Advanced Individualized Yoga: Ayurveda, Koshas, and Client-Centred Practice
Learn to see the whole person—and tailor your teaching to meet them where they are.
This module gives you an advanced framework for working with clients as individuals—and we'd love to have you join us. You'll learn how to apply the wisdom of Ayurveda and the koshas to tailor practices for each person's unique needs. You'll also explore the structure of an individualized yoga session, from intake to checkout, and practice working with case studies. This is not about applying a formula—it is about learning to see the whole person and respond with skill and compassion.
Grounded in Ayurveda, the koshas, and a client-centred approach, this advanced individualized yoga module reframes practice as a relational, responsive way of working—not a one-size-fits-all model.
Together, we’ll explore how to support Kapha, Pitta, and Vata imbalances through tailored practices. You’ll learn how to conduct an intake session, how to work with the brahmana and langhana models, and how to close a session with reflection, goals, and ritual. You’ll also explore how to work with the koshas as a framework for understanding your clients.
This is about learning to see the person in front of you—and responding to what they actually need.
What you'll learn
We’ll begin with a question: What does it mean to see the whole person—not just their symptoms or their goals?
Then, we’ll explore the wisdom of Ayurveda and the koshas as frameworks for understanding your clients. You’ll learn how to support Kapha, Pitta, and Vata imbalances through tailored practices—including asana, pranayama, meditation, mudras, mantras, and myofascial work.
You’ll also learn the structure of an individualized yoga session: how to build a co-created relationship, how to conduct an intake session, how to apply the brahmana and langhana models, and how to close a session with reflection, goals, and ritual.
This matters because every client is different. And the more you can see the whole person, the more you can meet them where they are.
What Makes This Module Different
Most advanced yoga trainings teach you techniques. This advanced individualed yoga module teaches you how to see the person in front of you—and how to tailor your teaching to meet their unique needs. You are not just learning a set of tools. You are learning a framework for working with clients that is grounded in Ayurveda, the koshas, and a client-centred approach.
This is not about applying a formula. It is about learning to see the whole person and respond with skill and compassion.
The Be K.I.N.D. Embodied Wisdom Methodology
We’ll apply the Be K.I.N.D. Embodied Wisdom Methodology through the lens of individualized practice. Keen Observation helps you see what your client needs and what is arising in the session. Interoceptive Awareness builds your capacity to sense what is happening in your own body and mind. Nurturing Action supports compassionate, client-centred practice. And Developing Embodied Practices gives you the tools to sustain yourself in this work.
Throughout the module, we’ll learn together. This is a live, cohort-based module, so you are not just learning from me—we are all learning from each other.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you will:
Understand how to support Kapha, Pitta, and Vata imbalances through tailored practices
Conduct an individualized yoga session from intake to checkout
Apply the brahmana and langhana models to support clients
Use the koshas as a framework for understanding your clients
See the whole person and meet them where they are
You will leave with comprehensive training materials and reference guides, as well as ready-to-use tools for your own practice or as a teacher.
By the End of This Module, You’ll Have:
A clear understanding of Ayurveda and the koshas as frameworks for individualized practice
The confidence to tailor your teaching to meet each client’s unique needs
Practical tools for conducting individualized yoga sessions
A framework for seeing the whole person and responding with skill and compassion
Who This Is For
This module is for you if you want to learn how to see the whole person and tailor your teaching to meet them where they are—whether you are a:
Yoga teacher wanting to work 1:1 with clients
Clinician, therapist, or helper wanting to integrate advanced individualized yoga into your work
Practitioner who wants to deepen your understanding of Ayurveda and the koshas
Anyone considering the full 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training certification and wanting to start with one module
This module is for anyone who wants to move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach and learn how to work with clients as individuals.
Quick Details
Format: Live Virtual on Zoom
Length: 17 sessions / 3 hours each
Upcoming Dates:
January 19, 2028 to March 20, 2028. Mondays and Wednesdays, from 5-8 pm Calgary time/MT (4–7 PT, 6–9 CT, 7–10 ET). No class on February 14.
Tuition: $999 CDN (early bird rate of $899 available until December 27, 2027)
CE Credits: 51 hours CE
Or this module can count toward our 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training.
Prerequisites: We recommend completing the 200-Hour Trauma-Informed Viniyoga Teacher Training first.
Ready to Learn the Art of Advanced Individualized Yoga? Enroll now or schedule a free discovery call to learn more.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY
“I would recommend this course to EVERYONE!! Even if they don’t want to teach yoga or know anything about yoga. The knowledge and support you will gain from Mel will change your life!!
I am filled with more confidence, and my flame has been reignited! I believe I can change my life and my career and help support others in their own healing.” -Cori Williams.
“This training was detailed, trauma-informed, and person-centered. Melanie holds space for her students and encourages them to find answers within themselves. Her warm energy and nonjudgmental approach gave me the tools to care for myself—which in turn helps me care for others. I feel ready to teach and provide a safe environment for all.” -Alex Pattinson
“Trauma-informed yoga gets to the heart of what yoga is meant to be. I wanted training that aligned with my values—from our first call, I knew this was it. Melanie facilitates a beautiful online space where I never felt like I was missing out, no matter where in the world I was.” -Mary Whiteside
“I feel equipped to support clients with intention, compassion, and clarity—not just as a teacher, but in my own healing. This training clarified my dharma: how to serve others while honoring my wellness. The community we built is lifelong. Learning from Mel has been an honor I’ll carry forever.” -Alyssa G
Hi, I'm Melanie
For over thirty years, I’ve been where you are—passionate about yoga’s healing potential but disillusioned by trainings that prioritize perfect poses over people. That’s why I founded the Life of Wellness Institute: to create a different kind of teacher training. Your lived experience matters more than handstands here. Nervous system science trumps rigid alignment cues. Ultimately, you’ll learn to build a career that sustains both your students and yourself.
My approach—honed through three decades as a yoga therapist and trauma educator—is what I call sacred pragmatism. No spiritual bypassing. No toxic positivity. Instead, just proven tools: breathwork adapted for real trauma recovery, movement that respects anatomical diversity, and business strategies that let you teach from integrity instead of burnout.
Over the years, hundreds of teachers have used this framework to carve their own paths—in hospitals, nonprofits, and private practices where their work actually changes lives. Now, I’m sharing every lesson I’ve learned so you can skip years of trial and error and step confidently into your calling.
This philosophy isn’t academic for me. It’s the lens I’ve used for over thirty years to understand people, trauma, and what it means to heal. That’s what I’m sharing with you.
Ultimately, this isn’t just about teaching yoga. It’s about creating spaces where healing happens—and making a living while you do it.
No pressure, just clarity!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Right For Me?
Absolutely. Our training meets you where you are. Many students join to build nervous system regulation tools for anxiety or stress, deepen their understanding of trauma-sensitive practices, and create sustainable self-care routines. You’re welcome to take any module that supports your goals—you would simply skip the teaching-specific modules like The Art & Science of Teaching Yoga or the certification modules. If you change your mind, you can always add those on later.
We combine 100% live Viniyoga training with trauma-informed neuroscience and Ayurveda. Unlike pre-recorded programs, you’ll get real-time learning and feedback from our founder Melanie Taylor and learn from your peers in an intimate cohort.
Our Yoga Teacher Trainings are also fully modular—you can take individual modules for continuing education, or complete the full training at your own pace within 18 months, with the option to upgrade along the way.
Eligibility & Accessibility
While a 6-month practice is recommended, it’s not required. We begin gently with restorative yoga and progressively build skills at your pace.
Yes. We adapt for chronic pain, hypermobility, mobility aids, and neurodivergent needs like sensory-friendly pacing. Note: Acute injuries may require doctor’s clearance.
Absolutely. Our Community Agreements are designed to cultivate an emergent space for everyone.
We use gender-neutral language, honor pronouns.
Modules & Certification
You’re welcome to take any module on its own. Each module counts toward your continuing education, and you’ll receive a CE certificate upon completion. If you decide later to complete the full training, your modules will apply toward certification. However, we ask that you complete the full program within 18 months of starting your first module. If more time is needed, just reach out to Melanie—we’re happy to discuss extensions.
Sometimes a single module is all it takes to realize you want the full experience. If you complete your first or second module and decide to pursue the full certification, simply let Melanie know within two weeks of the module’s end. We’ll then apply your module tuition toward the full training cost—so you pay the same total price as if you had enrolled in the full program from the beginning.
Absolutely. We do ask that you complete your certification within 18 months of starting your first module. If more than 18 months have passed, we may request a brief skills refresher or competency check to ensure you’re set up for success. Just let Melanie know, and she’ll help you navigate the process. If more time is needed, however, just reach out to Melanie—we’re happy to discuss extensions.
About Our Curriculum and Courses
Our foundation is Viniyoga—a trauma-sensitive approach emphasizing breath-centered movement, adaptive sequencing for diverse bodies, and neuroscience-backed nervous system regulation.
You’ll learn about trauma, how to recognize and support trauma responses, use activation-aware cueing (e.g., no “push through pain”), and apply frameworks from the Life Of Wellness institute Trauma-Informed Framework.
Yes. We’re a Registered Yoga School (RYS®) at 200-hour and 300-hour levels, and a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider® (YACEP). Yoga Alliance registration is optional for teaching.
Yes. Our individual modules are YACEP-approved and can be taken on their own, as part of a full teacher training, or as a refresher. We also offer additional CE trainings, including Integrating Yoga in Mental Health Recovery and Prevention, among others. You can find upcoming CE offerings under Courses > Continuing Education in our menu.
Payment & Logistics
Our modules are offered on a rolling basis, so you can start when it works for you. Each module has its own schedule. View upcoming dates and register for individual modules or the full program on our Courses page. If you’re unsure which path fits best, schedule a free discovery call with Melanie.
Live sessions are held during daytime hours (Calgary time/MT) and are designed to fit the schedules of working professionals and caregivers. Each module has its own schedule, so you can choose the timing that works best for you. View upcoming module dates on our Courses page or reach out with questions—we’re here to help. If you’re unsure, schedule ae a free discovery call with Melanie.
We offer flexible payment options to fit your needs. Pay in full, use our interest-free payment plan, or purchase individual modules as you go. All payments are processed securely in Canadian currency. GST is applicable for Canadian students and waived for international students upon request. Contact us before your invoice is issued and we’ll remove it. If GST is charged through online registration, you would need to apply for a rebate through the Canadian government.
You’ll have access to all course materials for the duration of your module, and we keep them open for one week after completion to give you time to download everything. All materials are downloadable, so you’ll have your own copy to keep. We’ll also send a reminder with your completion materials.