November 1 - 19, 2025
Overview
Location & Time:
Ericeira, Portugal – Spanda Institute’s home base since 2018
Olive3 retreat centre - in the heart of the village, steps away from the beach
November 1st (6pm) - 19 (10 am) 2025
Tuition & Accommodation
Packages: from €3,230 (tuition + accommodation)
Tuition: €2,600
Accommodation: from €630 (room type/booking date dependent)
Key Features:
Hybrid format: 30% online (self-paced), 70% in-person
Immersive in-person training: 18 days in Portugal (with one full day off mid-training)
Small group setting for personal attention
Yoga Alliance Certified and internationally recognised
Flexible online portion: complete at your own pace
Full and half-scholarships available
Suitable for both personal growth and professional certification
Email us or book a call for additional information
What You’ll Learn:
Science-informed practice and techniques
The Spanda Yoga Method: Intelligent sequencing, themed sequencing
Yoga history and philosophy taught through a non-dogmatic, research-informed lens
How to teach themed Vinyasa classes, Beginners Yoga, and Restorative Yoga
Holistic tools: asana, pranayama, meditation, mudra, mantra
Trauma-sensitive approaches that create safe and healing spaces for students
Faculty:
Created by Nina Vukas (E-RYT 500, RPYT, IAYT), founder of Spanda Institute
Led by three lead teachers with support from expert guest faculty
Spanda Institute has trained yoga teachers worldwide for over 15 years
High-rated school on Yoga Alliance with hundreds of certified graduates
Beyond the Training:
Join a lifelong Spanda Sangha community
Participation supports our Karma Yoga projects, contributing to sustainability and humanitarian efforts
What will you learn?
We teach the Spanda Vinyasa Method, a dynamic vinyasa-based style that can be adapted for beginners as well as deeply restorative classes.
Rather than following a rigid set flow, you’ll learn a flexible framework for building creative, purposeful, and themed sequences including themed classes based on the Five Elements. You’ll also discover how to integrate pranayama, mudra, meditation, and mantra to create a truly holistic experience.
The program provides a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology, explored in relation to yoga practice and individual body differences, as well as trauma-informed teaching methodology. All content is taught through a research-informed, non-dogmatic approach, blending tradition with modern science.
Whether for personal growth or professional teaching, you’ll gain the skills to create healing, balanced, and empowering classes - many graduates begin teaching as soon as they complete the training. Finally, becoming part of Spanda means joining a supportive community that stays connected long after the training ends.
If you would like to experience some of our classes to get the feel of the Method we teach, check out PRACTICE WITH US.
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Online training (recorded materials)
Yoga History and Tradition
Anatomy & Physiology
Applied Anatomy of Yoga & Biomechanics
Introduction to Ayurveda
Subtle Anatomy
Practice videos
Reading assignments and homework
Recorded materials can be watched at your own time/pace.Part 1: Fundamental teachings of Spanda Vinyasa Yoga
First half of the training is dedicated to setting solid foundations and acquiring substantial knowledge on which we can build upon, like anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, or how to apply anatomy and biomechanics in yoga. We dive deep into learning about asana alignment and individual adaptation, how to avoid and work with common yoga injuries. We learn about safe adjustments and unravel the method of Integral Vinyasa - from the principles and foundations to the sequencing of themed classes and beginners classes and dive into teaching methodology and take our first teaching steps.
Applied anatomy and biomechanics
Asana alignment and adaptation
Five principles of Integral Vinyasa
Five foundations of Integral Vinyasa
Progressive sequencing
Building a class with a theme
Beginners classes
Safe adjustments
Teaching methodologyPart 2: Spanda Tattva Vinyasa
This module moves from the physical to explore the deeper, more advanced level of yogic practice, teaching, and sequencing. Apart from learning different Namaskars and Elemental sequences, we will learn how and when to use them, considering the laws of Nature - from the time of the day to the moon phase, season, personal constitution, cycle etc. We will slowly start to move deeper into the subtle and explore yoga through the teachings of Ayurveda, yoga's sister science. In this way, we focus on promoting balance and healing on and off the mat. In this part, we cover more teaching methodology, teaching practice, ethics, and the business of teaching yoga.
Yoga and Ayurvedic principles - flowing with nature
Spanda Vinyasa - Bhumi (Earth) flow
Spanda Vinyasa - Agni (Fire) flow
Spanda Vinyasa - Vayu (Air) flow
Spanda Vinyasa - Jala (Water) flow
Teaching methodology: Trauma-Sensitive Yoga
Teaching and assisting practicum
Ethics and business of teaching yoga
+ Closing & Diploma ceremony
Daily Schedule
8:00 - 9:30 Morning practice
9:30 - 10:15 breakfast break
10:15 - 13:00 Lectures
13:00 - 15:00 lunch break
15:00 - 18:00/18:30 Lectures & Practicum
Nov 1 - we start at 6 pm
Nov 19 - check out after breakfast
One full rest day halfway through the training
What our Students Say
“I could not have asked for a better Yoga Teacher Training experience. Randomly stumbling on your website was the best thing to happen to me. These three weeks have been incredibly healing, I cannot even begin to put it into words. I cannot wait to take everything I learned from you and apply it to daily life every single day. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
“I just had the best time during my YTT with Spanda in Ericeira this year. We were such a nice group and although we did not know each other before, during these 3 weeks we became like a little family. I am really thankful for all the other students I got to spend time with and of course for all our lovely teachers. There was so much knowledge we got transmitted in this course everything what is important to become a Yoga Teacher and beyond. I also loved the approach to always question everything and not only do things because you once heard it or other yoga teachers do it that way. Spanda really goes to the root with things and thats what I loved. Overall I could not be happier that I chose Spanda for my YTT and I am proud to be part of this sangha now.”
“It’s rare to feel so engaged and inspired throughout full days of teaching, but the team at Spanda Institute created exactly that experience. Their classes were rich with knowledge, clearly articulated, and delivered with both passion and structure. They struck a unique balance between bringing lightness and humour to the room while maintaining clarity and purpose in their teaching. What truly set them apart was the genuine care shown to each student. The teachers treated everyone with respect and maturity, and made the learning environment feel empowering and inclusive. I left feeling confident to teach a 90 minute class which I didn’t think would be attainable. It was the perfect place to begin a yoga journey - a true teaching family.”
Your Teachers
Bruno Morais
E-RYT 200, RYT 500
Bruno will be with you throughout the in-person part of the training as the Lead Trainer.
Movement has always been essential to Bruno's life; he studied dance in Amsterdam and performed for years in theatres around Europe. During this time, he practised Yoga, mainly as a warm-up during his years as a dancer, but also because he found a more profound connection with himself on the mat, so completing a Yoga Teacher Training was a natural next step in his life.
While at the crossroads of his professional life, Bruno took some time off to travel the globe, teaching Yoga everywhere he stayed longer. He also continued with his Yoga education, completing a 300-hour training with Nina Vukas and Celest Pereira, and soon joined our team, first as a mentor, followed by an assistant teacher, and later taking the lead on our 200-hour YTT courses in Portugal and Sri Lanka.
Bruno is a fun and down-to-earth teacher; his students mainly describe him as humble and patient. When he is not leading one of our 200-hour YTTs, Bruno is teaching weekly classes in different Yoga studios in and around Lisbon.
Read about Bruno’s favourite spots around Ericeira.
Teresa Wohlmannstetter
E-RYT200, RYT500, Physio
Teresa will be with you throughout the in-person part of the training as one of the Teacher Trainers.
Teresa is a physiotherapist who worked in an orthopaedic practice for many years before she became a full-time Yoga Teacher. A yogini since her teens, she attended a Yoga Teacher Training to bring more tools into her passion for supporting and healing body/mind.
After completing her 200-hour training with us in Portugal and graduating with honours as one of the best in her class, Teresa joined us as an Anatomy Teacher first while continuing her Yoga education, sound healing education, as well as pursuing professional education in manual therapy. After completing her 300-hour YTT with Spanda Institute, Teresa became an essential part of our 200- and 300-hour programmes team.
A passionate surfer, Teresa lives in Ericeira, where she offers group and private Yoga classes, sound healing sessions, massage and therapy sessions and bespoke Yoga retreats. Read about her favourite local spots here.
Nina Vukas
Program Director - E-RYT500, RPYT, C-IAYT
Nina is in charge of the programme as well as your online modules.
She is a Psychologist, Body-Oriented Psychotherapist, Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT), Yoga Teacher Trainer and founder of Spanda Institute. She is in charge of your online pre-training, and is leading Spanda’s Advanced Yoga Teacher Training courses.
Alongside education, Nina provides counselling sessions that integrate yoga therapy, somatic psychotherapy, and holistic health advice, offering a comprehensive approach to healing and well-being. Nina has also authored two books - Safe Spance Trauma-Sensitive Yoga and Embodied Calm Yoga Nidra, as well as numerous articles on holistic health for various lifestyle magazines and blogs. Through her work, she continues to guide individuals towards healing, growing and thriving.
Alberica (Biki) Rindi
E-RYT 200, RYT 500
Biki left Italy 14 years ago to explore different cultures and study and work around the world. She joined the 200h and 300h YTT with Spanda Institute in Ericeira in 2021 and 2023 not planning to become a yoga teacher, but rather understand how this ancient practice could benefit body and mind. Spanda's holistic trainings provided her with so much more: a resonant philosophy, a structured method to create fun and balancing practices for all and a desire to explore teaching and learning more.
She deepened her studies in India in Ayurveda (at Lords Research Center Kannur), Aerial Yoga (at Rishikesh Yogkendra) and Yoga Therapy for kids with special needs (at Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute). She had the opportunity to teach in different countries to different people during her travels as well as at home in Portugal. Believing this practice should be available for all, she has been volunteering practicing yoga and dance with kids and adults with special needs. She also taught in a center for homeless and substance users, where students make her class incredibly fun and engaging.
Location
Perched atop 30-metre sandstone cliffs, overlooking the powerful blue Atlantic and a stretch of golden sand beaches, lies Ericeira, a fishing town in the Lisbon district, about 35 kilometres northwest of Lisbon. The old village is charming and quintessentially Portuguese, with its whitewashed houses, blue doors and window frames, traditional tiles, chapels, and narrow cobbled streets. Once a peaceful coastal retreat, Ericeira and its surrounding coastline have recently gained recognition as a World Surfing Reserve, transforming it into a surfer’s paradise, with over 30 surf spots offering a variety of waves for all levels.
Our venue, Olive3 Yoga Retreat Centre, is conveniently nestled in the heart of the old village, within walking distance of the beaches, shops, and restaurants, yet tucked away just enough to provide peace and quiet. Almost hidden behind three olive trees (hence the name!) and Fonte do Cabo, an old fountain dating back to 1457—one of the oldest in Ericeira—this serene retreat offers simple yet charming and comfortable rooms, a large garden with a small pool, a spacious communal kitchen, and a bright, beautiful yoga shala. Olive3 is the perfect venue for your teacher training experience.
Investment and Terms
Prerequisites
Aligned with Yoga Alliance standards, we require a minimum of one year of continuous and dedicated yoga practice, a good understanding of the English language, and a dedication to study and practice.
We know that each person is different, and believe no one better can decide if this program is for you but - you. Having said this we would like to stress out that this is a rich and intensive program, both for your body and your mind. To get your diploma you will be required to attend all the hours, pass both written and teaching exams, but we will make sure that you do.
If you are unsure if this training is right for you, or have any questions, we are happy to arrange a zoom call with one of the lead teachers.
Packages
Single small room with shared bathroom - SOLD OUT
Early Bird … 3765 euro
Late Bird … 3965 euro
Price is per person and includes:
Tuition cost, two manuals
19-day accommodation with breakfast
One group dinner
Includes tourist tax for the duration of your stay
Single double bedroom with shared bathroom
Early Bird … 3955 euro
Late Bird … 4155 euro
Price is per person and includes:
Tuition cost, two manuals
19-day accommodation with breakfast
One group dinner
Includes tourist tax for the duration of your stay
Twin room with shared bathroom
Early Bird … 3230 euro
Late Bird … 3430 euro
Price is per person and includes:
Tuition cost, two manuals
19-day accommodation with breakfast
One group dinner
Includes tourist tax for the duration of your stay
Terms & Conditions
500 € deposit to save your spot. This deposit is non-refundable unless we cancel the training or in special circumstances.
Early Bird price is available until July 15th 2024. Late Bird full payment is due by October 1st, 2025.
We offer half a scholarship for this training. The scholarship discount is applied on the tuition only. Please email us for more details.
Non-residential options available - email us for details
ACCOMMODATION
All the packages above are for the rooms at Olive3. All the rooms share bathrooms.
Apart from single and double rooms, Olive3 also has dorm rooms and en-suite studios which you can book directly through them. If you are from the area or are arriving with a family and require different accommodation, contact us for tuition only packages.
MEALS
Breakfast (if you’re staying at Olive3) is included in your accommodation price. One group dinner is included in the tuition price.
Within a five-minute walking distance of Olive3 retreat, you can find the best restaurants in Ericeira. They all serve vegan an vegetarian options. We didn’t include lunch and dinner in the package so you can choose what you like daily and explore everything Ericeira has to offer.
If you are staying in Olive3, there is a communal kitchen there for those who prefer cooking.
Frequent Q & A
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As soon as your full tuition is paid. We send out invoices on due date, but if you wish to start earlier, let us know.
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The nearest airport is Lisbon (LIS). From there you can take a direct bus, or get an Uber/Bolt. We will provide detailed directions and recommendations in your “Know Before You Go” information pack.
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Training begins in the evening on the first day, so it is best to arrive in Lisbon by early afternoon to allow enough time to reach the venue and settle in. Transfers from Lisbon airport take around one hour with a bus or a bit less with an Uber.
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Our yoga shala has mats and props, but it’s always best to bring your own.
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Yes, you are welcome to stay in Olive3 before or after the training, but please book the accommodation directly with them.
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The training schedule is intensive, but the beach is only a short walk away, so you can enjoy the sea during breaks and before/after the training day. We also include one full day off midway through the training, giving you time to explore Ericeira, surf, or rest.
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Yes. While most trainees stay at the retreat centre for the full immersive experience, you are welcome to arrange your own accommodation in Ericeira or stay with friends. If you choose this option, your tuition fee will cover the training only, and you will need to organise your own meals and daily transport to and from the venue.
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Yes. If you book a large single room, you are welcome to share it with a partner or friend. Alternatively, Olive3 also offers private studios which you can book directly if you prefer more privacy or need more space.
Students about this course
“It took me a while to decide on which 200hr course I wanted to do, there are so many out there but as soon as I found Spanda Institute I knew I had found the one. Now I have completed it I know I made the right choice. The pre-course work was so beneficial and gave such a good insight into what I could expect on the course. The manual we received when we arrived is now my bible, it’s unbelievable!! The content of the course was so enjoyable and easy to understand, I was a little worried about the complexity of the anatomy and philosophy module but Theresa and Bruno and the manual made it really easy to learn. I enjoyed every single day with Spanda, the schedule of the days was brilliant, we covered so much and still had time to absorb it all. Bruno, Theresa and Maddie are out of this world brilliant and it was a privilege to learn from them. If you are considering Spanda, do it, do it, do it, you won’t regret it!” Dani (UK)
“It has been 3 wonderful weeks for me, I am grateful and happy to be part of the Spanda family now. This course has fulfilled my expectations and more: the method, the content, the teaching, and the participants make this yoga teacher training unique.”
- Anne Lyse (FRA)
“Spanda’s training program was thoughtfully designed and suited my independent learning style. I appreciated having structured video content and clear guidance on curriculum that feels relevant to most western teaching environments. I was challenged in a supportive way—never pushed to unrealistic standards—and everything we learned supported real-world practice. The content was thorough but not overwhelming, and it created space for us to follow our individual curiosities more deeply. Our teachers were truly exceptional—present, structured, and clearly invested in our growth. Their passion for the Spanda method and our learning felt sincere throughout our time together.”
- Malarie (USA)
"Originally I was planning to do my TTC in India – as I thought that's where it ought to be done. However, after stumbling across the Spanda TTC I immediately fell in love with the good mix of tradition paired with modern insights of science. The program is very well-rounded and thorough, you come out very well-prepared to teach right away, and make some awesome connections and Bruno, Nina, and Teresa are just the kindest people that made the whole experience great. I highly recommend anyone to follow the program at Spanda – you will learn a thorough method that gives you the confidence you need to start your own teaching experience!"
- Nina (CH)
“The training is very well structured, I feel like I learned a lot in a short period and I'm able to already apply the knowledge I gained in this training. It was amazing to see everybody grow and become already good teachers because we had a lot of support and guidance from our teachers. I feel ready to teach.”
- Ana (PT)
”Great training, lovely & supportive teachers, I really really LOVED my time at Spandas 200h ytt. I learned so much and am beyond grateful for this AMAZING opportunity to study here! Thank you so so much for EVERYTHING!!! <3”
- Jennifer (CH)
“Enrolling in the SPANDA Yoga Teacher Training program was certainly one of the best decisions I’ve made. This experience went far beyond learning the asanas and anatomy. It was a deep dive into the world of Yoga that allowed us to understand what a Yoga practice really is about and how to convey this beautiful message in our own classes. All the teachers really did care about our overall wellbeing and comprehension. The method that the owner Nina created is like a great foundation to build upon. Overall I couldn’t have wished for a better Training and am grateful from the bottom of my heart to have had the chance to go my first steps into the Yoga Teacher Era with SPANDA.”
- Paula (GER)
“I enjoyed every single day during this training. The teachers were AMAZING. I directly love the connexion with team and they were so patient and kindness. I couldn't dream to have better teachers; thanks again Bruno, Teressa, Biki and Maddie. It was also special for me because I follow this training during my second pregnancy and it wasn't a problem at all. The tools that we had (videos, manuals and the Spanda method) give confidence to teach right after the training. The classes were provided with a high quality. Thanks again Spanda Institute!”
- Natacha (UK)