YIN YOGA, ANATOMY, CHAKRAS, MERIDIANS, AND MINDFULNESS
TEACHER TRAINING – 100 HOURS
With Marcel van de Vis Heil, Esther Ekhart and online workshops from Paul and Suzee Grilley
Yoga Alliance Accredited | April 8 – 18, 2026 | Portugal
About
Join us for a deeply nourishing experience for the body, heart, and soul. Nestled high in the mountains of Portugal, we will immerse ourselves in the world of Yin Yoga. This course delves into the variations in human anatomy and their impact on our practice. You will learn the intended benefits of each pose and how to achieve them, regardless of your age, experience, or flexibility.
In addition to the physical practice, we will explore chakras, meridians, and mindfulness, and their significance in our daily lives. Various meditation techniques will also be introduced.
Whether you aim to become a Yin Yoga instructor or simply wish to deepen your personal practice, this course provides a comprehensive foundation. Above all, these ten days offer a time for gentle self-development and self-care.
The majority of this training will be led by Marcel van de Vis Heil and Esther Ekhart, During this course Yin yoga founders Paul and Suzee Griley will lead two online workshops.
Here's a glimpse of what awaits you
Anatomy
Delve into skeletal segments, muscle groups, target areas, and functional yoga concepts. Understand skeletal variations and the difference between tension and compression, enhancing your Yin Yoga practice and teaching with in-depth anatomical knowledge.
Yin Poses & Assisted Routine
Gain a detailed analysis of Yin Yoga poses, including modifications, alternatives, and effective teaching techniques. Learn and practice assisted Yin Yoga routines, enhancing your ability to guide students through supportive and restorative practices.
Chakra Theory & Meditation
Understand the theory and significance of chakras. Engage in meditation practices focused on balancing and activating these energy centers, enhancing your Yin Yoga practice and teaching with holistic approaches to mind-body harmony.
Introduction To Meridian Theory
Explore Meridian Theory’s relevance to Yin Yoga by examining how specific poses stimulate energy flow through the twelve primary meridians. Understand the connection between meridian pathways and health, enhancing your practice by targeting energy balance and promoting overall well-being.
Mindfulness & Meditation
Cultivate a present and aware state of mind, both on and off the mat. Discover the transformative power of mindfulness through meditation and learn how to integrate it into your everyday activities, making every moment a mindful experience.
Philosophical Concepts
& Pranayama
Delve into the profound wisdom of yoga philosophy, which offers guidance, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of our existence. Study the concepts of karma, samskaras, vrittis, and vasanas. Introduction into pranayama and breathwork exercises.
Your Teachers
Esther Ekhart
A renowned global authority in yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, with a reputation for providing exceptional guidance both online and offline, she has captivated countless students over 20 years. Esther’s teachings incorporate diverse influences, making her online classes, workshops, and trainings a fusion of wisdom. Her practice has evolved from dynamic styles like Hatha and Vinyasa flow to include slower practices such as Yin Yoga and Meditation & Mindfulness. Continually expanding her knowledge, she remains open-minded and integrates new insights into her work.
Marcel van de Vis Heil
Marcel, a dedicated yoga teacher and practitioner, began his transformative yoga journey in the late ’90s. With extensive training from renowned teachers worldwide, including Paul and Suzee Grilley, founders of yin yoga, Marcel specializes in functional vinyasa and yin yoga.
He emphasizes customization, adapting poses to suit each student’s unique needs. Marcel’s inclusive classes welcome all, offering accessible yet invigorating experiences. Additionally, he is a skilled Acupuncturist, Tuina therapist, and Herbalist.
Experience the magic of
this immersive experience
A nurturing journey of self-discovery and self-care, offering a sanctuary for gentle growth and rejuvenation.
Yoga Alliance Accreditation
At our Portuguese home base, The D’Alijo Centre, we offer a specialized Yin Yoga, Mindfulness, Chakras & Meridians Teacher Training, spanning 100 hours. This training provides a deep, immersive experience in the art and science of Yin Yoga. The next training will take place in April 2026 in Portugal.
Upon completing this 100-hour training, you will receive a Yoga Alliance certification for continuing education (YACEP). To finalize your certification, simply submit a video of yourself teaching a 20-minute class within one month of completing the training.
100 hour Yin Yoga Intensive: Anatomy, Chakras, Meridians, and Mindfulness
What You’ll Learn
- Anatomy: Explore skeletal segments, muscle groups, target areas, functional yoga concepts, skeletal variations, tension versus compression, and more.
- Yin Yoga Poses: Detailed analysis of Yin Yoga poses, including modifications, alternatives, and teaching techniques.
- Assisted Yin Routine: Learn and practice assisted Yin Yoga routines.
- Pranayama: introduction into pranayama and breathwork exercises.
- Chakra Theory: Understand the theory and significance of chakras.
- Introduction to Meridian Theory: Gain insights into the meridian system and its relevance.
- Mindfulness: Develop mindfulness practices and techniques.
- Chakra and Mindfulness Meditation: Engage in meditation practices focusing on chakras and mindfulness.
- Philosophical Concepts: Study the concepts of karma, samskaras, vrittis, and vasanas.
Schedule
April 8: Day 1
- 18:30: Gathering in restaurant
- 19:00: Dinner
- 20:00-21:00: Introduction
April 9 – 17 : Day 2-9
- 7:30-8:00: Meditation
- 8:00-9:30: Breakfast
- 9:30-11:00: Lecture
- 11:15 – 12:30: Practice
- 12:30-16:30: Lunch & Free Time
- 16:30-18:00: Lecture
- 18:15 – 18:45: Meditation
- 19:00: Dinner
- 20:00-21:00: Lecture
April 18: Day 10
- 7:30-8:00: Meditation
- 8:00-9:30: Breakfast and check out
Check-in and Check-out
On arrival day you are welcome at D’Alijo retreat center from 15.00 onwards, note that there is no food or lunch in the centre yet until dinner. On Check out day, the rooms must be empty at 10am.
100 hour Yin Yoga Intensive: Anatomy, Chakras, Meridians, and Mindfulness
Requirements, Pricing & Registration
Requirements
To participate in this training, it is necessary to meet the following criteria:
- Minimum of 1 year of steady yoga practice with a teacher.
- Regular and consistent self-practice of yoga, at least 3 times a week.
- Proficiency in any hatha-based style of yoga.
These requirements ensure that you have a solid foundation and dedication to the practice, enabling you to fully benefit from and contribute to the training experience.
Pricing
- Twin Share: Immerse yourself in a supportive and communal environment with our Twin Share option, priced at EUR 2860. Share your experience with a fellow student.
- Single Occupancy (Shared Facilities): Enjoy the tranquillity of your own space while still benefiting from shared facilities. The shared facilities, including the living room and bathroom, are shared among a maximum of three people in one of the mountain lodges. Indulge in privacy and convenience for just EUR 3150.
- Single Room (En-suite Facilities): Treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation with our Single Room option, complete with en-suite facilities. Unwind and recharge in your own private haven in one of the main house rooms or in a river cabin for EUR 3345.
- Garden Suites: Elevate your training experience with our luxurious Garden Suites, designed to provide a serene environment. Bask in comfort and elegance for only EUR 3574.
NOTE: We require a €500 non-refundable deposit to secure your space. Read our full Teacher Training Terms & Conditions and Booking & Payment Policies here.
About The Location
D’Alijo Yoga Retreat Center is a peaceful retreat located amidst stunning Portuguese nature. Spread across three hectares of land with terraces, olive fields, and hills adorned with large rock formations.
Accommodation options include cozy wooden chalet-style houses, cabins, and rooms tastefully decorated. They are situated in the serene rural areas of the retreat grounds, within walking distance from the Yoga Studio, swimming pool, and main house. All rooms come with lovely outside verandas.
Transportation options from the airport to the retreat center:
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Transfer service offered by D’Alijo: Provide your flight information for the transport list (this will be asked a week before the training starts). There may be a short wait for other flights, but we minimize the waiting time. If you’re already in Portugal or Porto, we can meet you at the airport.
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Transfer price: Approximately €40-€60 shared. Unless you need a private car which will be EUR110 per car. This is one way.
Other options include:
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Renting a car: This can be cost-effective, but local companies may require a substantial deposit.
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Public transportation: Take the metro and train to Guimaraes, then a taxi (uber) to the retreat location. Also it can possibly be cheaper to organise your own taxi from Porto airport.
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For the address and location of D’Alijo, please visit Google Maps
We Are Proud Tree Sisters
By booking an in-person training with us, you are actively contributing to the global tree-planting efforts led by Tree Sisters. For every individual attending our retreats and trainings, we make a donation on your behalf.