yoga kriyas and meditations as taught by Yogi Bhajan. Practice teaching Kundalini Yoga in a practicum setting, participate in early morning Sadhanas (spiritual practice), and experience the powerful transformational energy of White Tantric Yoga. This 220 hour course is comprised of 200 hours of classroom instruction to become a teacher and 20 hours of independent study.
Classroom instruction includes:
* Classes in Kundalini Yoga Kriyas & Meditations
* Psychology of a Kundalini Yoga Teacher
* Yogic Philosophy & The Origin of Kundalini Yoga
* Yogic & Western Anatomy
* Humanology & Yogic Lifestyle
Course Requirements
To be certified as a Kundalini Yoga Teacher the following qualifications must be met:
* Attendance at all course curriculum in India
* Passing grade on the practicum and written exam, both will be conducted in India
* Current professional membership with IKYTA
* Completion of 20 Kundalini Yoga classes to be completed by November 1, 2010 (not included in course fee)
* Completion of 40 day meditations to be completed by November 1, 2010
* Creation of two yoga course curricula to be completed and sent in to Golden Bridge Los Angeles by May 1, 2010
* Participation in at least five morning sadhanas at the course in India
* Attendance at a White Tantric Yoga course to be completed by between December 1, 2009 and November 1, 2010 (not included in the course fee; taking White Tantric Yoga prior to November 1, 2009 will not count toward this requirement)
* Proper representation of the Code of Professional Standards for Kundalini Yoga Teachers
* Full payment of course fees prior to start of course
This Teachers Training course fulfills the Yoga Alliance’s 220 hour national standard for a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). With your KRI certification, you can apply for and receive a Yoga Alliance Certificate. Certification as a Level 1 Instructor requires Associate Membership in IKYTA, which is included in your registration fee. Once you have received your Level 1 Certification, you will automatically be upgraded to a Professional Member of IKYTA. You’ll be listed in the Teacher’s Directory online, and in the Aquarian Times magazine to receive referrals for your Kundalini Yoga Classes. There are three levels of certification: KRI Level 1; KRI Level 2; and KRI Level 3.
The KRI Teacher Training team reserves the right to grant KRI Certification bases solely on their discretion and evaluation of each participant's readiness to be a Kundalini Yoga teacher. Evaluation is based on successfully meeting the KRI Teacher Training course requirements including, but not limited to:
Pre-Course Requirements (Prior to arriving in India):
Either: Attend 20 or more Kundalini Yoga Classes prior to course
Or: If you attend between 6-19 classes you will need to read a KRI certified book on Kundalini Yoga.
Or: If you attend 0-5 Kundalini Yoga classes you will need to do two video classes, read a KRI certified book on Kundalini Yoga.
During Course Requirements:
Full Payment of Course Fees
Attend all 180 hours of classroom instruction
Participate in 5 Full Morning Group Sadhanas
Receive satisfactory assessments for 2 practicums
Complete homework and in-class activities
Pass all written and/or oral exams on material covered in class
Current Associate Membership in IKYTA (included in cost of training)
Post Course Requirements (after leaving India):
40 hours of assigned homework include the following:
Create two sample yoga class curricula
Complete a 40 day yoga set / meditation with journal entries
Attend 20 Kundalini yoga classes after completion of the course
Attend one full day of White Tantric Yoga (to be completed by between December 1, 2009 and November 1, 2010)
Properly represent the Code of Professional Standards for Kundalini Yoga Teachers.
Participate in Bridge Line calls with your Check In group
Course Tuition
Deposit: $1,000.00
Must be paid by September 15, 2009. Students paying their deposits after this date are not guaranteed course materials by the start of the course.
Tuition Fees:
Course fee: $2,300
Room & Board (double occupancy): $600
Materials & Licensing fees: $700
TOTAL TUITION: $3600.00
All tuition fees Must be paid in full by October 15, 2009. This includes your $1,000.00 application fee that is due by September 15, 2009.
Refund Policy:
All requests to withdraw from the course must be received in writing. Those withdrawing prior to October 15 are eligible for a full refund of fees paid, minus a $300 administrative fee. Those withdrawing after October 15 are eligible for a partial refund, minus fixed course costs which include KRI fees, materials fees, teacher fees, and prorated sections of the course already taken.
Please note:
Registration Forms must be sent to Sat Puran at time of payment for your registration to be completed.
Until we receive the registration forms, you are not registered for the Teacher Training!
To return the forms, please fax them to Sat Puran at 323-210-7285
Deadline for registration with materals is September 15!
If you register AFTER September 15 and prior to October 15, you are responsible for ordering you own books.
We will discount the course by $145 for students purchasing their own materials. Please download the KRI Manual Form (link below) and return it to KRI as soon as possible. You will be responsible for paying for the books ($145) and shipping costs!
KRI Manual Order Form
No registrations can be accepted after October 15.
Traveling To India
The course starts in the evening on November 1. You should fly into Delhi on October 31 and plan to travel to Rishikesh early on November 1, arriving before nightfall there.
For those who are interested, we will help arrange group transportation to Rishikesh early in the day on November 1 for an additional fee.
Recommended hotels in Delhi for the night of October 31:
The Park Hotel
The Imperial Hotel
The Shangri-La
You must have a visa to travel to India. (We suggest the 6 month Tourist visa) Please contact the Indian consulate for visa information. Go to http://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com
Frequently Asked Questions - Travel to and within India
Do you have recommendations for booking my flight?
There are many options for finding a flight. It all depends on where you’re flying out from. The internet is your best source to explore your options. Some sites that may prove helpful are www.cheapflights.com, www.lowfares.com and www.cheaptickets.com. You may also wish to use a travel agent to assist you in booking your flight.
Do I need a passport?
Yes. Your passport must be valid for the dates of your trip. If you do not have a passport please allow adequate time to get one. For information on how to apply for a passport visit www.travel.state.gov. You will not be allowed to board a plane leaving the country without a passport.
Do I need a Visa for India?
Yes, you will need a tourist visa to travel to India. We suggest a 6 month or 10 year visa, whichever makes more sense for your future travel needs. For information on applying for a Visa go to http://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com. You will not be allowed to board a plane bound for India without a valid Indian visa.
Where should I fly into and when should I arrive?
You need to fly into Delhi, arriving there on October 31.
When should I get to the ashram?
You need to be in Rishikesh before nightfall on November 1 - rooms will not be available any earlier than the morning of November 1.
When do we leave the ashram?
Your room is paid until November 28; check out is the morning of November 28. If you would like to stay on at the ashram, please contact Sat Puran who will help you arrange that with the ashram.
Any suggestions for a healthy flight?
Since the flight is so long we do recommend drinking plenty of water, at least 8 ounces per hour. Drinking caffeinated beverages is not recommended. If you want a special meal remember to order in advance with your airline (we like “Asian Vegetarian). Vitamin C or Emergen-C packets are helpful in fortifying your immune system during the flight. Snacks of fruits and nuts will help too. When not sleeping or watching movies, take regular breaks to get up, walk around and stretch.
How do I get from Delhi to Rishikesh and back?
We will be happy to help you find transportation - if a large enough group of students wishes to rent a bus, or other transport we will be happy to assist in that, however the extra charges will be the students' responsibility. You can also fly from Delhi to Deradhun and take a taxi to Rishikesh. Another option is to take a train from Delhi to Haridwar - the train leaves Delhi at 7:10 am. The train leaves from New Delhi (Station Code NDLS) and goes to Haridwar (Station Code HW) and takes 4. 5 hours. For more information, please see the Indian Rail website.
No matter which method of transport you choose, you must be in Rishikesh before nightfall on November 1, so if you choose to fly, you will want to take the earliest flight possible.
Why do we have to be there before nightfall?
The taxis have to take a back road through the mountains to get to Rishikesh and the road closes at dusk because the elephants come down on the road (yes elephants!) and it's too dangerous to drive!
What should I pack?
Once you register you will be provided with a suggested packing list.
We suggest you bring one large suitcase or duffle as checked luggage and one small bag or knapsack as your carry on. Bring an empty duffle packed into your suitcase to bring home your purchases. Don’t overpack!
Remember, airlines are imposing stricter guidelines for luggage and weight. Also, within India we have limited space for luggage on trains and busses. Also, there are times you will have to carry your own luggage, so make sure the luggage you bring is luggage you can handle carrying.
Do I need vaccinations?
There are no required vaccinations for travel in North India. We suggest you consult with your doctor if you are concerned about this issue, and do whatever makes you feel comfortable. The staff of Golden Bridge that have traveled on this yatra for years do not get vaccinations, but again, this is an individual choice.
What about supplements and medicines?
Once you register you will be sent a list of recommended supplements and suggestions to stay healthy during your time in India.
Frequently Asked Questions - Ashram living, food & dress
I just noticed that the room & board fee is based on double-occupancy. What if I really want a room by myself?
A single room will be an additional $600. Please be sure to let Sat Puran know as soon as possible if you need this accomodation.
What if I would prefer to stay elsewhere?
It will be up to you to find your own accomodations in Rishikesh if you are not staying at the ashram, and we will discount $600 from the total course fee. Please let Sat Puran know as soon as possible if you plan to do this.
What is the ashram lodging like?
Ashram living is very simple living. Each room has it's own bathroom, but hot water can be sporadic so you might want to practice taking cold showers before you come. (Cold showers are very good for you!)
Some people like to bring their own sheets and a pillow from home - it's not necessary, but it's nice to have a touch of home away from home. There is also a lovely fabric store near the ashram that sells bedsheets! Same with towels - the ashram provides basic sheets and towels, but you're welcome to bring your own.
Please remember, the ashram is not a hotel - there are no amenities and are no maids who clean every day - keeping your room tidy will be your responsibility. It's a simple, meditative living experience.
Is the food and water clean?
Drink only bottled water while in India. It is readily available. Do not drink water out of any tap. We suggest using bottled water to brush your teeth as an added precaution.
What kind of food will there be at the ashram?
The ashram serves fresh vegetarian Indian food. A typical breakfast includes yogi tea (with with or without milk), oatmeal, yogurt and fruit. Lunch and dinner are a vegetable subji (mix), fresh mixed vegetable salad, chapatis, rice and dahl. The food is vegatarian with many vegan options.
If you have specific dietary requirements, such as a vegan or wheat-free diet, you can bring snacks with you. We can also direct you to many healthy eateries and safe vegetable and fruit stands outside the ashram once we are in India. As long as you buy fruit that has a peel on it, it will be fine to eat! Many vegans have travelled with us to India and had no problem finding delicious food to eat!
Also the ashram is growing more and more of its own organic vegetables and purchasing more organic vegetables for the food they prepare. The chef who will be preparing the food prepares the food with such love and care and blessings. He also cooks all of Swamiji's meals...the food at the ashram is hygenic and delicious!
Will my cell phone work? Is there Internet? How can I call home?
Most networks now have international options, though the cost of your calls may be expensive. Most carriers will unlock your phone for you, for international travel – please call your cell phone service provider for more information. You can also buy an unlocked/GSM phone online. This will enable you to purchase a SIM card/phone chip in India, which you insert in place of your U.S. SIM card. This allows you to dial home for a fraction of what it would cost you to use your locked phone from your carrier.
There are also plenty of phone offices in India with inexpensive rates if you choose not to bring a cell phone. In Rishikesh there are Internet cafes close to the Ashram. Just know that Internet service in India is very slow.
How should I dress once in India?
Modestly and with respect to the culture.
For women, do not wear clothes that are tight, transparent or show too much skin or underarms. This means no tank tops, halters or short t-shirts. We also discourage wearing jeans or slacks. Instead wear loose fitting, graceful clothes such as long skirts and Indian kirtas. This is to not only to show respect for the culture but so that you don’t draw unwanted attention to yourself.
Once in India there are many shops where you can purchase beautiful and inexpensive clothing to wear and to do yoga in.
For men we suggest khakis and Indian kirta shirts and no tank tops.
Because you'll be doing Kundalini Yoga every day, we recommend white or light colored clothing and a headcovering for the yoga classes.
Frequently Asked Questions - Money
How much money should I take with me?
That’s entirely up to you and how much you want to buy. Things in India are much more inexpensive than they are in the US or Europe, so your dollar goes pretty far. Travelers checks are harder to exchange in India then cash, so we recommend bringing cash and a money belt. ATMs are available in Rishikesh and in close proximity to the ashram. ATMs are also available in Delhi, but not necessarily in close proximity to where we stay.
Most stores take credit cards, but it’s cash only at the markets.
What about tipping?
We do not tip any staff during our stay at the Ashram in Rishikesh. Rather, we leave a collective group tip at the end of our stay, which the staff divides between them. Generally this tip is around $30/person.
In addition, if you use porters to assist you with your luggage, plan on $1/piece of luggage each time you use them. For taxis within Delhi count on $1-$2/trip. Rishikesh is small and you will have no need to use a taxi. Anywhere you need to go you can easily walk to.
What is the currency and how can I exchange my dollars?
The currency in India is the rupee. There is a money exchange in the Delhi airport. When you fly into Delhi, exchange some money into rupees at the airport.
You can easily walk to places in Rishikesh to exchange money.
The rupee is not exchangeable outside of India so however much money you exchange into rupees, know that you must either spend it or exchange it back before leaving the country.
Frequently Asked Questions - Teacher Training
Do I need to fill out all of this paperwork to register?
YES! We need the registration forms returned to us and the deposit paid before we can consider your registration complete.
Will we get our books and materials in India?
We will order the books and materials at the end of the summer and ship them to you once you've registered. You'll need to bring the materials to India with you.
It seems like there's a lot of coursework - when does it have to be done?
You'll have 6 months to complete the two course curricula. You'll have 12 months to take the 20 Kundalini Yoga classes and participate in a White Tantric Yoga course.
What if there aren't any Kundalini Yoga teachers in my area?
You can purchase Gurmukh's or Nirvair's DVDs from our webstore and do those classes at home. (Please note the Yogi Bhajan DVDs, while wonderful, are just lectures and not yoga classes.)
How can I find a place to take White Tantric Yoga?
Check with www.whitetantricyoga.com - there are courses all around the world!
When can I take White Tantric Yoga?
You can take White Tantric Yoge from December 1, 2009 - November 1, 2010. Taking White Tantric Yoga prior to the start of the course will NOT count toward your requirement for the course.
Do we have to go to sadhana in India?
Yes! We highly recommend attending sadhana every morning. You'll be amazed at how much it will deepen your practice and enhance your experience!
I'm new to Kundalini Yoga - what's "sadhana"?
Sadhana is a 2 hour morning practice consisting of prayer, yoga and meditation. It's powerful and uplifting! For more information about sadhana, including Yogi Bhajan's answers to common questions about sadhana, please see the KRI wesbite!
Are there any scholarships or work exhange positions available?
Unfortunately no.
What about discounts for International or Indian students?
None are available.
Is there any way to connect with my fellow trainees prior to the course?
Yes! We will set up a special facebook-type website just for students of the India Teacher Training. Once you register, you'll receive an email inviting you to join the website. There you can post questions, photos, videos and chat with your fellow trainees! It's also a great resource once you come home!
Will you bring our books to India for us?
If you live in North America (US, Canada or Mexico) we'll send your books to you prior to the course, via UPS.
Otherwise, yes we will bring your books to India for you.
What if I alread have the books?
The only book you might have that is required for the course is The Master's Touch. If you have that book already, please let Sat Puran know.
What will the daily schedule be like?
4:00-6:00 am - Sadhana
6:30 - 7:00 am - Tea break
7:00 - 9:00 am - Yoga
9:00 - 10:00 am - Breakfast and relaxation (porridge/toast/fruit/tea/coffee)
10:00 am - 12:30 - Course Curriculum
12:30 - 1:30 pm - Lunch
1:30-5:00 pm - Course Curriculum
5:00 - 5:30 pm - Tea
5:30 - 7:30 pm - Arti/Meditation
7:30 pm Dinner at Ashram
9:00pm - Lights out
Time off: Wednesday & Sunday afternoons
Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
Please contact Sat Puran - she will be happy to answer any of your questions! Her email is SatPuran@goldenbridgeyoga.com
Yogi Bhajan
 Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga, arrived in the United States in 1969 with a stated purpose: “I have come to create Teachers, not to gather disciples.” He then founded 3HO - the Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization, based on his first principle: “Happiness is your Birthright.”
Through the Aquarian Teacher Program, Yogi Bhajan has trained thousands of KRI Certified Kundalini Yoga Teachers. In 1994, the International Kundalini Yoga Teachers Association, (IKYTA), was formed to further spread these priceless teachings uniting Kundalini Yoga teachers worldwide.
Teachers
Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa
 Gurmukh is the co-founder and director of Golden Bridge Nite Moon, Los Angeles' premier center for the study and practice of Kundalini Yoga and Meditation. Since being baptized 35 years ago with the Sikh spiritual name meaning "One who helps people across the world ocean," Gurmukh has dedicated her life to fulfilling her namesake. For nearly three decades, students in Los Angeles and from around the world have sought out her classes in Kundalini Yoga, meditation, and pre-and post-natal care. She has been married for 25 years to Gurushabd and has a 24 year old daughter who also lives in Los Angeles.
Gurushabd
 Gurushabd, co-director of Golden Bridge, teaches classes that are musical, challenging and provocative. He encourages students to move beyond old comfort zones, and into deeper, and more meditative realms of being. Married for 25 years to Gurmukh, they reside in Los Angeles with their many dogs.
Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training in India
Join us on a Special Journey
As we live and study among the banks of the Sacred Ganges River
Dear Ones in Divine:
Sat Nam and blessings. Come to India with us! Emerge into the infinite teachings of Kundalini Yoga. Become a certified teacher! Awaken a stirring in your heart like no other! Change your life forever … come to India.
We invite you to journey to Rishikesh along the banks of Mother Ganga at the foothills of the Himalayas, in the north of India. Rishikesh is the home of the yogis. Yogis of all traditions gather there. We will be hosted at the world-renowned Parmath Niketan Ashram by a modern-day saint, our beloved friend, Swami Chidanand Saraswati -- or ‘Swamiji’ as he is lovingly known. The ashram is such a harmonious place – a great nature preserve behind us, the fresh mountain waters of the Ganges in front of us – the most beautiful and transcendent views, walks and meditations.
Each day we’ll enjoy morning Sadhana, yoga, chanting, healthful and nourishing food, good company and new friends. At the close of the day, we are invited by Swamiji to take part in the sacred ceremony called “Arti” at the river Ganga. This celebration with fire and water, chanting and prayer, powerfully connects us each night back to Spirit.
India becomes a part of you. It runs deep into your soul. We feel so blessed to return to India with you.
Come! The First International Teacher Training Course in Rishikesh! You will find direction in your life, peace in your heart. Come Home to Yourself. Take a deep breath. Listen to your soul. Take this opportunity. You deserve this. Many await your help. For 25 days we have a sacred opportunity to change ourselves – the first step in transforming the world.
The first student you will have as a teacher is… yourself. And as the light of one candle can light thousands of candles, so you must first illuminate your own consciousness. Awaken your own awareness. Then you can help. Then you can serve. You can contribute. You can do your part to help humanity enter into a New Age and make the dream of world peace a reality. And this is our moment.
Most of the world's religions and mythologies point toward the year 2012 as a major turning point in our planet's history. We are in a time called "between the worlds," the countdown years to a New Age. Those famous seers of time, the Mayans, end their calendar in 2012. And Yogi Bhajan has told us, "The Age of Aquarius is on our head whether we feel, know, understand, or not. Past is going to be obsolete, and teachers of the Age of Aquarius are going to help humanity."
Teacher Training is about technology to do just that -- the technology of personal change: how to achieve strength, clarity, and grace. It is systematic, comprehensive, and complete. It is no exaggeration to say, all we have known is to be different. We are literally moving into a different time/space continuum. And this change requires different ways of living, different ways of being, different ways of relating.
Here in the birthplace of yoga you will learn how to function within this changing global energy field. You will learn basic care and operation of the human apparatus; how to pay attention to and maintain your glands and nervous system so they function at their optimal level; how to check daily for the inner balance of elimination and absorption, rest and activity. You will have an experiential understanding of the interrelationship of mind, body, emotions, and spirit. This training will give you a deep awareness of the sensitivity we are all going to need as we enter into this New Age.
It is the sincere prayer of the Golden Bridge Teacher Training staff we can give to you what was given to us: teachings that have made our lives bright and prosperous, filled with wonder and adventure. Let us travel this journey together as teachers!
The weather is excellent in India in November -- cool nights, pleasantly warm days, and clear skies. We'll go over what to pack and bring as we get closer to the departure date.
If you have any questions, please give us a call! Or please contact Sat Puran, Administrative Director of Teacher Training in India: satpuran@goldenbridgeyoga.com. She has led our India yatras for the past 6 years, and will be happy to answer your questions!
The closing date for registration is September 15, 2009. Register soon!
With All Love and Blessings in the Divine,
Gurmukh
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