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50-HOUR YIN YOGA BASICS TRAINING

DIRECTED BY BIFF MITHOEFER & JULIA KUPKE

2027 Winter Yin Yoga Basics Training

February 7 - February 13, 2027

We often perceive life through the lens of opposites—light and dark, strength and softness, movement and stillness—assuming they are mutually exclusive. Yin Yoga reminds us that these polarities coexist as an essential part of nature. Rooted in the wisdom of Daoism, Yin Yoga invites us to recognize that yin and yang are not in conflict, but in relationship. Through its practice and philosophy, we reconnect the polarities within and around us, allowing natural harmony and flow to emerge. In doing so, our experience becomes more integrative, guiding us toward greater gentleness, lightness, and connection.

The practice of Yin Yoga teaches us that we do not have to live in a battle between opposites. Instead, we can consciously cultivate balance and create space for both energies to be present. This exploration deepens our relationship with ourselves and naturally extends into how we relate to others and to our environment. As we embody yin qualities—receptivity, patience, compassion—we begin to move through life with greater steadiness and peace.

This 50-hour Yin Yoga Foundation Training offers a comprehensive and holistic exploration of both the practice and philosophy of Yin Yoga. Approaching the subject from multiple perspectives, we create space for meaningful inquiry, embodied learning, and personal discovery. Connecting to your inner landscape, understanding your unique patterns, and discovering your inner resources will guide you throughout this journey.

Participation in the 50-hour foundational training enables you not only to sustainably integrate Yin Yoga into your own life, but also to teach and share it with confidence and clarity. The training is equally open to those who wish to attend as a personal retreat—deepening their practice while connecting with a community of like-minded individuals.

Throughout the training, we examine the relationship between yin and yang through the lens of Daoist philosophy, building a strong conceptual foundation for practice. We explore both physical and energetic anatomy, observing how yin and yang manifest within the body. Drawing from the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and other holistic healing frameworks, we develop an integrated understanding of how Yin Yoga affects the body, emotions, mind, and nervous system.

We study yin postures from a universal perspective to establish foundational principles, while also engaging in targeted exercises and group discussions to explore the individuality of each body and each pose. This in-depth approach supports the deepening of personal practice while equipping you with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach safely, effectively, and with sensitivity.

In addition, the training incorporates meditation and mindfulness practices, offering practical tools to support integration both on and off the mat. Through these complementary techniques, we cultivate presence, awareness, and inner steadiness—qualities that enrich not only our teaching, but our lives.

This 50-hour Yin Yoga Foundation Training is an invitation to step into balance, deepen your understanding, and experience the transformative power of integration.

One Weeks at Nexus Institute

The immersive one-week Yin Yoga Basics Training is designed to be practical and experience-oriented. In addition to theory, inspiration, and discussion, we engage in shared experiences through practice, exercises, and experiential group sessions. We harness the power of collaborative learning and growth within a group.

The 50-hour basic training creates an understanding of Yin Yoga so that you can pass on the practice with authenticity – both as a formal Yin Yoga practice and in other settings.

The Yin Yoga Basics Curriculum

Foundations & Philosophy

History and Development of Yin Yoga
Philosophical foundations in Daoism and Buddhism
Differentiation from other yoga styles and traditions
Understanding the dynamic relationship of Yin and Yang
Cultivating yin qualities as a sustainable life practice

Physical & Energetic Foundations

We explore the effects of Yin Yoga on the physical and energetic body through both modern anatomy and traditional Eastern frameworks.

Physiology and functional anatomy relevant to Yin practice:
The role of bones, joints, connective tissue, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and organs
Energetic anatomy:
Meridian theory and energy flow within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Foundational understanding of the nervous system:
Stress and relaxation states
Regulation and resilience

This integrated perspective allows you to understand how Yin Yoga influences the body structurally, energetically, and neurologically.

Emotional & Mental Dimensions

Yin Yoga reaches beyond the physical form. We examine its impact on emotional and mental layers of experience:

Location and movement of emotions within the body
Impulses from body-oriented therapeutic and healing approaches
Foundations of mindfulness and meditation practice
Understanding the nature of mind and thought patterns

Postures, Safety & Skillful Teaching
You will gain the confidence to teach with clarity, safety, and adaptability.

Foundational Yin Yoga postures and their intentions, effects, and variations
Contraindications and working safely with injuries, illness, and special conditions
Skillful and intelligent use of props and supportive aids
Differentiation between Yin Yoga, Yin Restorative Yoga, and Restorative Yoga
Yin Yoga & conscious breathing practices

Meditation, Language & Holding Space

Meditation and mindfulness integrated into Yin Yoga practice
Language, voice, silence, and sound as conscious teaching tools
The power of pacing and presence

Sequencing & Class Design

You will learn how to structure meaningful Yin Yoga experiences

Principles of sequencing and class architecture
The cycle of experience
Integrating movement, stillness, relaxation, and meditation
Identifying adaptable formats for sharing the practice

Creating the Container

Teaching Yin Yoga is not only about postures—it is about the field in which they unfold.

Consciously designing the external and internal setting for practice
Maintaining and cultivating your own grounded presence
Learning how to hold space for others with steadiness and sensitivity

This training offers a comprehensive, embodied foundation—supporting you in deepening your own practice while developing the confidence and skill to guide others with authenticity, knowledge, and care.

What's Included

Choice of 6 nights on-site accommodations or commuter option

Option for Costa Rican meal plan

Option for one-day early check-in

Comprehensive training manual

Evidence-based research
Daily Yin Yoga classes
Yin Yoga technique training
Personal skill-building
Yin Yoga lifestyle training

400 steps to miles of sandy beaches, tide pools, and surf breaks
300 steps to restaurants, organic markets, juice bars, and shops
200-hour Yoga Alliance yoga teaching certificate
Friendships that will last a lifetime

Accommodations

Nexus Institute’s private residence is just steps from the Pacific Ocean in the vibrant beach community of Nosara, Costa Rica. Casa Nexus offers a spacious, canopy-level yoga studio with vaulted ceilings, two fully equipped kitchens, a curated yoga library, outdoor patios, and a saltwater pool designed for rest and renewal.

From Nexus, you can easily walk to pristine beaches, tidal pools, local shops, organic markets, and a variety of restaurants. During orientation, you’ll receive a detailed map of the area, including our favorite cafés, dining spots, and grocery options.

Participants may choose to join our optional catered Costa Rican meal plan, explore the vibrant local food scene, or prepare their own nourishing tropical meals in the shared kitchens.

At Nexus Institute, we cultivate a warm, family-style learning environment—one that encourages connection, shared experience, and meaningful community.

Accommodations Options

Sunday-Saturday 20 Nights

Tuition-only Commuter $2,145

Tuition + Dorm Room $3,350

Tuition + Double Room $3,950
Tuition + Private Room $4,750

Tuition + Private Room w/ Bath $4,950

Optional Costa Rican Meal Plan $335

This training is limited to 20 participants. It generally fills one month before the start date. Register early to ensure a place. A $500 deposit will hold your spot. We look forward to welcoming you home to Nexus.