200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Ericeira, Portugal
Join us for another 200-hour Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in May 2025, Ericeira, Portugal. Elevate your yoga journey with our transformative Yoga Teacher Training! This hybrid training format offers the perfect blend of flexibility and in-depth learning, with 30% of the curriculum completed online and the remaining 70% in person.
Based in the stunning coastal town of Ericeira, Portugal, we have been welcoming aspiring yoga teachers to our home base since 2018. Our courses are carefully crafted to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience, created by Nina Vukas (E-RYT 500, RPYT, IAYT), founder of the Spanda Institute, and led by our dedicated and expert faculty.
Spanda Institute has been conducting Yoga Teacher Training courses for over 15 years. During this time, we have certified hundreds of yoga teachers worldwide, earning a high overall school rating on the Yoga Alliance page. Our longstanding commitment to excellence and comprehensive, multidisciplinary training continues to inspire and empower students across the globe.
We teach a systematic method called The Spanda Yoga Method, which integrates the timeless wisdom of Tantric and Hatha Yoga with cutting-edge insights from Functional Movement, Biomechanics, and Physiology. Our approach is multidisciplinary, drawing on the ancient teachings of Classical Yoga Philosophy, Ayurveda, and modern sciences like Neuroscience and Psychology. We explore the History and Tradition of Yoga through a non-dogmatic, research-informed lens, offering a deep, holistic understanding of the practice.
Our program is designed for those who see yoga as a path to holistic well-being rather than mere performance. You'll develop the skills to become a mindful, knowledgeable, and compassionate yoga teacher, incorporating asana, pranayama, meditation, mudra, and mantra into your teaching. You will learn how to teach themed Vinyasa Yoga classes, Beginners Yoga classes and Restorative Yoga. You'll also learn how to create a safe and healing environment for your students to grow, both on and off the mat.
Key Features of Our 200-Hour Teacher Training:
Hybrid learning format: 30% online, 70% in-person
Yoga Alliance Certified
Small, intimate group setting (maximum 16 students)
Two lead teachers and expert guest teachers
Complete the online portion at your own pace (in as little as 3 weeks)
In-person training takes place over an immersive 18 days in beautiful Portugal
One full day off midway through the training
Whether you're looking to deepen your personal practice or become a certified yoga teacher, this training offers everything you need for a profound and comprehensive yoga education. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us for a life-changing experience.
We believe in giving back. By participating in our events you contribute to our efforts to create a more sustainable society and help those in need. Link below for more info.
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.
What will you learn?
We teach the Spanda Vinyasa Method, which, as the name suggests, is a dynamic, Vinyasa-based style of yoga. However, you'll also learn how to adapt this practice for beginners and how to lead deeply relaxing Restorative Yoga classes.
Unlike some systems, we don’t teach a rigid, set flow. While certain sequences are foundational, we emphasise giving you a flexible structure and teaching you how to create sequences that are not only creative but also purposeful and themed—whether based on the needs of the physical body or the Five Elements. More importantly, you’ll learn when to teach different styles of classes. For example, we’ll cover how Ayurveda informs your teaching, such as why a Fire Element class may not be suitable during summer, or how to balance a windy fall day with the right practice. You’ll also discover how to weave in other yogic tools beyond asana, such as pranayama, mudra, meditation, and mantra, to create a holistic experience for your students.
Our program offers a solid understanding of Anatomy and Physiology as they relate to yogic practices, cultivating a deep appreciation for the body's incredible design. Everything we teach is backed by research and references, even regarding Yogic traditions. We are deeply committed to the pursuit of truth and believe that true spirituality lies in seeking knowledge, not following dogmas or belief systems.
Whether you’re pursuing this training for personal growth or with the intention to teach, you’ll gain the tools to create healing, balanced, and empowering classes for yourself and others. And if you do plan to teach, you'll be ready to start right after receiving your diploma—many of our graduates begin teaching immediately.
Lastly, we believe in encouraging lasting connections. We love to stay in touch and support you on your journey.
If you would like to experience some of our classes to get the feel of the Method we teach, check out PRACTICE WITH US.
Program
Yoga History and Tradition
Applied Anatomy & Biomechanics
Common injuries
Introduction to Ayurveda
Asana alignment and adaptation
Five principles of Spanda Vinyasa
Five foundations of Spanda Vinyasa
Beyond asana - Kriya, Pranayama, Mudra, Mantra
Progressive sequencing - Building a class with a theme
Beginners class sequence + modifications
Restorative class sequence + working with props
Safe adjustments
Yoga and Ayurvedic principles - flowing with nature
Five Elements and their relationship with body/mind
Spanda Tattva Vinyasa - Bhumi (Earth) flow
Spanda Tattva Vinyasa - Agni (Fire) flow
Spanda Tattva Vinyasa - Vayu (Air) flow
Spanda Tattva Vinyasa - Jala (Water) flow
Teaching and assisting practicum
Ethics and business of teaching yoga
Teaching methodology + Trauma Sensitive Yoga intro
Practicum
+ Reading assignments and homework
What to expect from an Intensive Yoga Teacher Training
Intensive Yoga Teacher Training is exactly that—intensive, in every sense. Your body will be challenged, your mind will be stretched, and you may experience emotional highs and lows. But alongside the effort, there will be moments of joy, revelation, and deep connection—the kind of AHA! moments that stick with you. You'll forge lifelong friendships and create memories that last a lifetime. Throughout the process, our primary goal is to hold space for you, offering support every step of the way. You’ll always have the freedom to express yourself, whether it's from your mind or your heart. And because balance is key, we’ll ensure there’s free time built into the schedule, giving you space to reset and reflect on what you’ve learned.
To help ease you into the intensity of the in-person training, we’ve developed an online preparatory program. This includes practice videos, alignment tutorials, and lectures on anatomy and biomechanics, along with reading assignments and essays covering yoga history, philosophy, tradition, and Ayurveda, yoga’s sister science. By the time we meet in Portugal, you’ll feel more confident in your practice and grounded in foundational knowledge.
During the first ten days of the training, we will focus on the fundamentals of the Spanda Method, covering anatomy, biomechanics, asana alignment, basic adjustments, and the Art of Intelligent Sequencing. In the second half, we’ll dive deeper into the subtle anatomy, explore Ayurveda, the Five Elements, and the principles of Elemental Vinyasa—learning how to sequence your classes in harmony with the cycles of nature. Rather than a set sequence, you’ll receive a flexible framework and the tools to confidently create your own sequences based on your students’ needs and the rhythms nature.
Support after the training
We value staying connected and supporting you throughout your journey. On our website, we have a community pagewhere you can showcase your bio until you're ready to create your own. We are happy to promote your events and answer any questions you may have. Additionally, we often seek assistants for our events and always select from our Sangha(community). Once you study with us, you become a lasting member of the Spanda Sangha.
Another valuable resource you’ll have are two detailed, comprehensive 200-page manuals. One manual focuses on Applied Anatomy and Physiology, providing essential insights for understanding the body, while the other covers everything else you'll learn during the course, including yoga history, philosophy, and tradition, yogic tools, sequencing, and more. These manuals serve as invaluable references for our students, especially as they begin teaching.
Your Teachers
Bruno Morais
E-RYT200, RYT 500
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.
Teresa Wohlmannstetter
E-RYT200, RYT500, Physio
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 Portugal, where she offers group and private Yoga classes, sound healing sessions, massage and therapy sessions and bespoke Yoga retreats.
Nina Vukas
Program Director - E-RYT500, RPYT, C-IAYT
Nina Vukas 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 currently teaches 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
Single small room with shared bathroom
Early Bird … 3925 euro
Late Bird … 4600 euro
Price is per person and includes:
Tuition cost, two manuals
19-day accommodation with breakfast
One group dinner
Single double bedroom with shared bathroom
Early Bird … 4115 euro
Late Bird … 4315 euro
Price is per person and includes:
Tuition cost, two manuals
19-day accommodation with breakfast
One group dinner
Twin room with shared bathroom
Early Bird ……………… 3310 euro
Late Bird …………….… 3510 euro
Price is per person and includes:
Tuition cost, two manuals
19-day accommodation with breakfast
One group dinner
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 December 1st 2024. Late Bird full payment is due by May 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.
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.
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)
“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” - Amy (USA)
“The Spanda Teacher Training was an experience I will take with me forever. I have learned so much about history, philosophy, science, anatomy, spirituality, the world, and my own body, mind, and soul - all teachings that I take with me and use in my everyday life. I am deeply grateful to Nina, Bruno, and Teresa for sharing their knowledge and loving energy. Each one of them is a great teacher in their own way, making the training very complete and fun. I would recommend this training to anyone wanting to take their yoga deeper. You will have a very enlightening and instructive experience and make friends for life.” - Alberica (ITA)
"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)
“Great experience, great teachers and a very complete and detailed program.” - Barbara (PT)