80-Hour Yoga Foundation Course
The Essence of Traditional Yoga – Without the Month-Long Commitment
- Perfect for those seeking growth without teacher certification.
- A condensed 14-day immersion, ideal for busy lives.
- Experience the core of our 200-hour TTC in a focused, accessible format.
Yoga Foundation Course in India
Perfect for modern seekers who want deep yogic wisdom without a month-long commitment, this intensive program distills the essence of traditional Hatha Yoga into a transformative two-week journey. Whether you’re a dedicated practitioner seeking personal growth or a registered yoga teacher (RYT) looking to earn 80 YACEP® continuing education hours, this course meets your needs.
Set on our peaceful sustainable farm, the experience offers two certification paths: a meaningful Affirmation of Completion for personal development (non-Yoga Alliance), or YACEP® credits for teachers to fulfill Yoga Alliance requirements. Through daily practice of asana, pranayama, and philosophy, you’ll reconnect with yoga’s authentic roots while enjoying the serenity of nature.
SHORT & POWERFUL
Want the depth of traditional yoga training but can’t commit to a full month? Our 80-hour immersion delivers profound Hatha Yoga wisdom in just 14 focused days – all while honoring yoga’s authentic roots
GROWTH OR CREDITS
Are you seeking personal transformation or professional development? Choose your path: a soul-nourishing Affirmation of Completion, or 80 YACEP® hours (Yoga Alliance-approved) to advance your teaching career.
LEARN IN NATURE
Tired of sterile studio spaces? Immerse yourself in our sustainable farm setting, where fresh air, organic food, and sacred land deepen your practice beyond the mat.
Experience Deep Yoga, Your Way
Whether you’re short on time, craving personal growth, or earning teaching credits — this 14-day Hatha Yoga immersion offers authentic learning in a natural, nourishing setting.
Authentic Hatha Yoga. 14 Days. Deep Growth
Namaste,
I am Varvara Marinatou (E-RYT 500), co-founder of Akshara Yoga School and the lead teacher of this 80-hour yoga foundation course, along with Saurabh, in India.
- From Athlete to Yogi-I was a competitive swimmer in Greece, winning gold medals, before discovering my passion for teaching languages and connecting with people through tourism.
- Yoga Called Me-I was deeply inspired by Autobiography of a Yogi. I immersed myrself in traditional practices and trainings with masters in both Greece and India.
- India Transformed Me-I traveled to Mysore, studied under renowned gurus, and met my spiritual guide, Saurabh Chaudhary. Together, we founded Akshara Yoga School.
- Always a Student-I am an E-RYT 500, but I never stop learning—from anatomy with physicians to courses of Indian philosophy. My studies include Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Power, Yin, Aerial, and Prenatal Yoga, Pilates, along with Ayurveda and Vipassana meditation.
Who Is This Course For?
This 80-Hour Yoga Foundation Course is perfect for:
- Serious Practitioners who want to deepen their understanding of traditional Hatha Yoga beyond casual classes
- Lifetime Learners seeking authentic yogic wisdom (philosophy, pranayama, meditation) without teacher certification
- Busy Professionals who can't commit to a full 200-hour TTC but desire a structured, immersive experience
- Yoga Enthusiasts preparing for longer trainings – builds a strong foundation for future 200-hour/300-hour TTCs
- Current RYTs needing 80 YACEP® hours to fulfill Yoga Alliance continuing education requirements
Who This Course Is NOT For:
- Those seeking quick fitness-only yoga – we focus on holistic mind-body-spirit transformation
- Aspiring teachers wanting full certification – consider our 200-Hour TTC instead
- Anyone unwilling to commit – while condensed, this is an intensive 14-day immersion requiring dedication
What Makes This Course Special?
What Makes This Course Special?
At Akshara Yoga School, we are not running a business. We are on a mission. A yogic couple —
Saurabh & Varvara — live and teach at the school full-time, dedicating themselves to students’authentic transformation.
- Rooted in Tradition, Delivered with Compassion
- Small Groups & 1:1 Guidance (Gurukul style)
- Non-commercial, Sustainable, Rural Environment
- Comprehensive & Balanced Curriculum
- Raw nature, high vibrations, and real India
- Farm-to-table Vegetarian Meals
- Sustainable living
- Eco-Friendly Practices: solar power, food scraps are composted, returning nutrients to the earth.
Certification Options
At the end of the program, all participants receive a certificate to honor their commitment, growth, and personal journey through the course.
You may choose between two types of certification
1) Affirmation of Completion (Non-Yoga Alliance)
This certificate recognizes your active participation and sincere effort during the 80-hour immersion — a meaningful acknowledgment of your inner growth and learning.
Perfect for those who wish to deepen their understanding of yoga without pursuing a teaching career.
2) YACEP® Certification – 80 Hours of Continuing Education
For current Registered Yoga Teachers (RYTs) with Yoga Alliance. This certificate adds 80 hours of Continuing Education to your Yoga Alliance profile (YACEP®), fulfilling official requirements and expanding your skills as a teacher.
Ideal for certified yoga teachers who want to enrich their teaching and stay connected with traditional yogic roots.
Course Location
Nestled in the untouched beauty of Tanda Vijaisi, a tranquil village in Pilibhit district (Uttar Pradesh), our yoga school is cradled by the lush Terai region of the Himalayan foothills. Surrounded by forests, farmland, and open skies, the location is raw, beautiful, and untouched by commercial activity, offering the perfect atmosphere for deep yogic learning and reflection
Why Here ?
Pure & Unspoiled:
No tourist crowds, just sprawling forests, fertile farmland, and the occasional call of native birds.
Himalayan Energy:
Practice amidst the Terai’s vibrant biodiversity—a region revered for its grounding yet elevating vibrations.
Seamless Connectivity:
By Road: 6-7 hours from Delhi (NH9 via Bareilly). By Rail: Bareilly/Rudrapur Junction (70 km away) with direct trains from Delhi. By Air: Pantnagar Airport (80 km) or Delhi International Airport (300 km).
"This isn’t just a location—it’s an invitation to disconnect from chaos and reconnect with your essence."
Upon Completion, You Will Gain
Upon Completion, You Will Gain
- Foundational Yoga Techniques
Gain precision in traditional Hatha Yoga asanas, pranayama, and meditation – building a practice that lasts a lifetime.
- Yoga’s Wisdom
Discover key philosophies from ancient texts like the Yoga Sutra – not just as theory, but as practical tools for daily life.
- A Personalized Sadhana
Leave with a tailored morning/evening routine combining movement, breathwork, and mindfulness – designed for your needs.
- Healing & Strength
Learn anatomy-aligned practices to prevent injuries, improve posture, and boost energy – whether you are 25 or 65.
- Transformational Clarity
Unplug from chaos and reconnect with yourself through farm immersion – return home with renewed purpose and calm.
What You Will Learn
What You Will Learn
This immersion follows our 200-hour YTTC daily rhythm, but without the pressure of assessments or certification as a teacher. You’ll experience yoga as a complete lifestyle — physical, mental, and spiritual.
- Daily asana (postures), pranayama (breathwork), kriya, and meditation
- Guided study of Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita, and yogic philosophy
- Experiential learning in karma yoga, yogic anatomy, and lifestyle principles
- Introduction to asanas adjustments, teaching methodology (for YACEP participants)
- Immersive experience of cyclic meditation, trataka, yogic diet, and sustainable living
- Space for self-reflection, journaling, and inner work
Farm Visit
Meet the source of your food, feel the soil, smell the herbs, walk in the fields
Complimentary Transport
Pickup from and drop-off to Rudrapur, Bareilly (train/bus) or Pantnagar (flight)
One Group Outing
To explore the nearby places
Akshara Yoga T-shirt
Wear your yoga journey with pride.
Hand-knotted Mala (Japa Beads)
A spiritual tool for mantra and meditation
Notebook
To capture reflections, insights, and revelations
Jala Neti Pot
A traditional kriyā tool for daily cleansing and inner clarity
Gift From Akshara Yoga
What's Inside the Course
Our 80-hour yoga foundation course covers all the important aspect of Hatha yoga
Techniques, Training and Practice
Anatomy and Physiology
Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle, and Ethics
Practicum
Course Dates & Fees
Our 80-hour yoga foundation course covers all the important aspect of Hatha yoga
| Date | Fees (In Dollars) |
|---|---|
| 1-14 July, 2025 | $750 |
| 16-29 July, 2025 | $750 |
| 1-14 August, 2025 | $750 |
| 16-29 August, 2025 | $750 |
| 1-14 September, 2025 | $750 |
| 16-29 September, 2025 | $750 |
| 1-14 October, 2025 | $750 |
| 16-29 October, 2025 | $750 |
| 1-14 November, 2025 | $750 |
| 16-29 November, 2025 | $750 |
| 1-14 December, 2025 | $750 |
Registration & Payment
To confirm your seat, a deposit of $200 is requested at the time of registration. The remaining balance can be paid upon arrival at the school.
Program Fee Includes:
- All tuition and training, full accommodation, and three farm-fresh vegetarian meals daily.
- Training manual, stationery, a Jal Neti pot, and an Akshara Yoga School T-shirt.
- Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from the nearest airport or railway/bus stations.
Early Bird Discount
Save up to $50 when you register for this course early!
If you secure your spot at least 60 days before the course start date, you’ll receive a $50 discount on the total course fee.
How to Claim:
Just complete your registration and pay the $200 deposit 60 days or more in advance. The discount will be applied to your remaining balance.
Daily Schedule
| Timings | Session |
|---|---|
| 6–7:30 AM | Hatha Yoga Practice (Kriyā, āsana, relaxation, prāṇāyāma) |
| 8 AM | Herbal tea |
| 8:30 AM | Asana Adjustment / Teaching Methodology |
| 9:45 AM | Light breakfast |
| 10:30 AM | Lecture |
| 11:30 AM | Advance Yoga Practice (Cyclic Meditation) |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch |
| 2–3 PM | Karma Yoga |
| 3:30–4:30 PM | Anatomy & Physiology / Lecture |
| 5–6 PM | Hatha Flow / Vinyasa |
| 6:30 PM | Dinner |
| 8 PM | Trataka / Life of Spiritual Masters |
| 9:30 PM | Lights out |
How to Register?
Our 200-hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Course is open to everyone above 18 years of age, with no upper age limit. To register, simply fill out the online application form by clicking the “Book Your Spot Now” below. Once we receive your details, our team will connect with you to guide you through the next steps. We look forward to welcoming you to Akshara Yoga School!
Is this course only for certified yoga teachers?
No. This program is open to all sincere yoga practitioners — whether or not you are a certified teacher. It is designed for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of yoga and integrate it into daily life.
What’s the difference between the two certification options?
We offer two certificates:
- Affirmation Certificate for non-teachers who want to experience and understand yoga deeply.
- YACEP® Certificate (80 hours) for existing RYTs (Registered Yoga Teachers) to fulfill Yoga Alliance Continuing Education requirements.
Will I be able to teach yoga after completing this course?
This course is an immersion, not a teacher training. It offers deep knowledge and practice, but it does not qualify you to teach yoga unless you are already a certified RYT. However, many students feel more confident sharing yoga informally after completing it.
How is this different from your 200-Hour Teacher Training Course?
This course follows a similar rhythm and content to our 200-Hour YTTC, but without assessments, pressure, or teaching certification. It’s ideal for those who want the essence of traditional yoga in a shorter and more relaxed format.
What will I actually learn in 14 days?
You’ll explore yoga as a complete lifestyle — body, mind, and spirit. The curriculum includes:
- Asana, pranayama, kriya, meditation
- Yogic philosophy (Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita)
- Karma yoga, sustainable living, self-reflection
- Yogic anatomy, daily rituals, and more.
Do I need to be very flexible or experienced in yoga?
Not at all. We welcome all levels. Just come with sincerity, curiosity, and an open heart. You’ll receive personal guidance based on your level and experience.
Where will I stay during the course?
You’ll stay in our eco-conscious ashram, located on a peaceful sustainable farm in rural North India. Rooms are private, clean, and come with attached Western-style bathrooms.
What is included in the course fee?
The $750 fee includes:
- Tuition and course materials
- Accommodation and all vegetarian farm-to-table meals
- Local transport (pick-up & drop-off)
- One group outing
- Welcome kit: T-shirt, mala, notebook, Jala Neti pot
- Certification
Do I have to attend all the sessions?
Yes. This is a fully immersive experience. Full participation is required to receive your certificate and to truly benefit from the program.
How do I get to Akshara Yoga School?
We provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off from:
- Pantnagar Airport (PGH)
- Rudrapur or Bareilly railway/bus stations
Detailed travel guidance will be shared upon registration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Register Today
Choose Your Path to Peace
INVESTMENT
15-Day Yoga Vacation
$750
(Early Bird: $490 – Book 5 Months in Advance)
Daily yoga, pranayama & meditation
Organic vegetarian meals (vegan-friendly)
Comfortable private room with attached bathroom
Nature immersion & ashram lifestyle
1 guided outing to sacred places
Complimentary pickup from Rudrapur/Bareilly
10-Day Yoga Vacation
$120
(Early Bird: $360 – Book 5 Months in Advance)
