50 Hrs – Yoga and Gestalt Therapy (YGT)Teacher Training Certificate Course
50 Hrs – Yoga and Gestalt Therapy (Y-GT) Teacher Training Certificate Course
Course Overview
Yoga and Gestalt Therapy (Y-GT) Teacher Training Certificate Course
The Yoga and Gestalt Therapy (Y-GT) Teacher Training Certificate Course is an integrative professional program designed to bring together the embodied wisdom of yoga and the experiential depth of Gestalt Therapy. This training offers a transformative framework for yoga teachers, therapists, counsellors, and holistic health practitioners who wish to deepen their understanding of self-awareness, presence, and authentic human connection through a mind–body–emotion approach.
In an era marked by emotional fragmentation, stress, identity confusion, and relational challenges, there is a growing need for therapeutic methods that address the whole person – body, mind, emotions, and awareness. Yoga provides practices that cultivate inner stillness, balance, and somatic awareness. Gestalt Therapy emphasizes present-moment experience, personal responsibility, and integration of fragmented parts of the self. The Y-GT course harmoniously combines these systems into a powerful experiential learning process.
Foundations of Yoga in Y-GT
Yoga is not merely a physical practice but a holistic science of self-realization. Rooted in classical yogic texts, it aims to cultivate awareness (sakshi bhava), self-regulation, and harmony between body and mind. Through asana, pranayama, meditation, relaxation, and ethical observances, yoga supports:
- Heightened body awareness
- Emotional balance
- Nervous system regulation
- Non-judgmental observation
- Inner integration
The yogic concept of witnessing consciousness aligns naturally with Gestalt Therapy’s emphasis on awareness in the present moment.
Foundations of Gestalt Therapy
Gestalt Therapy, developed by Fritz Perls and colleagues, is an experiential and humanistic therapeutic approach focused on awareness, authenticity, and integration. The word “Gestalt” means “whole” or “complete form.” The therapy emphasizes:
- Present-moment awareness
- Integration of fragmented aspects of personality
- Responsibility for one’s choices
- Body awareness as a pathway to emotional insight
- Authentic contact and communication
Gestalt work explores how unfinished emotional experiences and unexpressed feelings manifest in the body and behavior. It encourages individuals to experience rather than merely analyze their thoughts and emotions — a principle that resonates deeply with yoga practice.
Why Integrate Yoga with Gestalt Therapy?
Both yoga and Gestalt Therapy are experiential and awareness-based disciplines. When integrated, they create a holistic framework that:
- Connects somatic awareness with emotional processing
- Encourages embodied presence
- Bridges movement with psychological insight
- Facilitates self-discovery through direct experience
- Promotes integration of mind, body, and emotions
Young woman practicing yoga, sitting in Sukhasana pose, performing Humming Bee Breathing exercise, Bhramari Pranayama technique, working out, wearing sportswear, white t-shirt, pants, full length
For example:
- Mindful asana can reveal habitual tension patterns linked to emotional holding.
- Breathwork supports awareness of suppressed feelings.
- Guided inquiry during relaxation enhances insight into unfinished experiences.
- Meditation strengthens the capacity to witness internal dialogue without avoidance.
The integration allows practitioners to move beyond technique and into authentic experiential facilitation.
Purpose of the Y-GT Teacher Training
The course aims to:
- Train participants to integrate Gestalt awareness principles into yoga teaching
- Develop emotionally intelligent and presence-based facilitation skills
- Introduce experiential dialogue and body-based inquiry methods
- Support trauma-sensitive and ethical teaching practices
- Cultivate authentic therapeutic presence
Graduates will be able to design and lead Y-GT sessions that combine movement, breath, awareness practices, and reflective processes to support emotional integration and personal growth.
Who This Course Is For
This course is suitable for:
- Certified yoga teachers seeking therapeutic depth
- Yoga therapists and advanced practitioners
- Counsellors and psychotherapists
- Social workers and wellness professionals
- Mindfulness facilitators
- Individuals working in emotional healing or community wellbeing
No prior training in Gestalt Therapy is required, as foundational concepts are introduced within the program.
Learning Methodology
The Y-GT Teacher Training is experiential and reflective. It includes:
- Theoretical foundations of Gestalt Therapy
- Yogic psychology and philosophy
- Guided experiential exercises
- Body-awareness explorations
- Role plays and dialogue practice
- Teaching practicum sessions
- Reflective journaling and group process work
Participants not only learn concepts but personally experience the integration of yoga and Gestalt principles.
Core Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the principles of Gestalt Therapy
- Facilitate awareness-based yoga sessions
- Guide embodied emotional exploration safely
- Integrate dialogue techniques into yoga practice
- Recognize body–emotion connections
- Maintain ethical and trauma-informed teaching boundaries
- Design structured Y-GT classes for various populations
Vision of the Y-GT Program
The Yoga and Gestalt Therapy Teacher Training envisions cultivating facilitators who embody presence, authenticity, and compassionate awareness. By integrating the self-regulatory practices of yoga with the experiential insight of Gestalt Therapy, this program prepares teachers to support individuals in becoming more whole, integrated, and conscious.
It is not merely a skills-based training – it is a journey into embodied awareness and transformative teaching.
Detailed Syllabus
MODULE 1: Foundations of Gestalt Therapy & Yoga
1.1 Introduction to Gestalt Therapy
- Historical background
- Fritz Perls, Laura Perls, Paul Goodman
- Core philosophy of Gestalt Therapy
- Gestalt vs analytical & cognitive approaches
- Holism: Body–Mind–Emotion–Environment
- Gestalt view of health and neurosis
1.2 Yogic Foundations Relevant to Gestalt
- Yoga as an experiential science
- Patanjali’s concept of Drashta–Drishya
- Awareness (Smriti, Sakshi Bhava)
- Present-moment anchoring in yogic texts
- Comparison: Gestalt “Here & Now”
- Comparison: Yogic “Atha Yoga Anushasanam”
MODULE 2: Awareness & the Gestalt Continuum
2.1 Awareness Continuum
- Sensation → Feeling → Emotion → Thought → Action
- Interruptions in awareness
- Contact and withdrawal
- Grounding and orientation
- Tracking moment-to-moment experience
2.2 Yogic Awareness Practices
- Body scanning (Somatic awareness)
- Breath as awareness anchor
- Sensory mindfulness in asana
- Micro-movement awareness
- Stillness and awareness pauses
MODULE 3: Body, Breath & Emotion in YGT
3.1 Body as Primary Field of Experience
- Body memory and emotional holding
- Muscular tension and unfinished business
- Gestalt body reading (non-interpretative)
- Supporting safe emotional expression
- Somatic cues and therapist presence
3.2 Pranayama & Emotional Regulation
- Breath patterns and emotional states
- Yogic breath awareness vs breath control
- Gestalt use of breath amplification
- Containment and titration
- Contraindications and trauma sensitivity
MODULE 4: Gestalt Experiments Integrated with Yoga
4.1 Gestalt Experiments – Theory
- What is a Gestalt experiment?
- Experiment vs exercise
- Creativity and spontaneity
- Role of the facilitator
- Safety and consent
4.2 Experiential Practices
- Empty chair adapted for yogic context
- Polarities through movement and posture
- Voice, sound, and mantra as expression
- Movement dialogues
- Breath-movement-emotion experiments
- Working with resistance compassionately
MODULE 5: Asana, Movement & Contact
5.1 Gestalt-Informed Asana Practice
- Asana as awareness laboratory
- Effort vs ease (Sthira–Sukha)
- Choice-based movement
- Staying with sensation
- Exit, completion, and integration
5.2 Contact, Boundaries & Relationship
- Contact cycle (Fore-contact → Contact → Withdrawal)
- Boundary disturbances:
- Introjection
- Projection
- Retroflection
- Deflection
- Confluence
- Yogic parallels
- Teacher–student relational field
MODULE 6: Application, Teaching & Ethics
6.1 Teaching Methodology
- Structuring a Yoga-Gestalt session
- Language: phenomenological vs interpretative
- Verbal cues and inquiry
- Group facilitation skills
- Individual vs group sessions
6.2 Ethics, Scope & Professional Practice
- Yoga teacher vs therapist roles
- Scope of practice and referral
- Informed consent
- Emotional safety and containment
- Cultural sensitivity
- Self-care and supervision
MODULE 7: PRACTICUM
- Guided self-practice logs
- Peer-led Yoga-Gestalt sessions
- Observation and feedback
- Reflective journaling
MODULE 8: Assessment Methods
- Practical teaching demonstration
- Case reflection presentation
- Written assignment (awareness-based reflection)
- Attendance (minimum 90%)
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Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham – Yoga Teacher Training – J. P. NagarNO.1271, FIRST FLOOR, 20th Main, or, Central Mall, Ragigudda Metro Station, Marenahalli, 2nd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru
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I came to Bangalore to follow a 10 day private teacher training with Karuna, and it was a truly enriching experience.
I already hold a 200 h TTC in Hatha Yoga, as well as other diplomas. However, through my own experience, I feel that … More a 200 h yoga training is not enough to fully grasp the bigger picture of what yoga truly is. What I deeply appreciated with Karuna is that he also offers trainings focused on specific subjects, allowing for a much deeper and more embodied understanding.
For this private yoga training, I chose to explore mudras, mantras, and somatics. Being able to dive deeply into these themes helped me clarify and understand other aspects of yoga more clearly, not only intellectually, but also through direct experience, guided by Karuna.
The one to one format is a real gift. It creates space to ask questions, to slow down, and to spend more time on areas that personally need deeper integration. Karuna also shares related knowledge and encourages dialogue with what you are learning, making the whole process very alive and meaningful.
I truly appreciate how Karuna offers many different subjects and learning formats, and how he adapts his teaching to each person. His approach is attentive, sensitive, and respectful of individual paths.
Another beautiful aspect is that during the weekend, group students join the classes. Karuna skillfully manages to continue our individual learning while also allowing a collective learning experience. This opens the learning in a different and enriching way.
I had a wonderful time, and I will very likely continue other trainings with Karuna, either online (which is also an option 😉) or in Bangalore.
Namaste 🙏 -
I recently completed my Breathwork and Pranayama Teacher Training Course with Karuna Yoga, and it was a truly enriching experience. The program was thoughtfully structured, with concepts explained in a simple, clear, and effective manner. … More The trainer ensured that I thoroughly understood the techniques through both detailed instruction and hands-on practice during the sessions.
What stood out most was the genuine commitment to learning and personal growth, creating a supportive and nurturing environment throughout the course. I would highly recommend Karuna Yoga to anyone seeking a credible, authentic, and professional institute for Breathwork and Pranayama training. Their dedication and expertise are truly exceptional. 😊🙏 -
I completed my 200-hour TTC at Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham in Bengaluru, and it was a truly enriching experience. Karuna sir is very knowledgeable, patient, and supportive, and gives personal attention to each student. The course is well-structured, … More covering not just asanas but also yoga philosophy, anatomy, and meditation in a balanced way. I felt more confident in my practice and gained a deeper understanding of yoga overall. It’s a great place for anyone looking for authentic and meaningful yoga training.
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I, Pinkiey K, recently completed the Pranayama Teacher Training Program, and it was a truly enriching experience. The course was well-structured and covered both the depth and practical application of pranayama in a very meaningful way. … More The teachings were presented with clarity, patience, and authenticity, making even complex concepts easier to understand and integrate into practice.
What I appreciated most was the balance between traditional wisdom and practical guidance for teaching and personal growth. The program not only deepened my understanding of breathwork and its effects on the mind and body, but also strengthened my confidence in applying these practices responsibly.
I am grateful for the knowledge, discipline, and insights gained through this training, and I know these learnings will continue to support my personal journey and professional work over time. 🙏
Special gratitude to Trainer Dr. Murthy for sharing his knowledge and guidance throughout the program.
Highly recommended. -
I recently completed the 200 Hours Yoga Teacher Training Course with Karuna yoga Vidhya peetham .
I’m happy I chose Karuna yoga Vidhya peetham under the guidance of Dr Karuna murthy sir .
The program was well-structured and offered in-depth … More knowledge of yoga asanas, pranayama, meditation, anatomy, philosophy, and teaching methodology.
Dr.Karuna murthy sir were highly knowledgeable, supportive, and encouraging throughout the journey. The training helped me develop better alignment, discipline, confidence in teaching, and a deeper understanding of yoga both practically and theoretically. It was a highly enriching and transformative learning experience, and I am grateful for the guidance and support provided throughout the course. -
Teacher Training Course offered at Karuna Yoga Vidyapeetham is unparalleled to any other course I’ve taken.
In my 13 years practice, Dr Karuna has so effectively shared his knowledge that the message will forever stay with me.
Will highly … More recommend learning from this institution- they offer various levels and forms of yoga teacher trainings.
Simply one of the best Yoga Schools in India -
This Advanced Mudra Therapy TTC is one of the most authentic and comprehensive yoga programs you could get.
What truly stands out is the integrity of the teaching. Sir is a sincere follower of yoga and its principles – nothing is faked … More or diluted for appearance. The teaching comes from real practice, which creates deep trust. There is a perfect balance of discipline and flexibility, allowing learning to be structured yet natural.
The range and depth of mudras covered is exceptional. Every possible mudra is taught systematically, and haven’t seen any other school approach Mudra Therapy with this level of completeness. The therapeutic application is clearly explained, with continuous guidance and hand-holding throughout the course, making the learning practical and confident. -
Completed my GID Teacher Training Certificate Course with Karuna yoga Vidya Peetham.
I’m so happy I chose my yoga teacher training with Karuna yoga Vidya Peetham under the guidance from the best knowledgeable teacher Dr.Karuna Murthy sir … More 🙏🙏
There are a lot of learning and unlearning involves in it. All the topics of Yoga Philosophy, Sat karma, Anatomy were taught very nicely.
Being a regular yoga practitioner I joined Karuna yoga and learnt more New asanas, Therapies and posture corrections.
I am glad that I choose Karuna yoga to be part of my journey🧘♂️ -
I recently completed an Advanced Pranayama course online with Dr. Murthy, and it more than met my expectations. The course materials were extensive and thoughtfully organized, covering a wide range of important topics and providing a strong … More foundation in traditional pranayama practices. Dr. Murthy is very knowledgeable and is a patient teacher. Overall, the training supported both my understanding and my ongoing practice, and it has given me tools I will continue to work with over time. 🙏
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I recently completed my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Course (TTC) with Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham, and it was a truly transformative experience. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Murthy sir, I gained deeper insights into Hatha Yoga practices … More and teaching ethics where this also covered essential topics like Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Physiology Anatomy, and Shathkarma practices. Dr. Murthy sir also focused on helping us learn new asanas, value of asanas- mudras, method of yoga teaching as well as posture balance and corrections. I highly recommend Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham to anyone seeking a comprehensive yoga teacher training program.
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Just completed a Somatic Yoga course online with Dr. Murthy, who was very informative, kind, and a good teacher. Dr. Murthy has extensive knowledge in the yogic sciences. He also provided in depth notes that were very helpful. I gained … More much insight through my course of study in Somatic Yoga.
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I am very satisfied with the Online Yoga Nidra and Meditation Teacher Training. The course was very professional, with plenty of study materials, knowledge, and a well-balanced pace.
I truly appreciated the variety of practices combined … More with a broad theoretical foundation, including history and other essential aspects. The training was both practical and inspiring, and I am already applying what I have learned in my own work. -
I completed 200 hrs Yoga Teacher Training (TTC) Course at Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham, under the guidance of Dr. S Karuna Murthi.The programme is very well designed. The yoga practice,teaching methodology ,offering traditional yogic principles … More and modern teaching techniques.
Dr.Karuna Murthi's expertise,supportive and personalized guidance made the experience better and boosted the confidence and made to achieve most of advanced level asanas.
For anyone seeking a world-class yoga education, Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham is an excellent choice. Highly recommended. -
I just completed my yoga teacher training at Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetha, and I can honestly say it was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. From day one, the learning environment was warm and supportive, making it easy to grow, … More both physically and mentally. The course itself was well-structured, covering everything from asanas and alignment to pranayama, meditation, and the philosophy behind yoga. The classes were offered both online and offline, which made learning flexible and accessible.
What I appreciated most was how yoga was taught as a way of life, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit beyond just physical practice. Murthy Sir was incredibly knowledgeable and patient, always encouraging us to push our limits while respecting our own pace. His feedback made such a difference in my learning process, and the small class size allowed for plenty of individual attention.
If you’re looking for a yoga institute that truly cares about your growth, I’d highly recommend Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetha. It’s more than just a training program but a transformative experience that stays with you long after you leave. -
Hi, I am Valarmathi Ganesan.
I’ve joined the online Mantra Chanting Teacher Training Course, and it’s truly worth every rupee—structured, insightful, and transformative.
Dr. Kanura Moorthy is an exceptional mentor. His calm, patient approach … More and depth of knowledge elevate the entire learning experience. He addresses every doubt with clarity and precision, ensuring true understanding.
Under his guidance, mastery feels attainable.
Highly recommended for those seeking authentic and powerful mantra therapy training. The course quality is outstanding. -
I learned cyclic meditation, pranayama and some of the asanas as part of my PhD study. Sir's class was very good. He has given me so many references which help me to design my study as I was unaware more about meditation. He gives … More me online classes individually and in detail. I recommend karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham for others who wish to learn yoga and meditation.
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🌟 Exceptional Yoga Teacher Training at Karuna Yoga Vidyapeetham, Bangalore 🌟
I completed Yoga Teacher Training Course at Karuna Yoga Vidyapeetham, led by the esteemed Dr. S Karuna Murthi and his dedicated faculty team. The program was … More meticulously designed, offering a harmonious blend of traditional yogic principles and modern teaching methodologies.
Dr.Karuna Murthi's expertise and personalized guidance made the experience truly enriching, fostering both professional growth and personal transformation. The serene environment and supportive atmosphere further enhanced the learning journey.
For anyone seeking a world-class yoga education, Karuna Yoga Vidyapeetham is an excellent choice. Highly recommended! 🧘♂️✨ -
Karuna Murthy is a good teacher. He teaches with patience and ensures that the students develop a good understanding of the subject.
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Recently completed my 300 hr ttc yoga teacher training program, overall course designed unique, trained me versatile.
Thanks to
Karuna yoga team -
completed my 200-hour training in December 2022 from Karuna Yoga. One of my nicest and most
beautiful experiences ever I had in my life. I had such a wonderful time that I decided to prolong my stay
for a 300-hour advanced course. The instructors … More are highly supportive and professional. Since the
beginning, they have led me in the right direction. In addition, everyone in staff and in management is
really gracious and humble. I was given family-like treatment by them. If you're looking for a good place to
practise yoga, I absolutely suggest Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham. -
Complted my 200 TTC Course with Karuna yoga Vidya Peetham.I’m so happy I chose my yoga teacher training with Karuna yoga Vidya Peetham under the guidance from the best knowledgeable teacher Dr.Karuna Murthy sir
There are a lot of learning … More and unlearning involves in it. All the topics of Yoga Philosophy, Sat karma, Anatomy were taught very nicely. As a new yoga learner I joined Karuna yoga and learnt more New asanas, Therapies and posture corrections. I am glad that I choose Karuna yoga to be part of my journey 😄 -
I recently had the pleasure of completing RYT 200 hrs TTC course at the Vidyaniketan Department of Yoga, and I must say it was an enriching experience. The instructors at Vidyaniketan are highly knowledgeable and experienced. Happy to have … More been a part of the team!
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Yoga helps improve balance, strength, and flexibility. It reduces stress and feel happier and more well-being. Also improves mental and emotional health..
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Accomplished 200 hours YOGA TTC with karuna yoga at Vidyanikethan, Ernakulam.
Profound knowledge of the faculties helped me to delve dive into the ocean of yoga philosophy
It was really a marvellous experience -
Very thorough, precise and knowledgeable Dr. Karuna Murthy Sir. Thank you very much for the opportunity allowing me to study at school. I recommend it to everyone who wants to get deeper knowledge.
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Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham, Yoga teacher training in Bangalore, is incredible! I did 500 hours course discovered a lot about yoga and about myself. I'd also like to
thank my wonderful teachers. Special thanks to my Guru Dr. Karuna sir … More for his extreme patience and deep knowledge.
Thank you 🙏 -
I recently completed Yoga Teachers Training Course with Karuna yoga vidya petham from Vidyaniketan College, Ernakulam. And It gave me so much of new insights in terms of personal health and overall wellbeing. I'm sure that I became … More more healthy, calm, and quality human by going through this yoga program. The faculties are really good and experienced.
If you are someone looking for a good career in Yoga, you can choose this institution without any hesitation.
