1. OVERVIEW
2. VISION
3. CRITERIA FOR CERTIFICATION
4. TERMS OF AGREEMENT
5. IMPORTANT DATES
1. OVERVIEW
The Hridaya Meditation and Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Course, HTTC, is a systematic and comprehensive approach to meditation and Hatha Yoga. Our yoga school is registered Yoga Alliance (the largest association of yoga in the world) and is authenticated by this international forum. Graduation certificates are given under Yoga Alliance and enables you to teach yoga and meditation in any country in the world, respecting the laws of that country.
Some of the HTTC graduates will be integrated as yoga teachers in Kamala Center.
Through this course of meditation and yoga teachers, you will have the same graduation certificate (TTC200) equivalent of all yoga schools recognized by Yoga Alliance.
This Hridaya Yoga and Meditation Teacher Training Course was organised for the first time in Mexic, Mazunte, by Sahajananda (Claudiu Trandafir) for the large version of 500 hours. Hridaya teachers spread the message of the Spiritual Heart in many countries: România, Mexic, Canada, Guatemala, Elveția, Olanda, Marea Britanie, SUA, Austria, Germania, Israel etc.
The HTTC provides:
– over 200 hours of meditation and hatha yoga
– the yoga manual with all taught lessons
– an HTTC kit at the end of course containing an additional booklet with advice and recommendations for Hridaya teachers, some inspiring books of Ramana Maharshi, audio files of the HTTC lectures.
The training includes the following subjects:
– A survey of the main meditation traditions throughout history – Theravada Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, Zen, Christianity – Isihast tradition, Sufism, Hasidism, etc.
– Extensive explanations on Ramana Maharshi’s teachings, including Self-enquiry (Atma-vichara), The Spiritual Heart, Bringing the I-feeling back into its source, Sphurana, etc.
– Hridaya Yoga – metaphysical principles and basic concepts, including Hridaya Hatha Yoga,, the Spiritual Heart’s significance, mastering the 4 fundamental attitudes of Hridaya meditation, Surrender – a fundamental key on Self-revelation path, Spanda, The Sacred Tremor of the Heart” (a Kashmir Shaivism concept used in Hridaya meditation), the gaps between thoughts, Open Concepts, Open Attention, etc.
– Description of Self-realization according Shankaracharya
– The ineffable of Sat-chit-ananda, etc.
– Traditional yoga asanas
– The ABC of meditation: proper postures for meditation, mudras for meditation, favorable moments for meditation, the importance of stretching and relaxation for meditation, benefits of meditation, etc.
– Basic pranayama techniques
– Pranayama for calming the mind: rhythmic breathing theory in pranayama, nadhi shodhana for meditation, etc.
– Extensive presentation and practical guidance in some forms of meditation: Atma-vichara (Self-enquiry Method of Ramana Maharshi), Mahamudra, Walking meditation according to Theravada Buddhism
– Practical guidelines for meditators: how to overcome the hindrances during meditation, advice for meditators according to their dominant dosha (one of three bodily humors that make up one’s constitution according to Ayurvedic Medicine), what are the phases during a meditation retreat, etc.
– The stages of deep meditation (the 8 jhanas) according to the Buddhist tradition
– The spiritual benefits of the dark retreat – kaya kalpa, from the advaita vedanta perspective
– A series of lectures on Advaita Vedanta; Metaphors and stories in Vedanta
– The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali
– About Samadhi (states of Cosmic Consciousness). Criteria for identifying different states of samadhi and proper attitudes for experiencing them
– The study of the effects of the physical and subtle light (phosphenes) upon the mind. The study of Advaya Taraka Upanishad. The relationship between Light and Consciousness
– The connection between Brainwaves and States of Consciousness (The lecture is followed by experiments with Brain Machine)
– The 4 states of consciousness according to Yoga
– Cultivating the proper attitudes for a sahridaya life (a life full of enthusiasm and joy) – transforming the life into a proper tool for Self-revelation
– Methods for developing concentration
– Methods for developing awareness: capturing the uncaught mind, micro-practices, the technique of ultra-slowing of physical and mental activities, etc.
– Methods for awakening the Heart: Blowing upon the ember of the heart, Tonglen, etc.
The Hridaya Meditation and Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Course also includes:
– Anatomy and physiology classes,
– Hridaya teacher methodology: how to teach Hridaya concepts, how to teach Hridaya Hatha Yoga etc.
– Practicum training – 2 sessions of practicum for each HTTC attendee,
– Hridaya retreats training – participation in a 3-Days Hridaya Silent Meditation Retreat.
– Individual evaluation and coaching
– Group coaching from other experienced Hridaya teachers,
– The experience of 24 hours of Kaya Kalpa, meditation in complete darkness.
Successful completion of this 200-hour course grants a participant permission to teach Hridaya Meditation and Hatha Yoga Workshops anywhere, with support materials and guidance provided.
2. VISION
The Hridaya Teacher Training Course is not just a course for acquiring some specific knowledge, improving ourselves and obtaining a certification accordingly. It opens us toward a life-time journey. Practically speaking, the communion in ideals, principles and actions, the friendship, the teachings and the support will continue also after this formal period.
The Hridaya community is open and welcoming to any of his teachers, and is actively supporting them in the transmission of the Hridaya ideals, perspectives and methods.
The Hridaya Teacher Training Course aims to go beyond the formal style. We learn together, continuously, as students and teachers, to be beyond roles. Here we are not learning how to assume a new role – that of a teacher – but we are constantly learning to be beyond roles.
In the Hridaya community the education starts from another paradigm. We respect each other beyond roles, appreciating the gifts each person can bring, supporting the beauty and the inherently creative power that lies in every soul. Thus, real love can grow.
Emphasizing creativity is a way of learning in freedom and love, of cultivating our best, sattvic (harmonious) qualities. This doesn’t contradict, but includes the need of being systematic and the understanding of the order. When a spiritual school is based on quality and sattvic standards it grows naturally in love and beauty, art, harmony, and respect for Love.
Being focused only on quantity and a franchise-like style, in which the specificities are ignored, a spiritual group can risk rapid degeneration. When we put enthusiasm into it, our work is approached not through quantity but quality and therefore awareness, intelligence, love and creativity are present.
Even though there will be formal examinations which are based upon a solid theoretical preparation, much more emphasis is put on keeping the spirit of Hridaya – the naturalness, love, awareness.
We are not encouraging that so-called “competitive spirit.” By living in awareness, self-inquiry, freedom and beauty we become the best teachers. Then we don’t feel the need anymore to prove something to others, based on competition and a pushing attitude.
The real competence of a Hridaya meditation and yoga teacher is not based on competition and self-image but on love and intimate knowledge of who we are. And in this way people will naturally come for the teachings that we are offering – both teachers and students understanding that the radiance of the Heart is the only authority.
In spite of the fact that the teachings of non-duality are essentially beyond mind, in order to be transmitted properly we definitely should use our intelligence and inspiration. That’s why the course is trying to bring maximum clarity in its main concepts: The Sacred Tremor of the Heart, Hridaya Meditation, the Heart Center, Self Inquiry, Hridaya Hatha Yoga, Samarasa, Open Attention, the Witness Consciousness, etc.
The HTTC promotes the Non-dual Vision. This means that essentially there is only one inseparable domain of the Heart. When we really understand this principle, we are able to apply it to teaching yoga and meditation and to all our activities.
As Chuang Tzu said:
“Great knowledge sees all in one.
Small knowledge breaks down into the many.”
What is spiritual, uplifting, beautiful, noble, good comes from this global perception.
The HTTC flows in 3 main directions:
– Cultivating the background of Stillness of our being – which is the Real Knowledge, the Jnana, which is also the radiance of Love, the Bhakti;
– Practical technical (methodological) knowledge – which consists in methods of meditation, transformation;
– Theoretical knowledge (including teaching methodology) – which are considered necessary for a meditation and hatha yoga teacher.
We wish you an inspiring journey into the Real!
3. CRITERIA FOR CERTIFICATION
The following Criteria for Certification must be met by all students wishing to become Hridaya Meditation and Hatha Yoga teachers.
We reserve the right to deny certification to any student who does not fulfill course obligations or who does not meet Hridaya Yoga standards, detailed below.
Attendance
With the exception of emergencies, the Hridaya TTC expects full attendance of all HTTC sessions in order to earn the certificate issued at the end of the course.
Attendance is defined as participation in all facets of each scheduled session: theoretical presentation, asana practice, meditation, interviews, teaching workshops, retreats, etc.
It will be the student’s responsibility to make up any missed course material for excused absences.
Special circumstances will be discussed in particular with the teachers of Kamala Center.
Exams
Two exams mark a student’s progress throughout the course. Questions are taken from lecture presentations and supplemental course materials. Participants must complete the course with a cumulative passing exam average, in addition to attendance verification, in order to receive their teaching certification.
Practicum Workshop Training
Successful completion of all practicum teaching assignments is a requirement for certification. Presentations must demonstrate a student’s ability to teach using the Hridaya Yoga methodology, including a good command of the scripted mnemonics that participants will receive in the course, as well as theoretical absorption of the material itself demonstrated by a proper understanding of the course material, correct answers to questions etc.
Professional and Ethical Behavior
After certification, a Hridaya meditation and Yoga teacher is expected to adhere to certain standards, which will be described fully in the Spiritual Code that you will be required to sign at the end of the course.
If there is found to be a professional or ethical complaint against a Hridaya teacher, an inquiry will be made. If a legitimate basis for the complaint is found, it could result in suspension of the teacher or other limitations placed on the teacher’s use of the name “Hridaya.”
Use of the Name “Hridaya”
We encourage Hridaya Teacher Training Course participants, upon graduation, to go out and teach Hridaya Yoga. The name “Hridaya” should be honored by the behavior and competence of the Meditation and Hatha Yoga teacher.
4. TERMS OF AGREEMENT
Please do not underestimate the mental and physical demands which will be placed on participants. We ask that you seriously evaluate your levels of physical, psychological, and spiritual maturity before enrolling in this course. The peoples with serious mental illness can not attend the course.
The Hridaya TTC is structured with the best intentions toward helping students to dedicate themselves to a meditative life and to becoming mature meditation and Hatha Yoga teachers. Therefore, extensive consideration has been put into the schedule and methodology presented.
Please read the following statements. By checking the signature box on the application form, an applicant signifies that he or she has read, understood, and agreed to accept the terms set forth.
Determination and Communication
I commit to do my best to participate according to the course structure. If I have specific personal needs, Yogic or otherwise, I will discuss them with an HTTC Administrator.
Responsibility
By virtue of being an intensive program, the HTTC may raise personal issues or shortcomings. The program is meant to encourage personal growth and, therefore, may impel considerable changes in attitude. For these reasons, the HTTC can be challenging and demanding. I accept responsibility for all aspects of my behavior during this program.
Punctuality
Adherence to punctuality is one of the primary factors in the success of the HTTC. I accept responsibility for being on time to all program sessions. I understand that repeated delays are reasons that may lead to the failure to receive a certificate of completion.
Time Management
I accept responsibility for managing my time, diet, and personal relationships in ways which support my full participation and attendance in the HTTC.
Purity
According to the Hridaya system, it is necessary to maintain a level of cleanliness and purity in combination with meditation and Hatha Yoga practice in order to ensure the safety and effectiveness of spiritual practices.
I agree to accept that, for the duration of the HTTC, any and all use of tobacco and other illicit substances is expressly forbidden and can prove to be grounds for immediate expulsion from the course.
Respect for colleagues and teachers
Hridaya Yoga students come from a variety of countries and backgrounds. In order to create a supportive environment, I assume responsibility for maintaining an attitude of respect toward my teachers and my colleagues in the course. If any interpersonal difficulties or conflicts arise, I pledge to seek the advice of the HTTC teachers and administrators.
Openness and Discernment
Hridaya Yoga offers spiritual teachings, outside the parameters of any one specific religion. The HTTC raises issues that are metaphysical in nature, concepts and theories that may challenge my personal belief system. I agree to keep an open mind, and to exercise common sense, discernment, and a balanced attitude in order to fully appreciate the teachings offered.
I understand all these requirements and I will honor it.
I declare on my responsibility that I do not have psychological or mental problems (schizophrenia, paranoia, etc.).
I understand that the recommendations of this course does not replace medical advice or treatment. Kamala Yoga and Meditation Centre is not liable for any incorrect practicing yoga techniques taught or for the disregard of the recommendations of yoga teachers.
5. ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATIONS
The Hridaya Meditation and Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Course (HTTC) takes place at the Kamala Meditation and Yoga Center in Sanpetru, Brașov county, Romania.
The participation in the course includes a 3-days silent retreat for meditation at Kamala Centre and also the written and audio teaching materials.
Registration requirements:
– Minimum age 22 years
– General knowledge of yoga and meditation
– Completing and signing the application form and assuming the required conditions
– The payment of the reservation fee (or the total course fee).
Kamala Center reserves the right to select who will attend the course. The acceptance in the course will be announced within one month from the time of registration. Those who are not accepted will receive back the reservation fee, less bank transfer fees.
Accommodation and meals
Those who opt for accommodation and / or meals through the Center Kamala must request this upon registration and will receive the necessary information. Breakfast is offered free to all participants.
6. IMPORTANT DATES
Hridaya Meditation and Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Course (HTTC) period:
A. September 23, 2016 – May 21, 2017 (details below)
B. June 5 – July 1, 2017 (details below)
A. September 23, 2016 – May 21, 2017
Application deadline + Reservation payment €200: July 1, 2016
The course is conducted in nine weekens sessions (modules) as follows:
The first phase:
1. 23–25 September 2016
2. 21–23 October 2016
3. 18-20 November 2016
4. 9-11 December 2016. First exam.
The second phase
5. 20–22 January 2017
6. 24–26 February 2017
7. 24–26 March 2017
8. 21-23 April 2017
9. 19–21 May 2017. The second exam.
21 May 2017 – The ceremony of granting teachers certificates.
The module schedule:
Friday 18.30 – 22.00; Saturday 8.00-13.00, 15.00-19.00, 19.30 – 21.00; Sunday 8.00-13.00, 15.00-18.00
B. June 5 – July 1, 2017
Application deadline + Reservation payment €200: March 1, 2017
The course schedule: Monday – Saturday 8,5 – 9 hours, Sunday – free time.
For information regarding registration fee please contact us.
Informations and registering:
phone +40 731.32.42.41, +40 731.32.42.39
email: centrulkamala@gmail.com