Prenatal Standards
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Curriculum must incorporate training hours in the following educational categories:
General Background in the Specialty Area (5 hours)
5 contact hours
Understanding the yoga teacher’s relationship with health care professionals. Knowing when to suggest that the student consult a health care professional regarding pregnancy issues. Understanding of psychological considerations during pregnancy and how to differentiate between high-risk and non-high-risk pregnancy.
Techniques Training/Practice (25 hours)
25 contact hours, 18 with primary E-RYT®s
Includes yoga techniques specialized to the needs of the pregnant woman, including practice and teaching skills for trimester-specific yoga techniques. Techniques include: alignment for the expectant mother, appropriate yoga techniques for each trimester, how to practice yoga techniques safely and relaxation and stress management techniques.
Teaching Methodology (10 hours)
10 contact hours, 6 with primary E-RYTs
Includes design of lesson plans for the beginning and/or advanced student during each trimester.
Anatomy and Physiology (10 hours)
10 contact hours
Human anatomy and physiology (both physical and subtle body) related specifically to considerations during pregnancy. Topics include but are not limited to: overview of what is normal anatomy and physiology during pregnancy, how organs function during pregnancy, overview of the complications, including miscarriage, premature labor, hypertension, preeclampsia and body mechanics.
Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle and Ethics for Prenatal Yoga Teachers (5 hours)
5 contact hours
Includes traditional yoga philosophy as it may apply to lifestyle and well-being during pregnancy.
Practicum (20 hours)
10 observing, 6 with Primary E-RYTs
10 teaching, 6 with Primary E-RYTs, at least 1 hour as lead teacher
Remaining Hours (10 hours)
Hours to be distributed among educational categories according to the school’s chosen emphasis (may be contact or non-contact hours).
Total: 85 hours
Total Contact Hours: 75
Prenatal Registration